Discover the Best Parks in Montréal: A Natural Oasis in the City

Montréal boasts not only its urban wonders, funky architecture, and charming cobblestone streets but also an abundance of green spaces that make it a wonderful place to visit and live. With nearly 5000 acres dedicated to parks and gardens, you can enjoy your snacks and wine while sitting under a grove of trees with beautiful fountains in the distance.

Seasonal Parks: A Year-Round Delight

Montréal’s parks thrive in every season:

• Spring: Gardens begin to bloom, offering vibrant colors and sweet scents.
• Summer: Parks turn into hotspots for picnics and activities.
• Fall: The foliage bursts into vibrant colors, attracting photographers.
• Winter: Parks become covered in snow, perfect for scenic walks

Whether you prefer small urban parkettes adorned with statues or sprawling green spaces with bike paths, Montréal has the perfect park for you.

Mount Royal Park

Mount Royal, Montréal’s most famous park and a designated heritage site since 2012, rises majestically from the city center. A trek to the Kondiaronk Belvedere rewards visitors with panoramic views of the urban landscape.

In spring, admire flourishing gardens; in summer, indulge in popular activities like kayaking on Beaver Lake. Sundays feature the Tam-Tam-Jams, bringing locals together to play hand drums and dance. Fall transforms the park into a kaleidoscope of colors, while winter offers activities such as skating, cross-country skiing, and visiting charming pop-up sugar shacks. Additionally, guests can enjoy refreshments at one of the three Cafés des Amis located around the park.

Saint-Louis Square

This quaint parkette acts as a tranquil oasis between the vibrant streets of Saint Denis and Laval Avenue. With its centerpiece fountain and stunning architecture, it evokes the charm of Belgrave Square Garden in London. Colorful Victorian houses on Laval Street surround the green space, making it an idyllic spot for relaxation.

Parc Saint-Henri

Known as Saint Henri Square, this park reflects old European vibes. At its center stands a monument dedicated to the French explorer Jacques Cartier, surrounded by towering mature trees and historical Victorian homes. It’s a lovely place to enjoy coffee from local cafés while taking a leisurely stroll.

Lachine Canal

One of Montréal’s unique parks, the Lachine Canal connects the city with nature. This 13.5 km (8.4-mile) route is perfect for walking, biking, or paddling, linking the Old Port and Lake Saint-Louis. With a history dating back to 1700, it garnered recognition as one of the best urban bikeways globally.

Besides standard outdoor activities, unwind at the floating Canal Lounge or embrace adventure by renting a houseboat for an overnight stay. In winter, the canal transforms into a skatable path.

Dorchester Square and Place du Canada

These twin squares are nestled between stunning heritage buildings and lofty skyscrapers. Originally an 18th-century Catholic cemetery, Dorchester Square has transformed into a bustling public park near Sainte-Catherine Street and Mary Queen of the World Cathedral. Both squares offer plenty of benches, majestic oak trees, and interesting monuments, including an optical illusion fountain.

Parc Jean-Drapeau

A perfect blend of park and island getaway, Parc Jean-Drapeau spans Saint Helen’s Island and the artificial Notre Dame Island. It houses the magnificent Biosphere, an Expo 67 relic turned environmental museum. Trails and gardens adorned with public art installations enhance the area, while summer guests can splash in the aquatic complex, an engaging outdoor waterpark.

Parc La Fontaine

Renowned for its picturesque scenery, Parc La Fontaine is a favorite among sunbathers and bird-watchers seeking to glimpse the famous northern starling. The beautiful park features a centerpiece fountain and offers performances at Thétre de Verdure during summer. In winter, don your ice skates and glide across the tranquil pond.

Parc Jarry

Park Jarry holds a significant place in history, being home to the Montréal Expos, Canada’s first major league baseball team. Visitors can enjoy a wealth of amenities, including cricket pitches, soccer fields, and a manmade lake perfect for various watersports.

Place Émilie Gamelin

This vibrant city square celebrates Montréal’s 350th anniversary and maintains a lively atmosphere. Featuring numerous art installations, including sculptures by Melvin Charney, it serves as a venue for gardens, concerts, and food trucks. In winter, the square dazzles as a sparkling Christmas village, easily accessible by various public transport options.