Lea Gagnon15 best things to do in Montreal with friends that everyone will actually agree on
A few months ago, my friends and I spent way too much time in the group chat trying to figure out what to do over the weekend. You know how it goes—someone suggests something, half the group isn’t into it, and hours go by with zero plans locked in.
I think it felt overwhelming because we all want to do different things. What helped, though, was realising we didn’t need to cram everything into one weekend.
Instead, we came up with a list of fun things to do in Montreal that we could go back to any time we wanted to hang out.
So if you and your friends are in the same boat, don’t stress. We’ve got some fun ideas to share.
Historical and cultural things to do in Montreal with friends
1. Step back in time at Pointe‑à‑Callière Museum
Media credits: pointeacalliere
Address: 350 Place Royale
Contact details: +1 514-872-9150
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Price: $$
It was very amusing when we found out that Pointe-à-Callière Museum is not just a museum; it’s built right on top of the spot where Montreal began. You’re literally walking through the city’s roots, with layers of history going back thousands of years.
One of the highlights was the underground archaeological crypt. It’s quite remarkable to stroll along preserved cobblestone streets and see the remnants of old colonial buildings, as well as Montreal’s first Catholic cemetery.
The visit also starts with an 18-minute multimedia show called “Yours Truly, Montreal.” It gives you a big-picture look at the city’s past. We loved that it’s fast-paced, easy to follow, and a great way to get into the right mindset before diving into the exhibits.
| Pro tip: The museum is spread across multiple sections (A to E), and it can feel a little maze-like. The staff usually gives a map, so we suggest following their recommended path to get a full historical timeline in the right order. |
2. Marvel at the grandeur of Notre‑Dame Basilica
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Address: 110 Notre-Dame St W
Contact details: +1 514-842-2925
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 4 PM
Price: $
Notre-Dame Basilica was built between 1824 and 1829, and it was Canada’s first Gothic Revival church. The building is packed with dramatic details, like the twin towers outside, a blue ceiling with gold stars inside, and wood carvings everywhere you look.
One thing we found interesting was that the stained-glass windows don’t show Bible scenes. Instead, they show moments from Montreal’s history, which we don’t see every day.
There’s also a smaller chapel behind the main altar. It’s quieter, more modern, and easy to miss if you’re in a rush. It feels like a break from the basilica’s dramatic flair.
Then there’s the AURA show, which is a light and sound experience held in the evenings. Think lasers, music, and the church’s walls lighting up like they’re part of a concert.
| Pro tip: Crowds build fast, especially around midday. We suggest going here early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience. Weekdays are your best bet if you want room to breathe. |
3. Tour the 18th-century rooms at Château Ramezay Historic Site
Media credits: chateauramezay
Address: 280 Notre-Dame St. East
Contact details: +1 514-861-3708
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: $$
You don’t have to be a hardcore history buff to appreciate Château Ramezay. It’s one of the oldest historic sites in Quebec. It’s also the first building in the province to be named a historic monument, which sets the tone before you even walk through the door.
The museum walks you through over 500 years of history. The rooms are filled with all kinds of antique furniture, old tools and quirky items. We even saw a dog-powered cooking spit in the kitchen, which shows what life looked like in earlier centuries.
The place is thoughtfully put together, and you can either wander on your own with an audio guide (available in several languages) or catch one of the costumed guides. If you’re opting for a guide, don’t worry, their explanations give so much context.
| Pro tip: Walk through the garden after the museum by accessing it from the back. It’s especially nice in May through September when the flowers and herbs are in full bloom. |
4. Time-travel through history at the McCord Stewart Museum
Media credits: museemccordstewart
Address: 690 Sherbrooke St W
Contact details: +1 514-861-6701
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Thursday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: $$
McCord Stewart Museum sits right across from McGill University downtown. Inside, it holds over 2.5 million items, like photos, clothes, and historical documents. It makes it one of the top spots in North America for learning about social history and culture.
Personally, I loved the Costume Balls exhibit, which was all about the extravagant outfits worn at high-society events in the past. It’s fun and fascinating to see how much effort went into these looks, even if some parts felt over the top by today’s standards.
Everything was very put together. The exhibits are detailed but not overwhelming, and we also felt that the space welcomes everyone.
| Pro tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month and take advantage of their “Pay What You Can” day. It’s perfect if you’re visiting on a budget or with a group. It makes this cultural experience even more accessible. |
5. Explore the sacred space at Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal
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Address: 3800 Queen Mary Rd
Contact details: +1 514-733-8211
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
Price: Free
It’s hard to miss the Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Sitting high up on Mount Royal, it’s actually the tallest building in Montreal and can be seen from miles away. The dome alone is one of the biggest in the world, and once you get up close, it’s even more striking.
Walking through the site, you really feel like you’re stepping through different chapters of history. You’ve got the original chapel, a peaceful crypt church, and the grand basilica. Each part tells a piece of the story of Montreal’s spiritual and cultural roots.
We also explored the beautiful gardens and paths around it. These are great spots to reflect, take photos, or just relax. Entry is free here, which is great, and while parking isn’t free, it’s reasonably priced.
| Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes. There’s a lot of walking, especially if you climb the 283 steps from the street level to the basilica. The gardens and sacred paths also have uphill strolls. |
Food and drinks to try in Montreal with friends
6. Devour a classic at Fairmount Bagel
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Address: 74 Av. Fairmount O
Contact details: +1 514-272-0667
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: $
We’ve heard that Fairmount Bagel makes its bagels hand-rolled, boiled in honey-sweetened water, and baked in a wood-fired oven. Their bagels are slightly sweet, chewy, and full of flavour. It’s different from what you might get in New York.
The sesame bagel is a big favourite here. But they’ve also got poppy seed, plain, onion, garlic, and a fun one called the “Bozo.” It’s like a jumbo bagel with a mix of toppings.
There’s no menu with sandwiches or anything, but just bagels and tubs of cheese, so you can mix and match however you like.
| Pro tip: Grab a bagel, top it with local cream cheese and Quebec smoked salmon for a classic combo. But if you want to go fancy, go with a cranberry bagel, goat cheese, caramelised onions, and arugula. Add balsamic if you’re feeling creative. |
7. Satisfy your cravings at La Banquise
Media credits: restolabanquise
Address: 994 Rue Rachel E
Contact details: +1 514-525-2415
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: $$
La Banquise is open 24/7 and serves more than 30 different kinds of poutine. You’ve got your classic version (fries, gravy, and cheese curds), which is already great, but the real fun starts with all the creative toppings. There’s poutine with bacon, meat, and more.
We also recommend pairing your poutine with a local craft beer. They have a few on tap, and apparently, they go really well with all the salty and cheesy flavours. If you’re not into beer, they’ve got soft drinks, coffee, and even salads for something lighter.
The vibe here is casual and a bit chaotic, so expect it to be loud and busy with not a ton of space to move around. There’s usually a wait, especially on weekends or late nights, but the food comes out fast and hot once you’re seated.
| Pro tip: Portions are generous, and poutine is rich here. Splitting a plate with a friend is a good way to sample without overdoing it, especially if you want to try more than one kind. |
8. Sip some coffee at Café Olimpico
Media credits: cafeolimpico
Address: 419 R. Saint-Vincent
Contact details: +1 438-386-9071
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 12 AM
Price: $
Café Olimpico has been around since the 1970s and sticks to real Italian coffee traditions. You won’t find anything super trendy like frappes or chai lattes here. Instead, you’ll find strong espresso, smooth Americanos, and proper lattes.
As for food, they offer a solid lineup of Italian pastries. We really liked the bomboloni (Italian doughnuts), especially the ones with pistachio. I also loved the tiramisu, but one of my friends said the mascarpone flavour could be stronger.
If you want to bring home some nice souvenirs or gifts for fellow coffee lovers, you can buy their signature coffee beans and even coffee-scented candles.
| Pro tip: If the café looks packed from the main St. Vincent entrance, walk around past Le Cartel and Hotel Williams Gray. You’ll likely find more seating in that shared area. |
9. Try out different cocktails at Lord William Pub
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Address: 265 Rue des Seigneurs
Contact details: +1 514-925-3777
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 3 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 1 AM
Price: $$
Lord Williams Pub has that perfect mix of cosy and cool, welcoming vibe. Locals really love it since it’s one of those places where you can grab great food and solid drinks.
We loved their cocktails here, especially the Old Fashioned and the classic Caesar. Our second round was a bit stronger, so heads up if you’re pacing yourself. On warm days, the rosé sangria is a nice choice because it’s light and refreshing.
You have to order food when you get drinks here (thanks to their liquor license), but that’s honestly a win. Their nachos are super cheesy and loaded with guac, salsa, and sour cream. The lamb burger is also good because it’s very juicy and full of flavour.
| Pro tip: Check out their trivia night on Mondays. It’s super fun and accessible, even if you’re not a trivia pro. The host mixes in creative challenges, and the crowd keeps it friendly. |
10. Have a French cuisine lunch at Modavie
Media credits: modaviemtl
Address: 1 Saint-Paul St W
Contact details: +1 514-287-9582
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 11 PM
Price: $$
We really loved the atmosphere at Modavie. The interior felt warm and rustic, with wooden beams, soft lighting, and vintage charms. Even though it was lunchtime and there wasn’t live music yet, we could feel the energy of the place.
One of us ordered the rack of lamb. It was perfectly cooked with a slight crisp on the outside and juicy inside. It’s also served with seasonal sides that complement it without overpowering the main event.
We also couldn’t skip dessert, so we tried the lava chocolate mousse pyramid and apple pie. They were both good, but the apple pie ended up being the one we’d order again on our next visit. It had just the right balance of sweetness and texture.
| Pro tip: If you enjoy jazz or blues, aim to arrive after 7 PM when the live bands start playing. It transforms the vibe into something special, which is perfect for a relaxed evening out. |
Entertaining things to do in Montreal with friends
11. Soar above the city on La Grande Roue de Montréal
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Address: 362 Rue de la Commune E
Contact details: +1 514-325-7888
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Price: $$$
La Grande Roue de Montréal is the tallest observation wheel in Canada, and it’s right in the middle of the Old Port, which is super easy to get to. The ride itself lasts about 18–20 minutes and gives you 360-degree views of the city.
We tried the regular gondola, which fits up to 8 people and is fully climate-controlled. The glass is super clear and anti-UV, so even if it’s sunny or cold, you get a great view without being uncomfortable. Each group also has their own gondola.
When we visited it again on another day, we tried the VIP gondola. Compared to the regular ones, this has Italian leather seats, a glass floor, and you can stay on it as long as you want. It costs more, but it’s worth considering during celebrations.
| Pro tip: Go at sunset or after dark for the best views. The city lights up beautifully, and you’ll catch iconic spots like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge glowing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch fireworks during special events. |
12. Be amazed by a Cirque du Soleil show at the Old Port
Media credits: cirquedusoleil
Address: Quai Jacques-Cartier
Contact details: 1 877 924-7783
Operating hours:
- Depends on the show
Price: $$$
The whole Cirque de Soleil happens under a giant tent called the Grand Chapiteau, right by the water at Quai Jacques-Cartier. It looks like a colourful space castle, and it gives off weird, magical, and cool vibes.
We saw “LUZIA,” and it’s a dream version of Mexico with acrobats. There’s water falling from the ceiling, slow-motion flips, beautiful desert scenes, and live music that gives everything an extra kick. At one point, a performer flew straight throw a waterfall.
The show runs for about two and a half hours, including a break. Not one of us looked at our phones the whole time, which is a really good sign.
| Pro tip: Most seats have a great view, but if you can, aim for something near the centre and not too far back. You’ll get the best angle for the aerial stunts. Avoid sitting too close to the front row. |
13. Challenge your brain at A/Maze Escape Game
Media credits: amazemontreal
Address: 3550 Rue Saint-Jacques
Contact details: +1 514-504-2139
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 2 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Price: $$
A/Maze Escape Game is inside an old machinery warehouse, which sounds weird but looks amazing. It has giant metal gears on the ceiling, dark lighting, and that spooky feel. You get this sense that you’re stepping into another world before the game starts.
We tried the Prison Break room, where you have to escape a high-security prison before hitmen show up. The puzzles were tricky but fun, and you really have to work together.
There are other rooms too, like the Lost Temple, the Laboratory, and the Military Facility. If you’re more into fresh air and walking around, they also have an outdoor game that takes you along the Lachine Canal.
| Pro tip: Book ahead since they don’t take phone reservations. Popular time slots, especially weekends, fill up fast. |
14. Catch some indie films at Cinéma du Parc
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Address: 3575 Park Ave
Contact details: +1 514-281-1900
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Cinéma du Parc feels a bit like a time capsule. Old-school layout, retro vibes, small auditoriums—but everything is clean and well-kept. It’s not flashy, but it has personality.
The films here are the main event. They focus on indie, international, and festival movies, which are the kind of stuff you don’t see in regular cinemas. We saw posters for Greek dramas, Latin American thrillers, and French documentaries all in one week.
We also loved how the crowd really respects the movie experience, too. There are no phones, no loud talking, just people genuinely there for the film. Just a heads up, though: the bathrooms are tiny and unisex, so just be prepared for that.
| Pro tip: Use the free underground parking via the Avenue du Parc entrance. Just follow the signs for Galeries du Parc. Don’t forget to grab a ticket on the way in. |
15. Sing your heart out at Pang Pang Karaoke
@takos2022 🎤 #montreal #karaoketiktok #downtown #pourtoi #foryou #fyp
♬ original sound – Justin_Joel🚀
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Address: 1226 Mackay St
Contact details: +1 514-938-8886
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 3 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 3 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 3 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM – 11 PM
Price: $$
Pang Pang Karaoke is a South Korean-style karaoke spot downtown, and instead of singing in front of a crowd, you get your own private room. That means you can be as silly, loud, or off-key as you want and nobody’s judging.
The rooms are cosy, colourful, and even come with a photo booth where you can take fun pics with props. They’ve also got a huge song list with tons of K-pop, English hits, and songs in other languages like Japanese and Chinese.
We booked during happy hour (3 PM to 8 PM), which cost us just $20 each for up to 5 hours of singing. It’s a great deal, especially for groups.
It’s also family-friendly since it’s an alcohol-free venue, so it’s great for any celebrations.
| Pro tip: Since food at Pang Pang is limited and on the pricey side, we suggest bringing your own snacks. You can also pick up Korean fried chicken or bubble tea nearby to enjoy during your session. |
