MONTREAL - ATTRACTIONS

1. Old Montreal - One of the most historic districts in North America, Old Montreal is worth a day of sightseeing. Many of the buildings have been preserved for nearly three centuries, and cobblestone streets are still the norm. There is a guidebook that can be purchased for those with a deep interest in the area, but for most tourists, a normal map should suffice. The highlight is the Basilica of Notre Dame, one of the largest churches in North America. The Old Port is a federal park which has a lot of summer activities, including boat cruises and live concerts. Other historical buildings abound, and with plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area, a very enjoyable day can be had by anyone. 

Inside the Basilica

2. Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History - Located on the point where Montreal was founded in 1640, this museum is built over previous buildings that occupied the site. After viewing a multi-media show, you can enter the basement to see archaeological digs which illustrate how the land has been used over the past millennium, including a cemetery from the 1600's. There are a lot of artifacts here and changing exhibitions that better explain the history of this great city. One of the more interesting history museums we have visited on the trip.

3. Mont Royal Park - Located just north of downtown, Mont Royal Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also created New York City's Central Park. From the main parking lot, it is a short walk to the lookout which provides excellent views of downtown Montreal. Just behind the lookout is the Cartier chalet, which has snacks and other activities during the summer. Another short uphill walk takes you to the top, where a cross has been placed to signify Maisonneuve's promise to erect a cross if Montreal was spared from a flood at Christmas, 1642. This cross is visible at night from many points in the city, but up close it is not that attractive. Hiking trails are plentiful here, and bikes are also welcome, so for an afternoon outdoors in the big city, Mont Royal Park can't be beat.

Downtown Montreal from the viewpoint

4. Olympic Park - Although the stadium is not much, the area surrounding it has a number of interesting things to see. First is the Tower above the stadium, which has a funicular to the top. The view is not that great, although this is apparently the tallest leaning building in the world. Other points that may be worth a visit are the Botanical Gardens, which includes an Insectarium and the Biodome, which has re-created 4 distinct ecosystems, including a tropical forest. This area is a good place to spend the day if you are planning on going to a night game. 

The roof of Olympic Stadium as viewed from the tower