Shawinigan: Energy, Art and Nature on the Saint-Maurice

Shawinigan brings together the history of energy and industry with contemporary art and experiences along the Saint-Maurice. If you’re looking for a mix of exhibitions, technology and time outdoors on your trip, you’ll find a range of ways to explore here. When choosing a vacation rental, you can start by considering which of these aspects you’d like to shape your stay.

Explore energy history and science

The Cité de l’énergie devotes numerous exhibitions and immersive activities to the history and heritage of Shawinigan and its region. Science and technology related to energy and industry are another focus. This lets you tailor your visit to the region’s development as well as to technical topics.

A tour of the hydroelectric sector includes Centrale N.A.C. and the still-operating Shawinigan-2 power station. Visitors are transported between the sites by shuttle. The Centre de sciences adds to this focus with the Planète Énergie exhibition and multimedia show, as well as the Hydro-Québec observation tower. If you’re planning a trip with children, consider whether these engaging insights into energy and technology fit the itinerary you have in mind.

Art and culture in Shawinigan

The Centre d’exposition Léo-Ayotte spans two floors, and admission is free. It hosts exhibitions by contemporary artists from the region and beyond. The centre also offers educational and cultural programs that encourage learning, support appreciation of contemporary art and make it accessible to the public. Art enthusiasts can also get to know Shawinigan through its exhibitions and cultural outreach.

Technology and art offer different ways to shape your trip: the Cité de l’énergie focuses on energy, industry and science, while the Centre d’exposition Léo-Ayotte puts contemporary art centre stage. If you’re looking for a vacation rental in Shawinigan, these interests can help you decide what you’d like your stay to focus on.

River, park and outdoor activities

Parc de l’Île Melville lies in the heart of Shawinigan, on the Saint-Maurice. The 160-hectare park encompasses the two islands of Île Melville and Île Banane, a 75-metre-high mountain and a large wooded area. The river, forest and distinctive rise offer a different side of the stay from the city’s exhibitions.

A longer outing on the Saint-Maurice is also possible: a 70 km round trip from Pont de Grand-Mère to Rapides Manigances is planned. When water levels are high enough, the route is suitable for all types of watercraft. Water levels are an important factor when planning this trip.

For shorter outdoor visits, Promenade du Saint-Maurice is a place to walk and exercise, have picnics and observe nature. Parc de la rivière Grand-Mère has picnic areas, play equipment, swings, fitness stations, a skatepark, and basketball and tennis courts. You can choose between a quiet day by the river and a range of ways to stay active.

Shawinigan is a destination with a range of things to focus on: hydroelectric power and science, contemporary art, or riverside scenery and parks. As you plan your trip, consider which experiences matter most; this can guide your search for a suitable vacation rental in Shawinigan.

Other places

Other places: Charette, Saint-Mathieu-Du-Parc, Saint-Boniface-De-Shawinigan.

For the broader travel overview: Le Centre-De-La-Mauricie.