6 of the best things to do in Montréal with kids

17.09.2023 - 11:29 / lonelyplanet.com

Sometimes called "the Paris of North America," Montréal is a captivating city that straddles two worlds: there’s a hint of old Europe, with French accents, Québécois cuisine and cobblestone-lined neighborhoods, but plenty of familiar North American food and shops as well. Montréalers tend to have a soft spot for kids, and families are generally given the royal treatment. 

Most children have a blast in Montréal. There are many kid-friendly attractions, from hands-on science museums to amusement park rides within easy reach of downtown. There are spaces where you can look for rainforest creatures, take a trip to the stars and gaze at creepy crawlies all within easy reach of the metro. More active adventures range from cycling, boat rides, and amusement parks. Much-loved parks and green spaces give kids the chance to have some unstructured downtime. 

However, it’s not always smooth going in Montréal. The narrow sidewalks and cobblestone lanes of Old Montréal are a challenge for stroller navigation, while the lack of public toilets can lead to frustration. The weather is also no small consideration, with long, cold winters and short, steamy summers – plus a late spring that sometimes means snow is still falling in early April.

Old Montréal steals the show, with a number of top kid-approved sites. This is the place for pirate-themed exhibits, ghost tours and waterfront activities (zip lines, jet boats, a Ferris wheel). When hunger strikes, the streets have plenty of bakeries, cafes and other spots for snacking. If you need a break from sightseeing, head up to Parc du Mont-Royal for walking forested trails, picnicking and enjoying some free time by the lake. Another big draw for children is the Olympic District, where you’ll find a biodome, planetarium, insectarium and botanical gardens. 

Built for the 1967 World’s Fair, this massive geodesic dome houses a playful environmentally themed museum with lots of fun interactive features for young visitors. Check out nature-themed films designed for youngsters, grab a seat for story time (ideal for ages 5 and under) or head to the ecolab to peer through microscopes. Afterwards, get some fresh air on nearby woodland paths. The Biosphere sits on an island in the St Lawrence, and is an easy metro ride from Old Montréal.

Out in the Olympic District, the Biodome is a futuristic building that houses five different areas, each dedicated to a different ecosystem brimming with plant and animal life. Watch penguins gliding through the water in the sub-arctic section, then warm up in the humid rainforest as parrots squawk overhead and capybaras scurry beneath the undergrowth. Amid the Laurentian maple forest, keep an eye out for river otters, porcupines and a majestic lynx.

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