Free things to do in Montreal with kids

7 free activities to do in

montreal

with kids

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Free & Fun Outings for Parents & Kids in Montreal

This guide is your one-stop shop for creating unforgettable memories with your kids, all within the vibrant city you call home. We’ve got options for all ages and interests, ensuring a screen-free day (or a fun-filled weekend) packed with laughter and learning.

Bonus? Our picks are budget-friendly! That’s right, Montreal bursts with free and affordable activities that won’t break the bank. And try using Canoo where you can get free admission to Montreal’s best spots!

Explore beautiful parks, discover charming neighborhoods, or visit one of Montreal’s many public markets. Our recommendations will show you how to have a fantastic day without spending a fortune, creating lasting memories without emptying your wallet. 

Let’s begin!


  1. Montreal Science Centre
  2. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)
  3. Pointe-à-Callière History and Archaeology Complex
  4. Montreal Planetarium
  5. Montreal Jardin Botanique
  6. Montreal Biodome
  7. Montreal Insectarium

1

Montreal Science Centre

Embark on a thrilling journey of discovery through interactive exhibits that ignite curiosity and a love of science. Kids will be amazed by experiments, space exploration displays, and the IMAX Theatre.

  • Parking: There is a paid parking lot available on site. But if you can find space, there is limited street parking in the surrounding area. 
  • Food: The Science Centre has a cafeteria offering various food options, from snacks to full meals. 
  • Public Transportation: Easy access by metro (Green Line to Pie-IX station) or bus (routes 40, 108). 

2

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)

Explore a world of art with captivating exhibits showing a diverse collection from around the globe. Kids will be mesmerized by sculptures, paintings, and interactive installations designed to spark their creativity.

  • Parking: You can access paid underground parking on site. There is also limited availability of street parking in the vicinity. 
  • Food: The MMFA has a cafe offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. Several cafes and restaurants are located within walking distance on Sherbrooke Street. 
  • Public Transportation: Easy access by metro (Green Line to Guy-Concordia station) or bus (routes 14, 43, 55). 

3

Pointe-à-Callière History and Archaeology Complex

Travel back in time and explore Montreal’s rich history through archaeological digs and interactive exhibits. Kids will be fascinated by artifacts, historical reenactments, and a chance to step into the past.

  • Parking: Limited on-street parking is available in Old Montreal. Paid parking garages are scattered throughout the neighbourhood. 
  • Food: No food options available on site. However, a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries are located within walking distance in Old Montreal. 
  • Public Transportation: Easy access by metro (Yellow Line to Champ-de-Mars station) or bus (various routes stop throughout Old Montreal). 

4

Montreal Planetarium

Blast off into a world of wonder at the Montreal Planetarium! Explore the universe through immersive shows, exhibitions, and educational activities. Kids will be amazed by the starry night sky and learn all about planets, stars, and space exploration.

  • Parking: Paid parking lot available on site. Limited on-street parking in the surrounding area. 
  • Food: The Montreal Planetarium has a snack bar offering light refreshments. Several cafes and restaurants are located within walking distance on Saint-Catherine Street East. 
  • Public Transportation: Easy access by metro (Blue Line to Pie-IX station) or bus (routes 40, 108). 

5

Montreal Jardin Botanique

Free entry with Canoo!

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the Montreal Jardin Botanique, a sprawling botanical garden featuring over 22,000 plant species from around the world. Kids will love the themed gardens, greenhouses, and outdoor play areas. Don’t miss the fall foliage or the magical Mosaicultures international garden festival held during the summer!

  • Parking: Paid parking lot available on site. There is limited on-street parking in the surrounding area. 
  • Food: The Montreal Jardin Botanique has a few cafes and kiosks offering snacks, drinks, and light meals. Several restaurants are also located within walking distance on Pie-IX Boulevard. 
  • Public Transportation: Easy access by metro (Green Line to Pie-IX station) or bus (routes 11, 30, 40, 108). 

6

Montreal Biodome

Immerse yourselves in four distinct ecosystems under one roof at the Montreal Biodome! Explore the rainforest, the Laurentian Forest, the Arctic, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence through various walking trails and exhibits. Kids will be amazed by the plant and animal life on display.

  • Parking: Paid parking is available on site. There is limited on-street parking in the surrounding area. 
  • Food: The Montreal Biodome has a concession stand offering snacks and drinks. Several cafes and restaurants are located within walking distance at Olympic Park. 
  • Public Transportation: Easily accessible by metro (Green Line to Pie-IX station) or bus (routes 40, 108). During summer, a shuttle service operates from various points downtown. 

7

Montreal Insectarium

Free entry with Canoo!

Get up close and creepy-crawly with fascinating insects at the Montreal Insectarium! This unique museum features permanent and temporary exhibits showcasing the wonders of the insect world. Kids will be intrigued by the wide variety of insects on display and learn about their importance in the ecosystem.

  • Parking: Paid parking is available on site. There is limited on-street parking in the surrounding area. 
  • Food: The Montreal Insectarium has a concession stand offering snacks and drinks. Several cafes and restaurants are located within walking distance at Olympic Park. 
  • Public Transportation: Easily accessible by metro (Green Line to Pie-IX station) or bus (routes 40, 108). During summer, a shuttle service operates from various points downtown. 

All these Canoo Partner Picks offer free admission with your Canoo membership, making it a fantastic option for budget-friendly family fun in Montreal! Canoo is this awesome mobile app designed to help newcomers like you settle into Canada.

Don’t forget to check the Canoo app for the latest updates and information on participating venues!

ready to make memories that last a lifetime?

histoires de membres

“The Ontario Science Centre was a whirlwind of discovery for our family. The kids were mesmerized by the rainforest on Level 6 and even spotted a poison dart frog. The interactive displays were fantastic. It was a day well spent. And, thanks to Canoo’s unlimited free entries during the first year of our membership, we can’t wait to explore more of the Science Centre and other places in Toronto!”

Lynne Samu

Canoo Member

Read more about her story here

“The Royal Ontario Museum was a treasure trove for our family! It’s like a journey through time and nature all at once. My son, a dino fanatic, was speechless seeing real dinosaur skeletons! We explored ancient artifacts, stunning artwork, and even marine creatures – all under one roof. We discovered this gem thanks to Canoo and can’t wait to explore more!”

Amandeep Kaur Bhatia

Canoo Member

Read more about her story here

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