City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Montreal, Canada

Situated along the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, Montreal stands as a cultural mosaic where history, art and nature converge. Located east of Ottawa and south of Quebec City, this Canadian city blends the unique charm of French and English heritage with the outdoor recreation of a river city. 

From kayaking, sailing and paddleboarding to sightseeing cruises on the St. Lawrence River, boaters and visitors of all interests can find a wide array of activities to enjoy from private boat dock rentals. 

Let’s get started. 

Historical Gems

Photo: Wikimedia/Diego Delson/CC by SA

Exploring Montreal’s historic neighborhoods is like stepping back in time. A popular area is Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets wind their way past centuries-old buildings. With its stunning interior of intricate woodwork and vibrant stained glass windows, Notre-Dame Basilica is an architectural masterpiece.

Nearby, Place Jacques-Cartier offers a lively atmosphere with street performers, outdoor cafes and boutique shops. History enthusiasts can delve into the past at Pointe-à-Callière, the city's archaeological and history museum. Interactive exhibits narrate Montreal's evolution from an Indigenous settlement to a bustling metropolis.

Artistic Expression

Photo: Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Facebook)

Montreal's art scene is as diverse as the city itself, catering to traditionalists and modern art enthusiasts alike. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is a cultural treasure chest. It features an extensive collection of European and North American artwork spanning many eras. The Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal, on the other hand, offers a cutting-edge experience with its focus on contemporary art exhibitions and multimedia installations. 

Those seeking a more immersive art encounter can explore the city's vibrant street art scene, especially in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, where colorful murals adorn building facades and transform the streets into an ever-evolving open-air gallery. It’s a fun and Insta-worthy place to check out from private boat lift rentals.

Mont-Royal Park

Photo: Wikimedia/JustLiza/CC by SA 3.0

Located within the city, Mount Royal (Mont-Royal) Park is a lush oasis filled with wooded trails and scenic lookout points. The namesake of the city, this park offers a retreat from urban life. Visitors can hike to the Kondiaronk Belvedere, which offers a breathtaking view of Montreal's skyline and the St. Lawrence River. During the warmer months, the park becomes a hub for picnicking, outdoor concerts and recreational activities from private boat slips for rent. Winter brings it into a snowy wonderland for sledding and cross-country skiing.

Culinary Scene

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Montreal's culinary scene boasts a blend of flavors that reflects its diverse cultural makeup. If you go anywhere in Canada, it’s nearly required that you try poutine. A comforting concoction of French fries, cheese curds and gravy, poutine has evolved into an art form with gourmet variations available across the city. Montreal is also renowned for its bagels, which are smaller, denser and sweeter than their New York counterparts. Head to the Mile End neighborhood to find bakeries with these treats and more. 

For a more upscale culinary adventure, explore the city's thriving restaurant scene. From French bistros to international fusion eateries, Montreal's chefs are celebrated for their creativity and dedication to locally sourced ingredients. The Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market are food-lover paradises that offer fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, pastries and more.

Festivals and Celebrations

Photo: Wikimedia/Matias Garabedian/CC by SA 2.0 

Montreal is a city that loves to celebrate. Its calendar is packed with festivals that cater to an array of interests. The Montreal International Jazz Festival is one of the world's largest jazz gatherings, attracting renowned artists and music enthusiasts from across the globe. The Just for Laughs Festival showcases stand-up comedy and comedic performances. The Montreal World Film Festival brings together filmmakers and cinephiles to celebrate cinematic artistry from different corners of the world.

We hope you’ve found some new spots to add to your itinerary the next time you’re cruising around the St. Lawrence River or anchoring at a private boat lift rental. Happy boating!