Gaspé, Birthplace of Canada, at 179 montée Wakeham, is a reconstruction of the village of Gaspé as it was in the 1900s, with self-guided tours through a heritage house, a warehouse, a naval base, a general store and monuments that include the Jacques Cartier cross. Interpreters in period costume work in the buildings, and the site calls itself the Cradle of Canada. There is a gift shop, a mobile app that offers a guided tour, picnic space, parking, WiFi and local products and tastings. A visit is about an hour and a half, and entry is by voluntary contribution, with admission fees to be checked on the site's page. The tavern on the grounds, Tavern Baker, serves refreshments, beers and local spirits from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in season. The 2026 season ran from 1 June to 15 October, with the exhibition buildings and shop open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., so the village is closed now. Staff can speak English, and some translated material may be available, but ask on arrival.
What to do
Walk the village at your own pace, talk to the interpreters, step into the store and the warehouse, and stand at the Jacques Cartier cross, which is why the place is called a birthplace. The mobile app gives a guided version if you prefer. Keep time for the tavern at the end, which makes a good stop for a drink after the walk.
Seasons and planning
This is a June to mid October attraction, and the dates are published each year, so check them before you plan for 2027. In November the site is closed, so a visit now is limited to the town itself and the museum. The site is pet-friendly and has a picnic area, which helps families, and buying tickets online is available.
Fitting it in
Gaspé town is the natural base for Forillon, and the village is a good rainy-day or late-afternoon stop in summer. Combine it with the Musée de la Gaspésie, which also has a Jacques Cartier monument, for a full day of history in town. It is one of the few sights here that is easy to reach without a long drive, since the hotels in Gaspé town are close by. Allow an hour and a half at the village and another ninety minutes at the museum.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through a reconstructed 1900s village with costumed interpreters, a shop and a tavern.
Best time
June to mid October, between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.; the 2026 season is over.
How long
About an hour and a half.
Tips
Check admission on the site, use the mobile app for a guided version and ask about English-language service.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and history fans who want a hands-on look at old Gaspé.
- Families
- Costumed interpreters, open buildings and a picnic area suit children, and the site is pet-friendly.
- Couples
- Finish with a drink at the tavern after the walk.
- Pair with
- The Musée de la Gaspésie, the Jacques Cartier cross and a night in Gaspé.
- Time needed
- Ninety minutes.
Good questions
Is it open now?+
No. The 2026 season ran from 1 June to 15 October. Check the site for the 2027 dates before you plan.
What is it?+
A reconstruction of the village of Gaspé as it was in the 1900s, with a heritage house, a warehouse, a naval base, a general store and monuments, staffed by interpreters in period costume.
What does it cost?+
Entry is a voluntary contribution, and the site says to check its page for current admission fees.
Where is it?+
At 179 montée Wakeham in Gaspé. The tavern is on the grounds and serves local beers and spirits.
Is it in English?+
Staff can speak English and some translated material may be available. A mobile app offers a guided tour.
