T Riman
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Reasons to Visit Quebec City

If you are in Canada and want to experience European-inspired historic and vibrant cities, don’t forget to visit Quebec City. Here is what you need to know!

Reasons to Visit Quebec City

Many people visit Paris to enjoy the picture-perfect views of the Eiffel Tower. However, Quebec City, also known as North American Paris, has its own iconic buildings and landmarks, such as Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.

Quebec is the reflection of French culture in North America and boasts picturesque scenery, delectable food, friendly people, shopping malls, architecture, and much more. Here are the top five reasons to visit Quebec City. Read on!

1. Parliament Hill

For more than a century, the Quebec Parliament Building has stood prominently on a hill above the City. While it is a place of political debate and decision-making, it has also become a popular cultural destination.

Inspired by the Louvre in Paris, the building is a beautiful piece of architecture, especially when lit up at night. The building’s grounds are adorned with 26 bronze statues commemorating important figures in the state’s history, and the beautiful Fontaine de Tourney in front of the Congress as an extravagant centerpiece.

The park and its surrounding gardens offer an “ecotourism” or vacation in the middle of the City. Its central location means that stores, restaurants, and museums are within walking distance.

2. Jacques Cartier National Park

What outdoor activities do you enjoy the most? Are you biking, skiing, or hiking enthusiast? Or are you more of a kayaking, fishing, or stand-up paddleboarding enthusiast? Whatever you want to do, Jacques Cartier National Park has something for everyone. In addition to adventure activities, you can also explore wildlife.

Nicknamed the “Great Outdoors of Quebec City,” the park has all these activities within its 415 square kilometers. Moreover, pitch a tent, walk 100 kilometers of hiking trails, cross rivers, pass through canyons, climb plateaus, and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.

3. The Island of Orleans

The Island of Orleans is just a short drive over the bridge from Québec City, but the region offers an entirely different perspective. The Island of Orleans is an island of farmers and food producers. As you move through the countryside, you will discover picturesque sceneries, allowing you to immerse in the natural beauty fully.

For example, at the tip of the island, Sainte-Petronille offers a great view of the Montmorency Falls and even better local wines. Saint-Laurent has many farms and strawberry fields. In Saint-Jean, the residence of a pilot who navigated the St. Lawrence River in the mid-19th century has been preserved.

Moreover, Saint-Francois has a popular vantage point from which you can see the surrounding islands and the way out of St. Lawrence. In Sainte-Famille, there are many apple orchards. Likewise, St. Pierre is the most populous village, closest to the town’s bridge.

4. Old Quebec

Old Quebec has many impressive attractions within its historic area. It is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and perfect for a day trip. In a few hours, you can see centuries-old architecture and stunning churches and chapels that tell the story of the province’s religious and cultural history.

Even if you are not interested in history, the area has plenty to offer, such as shopping, art, music, and good food. It is a must-visit area in Quebec City if you want to experience the uniqueness of the French-Canadian vibes.

5. Food Scene

Eating in Quebec City is often the highlight of a trip. The cobblestone paths, lanes, and streets of Old Quebec have many restaurants and cafes, with diverse menus and mouthwatering food items. The restaurants range from sophisticated and upscale to relaxed and affordable.

Many restaurants in Quebec City offer menus with a fixed price for an appetizer, main course, and dessert made of freshly sourced and organic ingredients. Local favorites include Savini Resto-Bar, a trendy place with a great patio on Grand Alley.

There are also a couple of restaurants worth checking out: Café du Monde and Les Voutes du Cavour, a restaurant in an 18th-century mansion on Place Royale. So, if you want to eat quality food in this French-inspired City, make sure you visit these traditional restaurants.

Final Words

Quebec is the cradle of French America and a famous city for tourists to relish cobblestone streets, explore mesmerizing heritage, experience European charm, and eat delectable food in the lively and welcoming restaurants. Therefore, we recommend visiting Quebec City if you plan to explore Canada on your next vacation. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.

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T Riman
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Best Places for Dog Sledding Spots near Montreal

Dog Sledding Spots near Montreal

Top Spots for Dog Sledding near Montreal

Previously, sled dogs were the primary mode of transportation for people living in the Canadian Arctic region. People relied on sled dogs to transport supplies, food, mail, etc. Today, it has become an adventurous and fun activity for tourists who visit Canada. This is because the experience of riding a sled or dogsled through snowy trails and experiencing the beauty of nature can be quite amazing.

You can take part in either a half-day or full-day dogsled tour. Some activities may include sledding over frozen rivers, lakes and through snow-covered forests. It’s a great way to explore the Canadian wilderness and see some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. You can also stop along the way and enjoy a hot meal.

Dog sledding excursions are excellent for people who want to enjoy the magical Montreal landscape, watch the adorable husky dogs, and soar adventurism with boosted adrenaline. If you are looking for the best places for Dog Sledding near Montreal, look at the following spots. Read on!

1. Aventures Plein Air St-Hippolyte

Aventures Plein Air St-Hippolyte is a perfect place for tourists to enjoy dog sledding. The location is one hour drive from Montreal and is famous for year-round activities. However, the dog sledding adventure at Aventures Plein Air St-Hippolyte is second to none.

The place has different dog sledding treks, allowing people of all ages to experience a memorable activity. We recommend taking the beginner course if it is your first time experiencing dog sledding near Montreal.

On the other hand, you can take an intermediate two-hour run through Lake Morency’s beautiful landscape. Aventures Plein Air St-Hippolyte also offers five-hour dog sledding adventures for more experienced adventurers.

Additionally, you have the option of a nighttime trek if you want to experience something unique. This excursion is ideal for people who are looking to take their dog sledding experience to the next level. This is certainly one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal. Also, you can take part in other activities such as snowshoeing and fat-biking.

Aventures Plein Air St-Hippolyte is one of the most popular sites for dog sledding near Montreal, and it’s easy to see why. With an incredible landscape, professional staff, and a variety of exciting adventures to choose from, it’s no wonder so many people flock to this spot. It’s the perfect place to experience the thrill of dog sledding and create lifelong memories.

Located in: Auberge du Lac Morency
Address: 42 Rue de la Chaumine, Saint-Hippolyte, QC J8A 2N4.
Phone: (450) 563-4443
Appointments: aventurespleinair.com

 

2. Mont Tremblant

Mont Tremblant is one of the most beautiful places near Montreal that attracts thousands of tourists from within the country and abroad every month. Because it is a crowded place, thanks to its natural beauty and year-round fun activities, we recommend booking in advance to get the most out of our trip.

Mont Tremblant dog sledding adventures are exciting, exploratory, daring, and unique, allowing you and your friends to have a one-of-a-kind experience. Nothing is parallel to a one-hour dog sledding in Mont Tremblant as you run through the picturesque forest covered with snow.

You will find numerous services at affordable prices to enjoy the activity. You can also buy or rent equipment for dog sledding, including neck warmers, warm hats, socks, boots, mittens, goggles, or glasses to protect from snow, and even blankets to stay warm while relishing the most beautiful excursion near Montreal.

Moreover, you can also try night dog sledding in Mont Tremblant to make your experience even more special. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musher, you will find your perfect sled adventure in Mont Tremblant. Enjoy the beauty of nature at one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal.

Mont Tremblant also offers many other activities like downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and much more. The area is one of the best options to explore Canadian nature in all its beauty. This is certainly one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal. Don’t miss it!

Where: 

Mont-Tremblant Activity Center

At The Mont-Tremblant Activity Centre, a top spot for adventure enthusiasts, you can explore a diverse range of summer activities, including ziplining, whitewater rafting, 4×4 dune buggy adventures, canoeing, and beyond.

Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes from Montreal


Dog Sledding Spots near Montreal

3. Laurel Adventure Nature

Laurel Adventure Nature is another perfect spot for dog sledding you can miss when exploring Montreal and surrounding areas in winter. Yannick and Marie Helene own this dog sledding spot near Montreal and make substantial efforts to provide tourists with unique experiences.

At Laurel Adventure Nature, you can take different dog sledding adventures, including a one-hour basic package, one hour and 30 minutes thrilling voyage into the forest. Depending on your skill level, you can drive the dog sled yourself or hire an experienced guide. Either way, you will enjoy the activity.

Besides dog sled adventures, you can experience snowshoeing hikes and snowmobile tours. Laurel Adventure Nature is one hour and 30 minutes drive from the beautiful city of Montreal. If you want to stay for a night, you can find affordable cabins and cottages with world-class amenities.

Furthermore, you can also visit the local village of St-Adolphe-d’Howard or ski in Mont Tremblant Resort. This place is undoubtedly one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal. This spot is perfect for adventurers seeking a unique experience in the Canadian wilderness. You will love it!

Laurel Adventure Nature is one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal that will give you an unforgettable experience. With a beautiful landscape, professional staff, and a variety of adventures, it will be one of the most memorable trips you have ever made. Don’t forget to explore this area!

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes from Montreal

Address: 2363 Rte Principale, Wentworth-Nord, QC J0T 1Y0
Phone: (450) 226-8446
Province: Quebec

4. Kinadapt

Kinadapt is 50 minutes away from Montreal. The natural environment, picturesque sceneries, and various activities make it one of the best places for dog sledding spots near Montreal. Kinadapt is a unique dog sledding spot because you can choose from numerous packages that suit you.

So, people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy their dog sledding excursions. Not only does Kinadapt offer hours of dog sledding excursions, but you can also stay there to learn more about the adorable husky dogs. Interacting with dogs in a snowy environment will make your experience memorable.

The team uses special methods of dog training to ensure the safety of riders and dogs. You can also take pictures with Huskies, make friends, and have a great time. The team will also provide you with warm clothes to make your experience more comfortable. This is certainly one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal that offers excellent services.

Moreover, Kinadapt is one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal as it offers lots of other activities. You can go snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. Enjoy the beauty of nature and make your winter days in Canada more enjoyable. It will be a perfect place to take your friends and family for a memorable day of adventure. So, don’t miss out on this incredible experience!

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes from Montreal

Address: 1800 CH Laurin, Rawdon, Quebec J0K 1S0
Phone: (450) 834-4441
Province: Quebec

5. Aventure Inukshuk

Thousands of people visit Aventure Inukshuk during summer to enjoy four-wheel safari excursions and black bear-watching adventures. However, dog sledding adventures during the winter seasons are matchless.

Aventure Inukshuk offers a wide range of packages, including beginner courses to more challenging treks of up to seven hours. You can also interact with husky dogs to make your trip more educational. You will get all the necessary safety equipment for your trip and professional trainers to guide you.

Aventure Inukshuk is located near Montreal and is close to various other attractions. This spot is perfect for people who want to explore the beauty of Quebec’s backcountry with their friends and family. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, or dog sledding, Aventure Inukshuk has something for everyone. So, don’t miss your chance to experience the adventure of dog sledding with majestic huskies!

Additionally, Aventure Inukshuk also provides meals and accommodation for those who want to stay for a longer period. This is one of the best places for dog sledding near Montreal that is perfect for all types of adventurers. Bring in the thrill and excitement of winter with Aventure Inukshuk!

Dog sledding is a unique and fun way to explore the wilderness of Canada. The best places for dog sledding near Montreal offer scenic views, thrilling rides, and lots of activities. Laurel Adventure Nature, Kinadapt, and Aventure Inukshuk are some of the best spots in the area that will give you an unforgettable experience. So, don’t wait any longer and plan your trip to one of these incredible dog sledding spots near Montreal!

Address: 131 Rte de Duchesnay, Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier, QC G3N 0J3
Phone: (418) 875-0770

Why Should You Go Dog Sledding Near Montreal?

Dog sledding is a great way to explore the wintery terrain of Canada. It’s an adrenaline-filled activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. The best places for dog sledding near Montreal offer scenic views, thrilling rides, and lots of activities. Dog sledding is perfect for families who want to enjoy a fun outing in the snow, or for adrenaline junkies who want to make the most of their winter adventure. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with nature and explore the unique landscapes of Canada. So, don’t miss out on this incredible experience and hit the trails of Montreal!

You can also make friends with the adorable husky dogs that will accompany you on your journey. Interacting with the huskies is an amazing experience and it’s sure to make your trip more memorable. Plus, you can also be sure that the best places for dog sledding near Montreal are committed to ensuring your safety. They provide all the necessary equipment and experienced professionals to guide you every step of the way. So, don’t wait any longer and head to one of these amazing dog sledding spots near Montreal for an unforgettable winter adventure!

Final Words

Dog sledding is one of the best things to do near Montreal. You can’t simply complete your winter vacation without this recreational activity in the best places given above. Enjoy the snowy slopes, snow-covered forests, adorable dogs, and numerous other amenities at the most affordable prices.

Don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of nature and make your winter days more memorable. Have an awesome time! This is a great way to explore the wilderness of Quebec and make incredible memories with your family and friends. So, don’t miss out on this amazing experience and plan your trip to one of these incredible dog sledding spots near Montreal! Until Next Time!

Dog Sledding Spots near Montreal

  • Article based on personal opinion and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash.
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T Riman
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Montreal’s 5 best places to walk summer 2020

view from the top of Mont royal

Best 5 spots to go for a walk, in Montreal

With a not-so-ideal summer ahead of us, it’s a good time to be cherishing the little moments of life that we can get. One of the best ways we find to accomplish this goal is to go on a solo walk or walk with friends and family at a great spot you may have never been to before. Taking in new sceneries is a great way to feel refresh your brain and feel like a tourist in your own city all and can make for a fun afternoon or evening out. Walking is also a great way to not only keep healthy so why not do it with some incentives! but it’s a good chance to be a tourist in your own city once again.

Here are the top 5 spots to go for a nice walk in the city of Montreal:

1. Old Port

Old Montreal offers a great place to walk around and discover where Montreal’s roots came from. The Old Port offers a little bit for everyone as its scenery is able to transport you back centuries as you walk through the cobblestone streets and get to discover historical landmarks such as Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal. If you want a break from walking there are also Segway tours, paddle boat tours, and a handful of different activities to do. At the same time, the Old Port is also home to some of Montreal’s trendiest restaurants, stores, and bars which we can all hopefully enjoy to its full extent once again. Our pro tip is to walk around and find the Queues De Castor and enjoy the sights!

2. Mount Royal Park

One of Montreal’s green paradises, Mount Royal Park is the classic Montreal park for amazing and most scenics of walks. Mont-Royal Park is a great place to bring your family and friends to spend an afternoon and while you can definitely have small gatherings for bbq or just general social gatherings there are also walking paths to follow to the top of the mountain. If you’re looking to keep yourself in shape or just going to take in some views Mont-Royal will not disappoint. Making your way to the top offers up great nature scenery on the trail and eventually leading to the top where you get one of if not the best view of Montreal.

3. La Fontaine Park

La Fontaine Park is one of Montreal’s most interesting parks to walk, as it is quite large and kind of like the Old Port, in the sense that there is something for everyone. For general walking purposes, it is a great place to come for a stroll because of its many places for shade, great views, and awesome gardens. It also features very spacious greenery and has enough room for picnics and gatherings which makes it a great place to bring family but also offers up sports courts for tennis and volleyball for those who are looking to get a dose of sports. La Fontaine Park is located in the Plateau district where you can find trendy bars and of course two of Montreal’s favorite restaurants La Banquise and Ma Poule Mouillée. A pro tip would be to take either to go and enjoy it at the park for an unforgettable day.

4. Lachine Canal

The Lachine Canal is another classic walking spot in Montreal. Once the industrial beating heart of Montreal, it is now been mostly abandoned and transformed into beautiful looking condos. The city has taken care of it quite a bit as they have really aim to develop the canal into something a little more modernized. The Canal usually has a lot of visitors and is a welcome place of relaxation from the usual hustle and bustle of the city. The Canal itself is a multi-functional attraction that is welcoming to many different activities. While it has a dedicated bike and pedestrian lane that can take you from the Old Port all the way until Lake St. Louis, there is also entertainment and activities to do along the way ranging from Kayaking to stopping by the Atwater Market. The Canal walk itself is a great way to spend a couple of hours and also has areas to do a small picnic so it is a great way to spend an afternoon while taking in the sights. While this doesn’t have nature’s endless bounties it offers people a different vibe. The view along the Canal offers up different cityscapes as well as learning some history along the way making it a truly unique scenic walking trail.

lachine canal

5. Maisonneuve Park

Maisonneuve Park is located in the east end borough of Montreal, right next to the Olympic stadium, and is also a stone’s throw away from Montreal’s Botanical Gardens. The park itself is an amazing space with a massive amount of room and is of course a great place to walk around. The park can sometimes feel so big because of its vast openness and its natural surroundings and at times gives a feeling of a peaceful secluded area to yourself.It is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening or just for a bit of solo time. The park is also very well maintained as it features tons of picnic benches, tables, sitting structures, and plenty of great places to rest under some trees. Overall it promises for a good day no matter what you go there for!

Park in Montreal

This summer, choose your own adventure, be active while you can still enjoy our beautiful summer weather, and explore different parts of Montreal with your own two feet.

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Adriano Di Pancrazio

Why Catch a Montreal Impact game at Saputo Stadium this summer!

Reason to catch the Montreal Impact game at Saputo Stadium this summer!

 

With the Montreal sports market being predominantly dominated by the Montreal Canadiens, the Montreal Impact are generally considered to be a secondary or tertiary option (Alouettes) for Montreal sports. While the Canadiens sellout win or lose, it is a different story with the Impact. Coming from a smaller market the team is heavily dependant on performance for ticket sales. The Impact has had a couple of difficult past seasons and with Impact superstar, Nacho Piatti leaving Montreal for his childhood club, and a vacant position for a coach, there wasn’t much room for optimism for the upcoming 2020 season so management had to make some key decisions.

 

The Impact decided to bring in probably one of the best strikers of this generation as head coach with Thierry Henry (and if you don’t know him, check out his highlights on youtube, you will not be disappointed, we promise.). In addition to having such a prolific coach like Thierry Henry, his stardom alone creates a gravitational pull which makes other good players naturally gravitate towards him to play for the team he is building. This “Henry Effect” managed to sign two new players who offer quite a bit of promise in Luis Binks and Victor Wanyama from the Tottenham Hotspurs (a very popular and famous English Premier League team). As opposed to the last couple of seasons, the Impact was a more defensive team but Henry style demands more offense to be played and who doesn’t enjoy seeing more goals? Given these reasons, this season promises to be an exciting new chapter for the Montreal Impact.

Guy kicking a soccer ball on a green field

Source: Photo by Emilio Garcia on Unsplash

What seating experience is best for you?

What’s great about the Saputo Stadium is that there are 3 different ways in which you can enjoy the game, no matter the age or preference.

Family Corner – Nutrilait

This section of Saputo Stadium is typically reserved for kids and families to enjoy the games at their own leisure. They can be found in sections 116-118. It offers a great corner view of the stadium which offers an excellent spot to see all the action. What’s great about these tickets is that if you present the tickets to the concierge desk they will help you if you forgot things for your kids such as sunscreen, blankets, ponchos, hand sanitizers, etc. These tickets are affordable as well so It is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening as a family while enjoying a relatively peaceful and amicable atmosphere.

Casual Seats

Albeit these are the normal seats to be bought other than a specific section 132 which will get discussed in a bit. The tickets available here range in price depending on seating sections. Naturally, the more centerfield tickets will run you a steeper price ranging around 70-95$ (according to Stubhub price) while you can easily get good seats in other sections for 30-40$ a person. These tickets are great to get if you have nothing to do for an afternoon or evening and want to hang out with friends or a significant other. You can also organize corporate outings in which the organization will work alongside you to make sure everyone is sitting in a row. Best of all, It gives you an excuse to get out of the house to enjoy that sweet Montreal summer and to shut off your brain for a little bit while being entertained by some great pro soccer.

Section 132/Impact Ultras

The Ultras are the hardcore die-hard Montreal Impact fans. The group was founded in 2002 and still live by their motto of “always faithful” as they follow the Impact all over North America when they play away from Saputo Stadium. The group’s primary goal is supporting the club by chanting, jumping, standing for the whole 90 minutes of the game. The section is clearly noticeable because of the sea of the blue-white and black Impact and the general ambiance and party atmosphere they create. The use of drums and other instruments alongside visual animations such as enormous flags, banners, and cheers is quite the spectacle to see especially if you have never seen it in person before. The Ultras try to replicate the European-type soccer fans which are considerably larger in Europe. If you manage to get a seat in this section, be prepared to stand for 90 minutes and expect to join in on the chanting and jumping (Even if you don’t know the chants, you will pick them up fairly quickly as they are simple.). If your goal is to have a good time with some of the Impact’s most passionate fans this is the section for you.

 

What’s really great about the ultras is that they try to include the rest of the stadium with the chants so even if you are not sitting in section 132 there will always be people chanting along so why not join in on the fun? 

 

Currently, the Montreal Impact are off to a promising start so far this season and we can only hope for great performances this season because Montreal deserves a good soccer team. Allez Impact Allez!

Source:http://ultrasmontreal.com/

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T Riman
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4 Best Parks To Visit In Montreal This Winter

View of Montreal Skyline from Park Jean Drapreau

Top Parks To Visit on the Island of Montreal This Winter

View of Montreal Skyline from Park Mont-Royal

View of Montreal Skyline from Park Mont-Royal

 

Ah, Montreal parks. The perfect setting for people watching, romantic strolls, picnics with friends, quirky activities like slack-lining, quidditch, extreme frisbee or practicing cartwheels because, why not? At least they’re great for all that (and more) in the summer and fall. But, what about winter?

Don’t despair, folks. The parks stay open year round, and there’s plenty to do at Montreal’s parks throughout the long winter months!

Here are 4 of the best parks in Montreal to visit in winter:

 

1. Parc la Fontaine

Located in le Plateau, Parc la Fontaine is bordered by Sherbrooke, Avenue du Parc La-Fontaine (obvs), Rachel and Papineau. It’s a great park for a stroll, a picnic, chilling by the duck pond or kicking back with a good book. In the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, surrounded by some of the city’s trendiest hotspots.

Why it’s awesome for winter:

The skating! There’s something truly romantic about this park, so while you can definitely take the family skating, or go for a pick up hockey game, it’s a really special spot for an evening skate with your special someone. Don’t have skates? No worries! You can rent skates at the onsite chalet. You can also get your own skates sharpened there if you quite literally had to dust yours off. There’s also a little restaurant onsite to grab a snack or a hot drink, but… 

Kick it up a notch:

In case you weren’t aware, you can drink alcohol in Montreal’s public parks! The catch is, you have to be consuming a meal if you’re drinking. Ah, but there’s another catch! There’s really no definition of what constitutes a meal. So, if you were to bring a few yummy pastries or holiday baking alongside your thermos of spiked hot chocolate or egg nog, you’re probably good to go! If that isn’t the perfect budget-friendly, yet romance-packed date night, we don’t know what is!

More awesomeness:

Though the park is known more for its beautiful skating rink in the winter, you can also use the cross-country skiing or snowshoeing trails throughout the winter. Even just a snowy stroll through the park can be pretty special.

Park la fountaine in downtown montreal

 

2. Parc Mont Royal

Pretty much all of the mountain (note to non-Montrealers: it’s more of a large hill than an actual mountain, but to Montrealers it is 100% “the mountain”) is Parc Mont Royal and since that’s a lot of ground to cover, there’s an awful lot to love about it. Montreal's lake - Beaver lake in the park of mont royal

Why it’s awesome for winter:

Snow tubing! There are a few spots on the mountain where you can bring your own sled and coast down the hill, but the groomed tubing tracks overlooking Beaver Lake are hands down some of the most fun you can have in Montreal during the winter!

You rent a tube onsite (prices for this year have not yet been announced, but have always been extremely affordable in the past) and if you bring your own lock, you can make use of one of the onsite lockers so you can whoosh down the hill at top speed without a care in the world!

This is obviously an awesome activity for kids, but if you’re an adult or semi-adult and feeling nostalgic for the days when snow felt thrilling and magical, trust us… there is no joy quite like tubing! So slap on your snow pants and get ready to yeehaw!

Kick it up a notch:

Scrap the office Christmas party this year and take the whole team out to the hills for a day of totally unprofessional fun! When was the last time you fell into a fit of giggles with your coworkers? Forget the team building exercises. Nothing bonds a team together like tubing!

More awesomeness:

Like we said, this is a BIG park. Aside from tubing, there’s also snowshoeing, cross country skiing, bird watching, skating, hiking and more!

 

3. L’Escapade in Rigaud

So this one’s actually outside the city and – bit of a bummer – not accessible by public transportation. It’s about a 45 minute drive away in the town of Rigaud, but it makes our list because… 

Why it’s awesome for winter:

The cross country skiing! L’escapade is a linear park. Yes, that is a boring description, but what it means is that the park is a lot longer than it is wide. Because of that, it’s the perfect layout for trails! There are about 27 kms of groomed ski trails in gorgeous l’Escapade park. The 27 kms are divided into five distinct trails, rated from easy to difficult. Given the length of the trails, you can really make a full day of it.

Kick it up a notch:

Combine your ski day with a little history! Rigaud is a town packed with historic sites and rich in quebecois culture. Sure, there’s plenty of history in Montreal as well, but this is a little different and immersing yourself in the roots of Quebec culture is an experience every Montrealer should have. So, spend a morning skiing the trails, then stop for lunch before visiting one (or more) of the many stops along the heritage and cultural circuit.

More awesomeness:

If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, this might be the perfect opportunity as you can rent the equipment onsite. There are also walking trails open year round, and while dogs are not allowed on the ski trails, they are more than welcome to join you for some furry fun on the walking and snowshoeing trails.

 

4. Parc Jean-Drapeau

This is probably the most action-packed park the city has to offer. Year round, there are all kinds of events and activities happening at Parc JD. Located on Île Sainte Hélène, Parc Jean-Drapeau is surprisingly easy to get to with plenty of parking and access via the metro’s yellow line. In the summer, you can even take a river shuttle from the Old Port. But in winter… 

Why it’s awesome for winter:

Fȇte des neiges! For the 37th year in a row, this event will be bringing the joy of winter to Montrealers for four weekends in a row. This year’s festival will include the ice boat (a giant pirate ship made of ice), snow tubing, a refrigerated skating trail, boot hockey games to join, a human foosball game, an “alpine adventure” activity organized by Cirque Éloize acrobats and much more. There’s even a mini-hill and equipment for kids to take their first shot at downhill skiing or snowboarding!

This is definitely a family friendly festival, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages, but it is by no means exclusively for kids and families. The ice slides are fun for everyone, there are plenty of activities to join in, and last year’s festival had amazing food trucks to sample some of the best cuisine in the city. This year’s food truck lineup is gearing up to be just as delicious.

Kick it up a notch:

Access to just the festival is free, but some activities require a ticket. Opt for the ridiculously affordable pass and you get unlimited access to all activities for ALL 4 WEEKENDS of the festival! Skate one day, go tubing the next, eat yourself silly at the food trucks, take a snowshoeing lesson, join a game of boot hockey, then do it all again!

More awesomeness:

If you opt for the festival pass, you also get free admission the Stewart Museum, which has great exhibits and programming for all ages, as well as 25% off admission to the Biosphere. If you’re tired of hearing “I’m bored” from your kids… or partner… or friends… there’s four straight weekends packed with activities!

View of Montreal Skyline from Park Jean Drapreau

What’s your favourite Montreal (or nearby) park to visit in the winter? Share it in the comments!

Read more about some activities that you can do this winter in Montreal.

Also make sure you are all set for winter, and see what we recommend for a Canadian winter Jackets

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