Quebec w/ a 17yo questions
 

We're considering a 3 day get-away in late August. My daughter is usually disinterested in history or museums. Suggestions for things she might like? Is this a bad choice for this trip? I thought we'd get a little 'europe without the long flight'. She loves NYC theater, music and shopping.
Thanks.

Forgot another question:
-If we came by train, is it feasible to get around without renting a car or spending a lot on cabs?
-Also interested in a nice day spa

Are you referring to Quebec City? Quebec City is very much like being in France. The old walled city is fairly small and compact, so you won't need a car. She will probably love the French ambiance - cobblestone streets, old buildings, outdoor cafes, and breathtaking views. There is lots of activity in the warm months with street musicians and entertainers. There are lots of shops and some very good restaurants.
Another option might be Montreal, which also has a European flair, and is a shoppers and foodies paradise. Montreal is MUCH bigger, with great ambiance and a lively street scene, cutting edge shops, but not nearly as scenic as Quebec City. I think your daughter would love either place.

Yes, both Montreal & Quebec City are manageable without renting a car.

Both have shopping and music; Montreal's bigger so there are more options in the larger city. I think (perhaps due to the different linguistic makeup of Quebec) one generally doesn't get a NYC-style theatre experience in either Montreal or Quebec City. However, I've experienced some amazing live entertainment in both, it just tends to be different from that in NYC.

I not only think that either Montreal or Quebec City are not bad choices for your trip, but are GREAT choices.

Thank you both for your input. lots to think about. ilana

Ilana, your daughter will really enjoy a trip to Quebec City as it is pretty much like being in France without taking the long flight or using the Euros.
I was there just a few years ago and was amazed to see how many school children were there on field trips from some US schools as well as Canadian schools.
I talked to a couple of the teachers and found that such trips are planned mainly so that the students can practice their French.
And I saw first hand American students as young as 12-13 buying picture postcards, chocolate bars etc. using their classroom French. I was impressed as I cannot speak an entire sentence in this fabulous language.
The city is so fascinating as you can walk into the older town by taking a funicle or take the many steps and reach a truly old-fashioned European shopping area. The stores were marvelous and there was occasional street side entertainment such as mime.
Many of the shop owners spoke no English. Thus you do feel like you are in France.
I was eager to eat some French crepes since I love them and was in search of such a place. And I found a cute little Brittany restaurant offering all sorts of crepes. But the great thing was that the waitresses were dressed up in old-fashioned dresses including gorgeous lace hats. It made my trip special just being served by them. Of course the variety of crepes were so impressive and the taste fabulous.
Remember to try a Quebecois dish named Poutine. It consists of french fries, sort of melted cheese and gravy topping them. You can find some simple version even in McDonalds, but better restaurants often have it on their menu.
My most favorite dessert was the maple pie and maple cookies. So I think your daughter will enjoy these goodies too.
We also enjoyed tea at the most beautiful and historic hotel the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. It is beautifully situated. On one side is the St. Lawrence River and on the other the walled city. The view is amazing and the decor in the lobby features 19th century woodwork.
I think your daughter will be amazed to see so much history right there without going to the museum.
Foie gras is another speciality in Quebec City so do try it sometime.
It will truly feel like you are in Europe, so enjoy your visit throughly and you wont need a car as you can walk everywhere.

Since you say your daughter has little interest in history or museums, I would recommend Montreal over Quebec City.

I agree with Vttraveler. I just returned from Montreal and Quebec City, and from your description of her, I think your daughter would much prefer Montreal.