Top 15 Exciting Day Trips Near Montreal

With its vibrant cultural atmosphere and a plethora of activities to engage in, Montreal is regarded as one of Canada’s most appealing destinations for both visitors and residents.

The evident French influence provides an abundance of dining options featuring exquisite cuisine, along with captivating art attractions scattered throughout the city.

Moreover, Montreal is centrally located near the Quebec countryside, offering a wealth of small towns, lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges just beyond its borders. These locations merit a day’s visit for exploration.

Most of these sites can be reached within just a couple of hours’ drive. Below are the top day trip destinations accessible from Montreal.

1. Îles-de-Boucherville National Park

Located only a short distance from Montreal, Parc National des Îles-de-Boucherville presents an ideal retreat from the bustling urban environment.

Visitors are encouraged to engage in various activities, as the chain of islands serves as an excellent venue for sports, including hiking, jogging, snowshoeing, canoeing, and cross-country skiing, among others.

This expansive protected area also holds historical significance, having been inhabited by numerous First Nations peoples. An educational tour is available for those interested in learning about history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

2. Domaine Labranche

Nestled in the scenic region just south of the St. Lawrence River, Domaine Labranche is a family-owned sugar shack that historically harvested and processed local maple sap.

Guests have the opportunity to explore the picturesque grounds, which include a farm, vineyard, and nearby hiking trails.

Not surprisingly, the culinary offerings are abundant, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh produce, wines, and creatively prepared maple dishes.

3. Calvaire D’Oka

The trailhead for this picturesque hike is located mere meters from the serene Oka Provincial Park, which boasts stunning forests, lakes, and numerous historical structures, including oratories and chapels.

The Calvaire D’Oka hiking trail is accessible to individuals of any skill level, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of Lac des Deux Montagnes and the renowned Adirondacks.

Should you wish to unwind after your hike, you can head to the lake for a range of water sports, including stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boating, and kayaking.

4. Granby Zoo

A perfect excursion for families and travelers, Granby Zoo is the largest zoo in Quebec, renowned not only for its diverse array of animals but also for the expansive conservation area that provides ample space for the wildlife.

Home to both domestic and exotic species, this thriving community comprising around 1000 animals attracts numerous visitors each year, offering an escape from urban life while marveling at the Animal Kingdom’s wonders.

Families particularly enjoy the adjacent water park, perfect for cooling off, dining, and sunbathing during the summer months.

5. Sucrerie de la Montagne

Distinct from many other sugar shacks across Quebec, this authentic establishment remains operational year-round, allowing visitors to experience pioneer Canada regardless of the season.

Situated amidst a vast maple forest in the stunning Mont Rigaud, visitors can gain insightful knowledge about the lives of those who produced maple products here.

Between the restaurant and general store, there are ample opportunities to engage throughout the day, along with accommodation options for those looking to extend their stay in the picturesque forest.

6. Mont-Tremblant

Given its renowned ski resort and pristine national park, it is no surprise that both locals and visitors from Montreal often embark on the two-hour journey to the beautiful Mont-Tremblant to enjoy a day of adventure.

The charming village was designed to evoke the aesthetics of a Swiss alpine town, harmonizing seamlessly with its mountainous backdrop.

Even if skiing is not your preference, numerous exhilarating activities await, including paddleboarding, mountain biking, and swimming.

During the winter months, the area becomes a haven for skiers and snowboarders, making it a prime time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit.

7. Ottawa

Conveniently accessible through various bus routes and a rail link connecting Montreal and Ottawa, the capital city offers an insightful perspective on Canadian life, enriched by its historical and parliamentary significance.

Ottawa’s Parliament Hill stands as an architectural marvel, making it a must-visit location.

The city also boasts a vibrant outdoor events culture, with festivals, concerts, and markets taking place throughout the year.

8. Quebec City

A readily accessible and exceedingly popular day trip from Montreal, Quebec City is renowned for its charming architecture and rich history, being one of the oldest European settlements in North America.

The historic architecture and numerous museums provide an abundance of knowledge, captivating visitors for extended periods.

The Vieux-Québec District continues to display the original fortress’s walls and offers one of the most picturesque skylines in the region.

Among the must-see attractions are the remarkable museums and legislative buildings, including the National Assembly of Quebec and the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec.

9. Petit Train du Nord Trail

Once a bustling railroad route, this beautiful trail through the Laurentian Mountains has been transformed into a highly favored cycling and cross-country skiing path, meandering through glades, alpine lakes, and forests.

The 200km trail can be tackled as a single, extended journey, or it can be divided into sections to visit charming towns that emerged along the old train stations.

Situated just 30 minutes from Montreal, it offers an ideal opportunity for self-guided exploration while reconnecting with nature.

10. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

This relatively small, scenic area tucked behind West Island’s residential developments feels like a hidden gem.

Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park features the largest beach in proximity to Montreal, providing visitors with countless activity options.

From windsurfing and beach volleyball to kayaking, boredom is hardly an option in this stunning setting; the scenery is equally inviting for relaxation and appreciation.

It is advisable to bring provisions, as no restaurants are in the vicinity; however, weekend visitors may find food trucks offering fresh local cuisine.

11. The Laurentians

The Laurentian Mountains represent one of Montreal’s best-kept secrets for day trips, located approximately an hour away and not requiring an overnight stay.

This region is characterized by rolling mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and an array of delightful alpine villages that evoke the charm of the Swiss Alps.

Visitors can choose to explore independently or join a tour that meanders through forests and mountains, even reaching Lac Des Sables for a scenic cruise with spectacular views from the water.

12. Canada Railway Museum

Located merely 20 minutes from downtown Montreal, this fascinating insight into the pioneering railroad industry is an excellent starting point for a day excursion—proximity allows for an hour or two of exploration before heading to another destination.

The Canada Railway Museum showcases a variety of technological advancements that contributed to the shaping of modern Canada, with most exhibits in excellent condition.

Ideal for family outings, the museum is situated in St. Constant, directly across from the St. Lawrence River.

13. Au Diable Vert Canopy Cycle

As one of the few attractions of its kind in the region, Au Diable Vert offers not only stunning views from its alpine pasture location but also a unique cycling experience.

Canopy cycling invites visitors above the tree line in open-air cable cars powered by your pedaling strength.

With no traffic distractions present, prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic vistas of the Green Mountains and the Missisquoi River Valley while cycling across the sky.

14. Whale Watching at Rivière-du-Loup

A full-day commitment for wildlife enthusiasts, this excursion to the picturesque Rivière-du-Loup requires about 10 hours in total, including travel time.

If time permits, it is an incredibly enriching experience that will create lasting memories.

After being collected from a central Montreal location, guests will embark on a 3-hour guided cruise that takes them close to these majestic creatures, allowing for impressive photography opportunities.

15. Eastern Townships

A favored getaway for urban dwellers seeking a return to nature without compromising comfort, the Eastern Townships are approximately two hours from Montreal and provide numerous lakeside destinations, particularly picturesque in the summer for day visits or rental cottage experiences.

Year-round, visitors can enjoy festivals, wine-tasting events, and a wide array of outdoor activities amidst the charming lakeside landscapes characteristic of the Townships.