In case you weren’t aware, you can have a great time in Montreal without spending a nickel! From art festivals and world-renowned museums to bike rides along the river, here are 14 free things you can enjoy in Montreal this June.
Take in some amazing street art at the Mural Festival
Back by popular demand, the Mural Festival is an urban art festival giving bystanders the opportunity to witness the making of urban murals right before their eyes. The festival is totally free (though you might be tempted by Juliette & Chocolat’s ice cream cookie sandwiches) so come gaze at some beautiful street art and don’t forget your camera.
Where: Boulevard Saint Laurent (from Rue Sherbrooke up to Avenue Mont-Royal)
When: Thursday, June 9 until Sunday, June 19
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun at the Tam Tams
Enjoy a fun afternoon in the park with this legendary Sunday afternoon party. Join in on the drum circle or just listen from afar; regardless, it’s a fun time for everyone!
Where: Parc Mount Royal
When: Every Sunday afternoon from May 1 to September 25
Enjoy some free samples at Jean-Talon Market
Jean-Talon Market is one of the best in Montreal offering everything from fruits and veggies to meat and flowers. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s a great place to soak in the views and sample all the delicacies.
Where: 7070 Henri-Julien Avenue
When: Open every day
Go for a bike ride at Parc Jean Drapeau
Go off island and explore the beautiful Jean Drapeau Park. If you don’t want to pay for a Bixi rental, take your own bike or just borrow your neighbours, the ride is truly worth it.
Where: Parc Jean Drapeau
When: Any day of the week!
Explore Quebec’s biodiversity at the Redpath Museum
Spend the afternoon at McGill University’s Redpath Museum, a small natural history museum that is fun for all ages. All exhibits are free and range from the dinosaur era to Quebec’s biodiversity.
Where: 859 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
When: Open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 11 am to 5 pm
Play some beach volleyball at Jeanne-Mance Park
Take advantage of Montreal’s very own outdoor volleyball courts. You may not exactly be playing overlooking the ocean, but Jeanne-Mance Park is beautiful and there’s no substitute for feeling sand between your toes.
Where: Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
When: Open every day
Take a free walking tour of Old Port with Free Montreal Tours
Whether you’ve been a resident for years or are visiting Montreal for a couple days, this free walking tour of the Old Port is a great way to get acquainted with the city and its history.
Where: Tours meet in front of City Hall (Hôtel de ville de Montréal) on Place de la Dauversière
When: Monday to Thursday at various times
Hone your tango skills with Tango in the Park
Get your dancing shoes on and take advantage of this free outdoor dance class! Always liked tango music? Or perhaps you’re looking for a new way to get some exercise? Head on over to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park every Tuesday from June until August and dance the day away.
Where: Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, Rue Laurier
When: June 14 to August 2, Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 pm
Visit Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Saint Joseph’s Oratory is a Roman Catholic Basilica that was completed in 1967. While it might not be Canada’s oldest church, it is Canada’s largest and most impressive church. Set on Westmount Summit, the views from the top are breathtaking.
Where: 3800, chemin Queen Mary
When: Open every day from 7:45 am to 9 pm
Practice your language skills at a Mundo Lingo meetup
Show off your language skills at the weekly Mundo Lingo meetups held around Montreal. Whether you’re unilingual, bilingual, trilingual, or more, Mundo Lingo is a great opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.
Where: Clebard Bar, 4557 Rue Saint Denis
When: Every Tuesday night at 7 pm
Go for a morning hike on Mount Royal
The best hiking you’ll find in Montreal. Mount Royal is beautiful in the summer with a plethora of hiking and running paths. You can even stop and have a picnic around the picturesque Beaver Lake.
Where: Mount Royal
When: Any day
Celebrate Saint Jean Baptiste Day
Officially recognized as the Quebec National Holiday, Saint Jean Baptiste Day is an excuse to let loose and have fun. With events happening all across the city, there is no shortage of activities. Be sure to check out the annual Saint Jean Baptiste Day Parade on Rue Saint Denis.
Where: Various locations around the city
When: June 24
Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is home to an incredible art collection and is the largest and amongst the most prominent museums in Canada. On the last Sunday of each month, the museum opens its doors to the public totally free of charge.
Where: 1380 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
When: Last Sunday of each month
Take in some smooth jazz at the Montreal Jazz Festival
Ranked as the world’s largest jazz festival by Guinness World Records, the Montreal Jazz Festival will kick off its 27th edition this June! Head over to the festival site in the heart of Montreal’s downtown core and enjoy a program filled with free concerts and shows.
Where: Various locations
When: June 29 to July 9
Follow Channels and Categories