Winter escapade in Old Montreal!

Thankfully, winter isn’t over quite yet because Old Montreal has a folly of outdoor activities for all!

Why not embark on a winter escapade through the district…

In the morning, a visit at the Natrel Skating Rink in the Old Port

The skating rink is located in the Bonsecours Basin, so come on down and move around while enjoying the cool winter breeze. You can access the rink as of 10AM Monday through Sunday. Don’t have a pair of skates? No worries, you can rent some at the rink!

*Rink access and rentals are not free.

Lunch in one of the restaurants participating in the Happening Gourmand!

Good news everyone! Until February 5th, the Happening Gourmand is in full swing in Old Montreal. The following restaurants don’t only offer reduced prices on tables d’hôte, but also on their lunch menus: Suite 701, Kyo Japanese Bar and Verses Restaurant ($18 menu). What a fantastic way to try these hip restaurants at a low cost!

Start the afternoon off in the Cozy Zones on the Place Jacques-Cartier

Up until February 19, the Cozy Zones* offer you a place to relax on Saturdays and Sundays in the Place Jacques Cartier as of 1PM. Look around and you’ll also see a charming sugar shack which offers succulent tire d’érable and delightful coffees such as the ones served by Mlle Catherine. You can also meet up with Château Ramezay’s team, who will all be costumed and awaiting you for their Paddle through the Ages event*.

*Free activities.

Live free or slide hard!

Next up on the menu, the Nordik Slide*! This impressive 30-feet high slide will most certainly give you some guaranteed frills! Until February 19th, come on down to Jacques-Cartier to witness this massive structure installed for a special edition of Igloofest during the 375th Les Hivernales. This free activity will thrill sliders of all ages!

**Free activity.

A nice morning stroll through the Place d’Armes

You’ll find that one of the best ways to enjoy winter in Old Montreal is by taking a walk through the Place d’Armes. You will be left speechless upon seeing the wonderfully illuminated Christmas tree as well as the spectacular lights decorating the Notre-Dame Basilica (definitely Instagram-worthy!) You can then warm up at the neighbouring Tommy Café for well-deserved snacks and drinks (open until 6PM on Saturdays and Sundays).

Also, don’t be surprised if you find yourself serenated by some lovely jazz music; just follow the sound waves to find the Pigeon Hole Temporary Space on Notre-Dame West Street. This space offers passersby a snow-plowed zone with a charming musical ambiance all winter long.

Pigeon Hole Temporary Space on Notre-Dame West Street

Come nightfall, activities for both ravers and history buffs:

If you still have some energy left, you just have to stop by Igloofest* (As of 7:30PM Thursday through Saturday)! If that’s not really your scene and you’re more into learning about the city’s history, you will be marvelled by the Cité Mémoire** circuit’s projected animations which will take you on a journey back in time!

*Access to Igloofest is not free.

**Free activity. Opening hours from Thursday to Saturday: As of nightfall until 11PM. You will need to download the Montréal en Histoire app on your tablet or smartphone.

We bet that after a fun-filled day like this, Old Montreal will have no more winter secrets to hide from you!

Cozy Zones Hours

Until February 19th:

• Thursday - Friday: 4PM to 9PM
• Saturday: 1PM to 9PM
• Sunday: 1PM to 5PM

Nordik Slide Hours

Until February 19th:

• Thursday - Friday: 4PM to 11PM
• Saturday: 1PM to 911M
• Sunday: 1PM to 5PM