Liam TrudeauHave some frosty fun with the best things to do during winter in Montreal
Montreal in winter proves that fun doesn’t freeze. We thought we’d simply endure the season, bundled up and counting the days until spring. Instead, we danced in snowstorms and chased the perfect snowbank for an impromptu snowball fight.
Somehow, the colder it gets, the warmer Montreal feels. From skating on frozen rivers to indulging in comfort food that tastes better when it’s below freezing outside, this city doesn’t just embrace winter—it turns it into an adventure.
- Skate at The Old Port Skating Rink
- Party at Igloofest
- Unwind at Bota Bota
- Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Indulge in poutine at La Banquis
- Dine in a heated dome at Terrasse William Gray
- Discover the magic of the Montreal Biodome
- Savour fresh bagels from St-Viateur Bagel
- Sip hot chocolate at Juliette et Chocolat
- Visit Marché Jean-Talon
Skate at The Old Port Skating Rink
Media credit: vieuxportmtl
Location: Bassin Bonsecours
Contact: +1 514-496-7678
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Nestled in the historic Bonsecours Basin, this gem offers front-row views of Old Montreal’s storied architecture and the sparkling St. Lawrence River.
After dusk, the illuminated downtown skyline and the colourful reflections of La Grande Roue de Montréal set the scene for an evening skate that’s downright enchanting.
Don’t worry about the temperature or fluctuating weather—this rink features a refrigerated surface that guarantees exceptional ice quality all season long. If you’re new to skating or simply forgot your gear, on-site rentals have you covered with skates and learning aids.
Plus, they have free lockers where you can stash your stuff hassle-free before hitting the ice.
And when your toes start to tingle, just cosy up at nearby cafés offering warm drinks and tasty snacks to keep the winter chill at bay.
| Pro Tip: Plan your visit on Fridays between January 10 and February 14 for the “DJ on Ice” evenings. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’ll have you dancing on skates under the city lights. |
Party at Igloofest
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Location: Old Port Montreal
Contact: You may contact them here
From January 16 to February 8, Igloofest transforms the chilly waterfront into a massive outdoor dance party.
This fest is all about top-tier international and local DJs, surreal icy décor, and an Igloovillage that feels like something straight out of a fairytale—if that fairytale had a massive sound system.
What sets Igloofest apart is the atmosphere. The crowd buzzes with energy, the bright architectural visuals light up the sky, and you’ll see some of the most imaginative winter fashion ever—courtesy of the infamous “tacky snowsuit” contest.
| Pro Tip: Looking for a laid-back vibe with the chance to discover fresh talent? Choose Thursday nights, when emerging artists light up the stage in a more relaxed setting. |
Unwind at Bota Bota
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Location: Entrée McGill et, R. de la Commune O
Contact: +1 514-284-0333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Looking for a little breathing room without leaving the city behind? Step aboard Bota Bota—a converted ferryboat-turned-spa that’s floating peacefully on the St. Lawrence River.
Inside, you’ll find Nordic-inspired delights. There are panoramic saunas, steam baths perfumed with eucalyptus, and open-air whirlpools.
When winter’s chill sets in, that cosy contrast of hot tubs against frosty air feels like pure magic. And if you wander onto the grounds, you’ll stumble upon a steam bath and a heated outdoor pool.
| Pro Tip: Want an even calmer vibe? Drop by on weekday mornings or early afternoons. You’ll usually find fewer people around. |
Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
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Location: 1380 Sherbrooke St W
Contact: +1 514-284-0333
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Tuesday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Fancy an escape into the world of art without leaving the city? The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts has you covered.
And if you’re looking for free museums in Montreal, this gem is a must-visit for residents of Quebec (though major temporary exhibitions aren’t included). On the other hand, outside visitors can pay a general fee of $24.
This museum features a collection that spans from classical sculptures and paintings to the cutting edge of contemporary installations. It’s like a grand tour of art history, all in one place.
Winter is when the MMFA pulls out extra stops. They unveil special exhibitions and events that make every visit feel brand new. They offer workshops for all ages, sparking creativity as snow falls outside.
| Pro Tip: Before you call it a day, snag a seat at Bourgie Hall. This on-site concert space is loved for its stellar acoustics and diverse musical lineup. It provides the perfect encore to your museum adventure. |
Indulge in poutine at La Banquis
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Location: 994 Rue Rachel E
Contact: +1 514-525-2415
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
La Banquise is the go-to spot for a winter comfort food fix. Once an ice cream shop in 1968, it has since become a 24-hour poutine paradise with over 28 varieties of this beloved local dish.
Crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and hearty gravy are just the beginning. Bacon, pulled pork, and extra cheese are all available to elevate the indulgence.
A steaming plate of poutine here is more than a meal—it’s a Montreal rite of passage. On biting winter nights, nothing beats the warmth of rich gravy and melty curds to chase away the chill.
| Pro Tip: The line can get long, so try visiting in the mid-afternoon or late at night. With La Banquise open 24/7, you can satisfy your poutine craving anytime. |
Dine in a heated dome at Terrasse William Gray
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Location: 421 R. Saint-Vincent 8e étage
Contact: +1 438-387-2010
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Ever dreamed of dining inside a snow globe but with great food and stunning views? Terrasse William Gray brings that vision to life.
Located on the 8th-floor rooftop of Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal, it features six transparent geodesic domes that offer stunning panoramic views.
From the Place Jacques-Cartier to the St. Lawrence River and the dazzling Montreal Ferris Wheel, the scenery adds a magical touch to your meal.
Inside the domes, you can savour a five-course gourmet dinner with locally inspired dishes or a three-course weekend brunch filled with culinary creativity.
Whether you prefer elevated classics or inventive plates, the menus perfectly complement the enchanting setting.
| Pro Tip: These domes are a hot ticket (literally and figuratively), so make your reservation in advance to secure your winter wonderland dining experience. |
Discover the magic of the Montreal Biodome
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Location: 4777 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave
Contact: +1 514-868-3000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Craving a real-life wildlife encounter? Head to the Montreal Biodome! This incredible attraction lets you step into five distinct ecosystems and experience nature up close.
One moment, you’re in a tropical rainforest. The next, you’re feeling the chilly air of the Labrador Coast. You can also stroll through the Laurentian Maple Forest, a North American woodland that changes with the seasons.
That’s not all! You can even explore the Gulf of St. Lawrence exhibit, featuring marine life from this iconic estuary. And don’t miss the Sub-Antarctic Islands, where penguins waddle through their icy habitat.
With nearly 200 animal species and 800 plant species, the Biodome is part of Montreal’s Space for Life complex and a true biodiversity hotspot.
| Pro Tip: Before you go, be sure to download the Biodome’s free mobile app. It’s packed with cool augmented reality features that let you interact with the exhibits. |
Savour fresh bagels from St-Viateur Bagel
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Location: Various locations in Montreal (St-Viateur O, Mont-Royal, Marche Esposito and more)
Contact: [email protected]
Ever had a bagel so good it inspired poetry? If not, get ready to meet your muse: St-Viateur Bagel. This Montreal icon has been delighting taste buds since 1957.
Montreal bagels are in a league of their own. They’re smaller, denser, and slightly sweet. Hand-rolled and baked in a wood-fired oven, they have a chewy texture and irresistible flavour.
The experience is pure magic. The aroma of fresh dough, the sight of golden-brown bagels, and the rhythm of bakers hard at work—it’s a feast for the senses.
Whether you love sesame seeds or prefer cinnamon raisins, your perfect bagel match is waiting here.
| Pro Tip: Planning to take some bagels home? Slice them before freezing for easy toasting and a quick snack whenever the craving hits. |
Sip hot chocolate at Juliette et Chocolat
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Location: 4085 Saint-Denis St
Contact: +1 514-849-0214
Operating hours:
- Monday & Friday – 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
This place is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. Imagine cosying up in a charming café, sipping the most velvety hot chocolate you’ve ever had.
Juliette et Chocolat has locations all across Montreal. You’ll find them in the bustling downtown and the trendy Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood. It’s the perfect escape from the winter chill.
They don’t just serve regular hot chocolate. From classic dark and milk chocolate to spicy chilli or salted caramel, there’s something for everyone.
Feeling extra indulgent? Treat yourself to their decadent desserts. You can have brownies, crêpes, or shareable chocolate fondue.
| Pro Tip: Planning a chocolate-fueled gathering with friends or family? Call ahead to reserve a table. This is especially important during peak hours to avoid disappointment. |
Visit Marché Jean-Talon
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Location: 7070 Henri Julien Ave
Contact: +1 514-937-7754
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Who needs a tropical getaway when you have Marché Jean-Talon? This Montreal gem proves that winter doesn’t mean staying cooped up indoors.
As one of North America’s largest public markets, it offers a vibrant escape, even during the coldest months.
The stalls here overflow with colourful produce, tempting pastries, artisanal cheeses, and unique gifts.
The air is alive with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and the aromas of freshly baked bread and exotic spices.
During the holiday season, the market becomes a festive wonderland. You can enjoy live music, culinary workshops, and even a life-size game for family fun.
| Pro Tip: Bring reusable bags or totes. With so many tempting items, having reusable bags makes it easier to carry your purchases. |
