Zero-dollar days: What are the top free things to do in Montreal?
Oui, you can have fun in Montreal without spending a dollar. Believe it or not, our city’s charm isn’t just found in its expensive tourist traps. We have loads of hidden gems that yield up all of their secrets… all for the sweet price of absolutely nothing.
So, make sure to be ready to embrace your inner flâneur (that’s French for “stroller”) and let’s explore the city’s budget-friendly delights today!
- Explore Mount Royal Park for stunning city views
- Experience the Barbie Expo
- Visit the Cathedral of Marie-Reine-du-Monde
- Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- Discover the McCord Stewart Museum
- People-watch in Place des Festivals
- Attend the Montreal Jazz Festival
- Explore La Fontaine Park
- Embark on an outdoor adventure at Parc Jean Drapeau
- Experience Montreal en Lumière Festival
- Visit Parc des Rapides
- Go window shopping at Complexe Desjardins
- See contemporary art at the Belgo
Explore Mount Royal Park for stunning city views
Media credit to di6322
Location: 1260 Chem. Remembrance, Montréal, Quebec H3H 1A2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-843-8240
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
This expansive green space sits atop the mountain that gave the city its name. It offers unparalleled panoramic views across the urban landscape that stretches to the St. Lawrence River and beyond.
Exploring the park is a feast for the eyes. Its designer, Frederick Law Olmsted (the mastermind behind New York’s Central Park), ensured there was a stunning vista waiting around every corner.
Imagine lush greenery, winding trails, and the iconic Mount Royal Chalet’s sweeping outlook. And the best part? This breathtaking experience costs absolutely nothing – a rare find in any major city!
Experience the Barbie Expo
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Location: 1455 Peel St Level 3, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1T5, Canada
Contact: +1 514-842-7777
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
For those who grew up with Barbie, doing this is a joyful trip down memory lane. But even for the uninitiated, the sheer spectacle of the collection is captivating.
Here, you’ll find vintage Barbies, dolls inspired by pop-culture icons, and impossibly glamorous Barbies decked out in designer couture. It’s a quirky celebration of the doll’s evolution and enduring influence – a fashion exhibit writ small and infused with a hefty dose of whimsy.
Whether you leave feeling nostalgic or inspired, one thing’s for sure: the Barbie Expo is a unique and surprisingly delightful way to spend an afternoon in Montreal.
Visit the Cathedral of Marie-Reine-du-Monde
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Location: 1085 Rue de la Cathédrale, Montréal, Québec H3B 2V3, Canada
Contact: +1 514-866-1661
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
The Cathedral of Marie-Reine-du-Monde is a little slice of Rome in the heart of Montreal – a scaled-down replica of St. Peter’s Basilica, complete with a soaring dome and imposing statues.
Inside, the grandeur continues with ornate decorations, marble altars, and a palpable sense of history. Whether you’re religious or not, the sheer artistry and craftsmanship on display are undeniably impressive. It’s a reminder of Montreal’s deep Catholic roots.
Explore the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Media from mbamtl
Location: 1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1J5, Canada
Contact: +1 514-285-2000
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
This sprawling museum boasts a vast and diverse collection spanning centuries and continents. Think classic European paintings, contemporary Canadian art, ancient artifacts, and even a dazzling display of decorative glass.
There’s something to pique the interest of every art enthusiast, whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual wanderer. Essentially, it’s a crash course in art history (without the pricey tuition) and a chance to discover a new favourite artist, all within the elegant halls of one of Montreal’s most prestigious cultural institutions.
Discover the McCord Stewart Museum
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Location: 690 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1E9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-861-6701
Opening hours:
- Tuesday & Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
With over a century of dedicated collecting, the McCord Stewart Museum spills over with artifacts, photographs, and artworks that reveal the city’s soul – from exquisite Indigenous creations to quirky vintage treasures.
It’s a journey through the lives, struggles, and triumphs of Montreal’s diverse communities.
The museum’s commitment to tackling complex issues like decolonization and sustainability makes it clear: history isn’t just about the past, it’s a critical lens for understanding the world we live in today.
People-watch in Place des Festivals
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Location: 1499 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, Quebec H2X 1Z9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-879-0009
People-watching at Place des Festivals is like getting front-row tickets to an endlessly entertaining improv show, all for the grand price of zero!
From suited-up business people rushing by to quirky street performers and groups of friends bursting with laughter, the scene is a constantly shifting tapestry of human life. You’ll witness fashion trends in the wild, hear snippets of conversations in a dozen languages, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a local celebrity.
Attend the Montreal Jazz Festival
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Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Opening dates and hours: June 27 to July 6 from 5:00 PM. to midnight
Sure, there are headliners you might have to pay for, but the true magic unfolds on the festival’s outdoor stages. Here, jazz isn’t confined to a single style – it’s a kaleidoscope of sounds, from legendary icons to the freshest new talent.
Imagine strolling past one stage bumping to Latin rhythms, then taking a detour to be captivated by Icelandic-Chinese jazz-pop fusion (Laufey, anyone?). The festival even boasts a prestigious competition (Concours de Jazz) that’s launched the careers of some of Canada’s biggest jazz stars.
Explore La Fontaine Park
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Location: 3819 Av. Calixa-Lavallée, Montréal, Québec H2L 3A7, Canada
Contact: 514 280-2525
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
La Fontaine Park is a delightful escape from the urban bustle, with something for everyone tucked into its leafy corners. Here, you can stroll along winding paths shaded by old trees, or claim a patch of grass for a picnic with a view of the park’s ponds.
There are even tennis courts, playgrounds, and a dedicated petanque area for friendly matches. In summer, the outdoor theatre hosts free performances, while winter transforms the ponds into a giant, free-for-all skating rink.
Embark on an outdoor adventure at Parc Jean Drapeau
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Location: Montreal, Quebec H3C 1A9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-872-6120
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Parc Jean Drapeau is an all-season playground: in summer, bike paths hum with activity, and festivals like Piknic Électronik and Osheaga fill the air with music.
Plus, attractions like the Olympic-sized pool and La Ronde amusement park add excitement, while the iconic Formula 1 track beckons runners and cyclists.
Come winter, this landscape transforms into a snowy haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with the city skyline providing a stunning backdrop.
Experience Montreal en Lumière Festival
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Location: 400 Blvd. De Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1L4, Canada
Contact: +1 514-288-9955
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Friday – 12:30 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Lumière Festival is like a jolt of joy injected directly into the heart of a Montreal winter. This festival transforms the city into a dazzling playground of light, food, and outdoor fun.
The main site blazes with free activities: think art installations, ice slides, outdoor concerts, and a cozy urban chalet perfect for warming up. Chefs take to the streets for a gourmet celebration, offering delicious bites showcasing the city’s culinary prowess.
Visit Parc des Rapides
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Location: 7770 Bd LaSalle, LaSalle, QC H8P 1X6, Canada
Contact: +1 514-872-0311
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Parc des Rapides is a 30-hectare showcase of the St. Lawrence River’s untamed energy. The iconic Lachine Rapids, a stretch of whitewater that once challenged explorers, is its centrepiece.
Over 225 species find refuge here, including Quebec’s largest heron colony. Seek them out along the well-maintained trails, where bilingual signs unveil fascinating stories of the park’s natural and historical importance.
Craving a scenic outdoor lunch? Picnic areas and ample free parking make it a budget-friendly escape. Just remember, this precious oasis thrives on respect – leave the drones at home and heed park rules to ensure its serenity for all.
Go window shopping at Complexe Desjardins
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Location: 150 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec H2X 3Y2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-845-4636
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Think of Complexe Desjardins as a microcosm of Montreal within a single building. Its soaring atrium, flooded with natural light, creates a public square perfect for window shopping with a side of architectural awe.
With over 110 shops and restaurants, it’s a haven for browsing, from local designers to global brands. But it’s not just about the goods – Complexe Desjardins hosts a constant stream of free events and exhibitions.
See contemporary art at the Belgo
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Location: 372 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal, Quebec H3B 1A2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-861-0305
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 7:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Don’t be fooled by the Belgo Building’s unassuming exterior on bustling Sainte-Catherine Ouest. Step foot inside, and you’ll find yourself in a thriving artistic hub – a maze of over 27 galleries, workshops, and dance studios brimming with contemporary creativity.
This place also offers a dynamic and ever-evolving art experience where each visit promises a fresh and exciting encounter with the cutting edge.