Aerial view of the Rapides-Farmer Hydroelectric Power Plant.

Girl at the exhibition at the Électrium.

Electrifying summer activities you can enjoy for free!

Published on June 22, 2026 • Attractions to discover

Looking for a free, unique and educational family outing? Hydro-Québec invites you to visit its most impressive facilities, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at energy production for an exciting journey into the world of electricity all around Quebec. Here are three hydropower stations to visit that are sure to fascinate kids and adults alike!

Electrifying summer activities you can enjoy for free!

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Hydro-Québec

The Chelsea generating station

For an outing that combines history, wonder, and waterfront scenery, head to the Chelsea generating station, located in a small municipality in the Outaouais region about 20 minutes from Gatineau. Over a hundred years old, this generating station is a gem of the region’s industrial past and invites you to discover its rich history.

After taking the time to admire the dam and spillway that span the Gatineau River—once used for log transport before being repurposed for hydroelectric power generation—let yourself be guided to the heart of one of the generating units, where you’ll see a rotor weighing over 160 tonnes towering above your heads. It’s a sight to behold!

The Beauharnois hydropower generating station

In Montérégie, 40 km from downtown Montréal, one of the world’s largest hydropower generating stations awaits you! With its 36 generating units lined up over nearly a kilometre, the Beauharnois hydropower generating station will amaze visitors of all ages, whether they’re engineering enthusiasts or fans of its Art Deco architecture. During a guided tour lasting about 90 minutes, you’ll descend into one of the turbine shafts and learn more about how these powerful machines work.

Before or after your tour, take part in a fun scavenger hunt through the permanent exhibition at the interpretation centre. Interesting facts and exciting discoveries await!

The Électrium

In Sainte-Julie, also in the Montérégie region, the Électrium welcomes curious visitors of all ages to discover the mysteries of electricity and electric and magnetic fields. This one-of-a-kind interpretation centre makes complex phenomena accessible to everyone through its interactive exhibits and guided tours.

You’ll follow the path of an electron, from the hydropower generating station to your home, while exploring concepts such as voltage, circuits, renewable energies, and much more. The more daring among you can test the Van de Graaff generator, capable of producing static electricity reaching 400,000 volts—an experience that will literally make your hair stand on end! Not to be missed!

Since space is limited, be sure to book your guided tours at least 24 hours in advance. Enjoy your visit!