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Birthplace of Canada

Website
179, montée de Wakeham, C.P. 5117
Gaspé (Quebec) Canada
G4X 1V3
Phone:
+418-368-9423
Email:
info@berceauducanada.com

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Website

Made up of one original heritage building and six reconstructed buildings, this site offers a representation of the heart of the village of Gaspé as it was in 1900. The site’s buildings are a warehouse, tavern, shop, general store, seaplane base, residence and navy base.

In each building, you will find interpreters in period costume representing the people who marked the history of Gaspé. Each building also includes an interpretive area that features artefacts from private collections, interpretive panels, photos and historical re-enactments.

Including works of art and other items, this site offers a perspective on the rich maritime history of Gaspé, from Jacques Cartier’s arrival in 1534 to the town’s major role as a port during the Second World War.

Many events are offered on site throughout the season. You can visit the buildings on your own with or without an audio guide, which provides information about the entire site. Guided tours with our team of interpreter guides are also available daily. Activities open to the general public are organized in collaboration with local partners throughout the summer.

Opening dates

June 2 to October 31, 2025

Schedule

Access to buildings and activities: daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Heritage trail and outdoor access to site: open at all times

Cost

Voluntary contribution for access to buildings with interpreters in period costume; free access to heritage trail and outdoor site; fees for audio guide and guided tours

Reservations

Recommended for groups

Payment methods

  • Visa  Visa
  • MasterCard  MasterCard
  • Interac  Interac
  • Cash  Cash

Activities available

Interpretation Sites
Original heritage home and reconstructed buildings that once stood in the village of Gaspé, with interpreters in period costume. Cross of Gaspé commemorating the arrival of Jacques Cartier. Cultural events and activities. Audio tour and guided tours.
Maritime Heritage
Located at the mouth of the York River in Gaspé Bay, the buildings that make up this site recount the maritime history of Gaspé, from Jacques Cartier’s arrival in 1534 to the town’s major role as a port during the Second World War.


Services

  • Childrens playground
  • Picnic area
  • Pets allowed on leashes only
  • Bar
  • Boutique
  • Free parking

How to get there

The Birthplace of Canada is located at 179, montée de Wakeham (Route 198) in the centre of Gaspé, across the street from the Place Jacques Cartier shopping centre. Parking is available in the municipal parking area on Rue Harbour.

There is space for two buses to stop nearby, on Route 198.

The site and all buildings are accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Affiliations and distinctions

Affiliations

  • Destination Gaspé
  • Tourisme Gaspésie
  • Gaspé Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
  • Culture Gaspésie
  • Québec Museums Association (SMQ)
  • Québec Association of Heritage Interpreters (AQIP)
  • Certified by Kéroul (accessible to people with physical disabilities)

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