Step into a frozen wonderland at Hôtel de Glace, North America’s only ice hotel. Located near Quebec City, this incredible ice hotel in Canada is rebuilt every year, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime winter experience. Whether you’re planning a day trip to the Ice Hotel Quebec or considering an overnight stay, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Hôtel de Glace in Quebec
I was so excited to finally visit Hôtel de Glace, Quebec City’s ice hotel, myself, after reading about it for so long.
At first, I thought we had to stay there, but I was happy to find out that we could do a day trip instead.
Before I dive into my visit, let’s talk a bit about the history.
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The History Of Hôtel de Glace
Since 2001, the hotel has reigned as North America’s only ice hotel, reborn each winter with 30,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice.
In December 2024, artists sculpted the hotel into its 2025 incarnation—and each year the ice hotel takes on a new theme!
The 2026 theme has not released yet, but I am excited to find out what it is!
Last year’s theme of Hôtel de Glace is “Back to the Origins,” which honors the four elements: Earth, Water, Air, andFire.
Builders use metal molds to shape snow into arches and walls, then carve intricate details by hand.
Open just until mid-March, it melts away each spring, making every visit more important than ever.
A Day Trip to Hôtel de Glace Day
Now that you understand how much work goes into the ice hotel, let’s talk about what you can expect on a day trip!
Touring Hôtel de Glace
Stepping into Hôtel de Glace is like walking through a living art sculpture.
Our self-guided tour started with a walk through the Grand Hall, where ice columns and snow art towered overhead—perfect for photos.
The Ice Chapel
I lingered in the ice chapel—a unique spot for weddings!
The walls, altar, and pews are all made from ice, creating a serene atmosphere that feels special yet intimate.
The chapel is a popular choice for couples seeking something truly unique for their ceremony.
With the frozen surroundings offering a stunning backdrop for their vows.
Looking for a place to eat after visiting Hotel de Glace? Here are the Best Restaurants in Quebec City: Where to Eat & What to Try
The Ice Bar
My favorite part of visiting the Ice Hotel was the cocktails served in ice glasses at the Ice Bar.
Picture a counter, stools, and even your glass chiseled from ice, glowing under the lights.
The cocktail was served in a glass made of ice, and we had to wear our gloves in order to hold it.
Without it, my fingers went numb instantly.
I enjoyed sipping on the Martini Givre, a mix of coffee liqueur, maple cream, and La Ponce Vodka.
We also tried the Accident De Skidoo, which combined La Ponce Gin, melon liqueur, spruce beer, and grenadine.
They were small cocktails but definitely strong, making them worth the price of about 14 CAD each.
We savored them on a bench made of ice, while the air hovered at a chilly 23°F (-5°C).
I love finding unique cocktail bars all around the world. Here are 4 Hidden Speakeasies in Quebec City You Need to Find
Ice Hôtel Suites
Then we enjoyed viewing the hotel suites, which are made out of ice. Hôtel de Glace has 15+ themed suites.
Each with ice beds and carvings tied to the theme.
The suites include ice beds with fur-lined sleeping bags to keep you cozy, and every room tells a unique story through detailed ice artwork.
From grand designs with frozen chandeliers to more intimate rooms dressed with creative ice sculptures, each suite is a work of art.
While the rooms are stunning to look at, it’s definitely an adventure to imagine spending a night in one!
Staying Overnight at Hôtel de Glace
Is sleeping in North America’s only ice hotel on your bucket list? Hôtel de Glace offers overnight stays for around $400 CAD per night.
All you have to do is check into Valcartier’s main hotel by day, then settle into your ice suite later in the day.
You also get a second hotel room in the main hotel if the cold is too much to bear.
You’ll get a Nordic sleeping bag, deer pelt, and wooden frame atop an ice bed, along with a briefing on how to stay cozy in the chilly environment.
Hot tubs and saunas nearby help keep the cold at bay. It’s bold, unique, and definitely a story worth sharing.
Originally, we considered staying overnight, but we ultimately chose to glamp in Charlevoix instead.
Read all about that: Glamping at Repère Boréal in Quebec – A Forest Retreat!
Hôtel de Glace was a bit too expensive for an overnight stay, but honestly, the day pass gave me everything I was hoping for.
It’s a great alternative if you’re watching your budget like we were!
Valcartier’s Winter Playground
Hôtel de Glace shares its home with Valcartier’s Winter Playground, North America’s largest snow park.
After my tour, I peeked at its 35+ tubing runs, ice skating paths, and snow rafting—ideal for families or thrill-seekers.
Snow tubing is not included in your day pass price to Hotel de Glace; you will need to purchase additional tickets to use the run.
Day passes let you bundle this with your Ice Hotel Quebec visit, turning a few hours into a full winter day. It’s a bonus that keeps the fun rolling.
We were going to Snow Tube, but the lines were long, and we had to get to Quebec City’s Winter Carnival.
I recommend this Thrilling Toboggan Ride in Quebec City for more winter fun.
Why Visit Hôtel de Glace?
Hôtel de Glace isn’t just a hotel—it’s North America’s only ice hotel, blending art, adventure, and Arctic vibes near Quebec City.
My day there—gawking at ice sculptures and sipping in subzero style—felt like a mini-escape.
It’s a must-do for winter travelers or anyone craving a tale worth sharing.
Unlike Sweden’s ICEHOTEL, it’s closer to home yet just as magical.
FAQS: Plan Your 2026 Day Trip
Ready for your Ice Hotel Quebec adventure? Here’s how:
- Layer Up: Thermals, gloves, scarf—inside’s a steady 23°F (-5°C).
- Timing: Opens early January 2026, closes mid-March; day tours run 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Tickets: Book online at valcartier.com for deals.
- Extras: Add the Winter Playground or an overnight stay.
How Much Are Tickets to Hôtel de Glace?
The entrance to the Ice Hotel is at Village Vacances Valcartier, which is also home to the Winter Playground on-site.
Once we made our way inside the hotel, it was time to purchase our day pass tickets for the Ice Hotel.
You can do this on-site, but a good tip is to purchase them online for a 10% discount.
I purchased mine online and had them in my inbox within minutes.
Day Pass (Online Discount): CAD 34.99 (~$25 USD)
Overnight Stay: Starts at CAD 400 per night (includes a backup heated room).
VIP Package: Includes a private guided tour, cocktail in an ice glass, and access to spa facilities.
It was worth the money! You can book your tickets online today or when you arrive as I did.
Getting There
Hôtel de Glace sits at Village Vacances Valcartier, an easy 30-minute drive from Quebec City, where we were staying.
You will see signs for the parking lot when you get close. The parking lot is huge, and you will need to walk across the street to the entrance of the ice hotel.
View the Hotel de Glace location on the map below!
Explore More of Quebec
Ready to experience the magic of Hôtel de Glace for yourself? Whether you’re planning a thrilling day trip or dreaming of an unforgettable overnight stay.
I have explored so much of Quebec! Here are some other travel guides I wrote on the province.
Want more winter fun? I did A Thrilling Toboggan Ride in Canada’s Winter Wonderland!
If you want to get a handcrafted cocktail before dinner, visit Quebec City’s Oyster Bar & Speakeasy!
Or, try to find Quebec City’s Elegant Speakeasy Is Hidden In A Hotel!
I also recommend having a spa day at Strøm Spa: The Best Nordic Spa In Quebec City!
Read all of my Quebec Travel Guides!
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