16 things to do in Montreal this surprisingly warm weekend

Nov 6 2020, 5:06 pm

It’s forecasted to be unseasonably toasty in Montreal this week and considering we don’t have many other options, a bike ride, hike, or lounging in a park might be your best bet this weekend.

Because how often are we going to get near 20ºC weather in November?

It’s essentially an early November weekend dressed as Labour Day weekend.

Montreal has a bevy of beautiful parks, trails, and bike paths that should be on your radar over the next few days.

Public health is reminding Quebecers to maintain physical distancing, wearing masks indoors, and frequent hand washing.

Here are a few outdoor options that take the ‘brr’ out of ‘November.’

Mont Royal

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The city’s beloved mountain from which it gets its name is an undisputed spot to soak up some sun and the island’s array of gorgeous fall colours. Whether it’s the Belvédère Kondiaronk lookout, Beaver Lake, the cemetery, or the cross, you really can’t go wrong.

Parc La Fontaine

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From its hills, valleys, water, bike paths, baseball and soccer fields, dog parks, and benches, Parc La Fontaine has plenty to offer, especially when all the green switches to gorgeous hues of orange, red, and yellow.

Lachine Canal

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For autumn bike riders and fall walkers, the Lachine Canal offers gorgeous views of the St. Lawrence River, and you’re close enough to snag some tasty eats at the equally gorgeous Atwater Market.

Maisonneuve Bike Path

 

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Arguably the most popular urban cycle path in Montreal, the de Maisonneuve Bike Path weaves cyclists through the core of downtown Montreal.

The 15-kilometre long path takes bikers from Montreal West all the way to the east end of Montreal.

Dieppe Park

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On a point that cuts into the Saint Lawrence River, Dieppe Park is a quiet park that lets park goers witness the rapids, stunning views of the Old Port and Jacques Cartier Bridge, fishing spots, and Habitat-67.

Jacques Cartier Bridge

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Besides being lit up in rainbow colours at night, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge is walkable and spans the St-Lawrence River from Montreal to the South Shore. If you want 3.4 km worth of high vantage Montreal foliage, you can’t do better than the Jacques-Cartier Bridge this weekend.

Montreal Clock Tower

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Constructed in 1922, The Old Port’s Clock Tower sits at the end of a pier, offering spectacular views of both the St. Lawrence River and the Jacques-Cartier Bridge.

Square Saint-Louis

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Square Saint-Louis is an urban square in The Plateau. The square is architecturally rich and will make you feel like you were teleported to 19th-century European homes, primetime for the photo-worthy fall weather.

Summit Woods Park/Circle

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Summit Woods Park is a little hidden oasis that is covered by trees. It’s so dense, you won’t even feel like you’re on the island anymore.

It’s an ideal spot for people who want to reward their dog with smells, greens, and a challenging trek.

After your hike, reward yourself, and your dog, with a breathtaking view of Montreal from the Westmount summit located at the base of Summit Park. You can’t go wrong.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory

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Saint Joseph’s Oratory is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and national shrine on Mont Royal’s Westmount Summit.

It is the largest church in Canada and claims to have one of the world’s largest domes.

Along with spectacular views of the city at the oratory’s top standing, the spot is covered in gorgeous autumn colours, trees, and flowers.

La Grande Roue

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If you’re looking for a great vantage point over the city, and you want to have some fun getting there, get to the top of Old Montreal’s La Grande Roue, Canada’s largest observational wheel.

Soak up some water and a breathtaking view of Montreal in all of its fall glory.

Le Vieux Port de Montreal

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If you’re looking for more of an urban trail, you can’t top the Old Port. Full of history, shops, restaurants, and cafes, the oldest part of Montreal will make you feel like you teleported to Europe. The cobblestone streets might wear you down after a while, but some take-out grub from a nearby resto can rejuvenate you.

Jarry Park

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Jarry Park is a beautiful urban park located in the east-end of Montreal. It has plenty of cafes and take-out restaurants nearby to keep you quenched and well-fed during your stay.

It’s also oozing with history. From 1969-1976, Jarry Park was home to the Montreal Expos, Canada’s first baseball team. It also once hosted a mass conducted by Pope John Paul II in 1984.

If you want to hang in a park and buff up on some local history, Jarry Park is your go-to.

Dorchester Square

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Dorchester Square is a sizeable space right smack in the middle of downtown. It’s the perfect pit stop to take a break from the constant buzz of downtown.

The park’s main attraction is Montreal’s only equestrian statue, which pays homage to the Boer War. Feel free to check out any of the park’s four statues any time of day – it’s open 24/7.

Though it’s popular with Montrealers, the cute little squirrels will always own this park.

Lasalle Bike Path

 

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Take a ride through Lachine, Verdun, and Lasalle among a path that spans 25 kilometres and puts you right beside the Saint Lawrence River.

Nun’s Island Bike Path

 

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The Nun’s Island path crosses over the St-Lawrence River and features three bridges: de la Concorde, des Iles and the bridge next to the Pont Champlain.

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