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Nestled on the north shore of the Rivière des Prairies, Laval, Quebec is a vibrant city combining natural beauty with urban conveniences. Famed for its parks and green spaces, such as the vast Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, Laval offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The city also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with venues like the Maison des Arts de Laval hosting numerous artistic events. Its proximity to Montreal, coupled with its own unique attractions like the Space Science Centre and extensive shopping districts, makes Laval a compelling choice for travelers seeking a blend of tranquility and city life.
Immerse yourself in Laval’s sectors—each offers distinct experiences; from artistic Sainte-Rose to the bustling commercial hubs. It’s advisable to explore by car for optimal convenience.
If visiting in summer, don’t miss ‘Les Fêtes Gourmandes de Laval,’ an event that showcases local foods and products, perfect for family fun and culinary adventurers.
How to best experience Laval?
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Laval: The Thriving Suburban Hub of Quebec
| Country | Canada |
| Time in Laval | GMT-4 |
| Language spoken | French |
| Population | 437,413 (Source: latest census data) |
| Currency | Canadian Dollar (CAD $) |
| Airports |
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Laval, located north of Montreal across the Rivière des Prairies, is a vibrant city in the Canadian province of Quebec. With a population of over 400,000, it stands as the largest suburb of Montreal and one of the largest cities in Quebec itself. Laval was incorporated as a city in 1965 through the consolidation of 14 municipalities. Its strategic location, coupled with its well-planned urban development, has transformed it into a bustling center of commerce, culture, and education.
Laval’s economy is diversified, featuring strong sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, industrial products, and retail. The city is a hub for technological research and development, hosting numerous tech companies and startups. The educational landscape of Laval is anchored by institutions like Université de Montréal’s Laval Campus and Collège Montmorency, providing substantial access to higher education.
Culturally, the city is rich with venues like the Cosmodôme — a space museum and educational center that attracts visitors of all ages. Additionally, Laval boasts an array of parks and recreational facilities that include the vast Centre de la Nature. Seasonally, the city’s charm is enhanced by vibrant festivals like the Laval en Blanc winter festival, celebrating the joys of the snowy season in Quebec.
Laval also prides itself on being a green city, promoting environmental sustainability projects like the electrification of transport and protection of its green spaces. These initiatives make Laval not just a great place to reside, but also a leader in ecological practices within urban settings.
Laval continues to grow as a key economic and cultural part of the Quebec region, offering residents and visitors alike a unique suburban experience integrated with urban amenities and natural beauty. Its proximity to Montreal, combined with its own unique offerings, makes Laval a desirable destination in Canada in its own right.
Where is Laval?
Laval is strategically situated in the Quebec region of Canada, immediately north of Montreal.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Montreal to Laval | 17 miles | 25 minutes |
| Quebec City to Laval | 152 miles | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Ottawa to Laval | 128 miles | 2 hours |
What is Laval famous for?
Laval is famous for its vibrant economy, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities, such as the Space Science-focused Cosmodôme and extensive nature parks like Centre de la Nature.
History
Pre-1600s: Early Settlements
The area now known as Laval was originally inhabited by the Indigenous peoples, specifically the Laurentian Iroquoians. These early settlers engaged in agriculture, fishing, and trading in the region’s fertile lands and abundant waters. Their presence and established villages contributed significantly to the area’s early history.
1600s: Exploration and Naming
French explorers arrived in the 1600s, marking the beginning of European influence in the region. The area was initially part of the colony of New France, and it was primarily used for agriculture. During this period, Jesuit missionaries also arrived to convert the local Indigenous populations. The name “Laval” was first used in 1636, named after François de Montmorency-Laval, the first bishop of New France.
1850-1965: Urban Development
The 19th and early 20th centuries saw Laval transitioning from a rural to an urban area, with the establishment of railroads and industries. It was during this time that Laval began to develop its distinct identity, separate from neighboring Montreal. The growth in population led to the creation of schools, churches, and other community institutions.
1965-Present: Formation and Growth of a City
In 1965, several smaller towns and villages were amalgamated to officially form the City of Laval. Since then, Laval has seen significant economic growth and diversification, becoming a vibrant city with a strong industrial and technological sector. Modernization and increased connectivity with the Greater Montreal area have spurred development and an increase in population, making Laval a prominent city in its own right.
Visit Laval
What to see and do in Laval, Canada
Visiting Laval offers a wealth of experiences from educational visits to nature and science centers to exciting leisure activities. Leading attractions include the Cosmodome, which provides a hands-on space exploration experience, and the beautiful Nature Centre (Centre de la nature) which is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy extensive green spaces, a farm, and themed gardens. For those interested in shopping and entertainment, Carrefour Laval, one of the largest shopping centers in Quebec, presents a vast array of stores and dining options.
- Cosmodome
- Nature Centre (Centre de la nature)
- Carrefour Laval
- Escalade Clip ‘n climb Laval
- Art galleries and museums
Recurring Events in Laval
Laval hosts a variety of events throughout the year, celebrating everything from culture to food. The ‘Laval Laughs Festival’, held annually in October, brings together local and international comedians. The ‘Festival de la galette et des saveurs du terroir’, occurring every September, showcases local produce and delights visitors with traditional foods. These events offer a peek into the local community life and culture, making them worthwhile for visitors.
Best time to visit Laval
The best times to visit Laval are late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the city hosts various cultural and recreational events, making your visit particularly enjoyable.
Is Laval worth visiting?
Laval is indeed worth visiting for its unique blend of educational attractions, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. Its proximity to Montreal also makes it a convenient stop for travelers seeking to explore a quieter, yet equally enriching part of the Quebec region. Whether you’re interested in exploring space at the Cosmodome, relishing the tranquility of sprawling parklands, or diving into the local culture at one of its many festivals, Laval offers a plethora of opportunities for visitors of all ages.