Attractions
EXPLORE downtown & beyond
Things to Do in Downtown Montréal
Our beautiful city is filled with art, history, and culture. It offers a seemingly endless number of unique local attractions that range from historic monuments to modern wonders and opportunities to explore our stunning natural surroundings. Here are just a few of our favourite things to do in Downtown Montreal.
Nearby Attractions
Within minutes of Hôtel Saint-Laurent Montréal
Places des Arts
The Fondation supports Place des Arts’ educational and cultural activities and programs, forging ties with various communities and enabling citizens of all backgrounds to discover the performing arts in engaging ways.
Esplanade Tranquille
This new public space in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles is a versatile, all-ages destination open year-round. It is a welcoming spot with a diverse cultural program.
There is a comfortable terrasse in summer, a refrigerated skating rink in winter, and a multipurpose pavilion that include, common areas for taking a break, a café, Galaxie Brasserie restaurant, a game rental counter and a self-serve library. Esplanade Tranquille also has an all-seasons festive side, with intimate performances presented by the many festivals and events based in the Quartier.
Old Montréal
Full of fascinating history and contrasts, Old Montréal has dazzled visitors for centuries. It features everything from timeless architecture to modern design shops, avant garde restaurants and riverside pathways.
Tyrolienne MTL Zipline - Old Port Montréal
Strap in and soar above the Old Port on a zip line as you take in the spectacular scenery. And for the very daring, you can try free falling.
La Grande Roue de Montréal
The largest observation wheel in Canada, La Grande Roue de Montréal offers a panoramic 60-metre view. It’s a unique activity with temperature-controlled gondolas in the picturesque Old Montréal.
Notre-Dame Basilica
The beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal is a symbol of the city and its storied history, offering self-guided tours in which you are invited to explore 24 points of interest, as well as unique events like the Aura experience.
Biodome
The Biodome is an oasis in the heart of the city offering a sensorial, immersive journey through the ecosystems found throughout the Americas. It’s a unique way to experience nature and have fun.
Botanical Garden
The Jardin Botanique de Montréal presents a remarkably diverse array of plants to visitors in all seasons, spanning 75 hectares. You can explore its beauty throughout approximately twenty outdoor gardens and 10 greenhouses.
Mount Royal
Explore the nature, culture and history of Mount Royal. Known simply as “the mountain” to locals, it is a 4-season playground great for walking, cycling, boating, skating, skiing, tobogganing and much more.
Parc la Fontaine
A great place for hiking and biking in the summer and for skating and sledding in the winter. Don’t miss the park’s star bird, the European starling. This brown-feathered bird is renowned for its ability to mimic the songs of other birds. As you stroll through the park, discover a variety of cultural exhibitions being presented in different areas of the park all year long.
Cabane Panache
A fun way to celebrate typical Québec traditions, the Cabane Panache is a Maple Music Festival held annually in March. It features festive decor, spontaneous programmation, food, beer and more.
Nuit Blanche Montréal
Held every year in February, the Nuit Blanche attracts thousands of night owls. From dusk until dawn, the city stays open with indoor and outdoor events and entertainment. It showcases Montréal in a whole new light.
Luminothérapie
The chance to enjoy glorious light in the winter, Luminothérapie is composed of luminous and interactive works displayed in a colourful series of installations along with video production and sound.