If you’re looking for a destination that combines authenticity, creativity and a touch of bohemia, then Rosemont is the place to be. This eclectic neighborhood is full of surprises, with lively markets, artistic cafés, tree-lined streets and a decidedly convivial atmosphere. You’ll discover a wealth of things to do, whether exploring local cuisine in trendy restaurants, soaking up colorful street art or strolling through verdant parks. Rosemont is a mosaic of cultures and influences that blend harmoniously to create a unique atmosphere. Get ready for an extraordinary experience in Rosemont, where every corner invites you to escape, discover and marvel.
Here are our suggestions for the neighbourhood’s must-sees:
1. See a film in an iconic cinema
Visit Cinéma Beaubien a beloved landmark of Montreal culture, presents French-language films from Quebec and beyond. Opened in 1937 as “Beaubien”, it changed ownership in 1941 to become “Le Dauphin” until 2001, when it was bought out under threat of permanent closure and returned to its original name. This independent cinema is a classic, with simple, authentic decor, 5 screens and popcorn to perfection. If you’re looking for an experience without the big-screen gimmicks, this is the place for Montreal moviegoers!
2. Take a stroll along the Promenade Masson
The district’s cultural and commercial artery promenade Masson offers many friendly shops, cafés and restaurants, and fun seasonal events. A must on this walk: the Pot Masson a unique neighbourhood restaurant with a large terrace in summer and fabulous cocktails served… in a pot masson! During the holidays, the street becomes festive with its big Christmas tree and several family activities, while it transforms into “Massonloween” in October to celebrate the festival of fear in a big way. During the summer months, the area is also livened up by a trade fair and a variety of events. It’s aptly named, because rue Masson is a great place to take a stroll!
3. Explore Maisonneuve Park
A jewel in the neighborhood’s crown, Maisonneuve Park covers more than 63 hectares. With year-round activities, it’s a perfect place to stroll, picnic and spend some time away from the city center. Among other things, there’s a superb skating rink in winter, from which you can even admire the Olympic Stadium, and a toboggan slope. In addition, 12 km of cross-country ski trails allow you to explore the park from all entrances. And during the summer, you can admire the sheep and visit the eco-pasture facilities. Depending on the time of year, the park’s elaborate trails can also be explored by bike, in-line skates, snowshoes or cross-country skis. Fun for the whole family!
4. Discover the wonders of the Botanical Gardens
Near Maisonneuve Park, the Botanical garden is another Rosemont-la-Petite-Patrie must-see. This unique venue offers around 15 themed gardens on 75 hectares of land. You can visit all year round, but the garden is particularly popular in autumn for its annual exhibition Gardens in light. Each season offers its own beauty: springtime showcases tulips and other blooms, summer is bathed in sunshine and greenery, and winter at the Botanical Gardens is a haven of peace, a magnificent whiteboard to visit. It’s hard to believe that this oasis exists just a few minutes from downtown. For tourists and Montrealers alike, the garden is a must-see!
5. Taste at Jean-Talon market
One of Montreal’s major public markets, the jean-Talon market is one of the city’s most famous shopping venues. And rightly so! At the western edge of the district and right in the heart of Little Italy, it offers a panoply of fresh local produce and food, and shops with must-try delights. In spring, it stretches the length of the block with numerous outdoor kiosks pedestrian street while during the holiday season, the market transforms into festive village.
6. Admire the many magnificent murals
Rosemont-la-Petite-Patrie is a colorful neighborhood, with numerous murals dotted throughout the borough. Voulez-vous discover them on one of the following routes Archie Fineberg photographer and mural enthusiast . He has created several cards to follow, including one for the Little Italy and La Petite-Patrie and one for the Old Rosemont.
7. Discover the superb restaurants and cafés on Beaubien Street
Beaubien Street runs through the entire neighborhood, dotted with incredible restaurants and cafés all along its length. Don’t miss a visit to one of these places when you’re in the neighborhood, because they’re just like Rosemont: warm, interesting and unique!
- Café Pista a sleek café with colors perfect for Instagram
- Bar Mamie a board bar perfect for sharing
- Isle de Garde a deliciously stylish microbrewery
- The Elsdale a friendly neighbourhood bar with a delicious menu
- Mitch Deli a refined snack for every taste
8. Stroll through green alleyways
Rosemont is famous for its ” green alleys “, backstreets that have become green, playful spaces for the community. Last year, in fact, the Festival des arts de ruelle strolled through the neighborhood for three days of festivities to cap a 10-day celebration of Montreal’s backstreets. During the holidays and at Halloween, the alleyways transform into fairytale villages and haunted houses, while in summer they become playgrounds, community gardens and festive BBQ areas. If you’d like to explore the neighborhood’s alleyways (and the many murals, especially between 1st and 10th avenues), you can consult the interactive green alley map of the district. Enjoy your walk!
9. Brunch in Rosemont
Brunch options in the neighborhood are virtually endless! If you’re in the mood for a good comforting brunch in a very Montreal atmosphere, here are a few options that are sure to please:
- Le Vieux Vélo charming, unrivalled neighbourhood brunch
- Régine Café one of the best brunches in town in a majestic atmosphere
- Santa Barbara a tasty and unique neighbourhood eatery
For more brunch options in Montreal, click here.
10. (Re)discover Plaza St-Hubert
Visit Plaza St-Hubert has undergone a renaissance in recent years, and is now a superb Montreal destination for eating, drinking and shopping. What’s more, in summer, the plaza offers self-guided shuttle which runs around the perimeter to allow people to move around easily, sheltered from the heat. Switch to Snowbird Tiki Bar for a tropical evening in the middle of winter, in a unique hidden bar, or at the Le Vestiaire for an evening of microbrewery. For a complete list of restaurants and shops, click here.