Downtown Montreal: Top 5 Outdoor Things to Do (Centre-Ville)
So, you’re planning a visit to downtown Montreal, that is a pretty great choice! You will find that Centre-Ville has more than its fair share of things to do inside, yet you might want to soak up some fresh air. We can guide you to a few fantastic outdoor options, whether you are looking to relax in a beautiful spot, check out public art, or maybe learn about this city. That should give you a nice introduction to what the region has to offer; just getting familiar is almost always worthwhile. Get prepared to discover places right in the heart of the action!
Explore Mount Royal Park
Visiting Mount Royal Park is, basically, a must-do when in Montreal. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who too it’s almost created New York City’s Central Park, this large green space gives fantastic views of the cityscape. This park offers you the option of various outdoor experiences, just like going to Beaver Lake for a serene paddle boat trip or maybe visiting Kondiaronk Belvedere for some unreal photographic views, right over downtown Montreal, is something that should appeal to most photographers.
There are various walking and hiking paths for different skill levels if you appreciate a good trek; the trails wind all through the woods so that, usually, it feels like you are much farther from city noise and commotion than you actually are. Take the time so that you can relax on the grass, have a picnic, or simply take in this fresh air. Mount Royal Park is really an ideal spot for a solo break or an outing with the family. I actually remember the first time I went there; the panoramic view just took my breath away!
Wander Through the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts’ Sculpture Garden
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts gives, too it’s almost, you not only incredible indoor exhibits but, actually, a neat sculpture garden right outside! This outdoor space has a bunch of artwork to appreciate as you meander through the landscaped setting. From contemporary pieces to modern artworks, each piece offers something to consider. It can feel like getting a little shot of beauty and calm just right there on the busy street.
Walking round the sculpture garden, is that, gives a calm diversion, too it’s almost, from this hustle of this city life, basically, as you appreciate a little creativity that the garden brings in such an accessible place. If the sun feels extra pleasant that day, then you are sure to have a special appreciation of each exhibit.
Stroll Along the Lachine Canal
A walk by the Lachine Canal has just become such a beautiful way, as a matter of fact, to get some outdoor time right in Montreal. You’ll find this historic canal extends 14.5 km, gives so, a bunch of ways, basically, to explore on foot, by bike, or potentially a relaxing boat trip! Plus the setting is nice with many views and landscapes, so it could be your style, too. While there is some historic information in the area, most agree there is so, really, something interesting about a nice long walk or maybe bike ride along the canal as a change of scenery.
You can see cyclists and walkers frequently sharing that path; you’re so, probably, sure to find yourself amongst them. There are, like, spots just where you can pause to enjoy some views, as well as cafes nearby if you want to relax a little; those little spots might add a lot to a day exploring that way. When it’s warm, the atmosphere really draws everyone together and can give some special energy; that feeling is wonderful!
Discover Dorchester Square and Place du Canada
Dorchester Square and Place du Canada can give, seemingly, a historic yet tranquil setting smack in the heart of downtown Montreal. Dorchester Square, being one of this oldest public spaces around Montreal, includes lots of green areas, and amazing monuments plus statues just ready for exploring at your own pace, very, too. A quiet space where you might think about all this history, too it’s almost, that just took place near it, might give, so, you pause. It could be easy to rest just while enjoying all of the green landscape around it, too. After seeing the sites, there is something that feels nice and calming about spending some moments there and getting fresh air, even if just for a bit!
Place du Canada, too it’s almost, right next door, actually, celebrates that link between Canada, too it’s almost, and other Commonwealth nations. It is a place for locals plus visitors that appreciate reflections upon this nation’s links so, it’s generally worth seeing, too. Taken together they provide a satisfying and contemplative visit, right in Montreal’s heart.
Check Out Public Art Installations
You’ll find downtown Montreal gives plenty when it comes to public art that could enhance a walk around the city, actually. As you go around, it won’t be uncommon so that you can suddenly come across striking artworks that help make this urban landscape extra engaging and, basically, reflective of local vibe and lifestyle.
These installations, arguably, make seeing a show accessible while you do normal everyday things so that, sometimes, turning a basic stroll downtown, like your everyday walk, turns into this art-filled adventure with artworks only steps from you! The designs provide great conversation as well as can turn a dull urban environment into something a bit surprising. Seeing art just like that out in that open can sure surprise people sometimes!