5 Must-Visit Montreal Parks

The Best Parks To Visit In Montreal

get a fuller experience

As Montrealers, we are so fortunate to have many parks and green spaces open to the public. As summer heats up, these parks become more and more beautiful as trees, flowers and plant life come into full bloom, and locals and tourists emerge for some much needed fresh air and vitamin D.

If you live in Montreal, you probably have a favourite park nearby that you visit most often. But we strongly recommend taking a few day trips this summer to visit parks you’ve never seen before and get a fuller experience of what our city has to offer.

Photo by Madison Nickel on Unsplash

To get you started, here are 5 of our must-visit park in Montreal:

1. Rapids Park

It is truly amazing how much ecological diversity exists in Montreal. Rapids Park is the perfect example of this.

Located in Lasalle, this park is a federal migratory bird sanctuary and home to a vast array of bird, fish, animal and plant life. It also offers an incredible view of the Lachine rapids, making it the perfect place for a picnic or stroll along the many waterfront paths.

You can also book a rafting trip or surfing lesson, and even fish along the water. Best of all, the park is accessible via Montreal’s extensive bike path. If you prefer to drive, there is also a free parking lot.

More info: Rapids Park

2. Laurier Park

Laurier Park is very much a social park and an extrovert’s dream. Especially on a beautiful summer’s weekend, this is the place to go if you love to meet new people.

The park itself is quite beautiful, with plenty of shady trees and well-groomed footpaths. There is an outdoor swimming pool, playgrounds for children, picnic tables and gorgeous gardens. There is also an enclosed dog park where park pooches can get social too.

There are always impromptu games and activities happening at this vibrant park located in the equally vibrant Plateau neighborhood. If you want to turn your visit into a picnic, grab some food and drinks at one of the nearby restaurants or grocery store.

More info: Laurier Park

3. Parc Jean-Drapeau

There are many, many activities and events happening at Parc Jean-Drapeau throughout the summer, but what we love about it is the year round hiking.

The park maintains over 25 km of hiking trails and roads that offer breathtaking scenery all year long, including charming waterfalls scattered along the trail.

The park is huge with lots to see and do, so you will want to plan your trip well and decide which part of the park you want to visit before you get there.

4. Maynard-Ferguson Park

Located on Nun’s Island, this is basically an all-ages playground.

The children’s playground features rubber flooring so moms and dads can breathe a tiny bit easier as their little one climbs the unique play structures.

Then there’s the adult park! Which is actually an outdoor gym, but a lot more fun if you call it a playground. Designed by Trekfit, the gym/playground features various bars and other equipment designed for a great workout, with a beautiful view of the water. There is also a nice running trail to incorporate some cardio into your sweat sesh.

More info: Maynard-Ferguson Park

5. The Japanese Garden

This is the only park on our list that is not free. One of the amazing things about Montreal is all the incredible parks open to the public at no cost, but this particular park is so stunning and unique that every Montrealer must visit, at least once.

Part of the Botanical Gardens, the Japanese Garden is an outdoor meditative park designed with peace and serenity in mind. Every single element, down to the individual placement of each stone, has been intentionally planned for harmony and balance.

There are two cultural centers within the park, a mineral garden, koi pond, tea garden and bonsai courtyard, and a beautiful memorial to victims and survivors of the Hiroshima bombing.