9 Unmissable Free Activities in Montréal

One of North America’s most vibrant cities, Montréal features museums filled with treasures, a lively music scene, and magnificent churches rich in historical significance.

Moreover, many of the city’s most exceptional attractions are free of charge. Here is a guide to the best complimentary sights and activities in Montréal.

1. Discover the Redpath Museum

Nestled down a lane on the campus of McGill University, the Redpath Museum emanates a sense of 19th-century exploration. Established in 1882, the historic building showcases collections from Sir William Dawson, with exhibits including billion-year-old fossils, Neanderthal skulls, Ptolemaic mummies, and taxidermy of extinct species. Curiosities abound—make sure to view the handwritten correspondence from Charles Darwin.

Planning tip: Obtain a scavenger hunt sheet to challenge yourself in locating some of the Redpath’s hidden gems.

2. Experience Les Tams-Tams du Mont-Royal

Each summer Sunday, the grassy area at the foot of Mont Royal assembles drummers, dancers, and picnickers for a lively jam session. The festivities commence around noon and continue almost until sunset, adjacent to the Plateau neighborhood near the statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier. Participation is encouraged for all.

3. Explore Mont-Royal Trails

Prior to or following the tam-tam festivities, you may choose to don your hiking boots or sneakers and traverse the wooded paths of Parc du Mont-Royal. Familiarly referred to as la montagne (the mountain) by locals, this expansive 200-hectare (494 acres) park serves as a green sanctuary amidst the urban landscape.

Moreover, it is a year-round destination. The well-defined trails cater to hikers during summer and cross-country skiers in winter, with no period being unsuitable to ascend to the Belvédère Kondiaronk for breathtaking views of the city.

4. Ice Skating at Parc La Fontaine

As winter sets in, the residents of Montréal engage in outdoor activities rather than retreating indoors. They celebrate the cold season by participating in skating, snowshoeing, and skiing. Numerous neighborhood parks provide free skating rinks during winter, including the picturesque Parc La Fontaine.

After enjoying a glide on the frozen surface, you can relax with hot beverages at Robin des Bois, which overlooks the activity. Skate rentals are also available.

Planning tip: You could efficiently turn your need for skates into an opportunity for shopping by searching for a secondhand pair at a thrift shop, such as the three-story Eva B located on St-Laurent Blvd.

5. Cinematic Projections in the City

Throughout the year, various evenings transform the walls and streets of Montréal into a canvas for vibrant projections that narrate the city’s history. Known as Montréal en Histoires, these displays occur across multiple venues and encapsulate aspects of history, culture, and mythology, from Algonquin creation tales to the transformative 67 Expo.

These projections also commemorate notable figures from Montréal’s past, including nun and social reformer Marguerite d’Youville, Irish benefactor Joe Beef, songwriter Leonard Cohen, and hockey luminary Maurice Richard, among many others.

Planning tip: Consider downloading the complimentary Montréal en Histoires app to navigate the circuit and access audio (available in French, English, or Spanish).

6. Walking Tour of Old Montréal

For a deep understanding of the city’s multifaceted history, consider participating in a walking tour that explores notable locations in Old Montréal. Enthusiastic guides animate the narrative as you discover the history of sailors, nuns, soldiers, aristocrats, and various characters who have shaped civic life throughout the ages. Although entirely free, it is advisable to reserve your spot in advance and be prepared to leave a gratuity.

7. Visit the Édifice Belgo

Occupying a building constructed in 1912, which was once one of Montréal’s original department stores, the Édifice Belgo has seen many transformations over the past century. Currently, it is renowned for its collection of galleries distributed over four floors.

Visits to these galleries are free and generally available Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 5 PM—except during vernissages (gallery openings), where art enthusiasts gather to admire new works while enjoying complimentary wine. For a list of galleries and up-to-date events, check here.

8. Candle Lighting at Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours

Constructed in 1741, this elegantly appointed chapel provides a tranquil escape from the vibrant atmosphere of Old Montréal. History is present in unexpected locations within Montréal’s oldest chapel, which, notably, rests atop an ancient place of worship built during the 1650s.

Take note of the statue of the Mother of God to the left, which remained intact despite the original chapel burning down in 1754. Look toward the ceiling to see small sailing ships suspended above—a dedication from sailors expressing gratitude for safe journeys, which has led the chapel to be known as the Sailors’ Church. You can gain additional insights through a self-guided tour using your smartphone.

9. Views from Oratoire St-Joseph

The largest shrine dedicated to Jesus’s earthly father has historically attracted devoted Catholics, some of whom ascend the 99 steps on their knees. Whether approaching by foot, knee, or escalator, reaching this stunning structure in the Côte-des-Neiges area is undoubtedly rewarding.

Head to the third level for expansive views over a substantial portion of northwest Montréal, and then descend into the crypt, where countless candles illuminate the tomb of Saint André. This humble monk was the visionary behind the oratory in 1904, and many believe in the miracles attributed to him. Interestingly, his heart is not interred within the tomb but is kept in a reliquary on the fourth floor.

This article was first published on August 13, 2019, and updated on September 18, 2023.