Montreal is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. From its downtown skyline to the mountain-top views, one of the best things about Montreal is its large number of truly exceptional parks. Scattered across the entire island of Montreal and its surrounding areas, numerous parks dot the map. Each is unique and has its own distinct flavor and character, influenced by the neighbourhoods they are located in. From reflective, quiet green-spaces to the excitement and activity of a game of ultimate Frisbee or soccer; Montreal’s parks have it all! Here’s a quick list of Montreal’s larger parks, located across the island:
Maisonneuve Park | Jean-Drapeau |
Mount Royal | Lafontaine Park |
René-Lévesque Park | Parc des Rapides Angrignon Park |
Saint-Michel Environmental Complex | Cap Saint-Jacques |
Jarry Park | Promenade Bellerive |
Depending on your neighbourhood, you can expect to find beautiful outdoor spaces where you can relax, exercise, meditate, walk the dog, cycle, or play with the kids. We’ve highlighted a few of our favorite parks and squares located in Montreal’s downtown area to make it easy if you’re visiting Montreal from another city. Take a look:
1. Place du Canada (Dorchester Square)
Located in the heart of Montreal, just south of Rene Levesque Blvd. between Peel and Metcalfe, Place du Canada is an easy spot to find and take a little break in. An urban oasis that greens up the city and highlights some of the finest heritage buildings and churches in Montreal, this is a great spot to visit if you want to take in some of Montreal’s history. There are also many events and activities that take place here, so stop in and see what’s happening!
2. Place Émilie-Gamelin (known as Berri Square)
Created to mark Montreal’s 350th anniversary, Berri Square is a fun and interesting place to be! On any given day you’ll find everything from sidewalk performers to protestors. But don’t worry, although this square has seen it’s share of protests and public outcry, it is actually an exciting and vibrant scene to visit. From the terrasses that surround it to the lively people that tend to fill it, Berri Square is a must-visit for newcomers. You’ll love it!
3. Old Port Area
All along the Old Port you’ll find lots of green-space where you can relax or take a stroll. You can even catch a carriage ride along the Rue de la Commune, if you want a unique Old City experience! You can also hop across to the Parc du Bassin Bonsecours from the Quai Jacques-Cartier to take in more downtown scenery or to get up close and personal to the mighty St. Laurent!
Along with the three parks/squares we’ve covered, there are many more parks you can explore if you’re in the mood to taste Montreal’s culture. Try starting out with any of these for a real Montreal experience:
Place d'Armes | Champ de Mars |
Place Jacques-Cartier | Square des Frères-Charon |
Place des Arts | Place Jean-Paul Riopelle |
Chaboillez Square | Victoria Square |
Phillips Square | Saint Henri Square |
Cabot Square | Place des festivals |
Sir George-Étienne Cartier Square | Place de l'Adresse symphonique |
Ernest Cornier Esplanade | Peace Park |
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