Best Activities For Kids During School Holidays In Montreal

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Identifying enjoyable activities to engage kids during school breaks in Montreal might seem difficult. Fortunately, Montreal teems with child-friendly activities, making it a breeze to discover exciting Montreal kids’ activities. 

This blog post will direct you toward the premier locations and happenings suited for family-based enjoyment, from costless museums to exciting amusement parks.

Prepare for an adventurous time in Montreal!

Budget-Friendly Activities

Explore complimentary museums, beaches, pools, and parks in Montreal with your kids during the school holidays. Engage in cost-effective activities that will keep the whole family entertained without overspending.

Free Museums

Montreal is brimming with thrilling activities for children during school vacations, such as touring complimentary museums. These locations provide entertainment and knowledge without stretching your budget.

1. Child-oriented museums in Montreal permit the entrance of children aged 12 and below at no cost, making it an economical choice for family excursions.
2. Guests have the liberty to explore interactive exhibits that appeal to youthful curiosity towards art, history, and science.
3. A significant number of these museums are situated in culturally affluent neighborhoods like Vieux-Montréal and the Plateau, offering an excellent opportunity for further city exploration.
4. During the summer, certain museums take part in cultural fests, presenting unique shows and workshops for families.
5. The Montréal Space for Life encompasses several attractions with complimentary admission on particular days. This spot intends to impart knowledge about nature and science to visitors via tangible exhibits.
6. Often, educational programs are accessible without any extra charges, giving children the chance to participate in workshops, led tours, and interactive sessions that supplement their museum encounters.
7. Tripadvisor critiques frequently recommend these complimentary museums as prime locations for families touring Montreal, applauding their entertaining exhibits and family-oriented facilities.

Not only do these activities amuse, but they also impart knowledge, making them ideal for family getaways or quick outings during school vacations.

Beaches

Beaches in Montreal offer families an ideal location for relaxation and amusement during the school holidays. With sandy shores and clear waters, these beaches are a hub for a variety of outdoor activities for kids.

1. Bring along a picnic and spend your day at Jean-Dore Beach. It’s a family favorite with its shallow waters that are ideal for swimming.
2. Add a visit to Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park Beach, where kids can wander nature trails after a refreshing swim.
3. Have a friendly sandcastle-building competition among your family members at Clock Tower Beach in old Montreal.
4. Find relief from the heat with ice cream from nearby vendors as you walk along the boardwalk at Verdun Beach.
5. Give a shot to stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking available for rent at some beaches, offering an enjoyable approach to staying active.
6. Participate in beach volleyball games often hosted during peak summer days, suitable for older children and teens.
7. Discover the smaller, less populated Plage de l’Est, ideal for families looking for tranquility.
8. Participate in bird watching or simply appreciate the sight of boats sailing by from the comfort of your beach blanket.

Following that, we will discuss pools as another excellent way to keep cool and amuse kids during the sweltering summer days in Montreal.

Pools

Montreal is filled with entertaining activities for children during school vacations, and swimming areas serve as an excellent solution to stay refreshed and lively. The city provides several options that cater to families and are ideal for playful water activities.

1. Try the Bonaventure Montreal swimming area, particularly enticing for winter swimming. This heated outdoor water area enables children to indulge in water activities even during cooler weather.
2. Several community swimming areas in Montreal don’t charge an entry fee, making them an economical choice for familial entertainment during school vacations.
3. Enclosed swimming areas provide swimming lessons and open swim timings all through the year, perfect for enhancing your child’s swimming talents or simply for amusement.
4. A few swimming areas come with distinct zones for children fitted with water slides, splash pads, and other engaging water elements that guarantee prolonged fun.
5. Public swimming areas frequently schedule family swim timings especially for parents and children, setting up a secure and thrilling atmosphere for juvenile swimmers.
6. Keep an eye out for swimming areas situated in parks where families can also indulge in picnicking and playing in the verdant surroundings either before or after their swim.
7. Remember to carry sunblock and safety accessories like life vests to ensure a secure and pleasurable trip to Montreal’s child-friendly swimming areas during the school vacation.

Parks

Montreal is home to numerous beautiful parks perfect for family outings and kids’ playtime. Here are some must-visit parks to explore with your little ones:

1. Mount Royal Park: A popular destination offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city.
2. La Fontaine Park: Known for its charming ponds, walking paths, and open spaces for kids to run around.
3. Jean-Drapeau Park: A large park featuring a beach, playgrounds, and opportunities for outdoor sports and activities.
4. Angrignon Park: Boasts lush greenery, a large pond, and walking trails ideal for family strolls or bike rides.
5. Jarry Park: Offers spacious fields, tennis courts, and a playground for energetic kids to enjoy.
6. Maisonneuve Park: Home to the Montreal Biodome and Botanical Garden with ample space for picnics and exploration.
7. Lachine Canal: Perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides along the water with plenty of open space for kids to play.

Get ready to involve your family in the natural beauty of Montreal as we move on to “Must-See Attractions.

Must-See Attractions

Discover Montreal’s iconic attractions like the Biodome and La Grande Roue – there’s so much for kids to explore here!

Biodome

Montreal’s Biodome, situated in the “Space for Life” complex of museums, is an exceptional and family-friendly destination.

It features replicas of four distinct ecosystems found in the Americas, showcasing the vast biodiversity of our planet – Tropical Rainforest, Laurentian Maple Forest, Gulf of St.

Lawrence, and Sub-Antarctic Islands. Kids can observe over 4,800 animals from 230 different species living within these simulated ecosystems while learning about their natural habitats and behaviors.

Insectarium

The Insectarium in Montreal is an impressive museum for families and kids to explore. It offers a vibrant collection of over 250,000 specimens of insects from around the world.

This attraction is a part of Montréal Space for Life and provides valuable educational experiences about the essential role that bugs play in ecosystems.

The museum also organizes interactive workshops, where children can learn about insect biology and behavior through engaging activities.

Moreover, it hosts special events like Bug Fest, creating memorable experiences for families while promoting environmental awareness among young visitors.

Montreal Science Centre

The Montreal Science Centre, located in the Old Port of Montreal, offers hands-on exhibits and interactive activities for kids. With a focus on science and technology, it provides an engaging learning experience for families and children.

The center is part of the Montréal Space for Life, which also includes the Biodome and the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium.

La Grande Roue

The Montreal Science Centre provides an intriguing look into science and technology, making it an engaging family-friendly attraction. Another must-see in Montreal is La Grande Roue, a giant observation wheel located in the Old Port of Montreal.

It stands at 60 meters tall and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

The spacious enclosed cabins are perfect for families, providing a comfortable and safe experience for kids to enjoy stunning sights along with entertaining commentary about Montréal’s history and landmarks.

Family-Friendly Events and Festivals

Montreal Cirque Festival

The Montreal Cirque Festival is an awe-inspiring event for families and kids, highlighting captivating performances from acrobats, jugglers, and clowns.

The festival provides an extraordinary opportunity to witness world-class circus acts and street performances in the heart of Montreal.

With over 800 artists participating each year, this family-friendly festival has gained popularity globally as one of the top events in Canada for kids during school holidays.

The festival’s lively atmosphere and dazzling displays create an unforgettable experience for families visiting Montreal.

Les Lumières de Saint-Michel

Les Lumières de Saint-Michel is an annual festival in Montreal that attracts families with its captivating light displays and engaging performances.

The event, happening in the Saint-Michel district, presents a dazzling combination of colorful lights, live music, and interactive art installations.

Families can wander through the illuminated pathways while participating in special activities like storytelling sessions and creative workshops for kids.

This family-friendly festival offers an enchanting experience for children to interact with arts and culture in a celebratory setting.

Festival Marionnettes Plein La Rue

The Festival Marionnettes Plein la rue is a lively event in Montreal, featuring captivating puppet shows and interactive performances for kids. It takes place in various outdoor locations and streets, filling the city with excitement.

The festival highlights diverse cultures through its colorful and imaginative puppet displays, bringing joy to families and children.

This event provides a unique opportunity for kids to engage with art in a fun way, promoting creativity and cultural appreciation.

Family-Friendly Shows and Performances

Montréal offers a variety of family-friendly shows and performances, including the Montreal Cirque Festival, Les Lumières de Saint-Michel, and Festival Marionnettes Plein La Rue.

These events are filled with entertainment suitable for kids and families. The city’s summer cultural guide also features unique performances on indoor and outdoor stages, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all.

Educational and Interactive Experiences

Discover kid-friendly museums, Montréal Space for Life, cultural and historical exhibitions, science and nature exhibits, as well as engaging experiences that make learning fun.

Immerse yourself in educational and interactive experiences in Montreal with your kids during the school holidays.

Kid-Friendly Museums

• Many kid-friendly museums in Montreal provide complimentary admission for children aged 12 and under.
• Discover these captivating and educational choices:
  • Montréal Space for Life
  • Montreal Science Centre
  • Educational and historical displays
  • Interactive science and nature showcases
  • Engaging experiences for hands-on education

Montréal Space for Life

Montréal Space for Life offers a wide range of educational and interactive experiences for families and kids. Here’s what you can explore at Montréal Space for Life:

1. Biodome: Explore five ecosystems of the Americas, featuring 4,500 animals from 250 different species.
2. Insectarium: Discover the fascinating world of insects with over 160,000 specimens, including live and naturalized insects.
3. Botanical Garden: Walk through themed gardens, including the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, and First Nations Garden spread over 190 acres.
4. Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium: Immerse yourself in breathtaking shows about space exploration and the universe’s mysteries.
5. Montreal Science Centre: Experience hands-on science exhibits and an IMAX theater for an engaging experience.
6. Educational Workshops: Participate in educational programs and workshops designed to stimulate curiosity about nature and science in children.
7. Adventure Trails: Enjoy outdoor activities like tree climbing and zip-lining on the grounds of Space for Life.
8. Cultural Events: Appreciate various family-friendly cultural events throughout the year that cater to both kids and adults.
9. Interactive Exhibits: Explore interactive exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and nature through play-based learning activities.
10. Special Exhibitions: Visit special exhibitions hosting a range of topics related to nature, space, environment, animals, and plants.

Cultural and Historical Exhibitions

• Montréal offers a range of cultural and historical exhibitions suitable for families and kids, providing an engaging learning experience.
• Pointe-à-Callière, the Montréal Museum of Archaeology and History, features interactive exhibits, underground archaeological crypts, and multimedia presentations, bringing history to life.
• The Stewart Museum at Fort d’Ile Sainte-Helene showcases artifacts from the 15th to 20th centuries in a picturesque setting with stunning views of downtown Montreal.
• The Château Ramezay Historic Site and Museum of Montréal presents 500 years of local history through various themed exhibits, including its elegant gardens and interactive displays.

Science and Nature Exhibits

1. Experience the Montréal Space for Life, a natural science museum complex that includes the Biodome, Botanical Garden, Insectarium, and Planetarium.
2. Tour the Montreal Science Centre to engage in interactive science and nature exhibits and enjoy hands-on activities.
3. Explore Montréal’s kid-friendly museums like the Redpath Museum at McGill University and Stewart Museum for cultural and historical exhibitions.
4. Encounter educational and interactive experiences at the Pointe-à-Callière Museum of Archaeology and History, featuring captivating science and nature exhibits.

Immersive Experiences

Young visitors can enjoy kid-friendly museums and interactive exhibits in Montreal, such as the Montréal Space for Life, featuring its biodome, insectarium, planetarium, and botanical garden.

The cultural offerings are varied, from science and nature exhibitions to historical displays. Families can discover educational experiences that captivate children of all ages while providing an enjoyable learning environment.

Leading into the next segment on dining and accommodation options is an overview of family-friendly activities in Montreal during school holidays.

Dining and Accommodation Options

Discover family-friendly restaurants and kid-friendly hotels to complete your memorable Montreal adventure! Explore a variety of dining options and accommodations that cater to the whole family.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Looking for family-friendly restaurants in Montreal? Check out these top spots for delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy:

1. La Banquise – Renowned for its poutine, this eatery also offers a kids’ menu with tasty options.
2. Deville Dinerbar – A retro-style diner with a varied menu, featuring classic comfort food favorites and a kids’ menu.
3. Juliette et Chocolat – Indulge in delectable desserts and savories while your little ones enjoy their special kids’ menu.
4. Reuben’s Deli & Steaks – Offering a children’s menu alongside its renowned sandwiches and steaks.
5. Mandy’s – Known for its fresh and healthy salads and bowls, with options catering to kids too.
6. St-Viateur Bagel & Café Mont-Royal – Savor Montreal’s famous bagels with various kid-friendly options on the menu.
7. Beauty’s Luncheonette – A nostalgic spot serving all-day breakfast and lunch options suitable for the entire family.

Hungry for more? Let’s explore where to stay during your trip to Montreal!

Kid-Friendly Hotels

Looking for kid-friendly hotels in Montreal? Check out these top accommodations that cater to families and provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are the best options for your family holiday:

1. Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth: This hotel offers spacious family accommodations, a kids’ club, and special amenities for children.
2. Hotel Bonaventure Montreal: With its rooftop pool and gardens, this hotel provides a fun and relaxing environment for families.
3. Le Square Phillips Hotel & Suites: Families love this hotel for its well-equipped kitchenettes and a central location near family attractions.
4. Embassy Suites by Hilton Montreal: This all-suite hotel offers extra space for families, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool.
5. Residence Inn by Marriott Montreal Downtown: Families enjoy the spacious suites with full kitchens, free breakfast, and easy access to attractions.

Planning your stay in Montreal with kids is made easier with these excellent accommodation choices ensuring comfort and convenience during your family vacation.

Conclusion

Discover budget-friendly activities like free museums, beaches, and pools. Explore must-see attractions such as the Biodome and La Grande Roue.

Attend family-friendly events like the Montreal Cirque Festival and enjoy interactive experiences at kid-friendly museums.

Don’t miss out on dining and accommodation options for a memorable school holiday in Montreal!

Thank you for sharing!