49 best things to do in Montreal right now

What is it: Soak up all the Mediterranean heat on this sprawling sun-soaked rooftop nestled in the heart of Downtown Montreal.

Why go: Côte d'Azur vibes? Breathtaking views of the city? Mediterranean-inspired food and cocktails? You’re in the right place.

Don't miss the mocktail versions of all the signature cocktails

What is it: A new IKEA just 30 minutes from Royalmount in Montreal is now open. 

Why go: This unique concept in Quebec is a planning studio where you can meet with a specialist to plan home renovations, shop a curated selection of about 100 products on-site, and pick up online orders directly in-store.

Don't miss the weekend crowds at the big stores, or getting lost in the warehouse maze ever again!

What is it: From Milan to Montreal, the first Moxy hotel has opened in Quebec.

Why go: Bold design, playful vibes, excellent location and kick ass pool with staggering views. Plus all the cool kids are checking in.

Don't miss the next-level elevator design and mirrored corridor.

What is it: As part of Japan Week 2025, this is the 6th edition of the gigantic gathering of Shiba and Akita dogs—the largest in the country.

Why go: Do you love Shibas, Akitas, and beautiful kimonos?

Don't miss the kimono and yukata gathering that will take place at the same time.

What is it: The McCord Stewart Museum presents Pounding the Pavement: Montreal Street Photography, a project exploring street photography from the 19th century to the present.

Why go: The 400 images reveal the Montreal's beauty, complexity, grittiness, diversity and humour.

Don't miss the museum's free family workshop Looking After My City happening every Saturday from April 19 to October 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

What is it: The world’s biggest inflatable theme park is coming to Montreal in May.

Why go: If 25,000 square feet of crazy inflatable fun and action-packed entertainment for all ages sounds fun, this is the activity for you.

Don't miss out on the most epic inflatable adventure around... reserve your tickets as they go fast.

What is it: The prestigious International Pizza Expo unveiled this year’s winner, and pizzaiolo Mirko D’Agata (executive chef of Pizzerias No.900 and Morso) took the top prize in the Neapolitan pizza category.

Why go: Do you like pizza?

Don't miss the SMS—to celebrate the big win, the restaurants are sending out SMS messages that entitle guests to a complimentary l’entrée apérativo, valid until April 1, 2025.

What is it: Sugar shacks in Montreal are an iconic food experience. While there are urban venues offering it, the ultimate way to do it is to explore off-island.

Why go: Nothing beats slipping into the countryside and tasting the local bounty available at the very end of February into late April when spring brings the seasonal opening of the sugar shacks.

Don't miss the truly decadent maple-based meals that can rival even the best brunch and dinner services found in the city.

What is it Montrealers will be able to catch the  Broadway hit at Montreal’s Place des Arts this summer.

Why go The musical has won 11 Tony awards, so that's 11 excellent reasons right out of the gate.

Don't miss booking a table at one of downtown Montreal's top tables before or after the show.

What is it: In response to the recent U.S. tariff situation, one of our favourite Montreal bagel shops, Fairmount Bagel, has created the (wait for it) Canada bagel.

Why go: Picture a braided red and white sesame seed bread with all of Fairmount Bagel’s signature taste.

Don't miss out on all of the other delicious bagels hot out of the oven at Fairmount Bagel, including cinnamon and raisin, all-dressed and pumpernickel.

What is it: Lumino is a winter-long celebration illuminating downtown and the Quartier des Spectacles.

Why go: Back for its 15th edition, explore 30 immersive light installation, ranging from video projections to diverse artistic performances indoors and outside.

Don't miss Chaleur Humaine, a piece in Place Pasteur by Anne Lagacé that resembles a suspended sun. 

What is it: Les Glissades Gamelin in Quartier des spectacles is the ultimate family-friendly winter playground in downtown Montreal. 

Why go: With three new hills and six runs, Les Glissades Gamelin is also home to L’Après-glisse, a cozy chalet where snacks and hot drinks will be served by Café Tranquille.

Don't miss the special evening on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (snow sports demos, free hot chocolate and free equipment loans!)

What is it: Alma, the Outremont hotspot, was just named the best Mexican restaurant outside of Mexico by Mexico Gastronomic Guide 2025. 

Why go: Opened by Lindsay Brennan and Juan Lopez Luna in 2018, Alma brings together Catalan natural wines and modern Mexican cuisine that highlights Quebec products.

Don't miss the handcrafted tortillas and traditional Mexican dishes that use various heirloom corn varietals and freshly ground masa every morning.

What is it: Le Belvu Hors Piste is the ultimate winter wonderland, tucked away on the 3rd floor of the Marriott Château Champlain.

Why go: Après-ski themed drinks? A heated terrasse with fireplaces and faux fur? A raclette menu and Kogos?

Don't miss making memories with the whole family as the terrasse is kid-friendly this year.

What is it With 61 breathtaking slopes, and a vertical drop that will satisfy the biggest daredevil, Les Glissades (1 hour north of Montreal) is the most innovative snow sliding centre around.

Why go With 13 sliding zones at 4 difficulty levels, there are 5 types of rides for your pleasure. One of the best things to do this winter just outside of the city, ​​it's guaranteed fun for the whole family—adrenaline junkies included.

Don't miss the holiday menu at the chalet's restaurant.

What is it: Montreal Bungee, the team behind Tyrolienne MTL Zipline, is bringing the highest bungee jumping experience in Canada to Montreal's Old Port.

Why go: This thrilling new adventure delivers epic views of the city of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River from Conveyors Tower.

Don't miss reliving every second over and over again by opting for a video.

What is it: Located in a stunning former bank in Old Montreal, Crew Collective & Café is a breathtaking spot that blends gilded Age elegance with third-wave coffee.

Why go: If 50-foot ceilings, intricate marble inlay, and an abundance of custom, gleaming brass details don't do it for you, then the vaulted coffered ceilings, lofty archways, romantic staircases and chandeliers will.

Don't miss grabbbing a Montreal bagel while you're there.

What is it: Valentine's Day in Montreal is easy if you're making reservations at the most swoon-worthy restaurants (or the city's most romantic café!).

Why go: Some of these intimate spots do brunch, some do dinner, and some doubly feature as some of the city’s best cocktail bars to enjoy before or after an unforgettable meal. 

Don't miss this essential guide to dating in Montreal.

What is it: Château Maneki, a Japanese snack bar inside an iconic pastel castle, serves delicious torched sushi, refined cocktails, playful mocktails, and more.

Why go: A pink castle? Fresh tartare? Tasty rainbow-coloured cocktails that come in quirky ceramic frog or pig-shaped mugs? One trip here will have you feeling like sushi royalty.

Don't miss: the new indoor dining room, speakeasy and winter menu

What is it: This interactive map from Sépaq provides daily live updates so you can check snow conditions at the spots of your choice every morning.

Why go: Looking to do some winter hiking, hit the ski hill or strap on some snowshoes? Find the best snow conditions in and around Montreal.

Don't miss the free app and mailing list for real time updates

What is it: With more than 260 outdoor rinks and a serious selection of indoor venues, no city is more prepped for ice skating season than Montreal.

Why go: Whether you’re looking for a rink to play the good ol’ hockey game, a track for skating laps, or a surface to stick a salchow, we've got you covered. Next to some choice Montreal skiing options, ice skating is definitely one of the best things to do in Montreal in winter—right after stuffing your face at sugar shacks near Montreal. 

Don't miss bundlling up before heading outside, and be sure to check ice conditions by dialing 311 to get city updates on ice conditions.

What is it: Welcome the Year of the Snake with multiple Lunar New Year celebrations happening across Montreal.

Why go: Lion dances, traditional food, free activites and happenings for the whole family are popping up all over town.

Don't miss the parade on Saturday, February 1, 2025, starting at 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

What is it: Winters in the city doesn’t have to stop us from enjoying all kinds of frosty activities. From choice Montreal skiing options, ice skating to trips to the city's best apres-ski spot there's a lot to enjoy during the coldest season.

Why go:  There are short and steep groomers in the Laurentians to enjoy after staying in a chalet near Montreal, to powdery glades in the Eastern Townships, and weekend getaways in Vermont. A day or three on the slopes is almost enough to justify delaying spring for just a smidge longer.

Don't miss the cross-country skiing on the island itself.

What is it: Sabayon, with its 14-seat dining room, has claimed the top 10 spot, with two other Quebec spots making the list of best new restaurants across the country.

Why go: This intimate spot helmed by the chef of the shuttered Patrice Pâtissier (Patrice Demers) and his partner (Marie-Josée Beaudoin), a renowned sommelier, offers three experiences: an evening tasting menu, cooking classes, and tea time.

Don't miss the boat: reservations for January, 2025, will be available starting Wednesday, December 4 at 12 p.m.

What is it: With so many sexy things to do in Montreal, here are the 5 naughtiest events that turned up the heat in Montreal this year.

Why go: From a sassy striptease with international burlesque artists to Montreal’s biggest fetish Halloween party (not forgetting spicy evenings at one of the best strip clubs to the friskiest New Year’s Eve bash in town), this list will not let you down.

Don't miss checking out the seductive Ewoks.

What is it: Condé Nast Traveller's 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards have been revealed, and the Four Seasons Hotel Montreal hotel was named one of the best on the planet.

Why go: Just steps from some of the city’s best museums, restaurants and epic nightlife spots, this discreet hotel is all about iconic touches like herringbone wood floors, enormous marble bathrooms filled with Byredo amenities.

Don't miss dinner at the chef's counter at Marcus—a bucket list dining experience.

What is it: Founded by the creators of Magenta Photo and Le Petit Dep, the Musée Imaginarium is home to 16 multi-dimensional universes including a poutine pool.

Why go: What could be better than escaping the grey to spend a few hours inside a tropical rainforest, a California desert or surrounded by hundreds of brightly-coloured blooms?

Don't miss the bathrooms. Seriously.

What is it: From the pyramids just outside of Cairo to Place Des Arts, a majestic sphere created by famed Spanish street artist Spy has made its home in Montreal.

Why go: A four-metre-wide sculpture perched atop a body of water, Orb consists of 90 convex, polished-steel discs that create a kaleidoscopic effect, offering multiple perspectives to those who approach it. 

Don't miss seeing it at night when it's illuminated from within.

You won't believe the way Montreal lights up the city for the wintertime holidays—especially with all the free programming leading up to the New Years Eve fireworks—and this is your essential guide. The city transforms into a festive place with glittering decorations around every corner, and it makes for one of the best things to do on Christmas. So bundle up and for a stroll after a full dinner at one of the city’s stellar new restaurants, and enjoy some dazzling discoveries that rival our favourite Montreal attractions.

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Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal right now
Montreal’s Santa Claus parade is back with a different route this year
A glow-in-the-dark Christmas train is making two Montreal stops this year

What is it: Tucked away in Old Montreal, this cozy Christmas-themed cocktail bar is hidden below one of the best Caribbean restaurants in the city.

Why go: At the helm of Secrets at Kwizzin is Chef Mike Lafaille, known for mixing fun island vibes, elegant decor and sophisticated fare.

Don't miss out on next-level festive drinks and a slice of Bomboclat Firejerk pizza (grilled jerk chicken, scotch-bonnet infused honey, red onions, peppers and cheddar).

What is it: It’s Christmas on steroids the second you walk into Le Petit Dep, a Plateau Mont-Royal café with storybook holiday decor that's next-level.

Why go: 18 giant illuminated Santas, twinkling lights, tinsel and festive drinks and food.

Don't miss cocktails like The Grinch, or the family-friendly pizzas and sharing plates

What is it? From urban mountains to sandy beaches, hit the trails and explore the best of the outdoors in and outside of the city.

Why go? When you need little break from the bright lights of the city, or to check out fall's foliage at its peak, go for a walk. Hiking is the easiest thing to do in and around Montreal: There are fantastic park trails to be enjoyed within the city itself, and quick road trips from Montreal that are easily done within a day or a weekend. 

Don't miss the nighttime multimedia forest light show, Foresta Lumina, in Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook.

What is it: Once the autumnal equinox arrives, the leaves start to change colour, lasting from late September until late October and resulting in an explosion of gorgeous reds, oranges and yellows.

Why go: The city and surrounds is full of amazing things to do once autumn arrives, from apple picking to discovering corn mazes and farmers’ markets.

Don't miss the interactive map from Tourisme Québec which reveals where to find the most fire foliage.

What is it: We rounded up 23 of the best pumpkin patches to visit in and around Montreal.

Why go: There are few things that are more picture-perfect for the fall season than going pumpkin picking. Enjoy the sunshine and get prepping for Halloween.

Don't miss the spots that do triple duty with U-pick apple orchards and corn mazes.

What is it: The Brooklyn of Montreal, Saint-Henri was recently ranked one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.

Why go: The richly storied borough on the picturesque Lachine Canal is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, hidden bars, and some of the trendiest boutiques and activities around.

Don't miss the exhibit The Heart and Soul of Saint-Henri, an exhibit at Pointe-à-Callière until May 11, 2025, about how this neighbourhood has evolved over the last 350 years.

What is it: The first MICHELIN Keys Guide has come to Canada, and 8 hotels in Quebec made the prestigious 2024 list.

Why go: Brand new wellness retreats? Swiss Alps-inspired elegance? Modern luxury meets farm-inspired design? There's something for everyone on this list and more.

Don't miss the full list of 33 Canadian properties that received the coveted keys.

What is it: Apple picking season in Quebec is short and sweet, with peak freshness starting in mid-August and ending just before the beginning of November. 

Why go: A great fall family activity, a lot of these spots also produce a selection of ciders.

Don't miss the farms that also offer pears, plums and pumpkin picking.

What is it: The highest concentration of luxury flagship stores in the province, Royalmount is the talk of the town.

Why go: Looking for a diverse lineup of lifestyle and fashion giants, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, Saint Laurent, RH, and Moncler? You've got it.

Don't miss the secret speakeasy hidden inside one of the luxe stores.

What is it: Farine & Cacao, the only Canadian spot to make La Liste's prestigious 2024 awards list, is helmed by Chef Christian Campos who has 20 years of experience training with great chefs in Canada and the Meilleurs Ouvriers de France.

Why go: This is your spot for classic viennoiseries, unique croissant flavours and delicious works of art like the Black Forest dessert.

Don't miss the unbelievably decadent handmade chocolate.

What is it: A luxury lakeside getaway tucked into the landscape of the Appalachian Mountains, Manoir Hovey was just named the No. 1 Resort in Canada for the fourth consecutive year.

Why go: A five-diamond restaurant serving refined farm-to-fork cuisine? A new lakeside spa with a year-round Nordic thermal experience? 30 acres of birch forest and English gardens? How many more reasons do you need.

Don't miss a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or kicking back on one of the two private beaches.

What is it: This sexy brand new restaurant in the heart of Old Montreal is taking Japanese cuisine to another level.

Why go: Yubari, a sushi sanctuary located in the St-Paul Hotel, is all about next-level sashimis, dumplings, makis, nigiris, atataki and more. Plus some seriously glamourous decor. 

Don't miss the expertly crafted cocktails and sashimi plated like literal works of art.

What is it: Perched atop one of the city's best hotels, Terrasse Alizé is a secret rooftop oasis in the heart of the city (and our new favourite happy hour spot).

Why go: This heated, covered terrasse open rain or shine is pouring some serious cocktails—not to mention the menu created by the renown Chef Jean-Sébastien Giguère.

Don't miss the beef tacos with pico de gallo and salsa verde made from the restaurant garden. 

What is it: Less than an hour from downtown Montreal, these 4 unique beaches are all accessible via public transportation.

Why go: We're having a heat wave!

Don't miss one of one of the finest outdoor aquatic complexes in Canada at Parc Jean-Drapeau, and make sure to buy your ticket online before you go!

What is it: Le 9e Montreal, the tea room opened by Flora Eaton in 1931, has been shuttered for 25 years and is finally reopening in all is former glory.

Why go: In addition the Île de France restaurant's stellar menu by Executive Chef Liam Hopkins and Culinary Director Derek Dammann, there is also a sexy bar (Le French Line) and an event space that will knock your socks off.

Don't miss out on a visit to Time Out Market Montréal on the second floor of the Montreal Eaton Centre.

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What is it: Beachclub, the largest outdoor venue of its kind in North America, is located just outside of Montreal in Pointe-Calumet near Oka beach.

Why go: David Guetta just played the tropical island-themed club. Enough said.

Don't miss the massive open-air dance floor, bars, restaurants, beaches and cabanas for guests wanting to take a breather from the music.

What is it: Serena Van Der Woodsen was spotted eating and drinking her way across Montreal's Mile End and her picks are all worth the hype.

Why go: From a donut shop with a cult following to the home of Montreal's famous viral pink drink, Serena van Der Woodsen is spilling all the gossip XOXO.

Don't miss Mile End's hottest new restaurant, ranked one of the best global openings in 2024.

What is it: Big, small, hidden and wildly beautiful, the best 15 secret gardens in Montreal show off the city's most lush, tranquil side.

Why go: From a stroll through Chinese, Japanese and First Nations gardens to secret, meditative spaces, spending time in the city's hidden greenspaces does the soul good.

Don't miss finding out what's behind the wall framing the beach volleyball courts on Avenue du Parc.

What is it? Time Out consulted our expert team of local editors and contributors worldwide and each championed the coolest street in their respective city. After careful consideration, we curated a definitive list and Montreal's Plaza St. Hubert made the top 30.

Why go A Latin enclave and hipster hotspot, Saint-Hubert Plaza is partly covered with a glass roof, making it ripe for exploring whatever the season. You'll find art galleries, brunch spots, some of the hottest new restaurants in th city and coolest bars.

Don't miss the honky tonk and line-dancing at Spaghetti Western

What is it: Montreal is non-stop fun thanks to all the parties, festivals and happenings that come back to the city year after year, and we've rounded up over 40 of our favourites.

Why go: From Montreal’s answer to Coachella to one of the biggest Pride celebrations around, spring, summer, winter and fall in Montreal are chock full of events from jazz to burlesque with urban art and fireworks sprinkled in between.

Don't miss the world’s largest inflatable theme park coming to Montreal this summer.

What is it: Discover Centre Playbox, the biggest entertainment centre in downtown Montreal, with cutting-edge VR games, arcade games, skill games and claw machines for visitors of all ages.

Why go: Cheap thrills await with over 80 machines inside this new 18,000 square-foot space in the Eaton Centre. With games starting at $2.50, Centre Playbox is home to more than 80 machines and attractions in a space that’s over 18,000 square feet. 

Don't miss the best chefs and restaurants under one roof at Time Out Market Montreal across the hallway.

What is it Sugar shacks on and off the island of Montreal offer an absolutely essential iconic food experience.

Why go Nothing beats slipping into the countryside and tasting the local bounty when spring brings the seasonal opening of the sugar shacks.

Don't miss sleigh rides, bean bags, hopscotch, inflatable bouncy castles, DJ-hosted dance parties, fresh donut and taffy tastings, face painting and more

What is it: Whether you’re looking for one of the best romantic restaurants, or one of the best Montreal attractions to set the mood before a make out sesh or to grab a casual coffee in the most romantic café in town, we’ve compiled a top-notch list of places to try.

Why go: From the best restaurants in the city, to the best wine bars—and some stellar cheap eats in between—let us play wingman.

Don't miss ideas that are off the beaten path, like our favourite ping pong club or axe throwing.

What is it About 30 minutes from Montreal, Uplå — North America’s largest outdoor trampoline park — is an illuminated tree top experience that’s like no other. 

Why go? Picture jumping on a series of bouncing platforms suspended 20 feet above the ground in the Mont-Saint-Grégoire forest. Jump, slide, climb, and laugh while exploring a universe of interconnected nets and tree-top village made up of playful little cabins.

Don't miss the 7 treetop maisonettes, including two on two floors, 2 spiral slides and 1 secret passage.

What is it? Originally established in the 17th century by the city’s first settlers of New France, the narrow cobblestoned streets and foundations in Old Montreal are what solidifies the European roots of Montreal.

Why go? This neighbourhood looking out onto the Saint Lawrence River united some of Montreal’s top-tier restaurants, long promenades of shopping, a handful of museums, historic structures and attractions upon attractions. There’s never a shortage of things to do by day or by night in this part of town.

Don’t miss: The street performers at Place-Jacques Cartier, Inuit art at Galerie d'art Images Boréales, sunning at the Clock Tower Beach, or the Gothic Revival church Notre-Dame Basilica.

What is it? Two fundamental components of Montreal’s identity: booze and brunch. Mash them up and you’re got a slice of heaven.

Why go? Brunch is hard to improve upon, and enjoyed on a sunny rooftop with incredible views, suddenly nothing can be wrong with the world. 

Don’t miss: Arthur’s Nosh Bar serves a mean bagel brunch, and the pain perdu at Leméac, in glittering Outremont, is French toast on ‘roids.

What is it? Sprawled across the 45th and 46th floors of Place Ville Marie — one of the city’s most iconic buildings — Hiatus is a top tier rooftop experience.

Why go? Who doesn't love a new restaurant. Breathtaking, panoramic views of the city? A stunning dining room, bar, and open kitchen that promises a one-of-a-kind culinary experience? A stunning terrasse that's also the highest outdoor vantage point in Montreal? Let us count the ways.

Don't miss the outdoor patio’s lush greenery where you can take in the city's magnificent sunsets.

What is it: Guerlain Spa at Four Seasons Montreal, one of the city's best kept spa secrets.

Why go: A couple’s suite, 24-hour fitness centre, designed by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak and indoor sky-lit swimming pool with an upstream current generator are only a handful of reasons to pamper yourself at this spa hidden inside a luxiry hotel.

Don't miss a meal at the hotel's Marcus Restaurant + Terrace—one of city's the best restaurants and brunch spots.

What is it: From the top 10 best sandwiches in town to full-on feasts, with some of the newest eateries in between.

Why go? Some of the best food in the city is the most affordable. But don't just take our word for it. Eat your way across the city using our curated lists and thank us later.

Don't miss anything from Bossa, the famous family run sandwicheria, on rue Wellington—the world's coolest street.

What is it? Have you heard? It’s official: Rue Wellington in Montreal was named coolest street in the world according to this year’s Time Out Index. Time Out asked 20,000-plus city-dwellers which streets they think are the coolest, and this year only two Canadian cities made the list.

Why go? Rue Wellington is flanked by one of the best restaurants, and one of the best new restaurants in the city, so there’s no questioning its cool factor. Add some next-level cocktail bars, stellar brunch spots, some of the best sandwiches in town and even a sandy urban beach into the mix, and you’ve got the coolest crowd in the city.

Don't miss Did we mention the free tuk-tuk?

What is it? It's your eat-like-a-local bucket list for iconic Montreal food.

Why go? If eating an abundance of insanely delicious Portuguese, Chinese, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Middle Eastern and Caribbean options sounds good—plus poutine, the best delis and sandwich shops, smoked meat and bagels—don't waste another second.

Don't miss Dua Lipa (and Nike!) showing a lot of love for Montreal's bagels

What is it: Oh, just a list of the 31 best places to shop in the city.

Why go: From high-end fashion to accessible everyday looks, vintage boutiques, flea markets and department stores with don’t-miss discounts, there is something for everyone.

Don't miss: the pop-up markets at Time Out Market Montréal

What is it? Montreal’s superpower: its food scene. 

Why go? From some of the world’s most famous and best restaurants to new affordable discoveries, Montreal can guarantee one thing: there's always something incredible to eat. No matter the cultural leanings, local fare generally puts an emphasis on fresh market vegetables, a fuss-free aesthetic (bagels, anyone?), and atypical cuts of meat (hello, smoked meat). 

Don’t miss: The 12-plate tasting menu of Le Mousso, or for a pared down experience, the shaved Québec ham topped with local cheeses (and a bottle of wine of course) at Vin Mon Lapin.

Discover Montreal's hottest new restaurant openings.

What is it? The premier drag cabaret destination from Mado Lamotte, the Village's queen diva. 

Why go? In a city known for its nightlife—and the best gay bars and LGBTQ+ clubs—this performance venue of three decades delivers the city’s wildest evenings of drag performances. Any given night’s a festive no-filter display of costumes, music, comedy and dancing that regularly features new performers (including star players from RuPaul's Drag Race). Shows are generally in French with Madame Mado translating for Anglos if they ask nicely. Remember: The closer you sit to the stage, the more likely you’ll get roasted by the hostess. 

Don’t miss: The regular Friday and Saturday nights series Mado Reçoit, MCed by the doyenne herself. It’s the classic Cabaret Mado experience.

What is it? An indoor zoo and aquarium which hosts recreations of four different ecosystems found in North America, plus some Sub-Antarctic Islands.

Why go? Originally built for the judo and cycling events of the 1976 Summer Olympics, the Montreal Biodome features thousands of animals from over 200 different species and 500 different plant species to explore. A visit to its immediate neighbour of the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium will yield an equally fascinating time.

Don’t miss: The greenery and humidity of its tropical rainforest, or its collection of penguins that’s unique to Canada.

See the Montreal Biodome and the St. Lawrence River on a half-day tour.

What is it? See work from local and international artists alike at some of the city's best art galleries.

Why go? Montreal is packed with artists, partly because it’s got art programs that draw students from far and wide, partly because it’s still the cheapest big city in Canada to live and artists like things cheap. As a result, the cultural scene here is rich and varied, with dozens of independent art galleries and artist-run centres to visit for free. Whether they’re commercial galleries (bring your wallet if you’re looking to furnish your space) or not-for-profit exhibition centres, they’re all different in flavour and a perfect complement to the city’s world-class museums.

Don’t miss: the legendary opening parties at Centre Clark

What is it? A huge, sprawling network of connected subterranean tunnels running throughout the downtown core with easy access to the metro system. Air-conditioned in the summer, and heated in the winter.

Why go? Walking the full circuit numbers in at over 30 kilometers, so one visit to this multi-level maze is never enough. It’s a functional web of passageways to get from restaurants to malls to downtown attractions, one of the largest of its kind in the world with half a million people using it every day.

Don’t miss: The indoor ice skating rink of 1000 de la Gauchetière, the fragment of the Berlin wall at the World Trade Centre and Eaton Centre, the site of Time Out Market Montreal.

Book a walking tour.

What is it? Montreal’s premier destination for curated collections of contemporary art numbering at over 8,000 pieces by over 1,500 artists both national and international.

Why go? Founded in 1964, the MAC is Canada's first contemporary art museum and combines exhibits of both visual and performing arts regularly. With its HQ currently undergoing massive renovations, it has relocated to an even more central spot at the heart of Place Ville Marie. It remains a gathering place for locals and tourists to check out art both provocative and contemplative, in addition to lectures, workshops, and fresh new exhibits every single year.

Don’t miss: Visiting this museum during Montreal’s annual Nuit Blanche festival with DJ and VJ performances, art workshops, and temporary installations.

What is it? A Mile End bookstore belonging to a Canadian publishing company specializing in comics and graphic novels by authors both international and national.

Why go? Drawn and Quarterly, one of many beloved bookstores in the city, has been a publisher of comics since 1990. Its popularity prompted the opening of this bookstore in 2007 and is now a gathering place of the city’s literati that organizes big name book launches. It’s not just about comics either, as the store curates solid selections both in fiction and non-fiction.

Don’t miss: Regularly scheduled readings by authors that make for high-spirited events, but May is the month to visit for Free Comic Book Day or the Montreal Comic Arts Festival.

What is it? If there’s one thing Montreal is known for, it’s the nightlife, with DJ events and torn dancefloors across this central borough.

Why go? With a legal drinking age of 18, a prominent presence of inner-city university campuses and its bars closing at 3 a.m., this city holds a longstanding reputation for being a party town most days of the week. Bass-pounding joints like the underground forest supper club and nightclub Soubois are popular for spending the night, followed by the after-hours spot Stereo to literally dance until the sun comes up.

Don’t miss: Visiting a stretch of bars and clubs like Crescent Street during the weekend, especially during F1 Grand Prix, when that street goes wild.

What is it? A 60-metre tall observation wheel that’s kaleidoscopically lit and equipped with climate-controlled booths running throughout the year, offering a full view of Old Montreal and downtown.

Why go? Also referred to as the Montreal Observation Wheel, La Grand Roue was set up in Old Montreal to commemorate the city’s 375th anniversary. Fashioned after similar structures found in Chicago and Hong Kong, the panoramic views aboard this illuminated wheel make this a picturesque attraction for tourists and a romantic evening for locals.

Don’t miss: Climbing aboard for the day and night package to get two alternate views of the city, or early bird specials that cost half the price.

What is it? The performing arts centre that makes Montreal a top live music city, from local acts to international extravaganzas.

Why go? First an indoor skating rink in the 19th century, then a cinema, then a theatre, the building that houses MTelus has been delivering entertainment for over a century. Known to locals as Metropolis, this is the site for some of Montreal’s biggest acts (besides the Corona Theatre) with none of that stadium show feel.

Don’t miss: Grab some pre-drinks at Time Out Market Montréal and then hop on the metro, or head to Foufounes Électriques or cocktails at Taverne Midway, topped off with hot dogs from Montreal Pool Room (sorry, no pool tables).  

What is it? A prime example of Montreal’s neon-soaked history of exotic dancers on the ground floor strip club, with an upstairs cabaret featuring burlesque, vaudeville and drag shows.

Why go? One of the few businesses to remain intact since Montreal’s red-light district was given a major facelift, Café Cléopâtre is part of the reason why this city was formerly known as the Paris of North America. 

Don’t miss: The first Saturday of every month has Bareoke, combining karaoke with stripping by anyone who wants to participate. It’s more wholesome than it sounds with a respectful and fun vibe.

What is it? The city’s go-to district for entertainment and cultural events spaced out across eight areas, and the main site for some of the city’s most famous festivals.

Why go? With a summer roster of Montreal’s biggest events like the Just for Laughs comedy festival and the International Jazz Festival (the world’s largest), plus regularly scheduled public art, this area prides itself on being the center of attention most days of the week. It’s also where the dapper performances of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and Montreal Opera can be found.

Don’t miss: The free outdoor performances that animate the whole area throughout the summer festivals, and screenings at the Cinémathèque Québécoise, which never fail to satisfy.

No matter what neighbourhood you’re in this weekend, there’s something going on in the street.

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