Family-friendly things to do in Montreal with kids
By Linda Wilkinson
Montreal (Flickr: Emmanuel Milou)
A family vacation in Montreal is perfect if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind culinary, historical and cultural experience in the city that is often called the Paris of North America.
You’ll discover that Montreal offers a multitude of kid-friendly attractions and family-friendly hotels with the goal of helping your family create memories to last a lifetime. Here are five of the best kid-friendly attractions to see in Montreal in the summer.
(MORE: Insider Guide: Montreal)
Grandby Zoo
Granby Zoo (Courtesy Granby Zoo)
The Granby Zoo is not only home to nearly 1,000 animals from over 225 species, but it is also an exciting kid-friendly attraction you won’t want to miss. You’ll be able to view the animals in zones that recreate their natural habitats. The zones include Africa, South America, Oceania and Asia. Your family will also want to check out the Rides Park and the Amazoo Iogo Waterpark for a unforgettable fun-filled day.
Just minutes away from Granby Zoo is the Hotel Castel & Spa Comfort. This kid-friendly hotel features an outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, playground and a complimentary hot breakfast. They also offer a two-day Grandby Zoo & Amazoo package http://www.hotelcastel.ca/forfaits-hebergement-castel.html that includes one day at the Granby Zoo and Amazoo, and one day at the Aquatic Park.
Parc Jean-Drapeau
The beach at Parc Jean-Drapeau, which is located at the site of the 1967 World’s Fair, is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. You’ll discover two kid-friendly water attractions: the Aquatic Complex and the new Aquazilla obstacle course on water.
If you want to stay nearby, the Marriott SpringHill Suites in Old Montreal is a good choice. Enjoy family-friendly features such as rooms with two double beds, optional rollaway cots, crib rental and connecting rooms. The rooms also have kitchenettes with microwaves and mini-fridges. If you prefer to eat out, enjoy a complimentary hot and cold full buffet breakfast. Babysitting services are also available.
Amphi-bus Tour
Your family vacation in Montreal won’t be complete without a Amphi-Bus Tour. This unique amphibious vehicle is a bus and a boat so you’ll get a close-up view of Old Montreal and a chance to float down the St. Lawrence River. Be sure to phone ahead to reserve a spot.
Le Saint Sulpice (Courtesy Le Saint Sulpice)
After the tour, relax at the Le Saint Sulpice in Old Montreal. This kid-friendly hotel features rooms with a queen or king bed and a sofa bed plus cribs if necessary. Each room also has a living room and a kitchenette with mini-fridge and microwave.
Mount Royal
Mount Royal (Courtesy RENAULT Philippe / hemis.fr)
If your family enjoys hiking, a hike up Mount Royal is a must on your to-do list. Breathtaking views of Montreal await you when you reach the top. Be prepared to walk for about an hour.
You might just discover that you can’t get enough of the scenery. In that case, stay at the Omni Mont-Royal Hotel. This kid-friendly hotel towers Mount Royal Park and offers spectacular views of the city. In addition to an ideal location and an outdoor pool for family fun, the hotel offers a family package that includes spacious deluxe accommodation, a free breakfast for children under 12, a family pass booklet for a variety of activities, an entertainment travel kit, and milk and cookies at bedtime.
(MORE: 5 Best Summer Festivals for Kids in Montreal)
Skate at Atrium Le 1000
As an alternative to the beach, a cool place to go on a hot summer day is the Atrium Le 1000 skating rink. It’s located on the first floor of Le 1000 de la Gauchetière—the tallest building in Quebec. This kid-friendly attraction has skate rentals for the whole family. Children must be at least three years of age.
A short walk away from the Atrium Le 1000 is the family-friendly Montreal Marriott Chateau Champlain Hotel. With the Family Getaway Package, your family will enjoy a full buffet breakfast (children 12 and under eat free from the children’s menu), full use of the hotel swimming pool and an optional second room at 50% off.
Linda Wilkinson contributed this to MiniTime. Linda is a proud Canadian who has over 10 years’ experience as a writer and editor. She enjoys writing articles for a variety of magazines, newspapers and online publications, and especially loves sharing Canada’s beauty with the world.
