8 of the Best Things to do in Saint-Jerome, Quebec
One city in Quebec that doesn’t get the attention it deserves is Saint-Jérôme. I went with no expectations and was still surprised by its beautiful blend of history, nature and character. If you’re looking for your next day trip or road trip stop, then let me introduce you to this surprising city.
For me, Saint-Jerome was the literally gateway to the Laurentians. It was my first stop on a 5 day road trip through the region. I immediately fell in love with its railway history, from old train station to new. Plus, I was thrilled to find plenty of things to do in Saint-Jerome to fill up my 2-day visit.
The city is located 45 kilometres northwest of Montreal and two hours northeast of Ottawa. This makes it an ideal day trip destination or easy getaway in Quebec. So, gas up your car or grab some train tickets, and let me help you plan a trip to Saint-Jérôme.
Disclaimer: I was a guest of Tourisme Laurentides but all opinions expressed are my own. This post contains affiliate links, by booking through them I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Check out Place de la Gare
This open square in the heart of downtown Saint-Jérôme is the perfect place to start your visit. It’s home to the old train station that is the first stop on La Route des Belles-Histoires road trip.
Built in 1897 by the Canadian Pacific, the train station, Vieille Gare de Saint-Jérôme is where the route through the Laurentians all started.
I love how the square is adorned with unique details that highlight the old railway route, known as Le P’tit Train du Nord. Look for the details, like the old train tracks, rail cars, and winding stones along the ground that represent the river.
It’s also a fun stop to get your photo with the gate that signifies the start of the P’tit Train du Nord.
Cycle Le P’tit Train du Nord
Le P’tit Train du Nord is a 234 km trail that follows the path of the old railway through the Laurentians. It’s a fun way to cycle between the towns.
And Saint-Jérôme is home to the official km 0 for the trail. While I haven’t cycled it myself, during my trip I witnessed a lot of people doing so. Some were doing a short cycle between a couple of towns and back. While others were completing the entire route and staying at various accommodations along the way.
I love that many of the train stations along the route are now converted. Many have cafes to let cyclist fuel up on their journey. Some had information centers or bike rentals.
Insider tip: If you want to cycle part of the route, you can rent bikes from Autobus Le Petit Train du Nord in the caboose in the square.
Visit Saint-Jérôme Cathedral
One of the must-visit places to visit in Saint-Jérôme is the Cathedral. Set in the center of town, it’s a sight to behold with its stunning silver steeple.
As soon as started walking into town, I parked at the new train station (which has free parking), I spotted the steeple. Towering above the other buildings in town, I made my way towards it, like I was being pulled in.
Built over 125 years ago, this grand cathedral is beautiful inside and out. I loved how the silver roof sparkled in the sunshine and the limestone bricks were in contrast with the greenery surrounding the church.
Inside there are stunning stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings and a small museum exhibit. The exhibit is dedicated to François-Xavier Antoine Labelle. He was a priest, historic figure in Quebec, and the man who helped built the railway through the Laurentians.
Nicknamed ‘King of the North,’ the exhibit shares his story and highlights his work colonizing the Laurentians. I loved seeing all of the artifacts from his life, like his suitcase.
Grab a Coffee
If you’re looking for a great coffee shop in Saint-Jérôme then head to Café La Petite Voisine. As soon as I entered, I knew this was my kind of cafe!
With a minimalist style, yet full of plants and soft colours, it has a cozy vibe. They have a selection of coffee, teas and lattes to choose from. There were also a few baked goods too.
I loved the fun hanging chair at the back of the shop as well as the hidden little patio. I loved it so much, I popped in twice during my visit.
For those travelling with your pups, this is a dog-friendly café. They even have a little dish for them at the front.
Stroll the Riverfront
The perfect spot to visit after you’ve grabbed your coffee is the riverfront. Located across the street, a few steps away, from the café is the river.
Running along the Rivière-du-Nord is a scenic boardwalk. It stretches for roughly 1 km and offers a lovely spot to soak in nature in downtown Saint-Jérôme.
There’s even a serene waterfall too and a cute little playground.
Visit Maison de la Culture
One of the best things to do in Saint-Jerome is visit Maison de la Culture. This museum is located close to the Cathedral and set in the old courthouse.
The grand building definitely commands your attention, so I wasn’t surprised to learn of its roots. Considered the largest museum north of Montreal, Maison de la Culture is home to a variety of exhibits.
Our first stop was the exhibit dedicated to Claude-Henri-Grignon. This well-known author is considered the man who popularized the Laurentians with this book “Un homme et son péché (A Man and His Sin).” Now a literary classic, it helped but ‘the Northern Townships’ (the Laurentians) on the map.
During my visit we also checked out another exhibit that was a mix of sculptures and multi-media art pieces. But the best part is that the museum is free to visit.
Eat at Brasserie Dieu du Ciel!
For dinner, you’ll find a variety of places to eat in downtown Saint-Jérôme. During my visit my friends and I ate at Brasserie Dieu du Ciel!
With the original brewery in Montreal, this is their second location. Their menu features a line up of appetizers and mains. Plus, they have a great selection of craft beers.
I ordered the smash burger and fries, which as amazing! My friends ordered chicken wings, the beef tartare and the chicken sandwich. Everyone was delighted in their meals.
As soon as I entered, I loved vibe at Brasserie Dieu du Ciel. It has an open-air dining room that opens onto the patio. Inside, there are plants everyone that soften the industrial vibe. The patio was great too; I loved the sails for cover.
Grab an Ice Cream
What’s better than an ice cream after dinner in the summer? If you’re looking for a fun spot to grab an ice cream, head to the historic Laiterie Casavant.
This ice cream shop has a long history in town, dating back over 80 years. It was founded by one of the first dairy farmers in the Laurentians, Joseph Forget.
Now, the business is no longer in the family but locals and visitors alike still go to grab an ice cream. They have a wide selection, from soft serve to ice cream sundaes. We all ordered something different, I went with a berry sorbet.
Where to Stay in Saint-Jérôme
Comfort Inn & Suites
During my visit to Saint-Jerome I stayed at the Comfort Inn & Suites. This classic hotel is located close to the highway, perfect if you are arriving late or leaving early. Plus, it’s a short drive into downtown.
I found the room spacious and loved that there was a couch to lounge on and coffee maker. Amenities include an indoor pool with spa, and complimentary breakfast.
PIN IMAGE FOR LATER REFERENCE!
