Montréal shines in the summer with its lively streets, incredible food, and unbeatable energy. Outdoor concerts, scenic parks or must-see attractions, some of the best things to do in Montréal take place in the warmer months! If you're into art, nature, or just about soaking up the vibes, you’ll find an opportunity to enjoy those sunny days in the city at every turn.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new experience or visiting for the first time, grab your shades and get ready for a warm season full of fun, culture, and unforgettable summer activities.
Cultural Attractions
Montréal is a city bursting with art, history, and creativity. Inspiration can be found throughout the city at world-class museums, historic sites, or just by wandering in the different neighborhoods. With fascinating exhibits and street art, Montréal’s cultural scene is full of surprises.
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit for art lovers. The collection is composed of a wide array of classic paintings, bold modern pieces and a large variety of artists. It’s one of the top museums in Canada, and here’s a bonus—if you're under 25, you get in for free! If you love timeless masterpieces or edgy contemporary art, museums in Montréal are true gems.
Discover the history at Pointe-à-Callière Museum
Pointe-à-Callière Museum is a step into the past, as it’s built right where Montréal was founded! This spot takes history to another level, letting you walk through old underground archaeological ruins, see artifacts from centuries ago, and dive into interactive exhibits that bring Montréal’s story to life.
With guided tours and cool multimedia displays, it’s an amazing way to connect with the historic city’s roots. You don’t have to be a history buff, only have a love for discovering new things, and this place will definitely be worth a visit.
Experience art everywhere in Montréal
Montréal is basically one big outdoor art gallery! If you enjoy colorful murals and graffiti masterpieces, the city’s legendary street art scene is calling your name. And every June, the MURAL Festival brings in artists from all over the world to add even more creativity to the mix. Take a walking tour or just wander through the Plateau and along Saint-Laurent Boulevard where you’ll find jaw-dropping artwork on every corner. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves art with a side of city life.
Explore the Quartier des Spectacles
The Quartier des Spectacles is where Montréal‘s entertainment scene comes alive. It’s packed with festivals, concerts, and performances all summer long. With live music at the pedestrian Place des Arts and family-friendly street shows, it’s a must-visit area.
At night, the district lights up with colorful projections, adding even more magic to the experience. If you love live entertainment, this is the place to be!
Outdoor Activities
Montréal isn’t just about culture, it’s also a dream for outdoor lovers! The city is full of parks, scenic bike paths, and waterfront spots, perfect for open-air adventures on summer days. Public parks in Montréal are central to the locals’ enjoyment of summer. Hike, cycle, or just take a stroll. There are endless ways to soak up the sunshine and fresh air.
Walk Through Mount Royal Park
Head to Mount Royal Park for the best view in town! Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also created the iconic Central Park, the Park is perfect for hiking, jogging, or just relaxing with a picnic, free of charge. Families love the wide outdoors spaces to play and enjoy the summer weather, while photographers can’t get enough of the stunning city views from the lookout point. Are you up for a workout or do you prefer to chill in nature? “Mont Royal” is a must-visit either way!
Relax at Parc Jean-Drapeau
Parc Jean-Drapeau is the perfect getaway, just minutes from downtown. Want some waterfront fun? It’s home to the Aquatic Complex and Jean Doré Beach, where you can swim, kayak, or just cool off. But there’s more! The park also hosts festivals, outdoor concerts, and is home to the La Ronde amusement park.
Cycle Along the Lachine Canal
Bike and ride along the Lachine Canal for a perfect summer day. This scenic path is one of the best in the city, with gorgeous waterfront views and plenty of spots to stop for a picnic. Rentals are easy to find. Try hopping on one of the readily available Bixi bikes, ideal for both casual riders and seasoned cyclists alike. It’s a relaxing way to explore the city while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Picnic at Parc La Fontaine
Parc La Fontaine is a fabulous spot for a laid-back afternoon. Tucked away in the Plateau, this beautiful park is full of shady trees, peaceful ponds, and plenty of green space for a picnic. Bring some snacks, kick back on the grass, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Bonus: In the summer, you might even catch a free outdoor performance at the park’s amphitheater. It’s a local favorite for a reason!
Attend Montréal’s Vibrant Festivals
Montréal in the summer means one thing: festival season! The city is packed with incredible events, world-famous music festivals, and unique cultural celebrations. Montrealers love culture, arts, comedy, music, and they know how to party, so, no matter your vibe, there’s a festival for you.
Celebrate at the Montréal Jazz Fest
The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is the biggest jazz fest in the world, with incredible performances from top artists. What’s even better is that the outdoor shows are free! From late June to early July, grab a drink, find a spot in the crowd, and let the music carry you away.
Dance at Piknic Électronik
Piknic Électronik beckons Montrealers to Parc Jean-Drapeau all summer long. Every Sunday from May to October, the super fun electronic music event. It’s the perfect mix of good vibes, great DJs, and an unbeatable outdoor setting. If you're into house, techno, or just want to dance in the sunshine, this is the place to be.
Enjoy the MURAL Festival
The MURAL Festival transforms Saint-Laurent Boulevard into an open-air gallery in June, with new murals popping up every year. Watch artists at work, take a guided tour, and soak in the creative energy. Street art lovers shouldn’t miss this one!
Experience the MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE Festival
The MONTRÉAL COMPLÈTEMENT CiRQUE FESTIVAL brings jaw-dropping performances to the streets every summer. If you love circus arts and you’ve got free time in July, you’re in luck. Montréal is famous for its circus scene. Expect acrobatics, stunts, and mesmerizing acts that will leave you speechless!
Attend Festival Nuits d’Afrique
Festival Nuits d’Afrique brings the best of African, Caribbean, and Latin music to Montréal in July, filling the city with vibrant rhythms and dance-worthy beats. If you love global sounds and having a good time with your friends, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Celebrate at Fierté Montréal
Fierté Montréal is one of the biggest celebrations of LGBTQ+ communities in North America. From the dazzling parade to concerts and parties, it’s a joyful, inclusive, and unforgettable experience. The event takes place in August and features community events, as well as star-studded shows you can attend for free, held at the base of the Olympic Stadium’s mast—a truly iconic setting.
Experience the Most “Montréal” Attractions!
Montréal is full of one-of-a-kind spots you won’t find anywhere else. Known for its breathtaking views, stunning architecture, and hidden gems tucked away all over the city, there’s always something unique to explore.
Ride La Grande Roue de Montréal
Hop on La Grande Roue de Montréal, the city’s giant Ferris wheel in the Old Port, for a view that’ll take your breath away. Take a ride during the day for a scenic look at the city or at night when the Jacques Cartier Bridge lights up. It’s an unforgettable experience. Perfect for a romantic date or a fun family outing!
Explore the Jardin botanique de Montréal
Step into a world of beauty at the Jardin botanique de Montréal. With seasonal flowers, themed gardens, and peaceful walking trails, it’s the perfect escape from the city buzz. Plus, it’s also the home of Montréal’s newly renovated Insectarium, another must-see spot with stunning architecture and incredible exhibits featuring small and large critters from around the world.
Visit the Biosphère
The Montréal Biosphère is an iconic geodesic dome housing fascinating exhibitions. Learn about sustainability, explore interactive displays, and snap some cool photos of this unique structure. You can’t miss this one, it’s literally a giant sphere!
Now serving an educational purpose for visitors from around the globe, the building was constructed as part of the United-States pavilion for World’s Fair of 1967, Expo 67.
Discover the Montréal Science Centre
The Montréal Science Centre is packed with interactive exhibitions that make learning fun and easy for families. Scientists-in-the-making who are curious about space, technology, or the human body will be entertained for hours.
Family-friendly Activities in Montréal
Montréal is the ultimate family getaway, combining fun with a chance to learn. There’s no shortage of interactive activities that keep both kids and adults entertained. Whether you want to get up close with nature, explore the stars, or just enjoy a day out in the fresh air, Montréal has it covered. You won’t need to worry about the kids getting bored here!
For even more family-friendly fun, don’t forget to check out our Things to Do in Montréal With Kids guide!
Visit the Montréal Biodôme
The Montréal Biodôme is like a portal to another world. At this indoor nature wonderland, a vestige from the summer Olympics of 1976, you can walk through five different ecosystems, from the warm, tropical rainforest to the icy Antarctic. Try spotting playful penguins, watching a capybara waddle by, or just marveling at the lush greenery of the rainforest.
It’s not only a fun adventure, but a great way to learn about ecosystems, animals, and the importance of biodiversity. Kids will love it, and adults will find it fascinating too!
Explore the Montréal Planétarium
The Montréal Planétarium is a must-visit for an experience that’s truly out of this world. With immersive shows, interactive displays, and a chance to dive deep into the wonders of space, it’s a place where learning feels like a cosmic adventure. Kids can gaze at stars, watch simulated space missions, and even learn about the planets and galaxies that make up our universe. Plus, it’s a perfect spot for a family selfie under the Milky Way!
Discover SOS Labyrinthe
Get ready, SOS Labyrinthe will put your navigation skills to the test! Located in the Old Port, this massive indoor maze is filled with twists, turns, and surprises at every corner. It’s perfect for families, groups, or anyone who loves a good puzzle—a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon.
Adventure Activities
If you’re looking for a thrill, Montréal’s got your back! The city’s packed with adrenaline-pumping activities, from speeding down rapids to zipping through the air. It’s all about the excitement, but don’t worry, safety’s a top priority for every adventure. Just book ahead and let the fun begin!
Try Jet Boating on the Lachine Rapids
Jet boating on the Lachine Rapids is a wild time! This high-speed water adventure will have you zooming through the waves with the wind in your hair and water splashing all around you. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s one of the best ways to cool off while feeling the thrill of Montréal’s wild rapids. Just make sure you’re ready to get wet, it’s part of the fun! And don’t forget your waterproof camera; you'll want to capture this adventure.
Zipline at Zipline MTL
Ever dreamt of zipping through the air like a superhero? Zipline MTL makes it happen. This zipline ride over the Old Port gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city, the St. Lawrence River, and Montréal’s iconic architecture. It’s a heart-pounding experience that lets you soar through the sky, and the views are breathtaking. Adrenaline junkies and newcomers agree: the zipline is an absolute blast. You'll finish the ride feeling on top of the world!
Montréal Bungee
Montréal Bungee offers a thrilling 210-ft (64-m) drop with stunning city views, making it the highest bungee jump in Canada. Expertly supervised, and outfitted in top safety gear, fret not; it's perfect for beginners and thrill seekers alike. This daredevil activity is definitely not for the faint of heart!
Rent Pedal Boats from Écorécréo
If you’re looking to enjoy the water in a more relaxed way, renting a pedal boat from Écorécréo is a great choice. These easy-to-pedal boats let you glide calmly along Montréal’s canals, offering a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect way to soak in the views of Old Montréal and the surrounding greenery without breaking a sweat (unless you’re really putting those legs to work!) Plus, it’s a fun and gentle workout for the whole family, especially if you’re cruising with kids!
Go on a Guided Helicopter Tour
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a guided helicopter tour of Montréal. This aerial adventure gives you a stunning panoramic view of the city from above, letting you see Montréal’s unique blend of modern architecture and scenic natural beauty in all its glory. Flying over the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding parks offers an unforgettable view of Montréal. It’s like getting a VIP tour of the city, but from the sky!
Plan your Montréal Summer Itinerary
A little bit of planning can make your Montréal summer unforgettable. With so many events, attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems, it’s smart to map out your days based on what interests you most. Those into food, culture, or outdoor adventures, will find their Montréal trip worthwhile. And trust us, you’ll want to take a few detours to discover some of the city's lesser-known treasures.
Create a Calendar of Events
Montréal's summer calendar is packed with events, festivals, and activities that suit every interest. From the world-famous Jazz Festival to art fairs, food truck gatherings, and more, the city is always abuzz. Creating a calendar of events is a great way to stay on top of the best activities while you're here. Check out the local event listings on official sites, like Tourisme Montréal, to see what's on during your visit, and plan your days around these can’t-miss moments!
Find Free Things to Do This Summer
Summer in Montréal doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The city offers tons of free activities that let you enjoy its vibrant culture without breaking the bank. One of the highlights? Outdoor concerts by the Orchestre Métropolitain, on multiple dates in July and August. These free performances take place in various parks around the city, rain or shine. So, grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy some live classical music under the stars. It’s a relaxing way to spend an evening.
Top Experiences
While spontaneous travels are great, there are a few experiences in Montréal that are worth planning for. Activities like Cirque du Soleil shows or guided food tours, some of Montréal’s top experiences, require advance booking. But don’t just stick to the usual touristy spots! Make time to discover hidden gems, like the peaceful courtyards of Old Montréal or the quirky street art in the Plateau. These local favorites are just waiting to be explored and offer a true taste of Montréal’s charm.
In the end, Montréal is all about enjoying the moment. Whether you're ziplining through the air, enjoying a concert in the park, or cruising down the rapids, every day here is a chance to create lasting memories. With a little bit of planning, a sense of adventure, and a lot of fun, you're guaranteed to have an amazing summer in Montréal.
Montréal’s Summer Magic Awaits
From cultural hotspots to outdoor adventures and world-class festivals, Montréal is the ultimate summer destination. What are you waiting for? Explore its hidden gems, dance at a festival, or just soak up the city’s electric energy. Ready to experience it all? Check out our shows in Montréal and start planning your unforgettable summer adventure!