The extension of Highway 138 has helped put Côte-Nord on the map, rescuing the region from its former isolation. In recent years, the abundance of wildlife resources, the local flora, and beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see have been attracting tourists and lovers of wide-open spaces and the great outdoors.
Côte-Nord includes the tourist regions of Duplessis and Manicouagan. The Manicouagan-Uapishka World Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest in the world, is located there.
The tourism industry has also developed because of international cruises and marine mammal viewing cruises. Activities specific to Côte-Nord include visiting Île d’Anticosti, a paradise for hunters and anglers, and the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, known for its monoliths and resident seabirds.
A historical site, the Vieux-Poste de Traite de Sept-Îles (old trading post), is a popular destination for visitors seeking first-hand experience of the fur-trade era.
Every summer, Aboriginal culture is showcased near Sept-Îles at the Innu Nikamu Festival, in Maliotenam, which is home to an Innu community.