Whether theyre commercial galleries (bring your wallet if youre looking to furnish your space) or not-for-profit exhibition centres, theyre all different in flavour and a perfect complement to the citys, Photograph: Courtesy Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art/Andre-Anne Roussel and Samuel St-Aubin/Mike Patten, With its HQ currently undergoing massive renovations, it has relocated to an even more central spot at the heart of Place Ville Marie. These underground networks meet the requirements of some of today's cities, such as providing places for people to escape harsh winter weather conditions; overcoming obstacles such as the limitations of urban spaces or enabling citizens to reclaim public streets. Some of the best food in the city is the most affordable. Depending on the location, the underground city drops. I created The Atlas Heart with the intention of not only seeing the world, but understanding and writing about cultures from the perspectives of locals what I call seeing the world through a kaleidoscope lens. I throw my jacket over my left arm (I wish the Mtro had coat check) grab my New Yorker out of my bag and enjoy the 6 km ride downtown over a few articles. This is very much a local park and where youll find the second largest heron colony in Quebec, as well as 225 bird species, 66 fish species, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. What is it? Recommend: Montreal Bagel and Jewish Food Walking Tour. They include the oldest in the city, dating back to 1750, a statue of the Greek goddess of the sea, Amphitrite located in the Centre de Commerce Mondial. Covering a route of about 6km of tunnel space, each year local and international artists create one of the longest indoor installation networks out there for just under one month. Attend an art festival courtesy of Art Souterrain Taking art out of artistic institutions and integrating them into daily life, Art Souterrain is hands down one of the coolest art festivals Montreal has ever hosted. In Montreal, the maximum and minimum winter temperatures, The underground city is not open 24 hours a day. Don't missDua Lipa (and Nike!) One of my favorite things to do in the square is to take in the colorful Victorian houses that border it. Why go: From the elevated French cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Gregory Faye (Maison Boulud, La Fabrique, L'Atelier Joel Robuchon and Hotel Place d'Armes) to the dazzling Art Deco interior (designed in collaboration with Atelier Zbulon Perron),Commodore is bringing a next-level nostalgic experience to the city. There are multiple flights from Toronto to Montreal daily and the trip duration is usually just over an hour, costing around CAD $60. Le Plateau and Saint-Laurent Boulevard is a good area to start. This area of Montreal actually used to be a farm, but it was transformed into a public park in the late 1800s. A Mile End bookstore belonging to a Canadian publishing company specializing in comics and graphic novels by authors both international and national. These are a few favorite parks that are worth a visit. Domaine Labranche is A family-run historical maple sugar shack just south of Montreal. certain times established, which do not include peak times. Its also a popular place for snow tubing, tobogganing, and cross country skiing in the winter. This is because Saint Joseph is the patron of a happy death, and the oratory is the largest shrine in the world dedicated to him. Looking to fit in a lot of attractions in a short amount of time? A Guide to Solo Dining in Montral, What To Do in Old Montreal Top Things To Do in Old Montreal. If youre big on fall foliage, mid-September to early November is the perfect time to enjoy the colorful yellows, oranges, and reds that are prevalent on the trees around the city. One of the best metro systems (and busiest) in Canada. Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel adviceand tips. Montreal zoos are among the most interesting in North America, the perfect places to explore, learn and have fun. What is it? UPDATE, summer 2023: From secret restaurants and next-level dive bars to the best free things to do in town, Montreal really brings it during the summer. The two main downtown movie theatres are also integrated into the network. These include the Biosphere, Floralies Gardens, Jean-Dore Beach, Casino de Montreal, Stewart Museum, as well as a peaceful walking path through the islands and over fifteen miles of hiking trails. What is it:Casual caf by day and glitzy 1920s-inspired brasserie by night, Commodore is bringing all the Art Deco vibes todowntownMontreal. family run sandwicheria, on rue Wellingtonthe, Photograph: Caroline Perron | Bar Verdun Beach, Photograph: Freddy Arciniegas | Montreal Science Centre, Head down to the Old Port and keep a look out for a big red molecule sculpture. Our local editors have handpicked and gathered the best of the best restaurants and chefs under one roof at Time Out Market Montral. Why go? Rich with colour and history, Montreal is an incredible city that needs to be explored from every angle. May 10, 2023 Image: @sgbrestle on Instagram Did You Know Montreal Has An Underground City? One way tickets are CAD $3.25, so if youre going to be traversing the city for a few days get the 3-day card for CAD $19. This large space of coexistence and cohesion was not designed overnight in Montreal. Life is an adventure, join me around the world! For a good indoor rink, Atirum Le 1000 is one of the best in the city. Its one of Montreals largest collections of public art. Many museums are only meters away from the nearly 1000 entrances to the RSO (the term and branding for the unified system since 2004). One of the best things to do around Montreal besides eating is drinking wine, this is a francophone city after all. You can grab these cards from a fare vending machine or ticket booth attendant at any metro station. Many of the major complexes, malls, and attractions in the Underground City are wheelchair-accessible with street-level access and elevators, though some of the tunnels and . One of the best museums in Montreal, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is the largest art museum in Canada and the eighth most visited museum in North America. Why go? However, the building itself is where City Hall was once housed, as well as Montreals most famous market in the 1800s. 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. From Old Montreal, take your time riding along the canal and taking in the beautiful scenery along the way. First Fridays showcase the best of Montreal street food from an assortment of food trucks. Permanent collection. Recommended: Go on a bike tour up to Mont Royal Park. Point-a-Calliere is located in Montreals Old Port, so only a short distance away from the Centre dHistoire de Montreal if you want to see both in a day. The Montreal Science Centre is a kid-friendly museum that features an IMAX theater and interactive exhibits on science and technology. You can find out more about the pass here. What is it? Now check your email to confirm your subscription. Looking for things to do in Montreal? If you walk around Old Montreal, youll feel as if youve been transported to a European village from the 1800s. Im about to head out to run errands in the hustle and bustle of downtown. It is home to 1,200 offices, 2,000 commercial establishments, more than 200 restaurants, 40 banks and 40 movie theaters, seven hotels, and four universities. Expect unique old-world themed decor in the rooms as well as free breakfast, coffee, tea, and snacks. Montreal bagels are different than New York bagels. If you want to experience that summer terrace life without having to leave your hotel, the luxe Hotel Birks is a great option as they have a highly-rated terrace and street-level restaurant, Restaurant Henri Brasserie Franaise onsite. Drawn and Quarterly, one of many beloved bookstores in the city, has been a publisher of comics since 1990. This is also another good spot for panoramic views of the city. By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Why go? Underground is not the proper term. Why go: From the massive bouncy castle (the biggest in the world!) Why go? Ponder fine art, explore historical crypts, go on walking tours and more at the most inspiring museums in the city. There are distinctive cafs on every corner. How do you balance the needs and interests of different actors and sectors in Urban Regeneration? The Underground City can be a lifesaver when temperatures dip below freezing and you want a comfortable way to get to and from different places in downtown. ), a cooking school to learn new tricks and techniques, a retail space, and cultural events devoted to art, music and more. This is one of those local places to see in Montreal to experience the festive atmosphere that takes over the city in the summer. If you want to experience ice fishing at the village, its recommended to make reservations well ahead of time, especially if you plan to come on the weekend. Its crazy what a 48-hour escape from the city can dotime to hit the road with our curated guide to the best weekend getaways from Montreal. Don't miss thenighttime multimedia forest light show, Foresta Lumina, inParc de la Gorge de Coaticook. Youll still find spots to dance but a better mix of ages. A must for first timers to the city. Why go? Even if you are not in need of these things, it is just a great place to wander around and mingle with the locals. What is it: A touring 25,000 square-foot inflatable park is arriving in Montreal on July 29 and its going to be epic. Use this guide to find the best things to do in the Mile End, the world-famous hipster haunt and bohemian borough. These nightlife options are a good place to start. Discover outstanding restaurants, cool bars, and amazing events happening across the city. The essential addresses for Qubcois and Montreal classics like bagels, poutine, and smoked meat can all be found within this hoppingborough. And believe me when I say that you have to choose one side or the other if youre a local. This hip Quebec city is home to some of the best street art in the world. I recently sat down for a stellar roasted octopus at Roslys, directly above the Central Station, and happy houred over gin cocktails at the stylish Bartizen in the International District. 1,642 reviews #56 of 512 things to do in Montreal Neighborhoods Shopping Malls Visit website Call Write a review About Montreal's Underground City, or RSO, is an impressive subterranean pedestrian network that spans 20 miles of tunnels. Get first dibs on travel updates, tips, and deals. showing a lot of love for Montreal's bagels. If youre traveling in Montreal with kids, this is an ideal day out with the young ones. 13 Best Things to Do in Montreal | U.S. News Travel In the Old Port, youll find the urban Ice Fishing Village set up in the winter. UNDERGROUND CITY - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) Note: the oratory is free to enter but there is a suggested donation of $5. There are also great spots for third wave coffee on the go. To avoid getting lost, consider joining a guided tour. Dont miss:The 12-plate tasting menu of Le Mousso, or for a pared down experience, the shaved Qubec ham topped with local cheeses (and a bottle of wine of course) at Vin Mon Lapin. What is there to do in Montreal that you havent done yet? My go to when underground is Tunnel Espresso Bar. This secret beachwith turquoise water should be on your Montreal road trip bucket list. Qubec adopted its policy for the integration of art into government and public buildings, colloquially known as the 1% law, in 1961. I bring my white Converse with me in my tote bag and replace them with my wet winter boots at Parc Mtro. Grab a greasy bite to eat here at some point during your trip in Montreal, and make sure to try the Orange Julep drink that the restaurant is named after. Another interesting history museum in Montreal, the McCord Museum is a research and teaching museum that is located at McGill University in downtown Montreal. All works can be found on the, Many museums are only meters away from the nearly 1000 entrances to the RSO (the term and branding for the unified system since 2004). Don't miss the outdoor patios lush greenery where you can take in the city's magnificent sunsets. Since this urban belly allows 500,000 users to get about a city that has1.76 million people in its urban centerand 4.29 million in its metropolitan area. You can simply grab a day pass for $10 and get whisked away to your flight.