Sites and Attractions
By Julie GouletRouyn-Noranda, the heart of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, is a destination that shines with authenticity and diversity. Between breathtaking nature, vibrant culture, and captivating history, discover the places and experiences that make our city truly unique. We present to you a selection of must-see attractions that highlight the richness and pride of our region. From the majestic Aiguebelle National Park, witness to 2.7 billion years of geological history, to the charm of the Dumulon General Store, and the contemporary artworks at the Rouyn-Noranda Art Museum, each site tells a story of our identity. Get ready to experience unforgettable moments and create lasting memories. Welcome to Rouyn-Noranda, where every visit is an authentic adventure.
Discover all the activities and attractions of Rouyn-Noranda by clicking here.
© SEPAQ Photo Credit : Yan Kaczynski | AIG – Parc national d’Aiguebelle
Parc national d’Aiguebelle, located in the Mont-Brun area, is a must-see in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Home to 2.7 billion-year-old rocks, it is the guardian of an exceptional natural heritage. The Continental Divide crosses this fascinating territory, dividing two major hydrological systems: one conveying its waters to the Atlantic Ocean, the other to Hudson Bay. Its spectacular landscapes, marked by fascinating geological formations such as giant’s kettle and fault lakes, are revealed along a series of trails. A suspended footbridge, perched at 22 metres, offers an impressive view of a remarkable geological fault. The wildlife is just as captivating, with moose, beaver and osprey among the species on view. The park offers activities and accommodation all year round. History enthusiasts will enjoy discovering the park’s rich heritage. Aiguebelle is an ideal destination for wonder, exploration and relaxation.
Photo Credit: Louis Jalbert
The Dumulon General Store is a historic site in the township of Rouyn, founded by the Dumulon family in 1924. Currently, the permanent exhibition “La Ruée vers Rouyn” is on display there. Structured around the biographical trajectory of four characters, which presents the birth of Rouyn and Noranda and the effervescence that reigned in the Sister Cities at the time. The boutique offers a selection of souvenirs and regional products.
Photo Credit: Christian Leduc
Immersion Douce Rebelle invites you to discover Rouyn-Noranda in a new light through interactive tours. Using the Balado Discovery app, explore the city and its rural neighbourhoods at your own pace, encountering interpretation panels, public artworks, or listening to audio capsules. Experience the charm of Rouyn-Noranda, la Douce Rebelle (where sweetness meets boldness), through its architecture, art, history and heritage.
Photo Credit: Audrée Giroux
In the heart of Rouyn-Noranda, sits the MA – Musée d’art, an art museum. Driven by a mission dedicated to the preservation of a collection of over 2,000 works, education and dissemination, the MA is much more than a museum, it’s a living space. Come and discover the exhibitions, the open reserve or just relax at the Museum café.
Photo Credit: France Lemire
Located on the sandy shores of the splendid Lac Joannès, Parc-Aventure Joannès invites you to experience a unique day of life-sized fun! With family or friends, enjoy a multitude of activities that will turn your visit into an unforgettable moment. A giant maze carved out of the forest, a fitness trail, miniature golf, mountain biking or walking trails… the choice is yours! Parc-Aventure Joannès is also the aerial hebertism park, where you can experience the thrill of flying from spruce to spruce, several metres above the ground!
Photo Credit: Nancy Larivière
Discover the Botanical Garden À Fleur d’eau and geological garden, a true jewel of nature in the heart of downtown Rouyn-Noranda! Created in 1989, visitors can now admire over 25,000 plants, trees and shrubs adapted to the climatic conditions of the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Wheelchair-accessible trails, a boardwalk encircling Lac Édouard, a small artificial waterfall, a rock waterfall, a gentle stream, relaxation areas and several picnic spots are available. The geological garden within the park features huge mineral samples, and you’ll find a wealth of information on the geology and mining development of the region.
Photo Credit: Mathieu Dupuis
From late June to mid-August, discover the Fonderie Horne, the only copper smelter still in operation in Canada. This guided tour will give you a deeper understanding of the steps involved in the transformation of copper, a metal used in many areas of our daily lives. The tour begins at the Guest House, a historic site that welcomed leading figures from the mining, metallurgical and political fields in the early 20th century. You’ll then move on to the metallurgical facilities, where the Horne Mining Museum tells the story of Edmund Horne, the prospector who discovered the rich copper and gold deposit that is named after him. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the smelting plant, where copper processing activities are still ongoing. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of copper casting, an impressive phenomenon to watch. An enriching visit that highlights the region’s industrial heritage and history.
