Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for something to do in Montreal to make the most of it, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re a lover of good food, outdoor activities or cultural discoveries, there’s plenty to enjoy in our beautiful city. Here are a few ideas for a great fall weekend in Montreal!
Gourmet feasts for all tastes
Looking for a fall treat? Montreal is full of restaurants that are pulling out all the stops for Thanksgiving! For lovers of traditional dishes with a twist, addresses like Europea and Leméac are a must. If you prefer Italian dishes, Impasto will warm your heart. For those who love surprises on the plate, try Jatoba, Marcus or Vin Papillon – their creations will make you see Thanksgiving in a whole new light!
And for a French-style dinner, you won’t be disappointed by the Parisian bistros dotted around town. Not a fan of big bills? Opt for the “bring your own wine” restaurants where you can bring your favorite bottle to accompany your meal. In short, there’s something for everyone!
Outdoors and family fun
There’s nothing better than a stroll through the Montreal Botanical Gardens to take full advantage of the autumn colors. In the evening, the Gardens of Light illuminate the grounds with lanterns inspired by Chinese, Japanese and Aboriginal cultures – magical! If you prefer a panoramic view of the city, climb up to the Mont-Royal lookout or take a stroll through Parc La Fontaine, perfect for relaxing and watching the leaves fall.
If you want even more action, head to the Old Port! From a ride on the Ferris Wheel to a cruise on the St. Lawrence River, there’s plenty to do. And if you’re looking for a typical autumn activity, go apple or pumpkin picking – it’s the perfect time to do it!
Festivals and cultural outings
Montreal never sleeps, even during Thanksgiving! For cinephiles, the Festival du nouveau cinéma is the perfect place to discover films from around the world. Live music fans will love the OFF Jazz Festival, where you’ll be thrilled by the sounds of the best bands around. And to relax, why not head to the Bota Bota spa on the water? What better way to unwind after all those adventures?
Montreal’s museums are also abuzz with exhibitions not to be missed. From classic works of art at the Musée des beaux-arts to modern creations at the Musée d’art contemporain, you’re bound to find something to your liking. And if you prefer immersive experiences, head to the Phi Centre to plunge into incredible virtual worlds!
A bit of history for a change
If you’re in the mood to delve into the past, Montreal has just the thing for history buffs. Check out the exhibitions at the McCord Stewart Museum celebrating Aboriginal cultures, or explore the fascinating tales at Château Ramezay. In the evening, don’t miss Cité Mémoire’s projections in Old Montreal – it’s like a time machine on the walls of the city!
That’s it! Whether you’re here to eat, explore or just relax, Montreal has plenty to make your Thanksgiving weekend memorable. So what are you waiting for? Enjoy and don’t forget to raise a glass to this beautiful city that never fails to surprise! 🥂