OldMontrealwiththeKids:TheIdealChecklist

Day 1 

Meet at the château and live like royalty — for a day

A flagship destination for young and old alike, the Château Ramezay is renowned for turning back the clock, whisking you away several centuries into the past. Come for the ever-warm welcome, the passionate guides, as well as teaching tools perfectly suited to younger visitors — and for teens, their temporary exhibition, The American Revolution in Quebec: Our March Toward Democracy, is not to be missed.

A stroll through the garden and a leap through time

Still at the Château Ramezay, discover the Governor's Garden, a flourishing green space that feels like a true oasis in the Bonsecours area. Here, in this courtyard haven all abuzz with insects, find yourself wandering through botanical New France, as if making your way through the pages of a history book.

On your way out, stroll down Saint-Claude and Le Royer streets to take in the free outdoor photo exhibition, presented by the Château Ramezay in partnership with the SDC Vieux-Montréal and in collaboration with Le Devoir. This summer, the exhibition pays tribute to Quebec photojournalist Jacques Nadeau and his indelible images of recent news events.

When it's time to eat, it's time to feast!

Yumi Burger is a local go-to spot that always delivers when it comes to pleasing every hungry member of the family. And yes, we can confirm: the burgers here really are "yummy", and the affordable menu makes for excellent value that your wallet is sure to thank you for.

Outdoor games and a little downtime

This season, the forecourt of Marché Bonsecours has been transformed into a play area and well-deserved rest stop meant for everyone to enjoy. No need to look any further for family fun or a quick breather! And while you're at it, drop by Dulce for a portion of churros each — we know from experience, they’re just too good to share. Welcome to the true flavour of summer vacation!

Looking for a few souvenirs to bring home? Right nearby, Durga Souvenirs and Galerie du Souvenir boast shelves full of options for every taste and budget, from keychains to hoodies, mugs and caps.

Come suppertime, head up Saint-Paul Street West to Le Sénateur, a perennially welcoming spot with a Surf 'n' Turf plate offering the best of both sea and land, perfect for parents looking to treat themselves, plus an affordable kids' menu featuring guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

A touch of summer evening magic

Looking to collect those oohs and aahs — not to mention the sparkle in your kids' eyes — for just $25 per person? All you need for that is to reserve a breathtaking view from the Belvedere at Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel, where you'll experience the magic of the Loto-Québec fireworks from the very best seats in the house! Several dates are available in the coming weeks, Thursdays and Sundays from July 2 to August 6.

Talk about a beautiful way to close out your first day in the Bonsecours area!

Day 2

Exploring and making history

The croissants at Café de Mercanti pair just as well with hot chocolate as they do with a latte or a strong espresso (we see you, parents), so it’s safe to say that everyone starts the day off on the right foot with this first stop.

Once you've had your fill, head down Rue Bonsecours toward the river and make time for a neighbourhood must-see: the widely acclaimed exhibition Meet Marguerite! at the Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site. You'll discover the extraordinary story of a woman who transformed education in New France and... who never shied away from a challenge! An inspiring life for our future young citizens to learn about. Worth noting: the museum shop is packed with books and creative gifts for all ages.

To make a little history of your own, may we recommend a one-of-a-kind keepsake portrait? L'Orangerie Photographie offers packages for couple or family photos, making this Old Montreal getaway the perfect opportunity to capture cherished moments together against an unforgettable backdrop. Before the kids grow up too fast, instead of snapping a thousand photos scattered across your apps, why not put your phone away and bring out your best smiles for the passionate, professional eye behind the lens that will capture the essence of your vacation in a handful of beautifully crafted shots?

Time to eat! All this adventuring is bound to work up an appetite, and l'Usine de Spaghetti most definitely fits the bill with a varied pasta menu where every craving meets its match. Buon appetito!

In the mood for slowing down, maybe with some reading on a bench while soaking up all that nice weather? Make your next stop Café des Arts, perfect for a lemonade to go — pick up a few local finds while you're at it — then continue on to Rue Berri, toward Square Dalhousie.

More the exploring type? Good news! Les Chroniques du Vieux is back for a second edition, filmed specifically in the Bonsecours area, and the 25 digital capsules available in July will take the form of free guided tours in August exclusively. These will be led by certified guides, thanks to a renewed partnership between Guidatour and the SDC Vieux-Montréal.

On your way back from all that time well spent outside, push open the door at Mère-Grand, a bakery full of decadent and original delights... let's just say their pistachio chocolatine stole our hearts at first bite.

And now it's time to go, but you'll simply have to come back — the historic district, with all its other must-visit areas to discover, is waiting with open arms to welcome you again!

As for accommodations, if hotels are more your style, the Hyatt Centric with its rooftop pool is a sure bet; but if you'd rather have your very own space, opt for Maison Bohemia, a luxurious retreat for you and your family.