When it comes to planning the perfect girlfriend getaway, Laval, Canada, should be at the top of your list. Coming from Toronto, it’s at the top of my list! Quebec can be a whole other world. French language and sophistication… French-influenced decor, delicious eats, and fashion… Just a short drive from Montreal, Laval offers a diverse mix of activities, dining, and natural beauty that make it an ideal destination for a memorable escape with your best girlfriends.
Laval, Quebec, is a city that perfectly balances urban Quebec sophistication with natural rural charms, making it a great option to consider for a girlfriend’s getaway. Laval offers a unique blend of French culture, beautiful parks, and diverse attractions that cater to every interest and there are so many fun things to do in Laval. From its lively downtown area filled with boutique shops and delicious dining options to its serene green spaces and waterways, Laval invites you to experience the best of both the English and French and rural and urban worlds.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Laval has everything you need for an unforgettable girl’s trip. From exploring the Centropolis area to Ste-Rose, you’ll see Laval’s attractions and indulge in gourmet meals. Let me guide you through the best things to do in Laval with your friends. My friend Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit Travel Blog, and I took in a couple of nights and a few days in Laval and sought out the most unique and Laval-centric experiences we could. We pumped the tunes and hit the road to find some cool activities you need to know about.
Whether you’re looking to explore the local art scene, indulge in gourmet cuisine, or relax in nature, Laval provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable escape with your friends. Let’s check out everything about Laval and the best things to do in Laval on a girl’s trip. This gal needed a bit of a break from Mom life, so while you could call this a “Momcation” for me, it’s not a phrase I love, so we will stick with “Girl’s Trip.”
What Is Laval Known For?
Laval, Quebec is known for being the outdoor playground for those from Montreal, for its rich cultural scene, including museums, art galleries, and theatres galore. Plus, if you’re into shopping (disclaimer – I am not, but some women are), you’ll find some of the best spots here, like the massive Carrefour Laval (it’s like a massive Sherway Gardens). But what sets Laval apart is its green spaces. The parks here are stunning, especially Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, where you can hike, bike, or even paddle through some beautiful waterways around islands and look for Celine Dion’s former home.
Laval is also known for its thriving agricultural sector, with several farms and markets offering fresh, locally produced goods that we will visit on our trip. To be clear, we’re far from a girls gone wild escape here. This is a classy girl’s getaway in Laval.
Whether you’re in Laval for the culture, the outdoors, or to unwind with amazing food and company, Laval has everything you need for a memorable getaway.
Where Is Laval, Quebec?
Laval, Quebec, is just a stone’s throw north of Montreal, and it’s the perfect spot for a quick escape with your girlfriends. It is the largest suburb of Montreal and the third-largest city in Quebec, with over 400,000 residents. Laval is only about 20 km from downtown Montreal, which takes around 20 to 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Driving from Toronto to Laval is about 550 km, and it takes around 6 hours to drive, depending on traffic and pee stops.
Laval offers a fantastic mix of city vibes and natural beauty. It’s located on Île Jésus, an island in the Rivière des Mille Îles, which separates it from the island of Montreal and gives it this cool, island-city feel that’s totally unique. The city’s convenient location near Montreal, combined with its mix of cultural, recreational, and natural attractions, has made Laval a destination that offers something for everyone.
Do You Need To Know French in Laval?
TLDR: While French is dominant, you should have very little trouble navigating Laval with the English language only if that is the language you speak and understand.
First and foremost, Quebec is a French-language province. French is the primary language spoken in Laval and throughout Quebec. You don’t necessarily need to be fluent in French to get by, especially in the main, busy areas. Many people in Laval, particularly those in the service industry, speak English, at least broken or minimal English, so you’ll likely find it “easy” to communicate in restaurants, hotels, and shops. That said – no one has to serve you in English in Quebec anywhere and knowing a few basic French phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Signage and menus are often in French, so being familiar with common terms can help, but so does Google Translate on your smartphone in a pinch. Learn how to greet people and wish them a nice day, at the very least, in French.
Fun Things To Do In Laval On A Girl’s Trip
So, let’s jump into the exciting itinerary of fun things to do in Laval on a girl’s trip. I am so stoked to spend time with my good friend, Lindsay! You might remember her from our road trip to Northern Ireland. We have a two-full-day and two-night itinerary ahead of us in Laval. Spending time with a friend who matches your energy, your taste in jean jackets, and your interests is valuable. We get along so well, making our time in Laval so fun.
First, we checked into the Courtyard by Marriot in Laval. I know I can camp and rough it like a real backwoods camper, but sometimes we must rest up in a nice place with comfy beds and big city views. More on the hotel below!
Immersia Laval – Outdoor Escape Room
Lindsay and I kick off our girls’ trip adventure and the best things to do in Laval with an outdoor escape game at Immersia Laval. As a team, we test our wits and skills to save old Ste-Rose from SpiderTech firm. For this escape room, we’re exploring a particular neighbourhood—Vieux Ste-Rose. This is where “Team Jean Jacket” was hatched because we showed up in matching outfits.
Our task is to discover what the SpiderTech firm is up to and prevent its plan from coming to fruition before it’s too late. If we don’t, the water supply could be at risk, and everyone will be poisoned! Also, world-renowned microbiologist Hans Bergman hasn’t been seen in two days, and his office has been thrashed like there was a break-in. Was it Spider Tech? Did they steal his notes?
Will SpiderTech poison the water?
Will we be able to stop Spider Tech and prevent their plan from coming to fruition before it’s too late?
While at it, we get to explore a part of Laval we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. So, while we hack into computers and figure out chemical compounds, we’re on the trails of Laval’s waterfront in a new-to-us area.
Hot tip: This experience is timed. We had a 3-hour countdown on our challenge. Lindsay and I finished with 55 minutes remaining. Team Jean Jacket FOR THE WIN!
For this challenge, we also had to transport ourselves from the Immersia office to Ste-Rose and park at a location about 5 kilometres away—and that was on the clock! All of the activities were near where we parked, so we didn’t have to go farther than a couple block radius on our hunt. We were provided an iPad from Immersia Laval that we had to community with for clues. The physical items we required were in a laptop bag and once we solved clues in the iPad, we were given codes or hints to unlock the evidence as we went.
This experience is available in both French and English.
Ferme Marineau – Flower Fields
A visit to Ferme Marineau for a taste of local agriculture is definitely in order. It’s best to do this at the top of the day! First of all, get some maple gelato in your coffee there. You won’t regret it. It’s a great way to start the day.
On a personal note, I was not expecting such a friendly and warm atmosphere! There is a play section for the kids with goats right underneath a play structure. The location we visited has a beautiful store that sells all sorts of locally grown fruits and vegetables, desserts, jams, jellies, cider and beers – of which they brew with hops from another nearby producer.
The staff welcomed us and showed us these gorgeous flower fields, which are U-pick fields. Lindsay and I each got to make our floral arrangements in a glass we got to take away with us, and it brightened up my hotel room for the rest of our journeys in Quebec.
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for the rest of summer and weekends in September, be sure to check out the Flower Festival at Ferme Marineau. There are millions of multicoloured flowers and grasses to pick. There’s a corn maze, sunflower fields to explore, and a cafe with performers on the weekend. While we missed a performance due to timing, the ambiance and environment were so lovely I wanted to figure out a way to work it in!
Ferme Marineau has deep roots in the Laval community, having been farming for over 100 years there. You can also pick your strawberries, and pumpkins will soon be available. Make sure to plan your time accordingly so you don’t miss this.
For a fun treat, be sure to pick up a treat at the end of your time there. Their gelato is made with local ingredients, many of which are from fruits of the farm. Very much worth planning a half day here!
Hiking and Kayaking at Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles
Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles is a significant natural and historical landmark in Laval, Quebec. The park is situated along the Rivière des Mille Îles. Historically, This river has been a vital waterway for Indigenous peoples, notably the Algonquin and Iroquois, who used it for transportation, fishing, and food. In the 20th century, as Laval developed into a more urbanized area, the importance of preserving natural spaces like the Rivière des Mille Îles, which had lovely beaches and places for people to enjoy summer life, became an increasing demand. In 1985, Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles was established to protect the natural habitat and provide a recreational space for the public.
There are hiking trails, canoe, kayak, paddleboard rentals, and summer camps for kids. Lindsay and I took advantage of the hiking trails and kayak rentals in the area. We first covered a few kilometres on foot and passed by the neighbouring residential areas.
We then packed a lunch from La Bête à Pain Laval and rented kayaks. We planned to have a picnic on an island with picnic tables and docks. We paddled around l’île Kennedy, l’île aux Fraises, l’île Gendron and l’île aux Juifs and settled on walking a small distance on l’île aux Fraises for the picnic. Pack your mosquito repellant if you would also like to do this! The mosquitos in this area of Quebec are relentless!
You’ll want to consult a map of the islands before you paddle out so you know where you are going and learn the currents. It looked like a calm waterway, but we were warned about going too close to the other side of the bridge, so we stayed away.
Important note: Some islands and areas are closed to the public as they are private property where the rich and famous have built their mansions. One of them is Celine Dion, who once owned the home on Gagnon Island. You can’t see the house from the road, but the mansion is visible if you paddle by.
The park encompasses over 42 square kilometres of protected land and water, including wetlands, islands, and forests. It serves as a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including many bird species, fish, and plants and houses the Quebec Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. You’ll also find a museum, Believe It Or Not, that details and shows you the history of the islands. It’s a great inside activity if it gets too hot outside.
Please note that the free parking spaces on site get filled quite quickly on nice summer days, as many people bring their paddleboards and kayaks and can drop in there, too.
Orchestre Symphonique de Laval at Parc Bernard-Landry
Watching a symphony in a park on a lawn chair for free is an experience I won’t soon forget! I’ve always associated classical and sophisticated music, such as symphonies, with being expensive or out of reach for the general public if you’re not already part of an expressive arts community.
But – picture this: Families, couples, and friends gather on blankets and lawn chairs, creating a relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere. As the sun sets, you sit on a lawn chair in Parc Bernard-Landry with one of your best friends. Hundreds of other people are also there for the same purpose. It’s a free concert in the park at sunset by the Orchestre Symphonique de Laval. Watching the Orchestre Symphonique de Laval perform at Parc Bernard-Landry is a truly magical experience that blends the beauty of classical music with the serene outdoor setting of one of Laval’s most beautiful parks.
The concert often features a carefully curated program of classical pieces, sometimes mixed with more contemporary or popular arrangements, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience. The conductor and musicians bring a high level of artistry to each performance, and the natural surroundings only enhance the emotional impact of the music.
The audience’s enjoyment of watching the Orchestre Symphonique de Laval at Parc Bernard-Landry is a memorable and inspiring experience, perfect for a summer evening in Laval. And did I mention that it was free? Hey Toronto, you must take note of what Laval’s Orchestre Symphonique is doing.
Where To Eat In Laval?
One thing to know about Laval, especially Quebec, is that food is an experience. There is no rushing the experience of eating and socializing around the table. Laval’s food scene reflects its proximity to Montreal and its heritage, so it’s good.
In Laval, you’ll find a variety of dining experiences, from trendy bistros and fine-dining restaurants to cozy cafes, family-friendly spots and farm-fresh food trucks. Local chefs often focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving you a true taste of Quebec’s agricultural bounty.
Rosso Cielo
We ate at Rosso Cielo, on the second floor of the Courtyard by Marriott Laval Hotel, for both breakfasts during our stay and dinner on the first night.
Like many restaurants, they have their signature cocktails to start your night, but I have two words for your dinner choice: lamb chops. Completely famished on our first night, Lindsay and I shared a pizza as an appetizer, and then I indulged in lamb chops. They were fall-off-the-bone delicious. Sorry, vegetarians. These were among the best lamb chops I’ve EVER had in my entire life.
Dinner for two, including a cocktail each, costs approximately $120. The dinner service was also outstanding. If you want a dessert recommendation, may I suggest the creme brulee?
Breakfast is a fairly standard plate. It’s really handy to sit down and have a nice coffee and a lovely egg and toast plate without leaving the hotel (but yes, you are leaving your room).
Note that we were there from Monday to Wednesday. The bar on the terrace on the 10th floor is open from Thursday to Saturday, so we missed the nightlife there. However, we got a peek at Laval’s only rooftop bar, and it looks like it’s going to be a happening place to hang out while there is still nice weather. Make sure you go check it out!
Picnic Lunch at Agneaux de Laval
One of the absolute highlights of our trip to Laval was a picnic lunch at Agneaux de Laval. Donald Beaulieu runs Agneaux de Laval Farm Market with his family, an eco-friendly business well-established in the community of Ste. Dorothée in Laval. This is a true farm-to-table shop and experience. The lamb, the cows, and the chickens are all grown on-site, and the vegetables are sourced from nearby farms. We were promised a countryside picnic lunch featuring local lamb products, so I’m already excited.
The experience of this lunch was truly exceptional. Lindsay and I weren’t sure what to expect, as you can book a picnic basket and spot online. We arrived and were treated to a meet-and-greet with Donald and his son with some of the farm animals and then a feast! We were shown our picnic pavilion for our country-style lunch. The food cooked at the shop was hot when we served it on the table. We were treated to hot chicken and lamb and “homemade” tacos.
There are three gazebos on the property to book. They come with a table and chairs and old-style farm decor. Donald Beaulieu tells us he has incorporated relics from his family’s farming equipment over the last couple of centuries into the gazebos to give them the right feel and aesthetic. It works beautifully!
This was a unique experience that combined local gastronomy in an enchanting setting. Remember I said that food in Laval is an experience? This is one to be shared with up to 15 of your nearest and dearest. There are two different time settings to book in the gazebos so that no meal is rushed. You’ll have a good amount of time to take in the country setting and the delicious food.
When you are done eating, Agneaux de Laval has a shop where visitors can buy fresh products transformed by the expertise of the farm’s butchers and cooks. If I had a cooler with me, I would have loaded it up. So, Hot Tip from me to you: bring a cooler for fresh lamb and chicken purchases.
The Boating Club
More great food? YES, please!
Laval is a large municipality, and I know we have barely seen the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cuisine and gastronomy options in the region. But let me tell you, Le Boating Club is also one to have on your dining wish list. Housed in a heritage building dating back to 1889, restaurant critics lauded this restaurant and bar.
Lindsay and I shared the gnocchi for an appetizer, and I got chicken with maple BBQ sauce for the main dish. It’s just phenomenal how well we ate in Quebec and how well-paced the dinner service is. We might be spending two hours in a restaurant, but we realized how well-timed the experience is. We don’t feel rushed ever, and we don’t feel like the service is taking a long time to bring us our food or take our orders. The dining experience at The Boating Club is the same. I highly recommend spending an evening here. And if you want a party atmosphere, there’s a DJ there on Thursday nights. Otherwise, it’s a great spot to have dinner with your girlfriends.
The pricing is on par with what we spent at Rosso Cielo.
La Bête à Pain Laval
Remember when I said we packed a lunch and kayaked to an island for a picnic? This is where we got the takeaway! La Bête à Pain has soups, salads, sandwiches, yummy pastries, and drinks that you can dine in or take away. I knew I would need my energy, so the cream of asparagus soup and a beet salad were perfect for fueling my body for the paddle back to Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles.
The food is reasonably priced, and this is a laid-back spot to have lunch or come for their famous brunch on the weekends.
Where To Stay In Laval?
As I mentioned above, we checked into the Courtyard Montréal Laval. I mean, if you’re going to spoil yourself on a trip, why not a Marriott property?
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to stay in Laval, the Courtyard Montréal Laval in Espace Montmorency is where you want to be. Just steps away from Place Bell, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay. With 188 rooms and suites, plus four bright and airy meeting rooms, it’s ideal whether you’re here for business or a girl’s getaway. You’ll love the new state-of-the-art fitness center and the convenience of on-site laundry facilities.
Don’t miss the 10th-floor bar and terrace, offering stunning panoramic views of Laval and Montreal. With easy access to the major roadways, metro, and Laval’s bus circuit, this hotel is perfectly located for exploring everything the region offers.
Our hotel rooms were spacious and filled with electrical plugs for laptops, cameras, and hairdryers. We did not lack tech charging anywhere. The bed was so comfortable. I mean, sleeping in a bed on my own without one of my kids starfishing on me is a real luxury anyway, but something about a bed at a Marriott hotel is extra special!
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Whether you’re here for the culture, the outdoors, or to unwind with amazing food, drink and company, Laval has everything you need for a memorable getaway. I will tell you now to mark this region for your girlfriend’s getaway.
Get ready to create lasting memories with your girlfriends in Laval, where adventure and relaxation await at every turn.
If you follow along and go where we went, our itinerary ensures that your time in Laval will be filled with unforgettable moments, combining the best the city offers. This should help you find The Best Things To Do In Laval, Quebec, On Your Girl’s Trip!
Laval Tourism paid Lindsay and me to document our regional experience. I thank all of Laval Tourism’s partners for being so accommodating and providing us with such a lovely time. Team Jean Jacket might not be hot girls from Montreal, but we indeed came and left our mark on Laval with our girl getaway.
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