Montreal with kids – 10 of the best fun things to do
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Discover the most fun and exciting things to do in Montreal with kids! I’ve gathered a list of all the must-visit spots for families looking to make the most of their time in this vibrant city.
Montreal is a year-round favorite for travelers, especially those seeking the perfect family getaway. Whether you’re interested in theaters, museums, adventure, or interactive learning experiences, this city truly has something for everyone—and it never disappoints.
Family time in Montreal is something we always look forward to whenever we plan a trip with our kids. Plus, getting here from Quebec City is a breeze by road, making it a convenient destination for a family adventure.
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, you’ll find countless incredible activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Montreal with kids on your next visit:
My favourite things to do in Montreal with kids:
1. Go on a Ride on La Grande Roue
La Grande Roue is a true symbol of Montreal and a must-see for families. Located on the Old Port, it’s the tallest observation wheel in Canada, and it definitely deserves the top spot on your list of things to do with kids in the city. The ride lasts about 20 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the Montreal skyline. Your kids will be amazed by the sights and the thrill of being so high above the city.
One of the best parts? From the top, you can spot all sorts of landmarks and decide together where to head next on your Montreal adventure. La Grande Roue is open every day from 10 am to 10 pm, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. I recommend booking your tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on this unforgettable family experience.
2. Learn something new at the Montreal Science Centre
The Montreal Science Centre is packed with adventure, hands-on fun, and endless opportunities for discovery in the world of science. It’s one of my favorite places to visit with kids, thanks to its wide range of fascinating exhibits.
There’s an entire bio department that dives into topics like DNA and mutation, making complex ideas easy for kids of all ages to grasp. On the other side, you’ll find physics exhibits that are just as engaging and accessible.
One of the biggest highlights for families is the dinosaur section; it’s always a hit and feels like stepping right into Jurassic Park! The centre offers both self-guided and educator-led activities, so you can tailor your visit to your family’s interests and pace.
Located right in the heart of the Old Port, the Montreal Science Centre is surrounded by restaurants and historic sites, making it easy to plan a whole day of exploration and fun. It’s a must-visit for any family trip to Montreal.
3. Experience the Van Gogh Distortion at OASIS Immersion
Adults love this part of Montreal, but introducing your kids to the world of art at the Oasis Immersion virtual museum can spark incredible creativity in them. Unlike traditional museums, Oasis Immersion is more of an immersive experience than a typical exhibit. The displays are breathtaking and truly interactive.
The highlight here is the Van Gogh show, where both famous and lesser-known works by the legendary artist are brought to life through a continuous virtual presentation. Multiple galleries each focus on a different chapter of Van Gogh’s story: you’ll start in Gallery 1 with exploration mode and end in Gallery 5 with his larger-than-life portfolio.
The entire show lasts about 60 to 75 minutes, making it an out-of-this-world experience for families. Be sure to check their website for the latest information on showtimes and ticket prices to plan your visit.
4. Explore your Love for Nature at Montreal Botanical Garden
Get your kids ready to explore one of the world’s finest botanical gardens right here in Montreal! The Montreal Botanical Garden is an incredible place for children to discover and learn about plants from all around the globe. With 75 hectares of themed gardens and impressive greenhouse exhibits, there’s something exciting to see at every turn.
Some of the biggest highlights for families are the cultural gardens, including the Chinese, Japanese, and First Nations gardens. The stunning floral arrangements and unique designs in these areas always capture kids’ imaginations and make for fun, memorable learning experiences. A visit here isn’t just beautiful, it’s educational and inspiring for the whole family.
5. Visit the Insectarium
If your kids love spending time in the garden, catching worms and chasing butterflies, they’ll be fascinated by a visit to the Insectarium. Conveniently located within the Montreal Botanical Garden, this museum offers a 45-minute journey packed with surprises and incredible information about the insect world. It’s actually one of the largest insectariums in the world!
Inside, you’ll find an amazing variety of insect species, some alive, some preserved in one of the largest collections anywhere. The immersive exhibits make learning about insects fun and engaging. Visiting the Insectarium is a unique experience that’s sure to spark curiosity and excitement in kids and adults alike.
6. Play games at SOS Labyrinthe
It can be tough to keep up with the energy of the most active and curious kids—especially when you’re traveling. But in Montreal, you don’t have to worry! There are plenty of places to channel that enthusiasm into unforgettable fun, and SOS Labyrinthe is one of the best.
This unique attraction, located in the Old Port, features a 2 km maze packed with unusual adventures and exciting activities for kids of all ages. Parents can rest assured that their children will have an amazing time navigating the twists, turns, and surprises.
SOS Labyrinthe is a must-visit for families looking to add some playful adventure to their Montreal itinerary. Don’t forget to grab your tickets in advance for this one-of-a-kind experience!
7. Go sailing on a River Cruise over St. Lawrence River
Taking a cruise ride to sightsee the picturesque city of Montreal is easily one of the most memorable family activities you can do with kids. Gliding along the river, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of La Grande Roue, the Olympic Stadium, the Biodome, and plenty of stunning architecture. Passing beneath the majestic Jacques Cartier Bridge is always a highlight that keeps little ones wide-eyed and excited.
You can choose between a day or evening cruise, each offering its own unique charm and scenery. It’s a relaxing yet thrilling way for the whole family to experience Montreal from a fresh perspective, and it’s sure to be a hit with your kids!
8. Make Friends at Ecomuseum Zoo
If the Science Centre teaches kids about the world through hands-on learning, the Eco Museum takes it a step further by introducing visitors to the ecological wonders of our planet and the importance of conservation. It’s the perfect place for children to not only get closer to wildlife, but also to understand how their actions can help protect the environment.
The Eco Museum is both a zoo and a learning space, making environmental awareness fun and meaningful for all ages. It’s vital for kids to see firsthand how their small efforts can make a big difference, especially when they discover that many of their favorite animals are facing threats in the wild.
Home to a range of animals, including arctic foxes, bears, wolves, porcupines, otters, and golden eagles, the Eco Museum also features an indoor section with reptiles and fish. Visiting here is an eye-opening experience that inspires a lifelong love and respect for nature.
9. Explore Exporail – The Canadian Railway Museum
If you’re exploring the south shore of Montreal with your family, don’t miss the Canadian Railway Museum—it’s both enlightening and incredibly educational. Canada’s rich history comes alive here, and you’ll discover just how much the railway shaped Montreal and the entire country, especially during the Industrial Revolution.
Kids who love to tinker, build, and explore mechanical wonders will be thrilled by this museum. With over 140 pieces on display, ranging from vintage train parts to fully restored locomotives, it’s a fascinating journey through time.
You’ll get to see the entire evolution of trains, from their earliest days to the modern marvels we know today. Comparing the old and new engines side by side is always a highlight and makes for an unforgettable family adventure.
10. Catch a show at the Illusion Theatre
If you want to truly delight your kids while in Montreal, take them to the Illusion Theatre! Here, the magic of illusion meets the excitement of performing arts for a show that’s sure to captivate the whole family. Talented magicians, artists, and performers take the stage, creating colorful and mind-boggling acts that will have everyone in the audience wondering, “How did they do that?”
Some performances are designed just for kids, making it even more special for young visitors who love magic tricks and the thrill of live theatre. The impressive stage and spacious hall add to the spectacle, creating a memorable experience for everyone.
I highly recommend exploring Montreal with your family, and I hope this guide inspires your next adventure. If you have any questions or want to share your own Montreal experiences, feel free to leave a comment below!