Montreal’s cultural scene is pretty phenomenal, and it’s recognized the world over. Every first Sunday of the month, Quebec residents now have the opportunity to visit the city’s major museums without having to pay admission fees. Of course, sometimes it’s good to discover the exhibits of the day without always having to pay… especially when the cost of living keeps rising. With the weather forecast for the next few days, it’s clear that we’d rather spend our Sunday in the dry than in the rain. Going to the museum, and especially for free, is the perfect activity for the first Sunday of the month.
Let’s explore the city! From historical exhibitions to outdoor eco-museums, there’s something for everyone. Here is the list of museums offering this promotion and the type of exhibits offered at each location:
1. Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal
One of Montreal’s largest museums, it’s a fixture on the city’s cultural scene. You can currently visit the temporary MAC at Place Ville-Marie, and see the immersive exhibition of works by Nelson Hendricks until April. Right in the heart of downtown, it’s a free weekend outing not to be missed (stop by the Montreal Oval for a photo with this new Montreal landmark)!
Find out more about MAC, click here.
2. Montreal Holocaust Museum
This historical museum offers a unique insight into the stories of Holocaust survivors, exploring the trajectory of Jewish communities throughout the 20th century. A gripping exploration of the repercussions of anti-Semitism, the Holocaust Museum is well worth a visit. It offers much-needed reflections on the humanity and experience of Jewish communities around the world.
Find out more about the Montreal Holocaust Museum, click here.
3. McCord Stewart Museum
Right in the heart of downtown, the McCord Stewart Museum offers several incredible exhibitions, while during the summer you can enjoy the outdoor urban forest on the pedestrian street next to the building. In addition to current temporary exhibitions, you’ll have the chance to explore the permanent exhibition Aboriginal Voices of Today, which bears witness to the knowledge and experience of Aboriginal peoples.
Find out more about the McCord Stewart Museum, click here.
4. Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum
This Old Port museum is right next to the oldest chapel in Montreal. Visit the site for a unique exploration of Quebec history and the first peoples who came from Europe, including the fascinating story of Marguerite Bourgeoys. What’s more, you can take a tour of the notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours chapel which, at 250 years old, is a real piece of Montreal history.
Find out more about the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum, click here.
5. Zoo Ecomuseum
The only outdoor wildlife museum on the island of Montreal, the Ecomuseum Zoo offers a magnificent exploration of Quebec’s animal world. Explore the zoo in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue and discover 22 different species. Just 30 minutes from downtown, it’s like being in another world.
Find out more about the Zoo Ecomuseum, click here.
6. Canadian Centre for Architecture
The Canadian Centre for Architecture’s exhibitions aim to get the general public thinking about architecture, urban movements and how the environment and landscape affect human creations. Discover a wealth of culture with this unique activity that’s not necessarily on our daily radar!
Find out more about the Canadian Centre for Architecture, click here.
7. Château Dufresne
Discover the world of the Dufresne family, a bourgeois francophone family of the early 1900s. Château Dufresne is a historic heritage building deeply rooted in Montreal culture. In addition to the breathtaking, grandiose scenery, you’ll learn a lot about the fascinating history of our city and the important players of the time.
Find out more about Château Dufresne, click here.
8. Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec
Housed in one of Montreal’s most beautiful neo-Gothic churches, the Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec offers a wide range of exhibits that will help you discover arts and crafts from every angle. From February 21, enjoy the new stained glass exhibition, or take a tour of the breathtaking permanent exhibition!
Find out more about Musée des maîtres et artisans du Québec
9. Écomusée du fier monde
This unique historical museum is located right next to Parc La Fontaine. It invites you to explore different facets of Montrealers’ lives, depending on the period and the social issues of the day. Learn more about the beginnings of your neighborhood and the stories that make it a unique place to live!
Find out more about the Écomusée du fier monde, click here.
10. Musée des hospitalières de l’Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal
This historical museum retraces the Hôtel-Dieu’s past through an exploration of the last 4 centuries. Don’t miss a visit to the chapel, the crypt below or the monastery. A fascinating discovery of Montreal’s history awaits you during your visit!
Find out more about the Musée des hospitalières, click here.
11. Maison Saint-Gabriel
Another historical museum well worth a visit! The Musée Saint-Gabriel offers an incredible exploration of the New France era through the house, which is the oldest site of rural architecture in Montreal. Head to the heart of Pointe-St-Charles and step back in time to the era of the filles du Roy!
Find out more about Maison Saint-Gabriel, click here.
Practical Info
Don’t forget to bring proof of Quebec residency (ID card with address). Contact the museum directly to find out about specific arrangements, such as online booking, special times and exclusions. To find out which museums offer the same option in other administrative regions, please consult this interactive map :
Enjoy your visit!