Montreal : A Progressive City that Is Crossing Borders with Fine Living!

Montreal is a progressive city that is famous for fine living, great food, festivals and all there is to entertainment. It has been blessed with some of the most amazing food scenes found in the northern part of North America. Since it is a progressive city, being inclined to contemporary design and art is no surprise. Many people sightseeing are usually spoilt for choice as they tour magical Montreal. Below are some of the amazing places you need to put on your ‘must visit’ list.

1. Montreal Botanical Garden

Montreal Botanical Garden is a 185-acre plant heaven. Being located just a few minutes from downtown Montreal, these botanical gardens are the core of plant life in the city. This is because over 22,000 different species are hosted there in a large science complex. The place offers an amazing sightseeing experience to tourists by offering natural beauty and plenty of fresh air. Within the grounds are a couple of themed greenhouses which are also nice to see. The Chinese lantern garden stands out within the garden.

2. Notre-Dame Basilica

Notre-Dame Basilica is considered to be the oldest church in Montreal having being built in the 1600’s. The architecture of the church stands out both the interior and exterior with the interior attracting more attention. This is due to the stained windows that chronicle the history of Montreal, a large 7000 pipe organ, and a gorgeous intricate carving staircase. This will, however, cost you 6 Canadian dollars if you wish to soak up the ambiance. This does not mean the exterior does not have much to offer, its amazing spires dominate Montreal’s skyline.

3. Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musee des Beaux-Arts)

Photo by daryl_mitchell

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a grand museum that showcases Canadian visual works plus contemporary artworks from all over the world. Since being founded in 1860 by a group of art collectors, the museum has maintained good standing with sightseeing tourists. Over 41,000 collections are hosted at this museum which comprises of paintings, graphic arts, photographs, sculptures among other unique exhibits. The museum also has a concert hall annex that can hold over 400 people. This is definitely a must stop for art enthusiasts, photographers or those aesthetically driven.

4. Saint Joseph's Oratory

Saint Joseph's Oratory located on Mount-Royal Montreal was founded in 1904 by Saint André. It is the largest shrine dedicated to St.Joseph worldwide. Many sightseeing activities that take place within the grounds include panoramic views, engaging in special religious celebrations, music concerts and some other cultural and spiritual treasures. There is a votive chapel where you can get amazed by the 10,000 lit candles. From the oratory museum, sightseers can get info on the church’s origin. The gardens are also popular for faithful devotees who use it for their way of the cross.

5. Montreal Olympic Stadium

Photo by Daniel Krylov/shutterstock.com

Montreal Olympic stadium is a multi-purpose stadium that hosted the 1976 summer Olympics. One of its remarkable features is the leaning tower that is considered to be the tallest in the world. This stadium was designed by Roger Taillibert who is a French architect. This stadium is known to not only host sports events but also trade shows, exhibitions among other special events. If you take a tour ticket, include the observation tower too. You will get a good opportunity of riding the pod up and enjoying scenic views.

6. Montreal Insectarium

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This insectarium is a branch of the Montreal Space for Life which is a large natural science museum complex. Over quarter million of live and mounted specimens of bugs can be found here. There are also bees existing in their natural hives habitats around an area known as the ‘buzz ground’ together with free-flying butterflies. Regardless of age, sightseeing will favor the old and young alike. An entry pass to this insectarium will also give you a pass to the botanical gardens. Another interesting thing is the presence of a snack place where one can sample various edible bugs along with their favorite snacks.

7. Old Port of Montreal

The old port of Montreal is where tourists get to meet the locals in their natural elements. The port is bustling with various entertainment spots and eateries which are great stops for a drink or good food. There are plenty of sitting spaces on the benches provided, great for catching the sunset and people watching. Walking through the labyrinth is also a good experience as you understand more on what the port is made of. If sightseeing is not enough, go on an adventurous boat ride by hiring one.

8. Montreal Biosphère

The Montreal biosphere was built to accommodate the U.S pavilion which took place in the world fair that happened in 1967. It is among the first and greatest geodesic domes designed by R.Buckminster Fuller. The biosphere tries to use interactive presentations to advocate the importance of water resources and conservation. Sightseeing can take up to 4 hours of your time due to the many interactive displays, videos, games a nature lab, together with a nature tour facilitated by the knowledgeable staff. Parking can be quite pricey so it is best to use public transport or use bicycles which are also convenient.

9. Montreal Science Centre

Photo by abdallahh

Located at the old port of Montreal, this science center serves as the hub for technology and science within the city. It has many interactive activities for the young to enjoy including an Imax exhibit and presentation. The center always has various exhibits involving physics, biology among other science aspects taking place making it very interesting on every visit. Many sightseeing enjoy the venue as it caters to the young ones of the family making them enjoy their trip too aside from visiting the many sophisticated museums within Montreal.

10. Casino de Montreal

Photo by Vinod Sankar

Casino de Montreal is a modernist casino complex that is situated at an ideal riverfront location. It houses various restaurants and bars making it a night jewel. It is considered to be the largest in Quebec and among the top ten in the world due to its many gaming equipment. All this entertainment and live shows present draws gamblers and non-gamblers alike into one thrilling atmosphere. For non-French speakers, it may seem like a challenge. However, this does not mean you cannot join in the fun and gambling. There is no strict dress code making it a chill place to go.

◎ Closing

Montreal is one of those cities that will have you enjoying life to the hilt. From the festivals galore, mouth-watering cuisines, amazing ice sports, and exquisite designs. Most sightseeing tourists keep coming back to enjoy all these marvels that make it glow. A great advantage is the diversity of activities available making it an ideal destination.

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