Olympic Park: Four attractions, one neighbourhood worth exploring

The Olympic Park district is one of the easiest places in Montreal to spend an entire day. Within a short walk of each other, you'll find the Montreal Biodôme, Montreal Botanical Garden, Montreal Insectarium and Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan. Instead of choosing just one, plan to visit two or three before stopping for lunch.

Montreal Biodôme

Walking through the Biodôme feels like travelling across the Americas in just a few hours. One moment you're surrounded by lush rainforest plants, the next you're watching penguins dive through icy waters. It's one of those attractions that appeals just as much to adults as it does to children.

Hélicoptère

Walking time: About 15 minutes

What to order: The Seasonal Tasting Menu.

Why it's worth it: If you're looking for a meal that's as thoughtfully prepared as the Biodôme's exhibits, Hélicoptère is a neighbourhood favourite known for its seasonal Québec ingredients and creative approach to dining.

Arhoma

Walking time: About 10 minutes

What to order: Fresh Croissants, Artisan Sandwiches or one of the Day's Pastries.

Why it's worth it: Part bakery, part café, Arhoma is the kind of place locals stop into regularly. It's perfect for breakfast before your visit or a coffee and pastry afterwards.

Montreal Botanical Garden

No matter the season, the Montreal Botanical Garden has a way of slowing you down. From the Japanese Garden to colourful floral displays, it's a place where visitors naturally spend more time than they planned.

Canard Café

Walking time: About 10 minutes

What to order: Mokaccino and Duck Sausage Baguette

Why it's worth it: Small, relaxed and welcoming, it's an easy place to recharge before continuing your afternoon.

Lori Döner

Walking time: About 12 minutes

What to order: Chicken Döner or a Mixed Plate.

Why it's worth it: Fresh ingredients and generous portions make it a satisfying lunch after a morning spent walking through the gardens.

Montreal Insectarium

The Montreal Insectarium proves that some of nature's most fascinating creatures are also its smallest. Interactive exhibits and live displays make it an engaging stop for visitors of every age.

Chocolaga

Walking time: About eight minutes

What to order: Handmade Chocolates or one of the House Desserts.

Why it's worth it: Sometimes the best souvenir is something sweet. Chocolaga is a great excuse to slow down before moving on to your next stop.

Fères Restaurant

Walking time: About 10 minutes

What to order: Plateau Combo or Dim Sum.

Why it's worth it: A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant where you can enjoy an unhurried meal away from the busiest tourist areas.

Planétarium Rio Tinto Alcan

Whether you're watching an immersive show beneath the dome or learning about distant galaxies, the Planétarium has a way of making you look at the night sky a little differently.

Café Restaurant L’Adresse

Walking time: About 10 minutes

What to order: The Foie Special or The Grilled Chicken.

Why it's worth it: Comfort food, friendly service and a local atmosphere make this an easy choice after your visit.

JFR Marché Traiteur

Walking time: About eight minutes

What to order: Fritay or Chicken ou aile de poulet

Why it's worth it: If you're planning to continue exploring Olympic Park, JFR Marché Traiteur is a convenient place to grab lunch without slowing down your day.

Make a day of it: Since these four attractions are all within the same district, consider visiting more than one before stopping for lunch. You'll spend less time travelling and more time discovering one of Montreal's most interesting neighbourhoods.