As the chilly grip of winter loosens its hold on the northern hemisphere, spring breathes new life into cities across the world. Montreal, Canada, is no exception. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse population, Montreal becomes an even more appealing destination during the spring season. With its melting snow, blossoming parks, and a plethora of cultural events, Montreal transforms into a city that should be on every traveler’s radar. Here are just 10 reasons to visit the city in spring.
Stunning Spring Blooms
Montreal’s gardens and parks burst into life during the spring. One of the most iconic spots to witness this transformation is the Montreal Botanical Garden, featuring a staggering array of flowers and plants. The Japanese Garden, in particular, is a highlight with its cherry blossoms in full bloom. Parc Jean-Drapeau is another great destination, offering wide-open spaces with vibrant tulip displays that will leave you mesmerized.
Mild and Comfortable
Weather Montreal’s spring weather is often described as ‘just right’ . With temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (20°C) in April and May, it’s an ideal time for sightseeing, strolling through the city’s neighborhoods, and enjoying outdoor activities without the extreme cold or heat that the city experiences in other seasons.
Outdoor Activities
Springtime in Montreal is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the city’s extensive network of biking paths and take leisurely rides along the Lachine Canal or around Mount Royal. The city’s parks come alive with picnickers, frisbee players, and sunbathers. You can even try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding on the Saint Lawrence River.
Festivals Galore
Montreal is often called the ‘City of Festivals’ , and spring is just the beginning of a short but packed annual programme that makes the most of the good weather. The Montreal Museums Day in May offers free admission to over 30 museums, allowing you to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the city hosts several music festivals, including the International Jazz Festival and MUTEK, which showcases cutting-edge electronic music and digital art. There’s a festival for almost everything, even omelets!
Delicious Cuisine
Montreal’s culinary scene is renowned for its diversity, and spring brings fresh, local ingredients to the forefront. As one chef told us, people venture to this food city in droves for its experimental and creative cuisine, because ‘if you want something freaky, you come to Montreal!’ . Spring also marks the start of the food truck season, offering an array of international cuisines at street corners. Don’t forget to try a classic Montreal bagel or poutine, a Canadian comfort food.
Reduced Crowds
Compared to the bustling summer months, Montreal is relatively less crowded in the spring. This means you can explore popular attractions, dine at top restaurants, and enjoy cultural events without the long lines and congestion, making your visit a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Vibrant Neighborhoods
Montreal’s neighborhoods each have their unique charm, and spring is an excellent time to explore them on foot. Wander through Old Montreal’s historic cobblestone streets, shop in the trendy boutiques of the Plateau-Mont- Royal, or enjoy the cultural diversity of neighborhoods like Mile End and Little Italy.
Sugar Shacks
Venturing out into the rural towns and villages around Montreal is a must during spring, not least because this is the perfect time of year to go to a sugar shack. These woodland dining experiences take the sap straight from the maple tree and infuse it with a variety of delicious dishes. Sugar shacks are usually only open for a few weeks in spring, when the sap is flowing.
Immersive Experiences
Montreal’s art and cultural scene thrives in the spring, and it’s no secret that this is the place for circus performance – it is the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil after all! But it’s in the field of immersive art experience that Montreal really shines. World famous creative companies like Moment Factory are based here and you can see their beautiful work ‘AURA’ lighting up the inside of the Notre Dame Basilica. You can also visit the Société des Arts Technologiques to go inside their immersive dome screen for a 360 degree film or live performance. There’s also OASIS, where you can see projection mapped walls showing their latest exhibitions in the largest venue of its kind in Canada.
Art is part of life
With so many creative companies based in the city, Montreal is a place where art and play are a part of daily life. Performing arts center the Place des Arts is the largest cultural and artistic complex in Canada, and there are art installations all over the public realm spaces in the city. Each year, C2MTL brings 5,000 attendees to a three- day immersive playground that’s part conference, part festival and part participatory experience, so if you work in a creative field it’s a must.