Every great city has a great park: Battlefields National Park is Quebec’s. The park, located atop the Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant) cliffs stretches for 267 acres along the river. The site of the 1759 battle in which the British defeated the French, you can get a panoramic view of the river from the park. In winter enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Rentals are available in the park.

In spring and summer, join the locals who stroll, bike, inline skate and picnic here. Summer also brings lawn concerts and other special events, including Pirates, Privateers and Freebooters (through October 11). At this museum exhibit, your buccaneers meet Captain Jack Rackham and his crew before you board a replica of his sloop to of learn life aboard a ship from navigation to punishments to primitive surgery. Kids can load a “gun,” look for the enemy with telescopes and try to decipher secret messages.

Hardy blokes can reach Brown Basin from the park by descending the Cap Blanc stairs — all 416 of them. Otherwise, take a taxi to 615 Champlain Boulevard East.