Discover Montreal's Best Parks
Montreal boasts a diverse array of parks, offering everything from fun activities to serene natural landscapes. These parks feature attractions like botanical gardens and cater to visitors all year round, with seasonal activities such as swimming, hiking, skiing, and ice-skating. Many of these green spaces are easily accessible by Metro, making them perfect for a day out without the need for a car. Here's a guide to some of the best parks in Montreal.
1. Parc Jean-Drapeau
Parc Jean-Drapeau, spanning two islands, is a manicured park with a variety of attractions. It offers over 25 kilometers of pathways, a beach, an aquatic park, and the floating Aquazilla obstacle course. Bird-watchers will enjoy the park's rich avian population. Dining options include La Guinguatte, and the park is accessible via the Jean-Drapeau Metro stop and a shuttle bus service.
2. Parc National d'Oka
Parc National d'Oka, a provincial park near Montreal, offers extensive trails for biking and hiking, a large campground, and a popular beach with a floating obstacle course. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Admission and parking fees apply.
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3. Mount Royal Park
Mount Royal, a 200-hectare park, features attractions like the Kondiaronk lookout and Beaver Lake. The park requires some walking as key attractions are not accessible by car. Start at Smith House for maps and information.
4. RécréoParc
RécréoParc, located in Saint-Catharine, offers a beach, a modern pavilion with river views, and an urban campground. The park is free to enter, with a fee for beach access.
5. Maisonneuve Park
This 63-hectare park features playing fields, trails, a golf course, and the Montreal Botanical Gardens. Nearby attractions include the Montreal Tower and Olympic Stadium.
6. Arthur-Therrien Park
Arthur-Therrien Park offers a beach, a pool, and various sports facilities. Paid parking is available, and the De l'Église Metro stop is nearby.
7. Jarry Park
Jarry Park, in the Villeray area, features a lake, playing fields, and an outdoor pool. It's accessible by car or Metro.
8. Westmount Park
Westmount Park offers tennis courts, water features, and playgrounds, along with beautiful flowering trees in the spring.
9. Angrignon Park
Angrignon Park features a forest, lake, picnic areas, and is accessible by bus or Metro at the Angrignon stop.
10. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park offers trails, a beach, and an eco-farm. Entry and parking fees apply.
11. Parc La Fontaine
Parc La Fontaine is a 40-hectare park with a lake, trails, and sports facilities. It's near the Sherbrooke Metro stop.
These parks are just a few examples of the green spaces that make Montreal a delightful city for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.