La Cité de l'énergie is a museum complex and science center located in Shawinigan, in the Mauricie region, on the banks of the Saint-Maurice River. Here, you can explore the history of hydroelectricity and industry in Québec, enjoy a 115-meter observation tower, visit the museum dedicated to Jean Chrétien, and in the summer, tour century-old hydroelectric power plants. It's an outing that is both scientific and historical, perfect for families and the curious alike.
La Cité de l'énergie: A Site at the Heart of Shawinigan's History
The city developed thanks to the power of the river: power plants and aluminum smelters were established here at the beginning of the 20th century. La Cité de l'énergie tells this story in its historical sector, where the Northern Aluminum Company (N.A.C.) operated Canada's first aluminum smelter. Visitors can connect heritage and science here.
The Science Center and the Planète Énergie Exhibition
At the science center, the permanent exhibition Planète Énergie is complemented by the multimedia show L'Expérience Planète Énergie. Other activities include:
- Oui, allô!?, a temporary exhibition;
- the expo-film Natakam;
- the free exhibition Au sommet depuis 25 ans!.
Plan for about 2 hours in this sector, including the observation tower.
The Hydro-Québec Observation Tower: 115 Meters High
The star of the site is the Hydro-Québec Observation Tower. Standing at 115 meters, equivalent to about 38 stories, it's the second tallest observation tower in Québec. Unique feature: the structure is a former Hydro-Québec electrical pylon, which was used for the temporary crossing of a line over the Saint-Lawrence River, between Grondines and Lotbinière.
A panoramic elevator takes you to the top of the observation tower. The view encompasses the landscapes of the Mauricie region and the city, with its industrial heritage. In autumn, it's a stunning panorama to admire the colors.
The Jean Chrétien Museum
La Cité de l'énergie also houses the Jean Chrétien Museum, featuring the exhibition Canada in the World. Born in the city, Jean Chrétien was the Prime Minister of Canada. Access is included in the general ticket or available à la carte.
The Hydroelectric Sector: N.A.C. and Shawinigan-2 Power Plants
In the summer season, a tour offered by Hydro-Québec leads to the two power plants in the historical sector: the N.A.C. Power Plant and the Shawinigan-2 Power Plant, where some century-old turbine-generator groups are still in operation. The tour lasts about 2 hours, includes outdoor portions, and is mainly done on foot. A shuttle connects the sites; you can register at the Cité's ticket office. Public tours take place from mid-June to the end of September.
À la carte, the guided tour Enter History! Canada's First Aluminum Smelter includes round-trip transportation between the science center and the former smelter.
ilia Night Show and Amphitheater
In the summer, the Amphithéâtre Québecor presents the immersive night show ilia in the evening. In 2026, performances took place from July 15 to August 22 and are now over; the summer 2027 schedule will be announced on the Cité's website.
Practical Information for Visiting La Cité de l'énergie
- Address: 1000, avenue Melville, Shawinigan (Québec).
- 2026 Schedule: June 13 to August 30, daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; in September, Friday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; from October to mid-December, Thursday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Groups of 15 or more can book year-round.
- 2026 High Season Rates (June 13 to September 27, taxes extra): $30 per adult, $28.70 for seniors 65 and over, $17.39 for ages 5 to 17, free for children 4 and under; family package (2 adults, 2 children) at $75.23. The tower alone costs $13.91 per adult. Off-season, check current rates.
- Duration: About 4 hours with the hydroelectric sector.
- Services: Free parking and charging stations, snack bar in summer, picnic areas.
- Accessibility: Most exhibitions are accessible; the Shawinigan-2 power plant is only partially accessible, and the city tour is not accessible.
- Tickets: Available on the official website of La Cité de l'énergie.
Frequently Asked Questions About La Cité de l'énergie
Where is La Cité de l'énergie located?
At 1000, avenue Melville, in Shawinigan, Mauricie.
What are the opening hours of La Cité de l'énergie?
In September 2026: Friday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. From October to mid-December: Thursday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How long does a visit last?
About 2 hours for the science center and the tower, and about 4 hours including the hydroelectric sector.
Where is the ilia show held?
At the Amphithéâtre Québecor of La Cité de l'énergie, in the summer.
Also Discover in Mauricie
Complete your visit with Arbre en Arbre Shawinigan or the Village du Bûcheron, in Grandes-Piles. For next summer, keep an eye on the ilia night show.
👉 See the full profile of La Cité de l'énergie on Évasion Québec.
