Things To Do
in Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke sits at the confluence of the Saint-François and Magog rivers in Quebec's Eastern Townships. It blends a lively university vibe with historic neighborhoods and ample green spaces. The city boasts a growing arts and food scene, plus easy access to trails, cascades, and outdoor recreation.
Throughout the year, Sherbrooke serves as a gateway to the countryside and hillside adventures, making it a welcoming stop for culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Le Magog, a quaint café known for its fresh pastries and local coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic district, admiring the beautiful Victorian architecture that lines the roads. Be sure to visit the Sherbrooke Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate the local art scene and its impressive collections.
Savor a delightful lunch at Restaurant La Table de l'Ours, where you can enjoy regional dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, wander through the serene Parc Jacques-Cartier, where you can relax by the river or take a guided tour to learn about the area's rich history. The afternoon is perfect for visiting the historic Cummings House, a charming heritage site that showcases the lifestyle of the past.
As the sun sets, head to the lively downtown area for dinner at Bistro de la Gare, a unique restaurant set in a former train station. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Magog River, where the scenic waterfront is beautifully illuminated at night. Cap off your evening with a visit to the Sherbrooke Theatre, where you may catch a local performance or concert.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Le President, which offers a variety of breakfast options and fresh local produce. Then, set off for Mont-Orford National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural landscape with a morning hike on one of the many scenic trails. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, as you explore the park's lush surroundings.
After a refreshing hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the stunning views of the nearby mountains. Spend your afternoon canoeing or kayaking on Lake Orford, where the calm waters provide a perfect setting for a relaxing time on the water. Don't miss the chance to take a swim in the lake if the weather is warm enough!
As evening approaches, head back to Sherbrooke and dine at Restaurant Les 3 Mousquetaires, known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional French cuisine. After dinner, take a scenic drive to the nearby Mount Orford for breathtaking views of the sunset over the Eastern Townships. Return to your accommodation and enjoy a peaceful evening reflecting on your day in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | CAD 12-15 |
| ☕Cappuccino or latte | CAD 3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | CAD 40-60 |
| 🏠Rent one-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD 1100-1500 /mo |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | CAD 70-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant university-town energy with cultural events
- Proximity to mountains and lakes for outdoor adventures
- Friendly, walkable downtown with diverse dining
- Winter driving can be challenging
- Seasonal tourist crowds in peak leaf-peeping and summer months
Places to Visit in Sherbrooke
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering sweeping views of Sherbrooke and the river valley, especially magical at sunrise or dusk.
Historic architecture, cobbled streets, and colorful murals provide plenty of photo opportunities.
Waterfront and park settings with reflections and seasonal activities, ideal for outdoor portraits and landscape shots.
A riverside path with bridges and skyline views, perfect for sunset photography.
Forest trails and scenic overlooks that change color with the seasons.
Food in Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fries topped with squeaky curds and rich gravy; found at casual eateries and diners across the city.
Must-Try!
Traditional meat pie, a Quebec staple often enjoyed with relish on weekends and holidays.
A maple-soaked cake dessert served warm with cream or ice cream.
Maple sugar pie, a comforting Quebec dessert frequently found in local cafés and bakeries.
A hearty sandwich offering Quebec deli flavors at bistros and delis around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market with local produce, cheeses, breads, and prepared foods from Estrie farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the dominant language in daily life; a basic hello and kind tone go a long way. English is widely understood in urban areas with universities.
A polite ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Bonsoir’ with a smile is standard when entering shops or cafés.
Be punctual for appointments; respect personal space in queues and public transit.
Respect the bilingual environment; use cultural sensitivity when discussing language or politics.
Safety
Tipping in Sherbrooke
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a tip of 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary. Some places may add a service charge; check the receipt.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful. Interac e-Transfers, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are commonly supported at many establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional heat and humidity. Stay hydrated, enjoy outdoor festivals, and take advantage of long daylight hours for exploration and photography.
Crimson and gold foliage create dramatic backdrops. Expect stable temps, ideal for hiking and street photography.
Cold, snowy conditions prevail. Dress in layers, enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter markets; evenings are cozy with hot drinks.
Mild temps return and nature reawakens. Expect rain showers and muddy trails early in the season, then bloom-filled days by late spring.
Sherbrooke at Night
Hiking in Sherbrooke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive away with scenic ridge trails and lake views.
Local trails with city views and forest scenery.
Extensive network of trails in the region suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Sherbrooke by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and charter flights, located a short drive from downtown.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by road, with international and domestic flights.
Regional hub about 2.5–3 hours by road, offering domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major linguistic group; vibrant French-speaking culture.
Many university students and professionals fluent in both French and English.
Significant student population due to Université de Sherbrooke and Bishop's University.
Growing community with a mix of long-term residents and newcomers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with local leagues and arenas.
Popular in winter, with nearby trails and parks.
City bike paths and rural backroads popular in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sherbrooke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus in Sherbrooke offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, pasta with veggies, salads, and rotating seasonal dishes. When in doubt, ask for plant-based substitutions or daily specials.