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Shake up your trip with the top unique activities to do in Montreal

Shake up your trip with the top unique activities to do in Montreal

Shake up your trip with the top unique activities to do in Montreal

Growing up in Montreal, I figured I knew every nook and cranny. Old Montreal’s cobblestones, Mount Royal’s view, the best spot to grab a bagel. While that sort of predictable familiarity is nice, it does sometimes leave you feeling like you’re stuck in a routine. 

One day, determined to shake things up, I started looking for the quirky, under-the-radar experiences that pulse with the city’s true spirit.

And you know what? Turns out, Montreal’s a treasure trove of hidden gems. Fun stuff and secret landmarks that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about this city! 

Ready to see a side of Montreal most people (even locals like me) miss? Let’s go!

Watch a drag show at Cabaret Mado

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Location: ​​1115 St Catherine St E, Montreal, Quebec H2L 2G2, Canada

Contact: +1 514-525-7566

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 4:00 PM to 1:30 AM

Website

Mado Lamotte is a comedic whirlwind with hair bigger than her personality (which is saying something). Cabaret Mado is her namesake club, and honey, it is THE place to witness the legend herself hold court. Expect sharp wit, a bit of sass, and some side-splitting commentary.

Mado’s stage has hosted some fierce talent over the years. It’s a haven for seasoned drag superstars and a launchpad for the next generation of divas. You might just spot a future Drag Race superstar in the making!

Fair warning though: the shows are primarily in French, but the charismatic Mado Lamotte often includes translations for English-speaking audience members.

Participate in an escape room challenge at A/Maze Montreal 

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Location: ​​3550 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, QC H4C 1H2, Canada

Contact: +1 514-504-2139

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Website

A/Maze Montreal has meticulously crafted escape rooms where you’ll face prison breaks, zombie apocalypses, and mysterious temples – all while racing the clock to solve puzzles, crack codes, and make your triumphant escape. 

Prices are incredibly reasonable too, ranging from $17 to $40 per player, and they frequently offer specials and promotions (especially for online bookings) where you might score a session for as low as $10! 

Plus, this place is perfect for groups! Whether you’re planning a thrilling birthday party, a unique bachelor/bachelorette bash, or a memorable team-building activity, their challenges are designed to bring people together and sharpen those problem-solving skills.

Play a round of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf at Putting Edge

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Location: ​​1259 Guy St, Montreal, Quebec H3H 2K5, Canada

Contact: +1 514-507-8106

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Thursday to Friday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
  • Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
  • Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Website

Putting Edge is all about their 18-hole wonderland where neon colours pop under black lights. It’s an exhilarating experience for all ages, and at $13.99 plus taxes, it’s a steal for the unique atmosphere and engaging gameplay.  

But the fun extends beyond the course – try your hand at their arcade games before or after your round.  Best of all, they’re the perfect spot for a party that breaks the mould! From birthdays to corporate events, they’ll customise your gathering to make it truly memorable.

Try axe-throwing at Rage: Axe Throwing Montreal

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Location: ​​1436 R. Atateken, Montréal, QC H2L 3L3, Canada

Contact: +1 514-419-1699

Opening hours:

  • Monday – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Saturday – 11:00 AM to  10:00 PM
  • Sunday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Website

Here, you can fling axes at wooden targets with satisfying thunks. It might sound crazy, but that’s the beauty of it!

Rage offers a bullseye for everyone’s budget. Sessions start at $31.99 on weekdays and $33.99 on weekends, per person for a one-hour throwing session. Want to take it up a notch? Opt for the interactive targets ($34.99 weekdays, $36.99 weekends) where you can battle it out with precision challenges. 

Feeling extra social? They even offer private event packages starting from $1395, letting you book the entire space for a couple of hours of exclusive axe-throwing fun with your crew.

Discover vintage arcade games at Arcade MTL

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Location: 2031 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec H2X 3K8, Canada

Contact: 1 514-303-1123

Opening hours:

  • Tuesday to Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
  • Thursday to Friday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
  • Saturday – 2:00 PM to  3:00 AM
  • Sunday – 2:00 PM to 1:00 AM

Website

Nestled in Montreal’s Quartier Latin, this space blends vintage charm with a modern bar scene. Here, you can challenge your friends to a round of Pac-Man, unleash your inner warrior in Street Fighter, or explore the world of retro consoles.

The best part? Arcade MTL is all about accessibility. Their entry fee is a steal at just $7, granting you unlimited access to every single arcade machine. 

Students get an even sweeter deal: $5 gets you in, a free drink to quench your thirst, and a coat check to free up your arms for joystick mastery.

Experience the zero-gravity chair relaxation session at Ovarium Spa

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Location: 400 Rue Beaubien E, Montréal, QC H2S 1S3, Canada

Contact: +1 514-271-7515

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM
  • Friday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Website

This innovative NeuroSpa treatment offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle. Imagine being enveloped in a state of tranquillity, where music and gentle vibrations synchronise with your brainwaves.

The zero-gravity bed isn’t a gimmick – it’s a clever tool for achieving profound relaxation. The combination of sensory stimulation and the zero-gravity position helps melt away stress, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Best of all, Ovarium makes this experience accessible. 

A 30-minute relaxation session in their zero-gravity bed starts at a very reasonable $40, making it an affordable way to prioritise your mental and physical well-being.  

Try a Parkour class at ACTN3 – Ninja Warrior & Parkour à Montréal

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Location: 2350 Rue Dickson Local 340, Montréal, QC H1N 3T1, Canada

Contact: +1 514-255-8486

Website

Parkour training offers a unique and adrenaline-pumping way to challenge your body and mind. Here, you’ll learn to conquer obstacles, build incredible strength, and discover a workout that’s as exhilarating as it is effective. 

ACTN3 has classes for all levels, so whether you’re a parkour pro or a total newbie, their coaches will help you reach new heights (literally!). They offer drop-in classes, memberships, and open gym sessions, with prices varying based on your chosen package (starting at $26!).

Explore the quirky universe of DHC/ART Foundation

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Location: 451 Rue Saint-Jean, Montréal, QC H2Y 2R5, Canada

Contact: +1 514-849-3742

Opening hours:

  • Wednesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Website

Montreal’s got its fair share of art galleries, but DHC/ART Foundation stands out as a beacon of the delightfully unconventional.

This contemporary art space is where you’ll find mind-bending installations, thought-provoking video art, and exhibits that will challenge your definition of “art”. DHC/ART is all about pushing boundaries and sparking conversations. 

Best of all, admission is absolutely free, making it an accessible cultural gem in Montreal. With rotating exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover. 

Paint and sip at Le Ceramic Café Studio

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Location: 4338 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec H2J 2K8, Canada

Contact: +1 514-848-1119

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Thursday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Website

Imagine painting your own ceramic masterpiece (plates, mugs, figurines – they’ve got it all!) while sipping on a glass of wine or a cosy coffee. It’s a creative social experience that’s perfect for groups or a fun solo adventure.  

No experience is necessary – just pick a piece, grab your paints, and let your imagination run wild. Le Ceramic Café Studio offers a unique and relaxed way to unwind, tap into your artistic side, and walk away with a personalised souvenir. 

Plus, with prices based on your chosen ceramic piece and a small studio fee (starting at $10), it’s an affordable and fun way to spend an evening in Montreal.

Cuddle with feline friends at Happy Cat Café 

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Location: 172 Duluth Ave E, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1H3, Canada

Contact: +1 438-333-1505

Opening hours:

  • Tuesday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Website

Montreal’s Happy Cat Café (or Café Chat L’Heureux, as the locals call it) is a haven for cat lovers and those seeking a touch of animal-assisted therapy. 

You’ll find a variety of adorable cats here, each with a distinct personality, waiting to make new friends. Best of all, Happy Cat Cafe operates on a walk-in basis with no entry fee. You simply pay for the delicious snacks and beverages on the menu (which even includes vegan and gluten-free options!). 

Just be mindful of those feline boundaries – no flash photography or disturbing their well-deserved naps!

Hunt for vinyl at Aux 33 Tours 

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Location: 1373 Mont-Royal Ave E, Montreal, Quebec H2J 1Y8, Canada

Contact: +1 514-524-7397

Opening hours:

  • Saturday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Website

This iconic shop is a haven of musical treasures, boasting a staggering collection of over 45,000 records across genres and eras. Whether you’re into classic rock, soul, hip-hop, or hidden indie gems, Aux 33 Tours is the place to find them. 

Scope out their dedicated area for 45s, or if you need a turntable tune-up or amplifier repair, they’ve got an on-site technician to keep your tunes spinning smoothly. They’re literally like a one-stop shop for every music enthusiast.

Catch a puppet show at Casteliers

Media from casteliers

Location: 30 Av. Saint-Just, Outremont, QC H2V 1X8, Canada

Contact: +1 514-270-2717

Opening hours:

  • Saturday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Website

This dynamic theatre offers a world of storytelling through puppets, where you’ll find charming classics, edgy explorations, and visually stunning performances. With thought-provoking stuff, Casteliers invites audiences of all ages to experience the power of puppetry. 

They showcase both local and international artists, ensuring a diverse program that explores diverse themes and techniques.  But this place is more than just a theatre: they’re a hub for puppet enthusiasts, offering exhibitions, workshops, and unique festivals throughout the year. 

Explore the world of insects at Insectarium de Montréal 

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Location: 4581 Sherbrooke St E, Montreal, Quebec H1X 2B2, Canada

Contact: +1 514-868-3000

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Website

This is where the world of insects comes alive… literally! Prepare to encounter thousands of live and preserved specimens, from dazzling butterflies to stick bugs that might make you jump (but in a fascinating way).  

The Insectarium is your chance to conquer those creepy-crawly jitters, gain a whole new respect for our six-legged friends, and learn just how important they are to our world. It’s a quirky adventure for kids and adults alike, packed with interactive exhibits and weird, wonderful creatures around every corner. 

Tickets are reasonably priced (adult admission is around $20 to $25), and they often have awesome family packages. 

Fly through the air at iSaute Montreal (Anjou)

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Location: 8700 Bd du Golf, Montréal, QC H1J 3A1, Canada

Contact: +1 514-667-7644

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
  • Friday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Website

We’re not just talking about a few trampolines here – it’s a massive bouncing paradise with over 30,000 square feet of interconnected trampolines, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and even basketball hoops where you can channel your inner Michael Jordan. 

Whether you crave some carefree bouncing, an epic dodgeball battle, or want to practise those ninja flips, iSaute is pure, unadulterated fun for all ages. They even have dedicated times for little jumpers, ensuring a safe experience for everyone. 

Pricing is flexible too! With options ranging from a 60-minute jump to unlimited all-day access (don’t forget to add those required iSaute grip socks to your tab!). 

Enjoy a live show at Montreal Improv

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Location: 716 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Quebec H4C 1P7, Canada

Contact: [email protected]

Website

Every show is a unique adventure, with themes ranging from classic improv battles to genre-bending mashups like “Mix & Match: An Improv Scramble”.  Prepare to witness a comedic lightning strike as these quick-thinking masters of improv conjure side-splitting scenarios from thin air.

The best part? You might just become part of the show!  Montreal Improv thrives on audience participation, so be ready to shout out ideas, provide hilarious sound effects, or even find yourself (willingly, of course) thrust into the spotlight.  

With shows offered in both English and French and ticket prices ranging from free events to around $7 to $20 (depending on the night and show), experiencing the magic of improv is accessible and affordable. 

Fly over the Old Port with MTL Zipline

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Location: Hangar 16, 363 Rue de la Commune E, Montréal, QC, Canada

Contact: +1 514-947-5463

Opening hours: 

  • Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Website

This urban adventure isn’t just Canada’s first zipline, it’s a thrilling way to fly over Bonsecours Island by taking in breathtaking views of the historic district and the St. Lawrence River. 

And the best part? This adrenaline-pumping experience is surprisingly affordable! Adults can zip for just $19, and kids can get their thrills for $15. Plus, for an extra $5, they offer a phone harness so you can capture those mid-air selfies hands-free.  

They even operate year-round, making it a perfect addition to your Montreal itinerary, regardless of the season.

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