Tourist attractions

For more information on tourism in Montreal, contact tourism@WorshipConference2008.org. This page is merely the tip of the iceberg!

Boulevard St Laurent/ St. Lawrence Boulevard or, as it is affectionately known as, simply “The Main” is a colourful street that runs from “Little Italy” in the north down to “China Town” in the south with so much to see and do (and eat) in between. To experience Montreal in all its diversity, it is best to just walk along St Lawrence and discover all that appeals to you. For more information (mostly on restaurants), see restomontreal.ca.

Montreal’s Metro System is worth an exploration all by itself. It was designed with a style all its own, every station being conceived by a different architect. From the very beginning, art was to be integrated into each station and although there are at present more than 70 stations, 50 of them have significant works of art ranging from sculpture, to stain glass, to the walls and ceilings themselves. A tourist Day pass to the metro and bus system is affordable and convenient. For more information, see the Montreal metro website, www.stcum.qc.ca.

Montreal is a city on an island in the middle of the St Lawrence River. Short Cruises are available from the Old Port to experience the Lachine rapids and the Lachine canal with an impressive view of the mountain and the city’s skyline from the river’s perspective. Then stroll around the Old Port, absorbing the atmosphere and climb the Clock Tower. A perfect summer afternoon or evening activity. See www.quaysoftheoldport.com for more information.

Montreal is host to over 350 kilometres of bicycle paths and trails for the enthusiast. Sign up for guided bike tours (1hr, 2hrs or 4hrs), which include bike rental, helmet, water bottle and maps. All you need provide is the curiosity and energy. For more information, see velomontreal.com.

La Ronde is a Six Flags amusement park on Isle St Helene, an easy ride from any metro station and a summer tradition for many Montrealers and visitors alike. See laronde.sixflags.com.

Old Montreal, founded over 350 years ago, is where it all began. Walk the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, take a caleche ride or sit in Place Jacques Cartier and enjoy a glass of wine at an outdoor terrace. See www.vieux.montreal.qc.ca.

Explore the Mountain! Mount Royal Park is the largest yet most accessible of all of Montreal’s great parks. Walk it or bike it. Pack a small lunch or visit the casse croute (restaurant) at the chalet at the Lookout. Designated a park in 1876, the original landscaping was done by Frederick Law Olmsted, well known for his work at New York City’s Central Park. Experience “TamTam” (a large open-to-all drum-circle) every Sunday at the foot of George Etienne Cartier Monument. See www.lemontroyal.qc.ca.

Montreal is a city of spires with more than 700 churches on the island. Many of the greats are within walking distance or only an easy bus ride away. From Christ Church Cathedral to Notre Dame Basilica to Mary Queen of the World to the Saint-Joseph Oratory itself. Visit them and be inspired! See www.montreal.com/tourism/churches.html. (Mark Twain famously quipped “This is the first time I was ever in a city where you couldn't throw a brick without breaking a church window.”)

Montreal has a plethora of restaurants to choose from, ranging from fine dining to snack bars and every kind of cuisine in between, many within walking distance of your place of accommodation. Explore the tastes of Montreal! See restomontreal.ca.

The Biodome - An oasis in the city, Montreal’s Biodome recreates 4 of the most beautiful ecosystems of the Americas : Tropical Forest, Laurentian Forest, St Lawrence Marine ecosystem and the polar worlds of the Arctic and Antarctic and includes many of the native flora and fauna of those regions, all under one roof. An unique experience for the whole family, located at the site of the 1967 Olympic installation. See www.biodome.qc.ca. The Botanical Gardens and the Insectarium (right next to the Biodome) are also well worth a visit.