Picnicking Among Nature and History

There is nothing better than relaxing in one of the historic neighbourhood’s parks to fully make the most of spring, especially when you stop by one of the numerous restaurants that have a take out counter beforehand or bring along your packed Lunch à Porter bento for a picnic!

From the east to the west, here are some places for you to lay out your gingham picnic blanket.

Place Vauquelin

A site that has been owned by religious institutions and used to be, among other things, a prison, a barracks, and a courthouse, this place wearing many hats is located right next to city hall and is a perfect place to literally take a step back in time.

Place de la Dauversière

Found just a few steps away from Place Jacques-Cartier and right across from city hall, Place de la Dauversière, by virtue of its layout, offers a nice retreat with shady spots that are lovely for sipping on a lemonade, digging into a snack, and reading a good book.

Place d'Armes

Right in the middle of the action, between the Notre Dame Basilica, and several big banks, Place d’Armes shows traces of the city’s evolution. Here you can find the Bank of Montreal, founded in 1817, as well as the oldest building in Montreal, the Old Saint-Sulpice Seminary, which was built in the 17th century. You will also see the Aldred Building and the New York Life Building, considered by some to be the first Canadian skyscraper.

Cours Le Royer

A veritable oasis in the centre of Old Montreal, Cours Le Royer is characterized by its commercial past. Situated between Saint-Sulpice and Marie-Morin Streets, this verdant space is ideal to cozy up in for a picnic among the flowers.

Place de la Grande-Paix

Place de la Grande-Paix is perfect for if you want to experience a slice of history. Drawing its name from the treaty signed between the French and the indigenous peoples that put an end to conflict surrounding the fur trade in 1701, this space between the Pointe-à-Callière Museum and Place d’Youville will help you learn more about a defining moment in the city’s history, all while enjoying its shaded clearings.

Once you arrive at one of these places, don’t hesitate to immortalize your moment of well-being and fresh air in the historic neighbourhood and share your photos with us on your social media with the hashtag #explorelevieux!

© Photo Credit Geneviève Giguère