17 things to do in Montreal before the summer ends

Okay, don’t panic. Yes, it’s already mid-August. But there’s still plenty of fun to be had before summer ends.

The dangerously high temperatures may have impeded some of your initial plans for the summer. But August and September are slated to bring on some more moderate summertime weather.

It’s the middle of August and we decided it’s the perfect time to guide you through the last few weeks of the best time of the year, here are the 17 things to do before the summer ends.

Enjoy some sweets

Summer’s almost over which means, you don’t really need to try so hard for that beach bod. We’ll be in sweaters before you know it, so treat yourself to some serious Montreal sweets. Though you can never go wrong with a classic Queues de Castor in the Old Port, these fluffy, decadent, Japanese cheesecakes just popped up downtown and they are irresistible.

Park it like it’s hot

Have you really enjoyed a Montreal park yet this summer? There are so many gorgeous parks on the island it’s tough to choose the best one. The Plateau’s Parc La Fontaine is massive and hosts events all summer (dancing, yoga, softball, frisbee). Girouard Park in NDG is spectacular, a quiet park in the middle of Sherbrooke’s constant buzz of traffic. Plus, there’s a phenomenal second-hand bookstore (Encore Books and Record) right in front. If you want a real urban escape, check out Summit Woods atop the Westmount Summit, it’s a secluded forest that’s perfect for a picnic, a jog or taking your little pooch for a walk.

Support the sports

Enjoy some hometown sports before the Montreal Canadiens take over for the winter. Despite their record, Alouettes games are entertaining with the acquisition of Johnny Manziel.

Stade Saputo is a gorgeous venue to take in a soccer game. Plus, the Impact are within striking distance of the MLS Eastern Conference.

It’s terrace-eating season

Soak up the sun and some suds on a nice day in the city. If you want something by the water, Terrasse Bonsecours in the Old Port is an absolute gem and the Canal Lounge off the Atwater Market is actually on the water.

If you’re looking for something downtown, Winnie’s road-side terrace has you right in the middle of the ever-busy Crescent Street.

Watch a flick under the stars

The city offers various venues to watch outdoor movies and the majority of them are free. NDG Under the Stars offers great flicks for the family and the Cinemania Film Festival pops up all over Montreal in August.

Hit the road

There are some spectacular activities to treat yourself to that are less than a day’s trip away from the city. Complexe Atlantide is a good example, it’s a huge water park that’s located on a campground. An ideal double getaway.

Or, maybe you’re feeling a bit beachy? Oka Beach boasts a gorgeous beach and a stunning view of Lake Deux Montagnes. They offer a variety of activities including canoeing, kayaking, biking and pedal boating or you can simply relax on the cozy sand.

Enjoy the mountain

Montreal is synonymous with Mont Royal.  The mountain offers gorgeous views of the city while hosting spacious and eventful green space. Check out the landmark Tam Tams every Sunday, rally at the free volleyball courts, or take a rewarding bike ride/hike up to the top.

Enjoy a classy dinner

The world-renowned spontaneous supper, Dîner en Blanc happens August 16. Clean up your best white clothes and enjoy a massive gathering of people for an outdoor supper like no other.

Get your adrenaline pumping

Besides the constant Rage: Axe Throwing and Amaze Escape Rooms, Montreal will host two adrenaline-fueled activities in August. The Jackalope festival features rock climbing, ziplining, skateboarding and BMXing for three days at the Olympic Stadium (August 17 to 19). Or, dangle over a deep pool on a 55-foot wall at Montreal’s innaugural Psicobloc Open Series on August 23, 24 and 25.

Scream down a roller coaster

La Ronde is the biggest amusement park in Quebec and it’s roller coasters are big enough to prove it. Tackle the classic Le Monstre is one thing, but the Goliath and the Ednor are in a league of their own.

Adventure to the zoo

If roller coasters are too much for your head, get your heart oozing as Parc Safari hosts four, new, baby cheetahs.

The park also features a water trail and slides, an in-car safari tour, lions, tigers and bears (oh my) and nightly theatre plays and shows.

Catch a live concert

Even with Jazz Fest, Osheaga and îleSoniq finished, the city is still offering plenty of interesting live concerts. The Montreal Symphony Orchestra will be playing a free outdoor show at the Olympic Stadium with their performance of Shéhérazade. Deep Purple and Judas Priest will be at the Bell Centre on August 29 and ZZ Top will be in Laval on August 17.

Get in the water

Parc Jean-Drapeau’s Aquatic Complex features Olympic-sized swimming pools, diving boards, water slides, an inflatable obstacle course, water-polo courses and sprinklers. Plus, it’s free to attend for kids on Wednesdays and inexpensive ($3-$9) on every other day.

Yo, SUP?

SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is offered on the gorgeous Saint Lawrence River every day in August until the 26.

It’s a refreshing way to explore the river and the venue also offers SUP Yoga and SUP Fitness if you want to incorporate a great workout.

Fist pump at the biggest outdoor club

Beachclub is the largest outdoor club in North America. The giant venue hosts food trucks, wave boarding, zip lining and assembles some of the best DJs from around the world.

Migos, Axwell Ingrosso, Kaskade, Borgore and Tiesto highlight the events from now until September.

Get on the market

Montreal’s farmers’ markets are spectacular in the summer, especially now when so many kinds of produce are in season. Head over to the famous Jean Talon Market or Atwater Market to find some premium beef, fruits, vegetables, bread and sweets.

It’s an absolute joy, plus, corn on the cob is in season.

Explore the bike path

The bike network in Montreal is extensive and impressive. It runs throughout the city but it’s also a great way to explore and appreciate Montreal. Ride down to the Old Port on any of the city’s rentable BIXIs or hike up to The Plateau from NDG to give your legs some serious exercise.

See also

• Ex-Canadiens player Georges Laraque entered Montreal Pride drag competition (VIDEO)
• A massive FREE urban street fair is taking over Mont Royal this month
• Montreal's Lantern Festival announces new reservation format for this summer
• Canada's first self-driving shuttle buses are coming to this Montreal suburb