7 reasons to visit Parc Jean Drapeau this summer

Jul 12 2016, 10:40 pm

Parc Jean-Drapeau has seriously upped its game in 2016 featuring everything from brand new rides at La Ronde to the annual fireworks competition. All you need to do is hop on the metro and enjoy the beauty and fun of this gorgeous Parc.

Here are 7 reasons why you need to visit this Montreal jewel this summer:

Aquazilla

Aquazilla is the most underrated summer activity in Montreal. Fun for all ages, Aquazilla is a 30 by 35 meter inflatable obstacle course made up of slides, climbing walls, trampolines, monkey bars, swings, and much more. It is by far the best place in Montreal to relax, cool off, and feel like a carefree kid again. So if you’re looking for a new way to spend a Saturday afternoon, be sure to head to Aquazilla at Jean Dore Beach.

When: 10 am to 7 pm until August 21

La Ronde


La Ronde is a Montreal institution. Opened for the Montreal Expo in 1967, the park is the perfect mix of old and new, offering rides for thrill seekers, families, and kids alike. No summer is complete without a trip to this Montreal amusement park. For the La Ronde veterans out there, you’ll be excited to know that the park is now home to three brand new rides: Goliath, Vampire Backwards, and Phoenix.

When: 11 am to 9 pm every day of the week

Parc Jean-Drapeau Bike Path

Cycling around the island is a pretty great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Take in the rugged nature of the park and be privy to the best views of downtown Montreal on your tour through the island. You can start your ride from Old Port and cross de la Concorde bridge or Jacques Cartier bridge, or you can bring your bike with you on the metro and get off at Station Jean-Drapeau.

When: Any day of the week!

Aquatic Complex


One could easily spend a whole day at Parc Jean-Drapeau’s Aquatic Complex. This massive recreational pool features areas for free swim, diving, and even training. There is a cafe on-site, plenty of lounge chairs, pool toys for children of all ages, and best of all, the Aquatic Complexe hosts themed days. For example, every Saturday this summer is referred to as “Inflated Saturdays” where the complex sets up a giant inflatable obstacle course in the middle of the pool.

When: 10 am to 8 pm from until August 21

Flyboard

Taking water sports up a notch, Montreal offers its very own flyboard. The flyboard is sort of like a jet pack in the water, shooting you up in the air and then plunging you back down towards the water. If you’re looking for an extreme, adrenaline-inducing activity, you must try the flyboard at Jean-Dore Beach.

When: Monday and Thursday 10 am to 5:30 pm, Friday to Sunday 10 am to 8 pm, and Tuesday and Wednesday are closed

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

A photo posted by KSF (@ksf_montreal) on


Enjoy the great outdoors by taking advantage of Parc Jean-Drapeau’s stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) rentals and lessons. Get out on the water with your paddle and board and work those arms and abs! Rentals start at $17.25 for one hour and introduction lessons start at $44.95. However, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, they also offer SUP sunset yoga classes.

When: 10 am to 6 pm until August 21

Montreal International Fireworks Competition

There is nothing more magical than fireworks on a summer night. This year the national competitors are Chile, Switzerland, USA, Spain, Sweden, and of course, Canada. Each display is sure to light up the sky and make our city just a little bit more magical. The fireworks lift off from La Ronde so be sure to head straight to the source this month only.

When: Until July 30 on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 pm

 

Emily SoutheyEmily Southey

+ Summer