Museums
Even the most easily-bored kid can’t help but be engrossed in some of the hands-on exhibitions in Montreal. Here’s one attraction that will bring out the budding scientist in everyone. Montreal Science Centre
In this interactive realm, you can learn how much science, skill and engineering goes into sports equipment, and put newly acquired environmental knowledge into action as you save the world while playing games on huge touchscreen displays. After all that work, your clan will deserve a break, so settle into the comfy IMAX theater, where you can watch documentaries of pandas lolling lazily, before being rocketed skywards as the engines roar to life during a space adventure.
2 Rue de la Commune Ouest, Montreal H2Y 4B2. Zoos
Whales and dolphins swim through the deep, dark waters of the St. Lawrence River, but you don’t have to head out on a whale-watching excursion to get your nature fix. The Biodome and the Ecomuseum Zoo provide all the animal action right on your doorstep. Montreal Biodome
In this futuristic biodome you can see the waddling wonders of Antarctica, with yellow-collared king penguins populating their faithfully recreated enclosure. This unique aquarium and zoo hybrid displays the natural eco-systems that animals live in, giving visitors the chance to see the full circle of life in separate zones replicating rainforests and marine habitats.
4777 Pierre de-Coubertin Avenue, Montreal H1V 1B3.
Sports
Whether it’s the skill and physicality of ice hockey action, or the breakneck speeds of Formula 1, there’s always top class sport for the whole family to enjoy in Montreal. Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
If you’re here at the right time of the year you can get ready for the smell of burning rubber and the heart-thumping rumble of the engines during Montreal’s Formula 1 race. If only skid marks and tire debris remains when you arrive, you can take on the hair-raising chicanes for yourself, thanks to supercar experiences available for thrill seekers. You and the family can also bring your bikes or rollerblades to test out the hallowed track.
Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal H3C 6A1.
Bell Centre
Ice hockey is a Canadian national passion, so take your seat as the teams do battle. You’ll feel the atmosphere ramping up as the puck rattles across the smooth surface, and shoulders meet shoulders, before the Montreal Canadiens skate their way to victory. With pre-game light shows, and a great view from every seat, you’ll quickly see why Canadians go skating mad for hockey.
1260 Rue de la Gauchetiere Ouest, Montreal.
Family food
Feast as a family as you try out local specialties like poutine and sesame-coated bagels. Restaurants across the city welcome families, and offer children's’ menus that are designed to guarantee that everyone enjoys a hearty Quebecois meal. Fairmount Bagel
Freshly-baked bagels are a Montreal institution, and they fill a delicious hole when tummies are rumbling. The ones served at this famous bakery really are literally out of this world, having been munched on in the International Space Station. With garlic, blueberry and chocolate among the many available flavors, you can’t visit Montreal without docking here.
74 Avenue Fairmount Ouest, Montreal H2T 2M1.
Chalet Bar-B-Q
Bite into the juiciest bbq chicken you’ve ever tasted at this locally-loved restaurant. Chalet has been serving tender chicken, straight from the rotisserie, for over 70 years. With a huge bucket of fries - or baked potatoes if you’re being healthy - to accompany the charcoaled meat, no one leaves Chalet Bar-B-Q hungry.
5456 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montreal QC H4A.
