By Peggy Epstein
Visitors to Montreal will find a variety of appealing attractions, many of which are particularly suited for kids. Both the Biodome de Montreal and the Insectarium are not only fun but educational as well. A family day spent at either the Vieux Port area or the amusement park Le Ronde will provide plenty of enjoyment and vacation memories. Early evening is an ideal time for families to enjoy one of the many boat tours offered on the St. Lawrence River.
The Biodome de Montreal
Located next to the Stade Olympique (the Olympic Stadium), the Biodome de Montreal engages kids in an in-depth look at four different ecosystems: a marine system, a polar system, a forest and a rainforest. Visitors observe wildlife and plants native to each area. You might consider renting binoculars to help locate all the animals and get close-up views of monkeys, capybaras, penguins, bats and many other creatures. Bring a jacket, as you will experience temperature changes as you make your tour. Snacks and light meals are available within the facility.
Biodome de Montreal
4777 Avenue Pierre-De Coubertin
Phone: (514) 868-3000
Vieux Port
An enormous park situated on what was once the site of Montreal's commercial wharves, Vieux Port offers lots of attractions kids will enjoy. The Centre des Sciences de Montreal has myriad science-related exhibits. The center also offers a large variety of activities designed for kids of every age. You can take a tour of the entire area in a tram, or kids might enjoy climbing the clock tower and getting a bird's-eye view. Long paths for strolling are also filled with tourists who have rented bikes and inline skates. Especially popular are the Quadricycles. Seasonal activities include ice skating and the Cirque du Soleil. Call (800) 971-7678 for additional information about Vieux Port.
Centre des Sciences de Montreal
333 de la Commune St. W.
(514) 496-4724
Insectarium de Montreal
Two floors of creepy-crawlers at the Insectarium de Montreal will engage kids for hours. Every sort of insect imaginable is featured in fascinating displays, arranged to give kids an up-close look at everything from beautiful butterflies (featured in the Butterfly House) to hissing cockroaches to foreboding tarantulas.
Insectarium de Montreal
4851 Sherbrooke Est.
(514) 872-1400
La Ronde Amusement Park
The Vampire, the Monstre and the Goliath are the apt names of just a few of the thrilling rides at La Ronde Amusement Park, which is now part of the Six Flags family. However, milder ride experiences are available for every level of rider, with many designed for the youngest visitors, including one dedicated to SpongeBob SquarePants. An old-fashioned carousel that was originally designed for the 1964 World's Fair and a Ferris wheel are popular attractions, along with the Minirail, an elevated train. Fireworks are sometimes featured on summer evenings, including an International Fireworks Competition.
La Ronde
22 Chemin MacDonald
(514) 397-2000
Boat Tours
As an introductory overview of the city or as a break in hectic days of sightseeing, a boat tour on the St. Lawrence River can provide great entertainment for kids. On the "Cavalier Maxim," you'll meet a historical character, the famous explorer who will narrate the tour, providing historical as well as current information about Montreal. Contact AML cruises, (800) 563-4643.
A trip aboard "Le Bateau-Mouche" will allow you to ride in air-conditioned comfort, looking out at the sights through the boat's glass enclosures. Call (800) 361-9952.
Other boat tours for the more adventurous include a ride on a jet boat, "Les Saute Mouton." Call (514) 284-9607.
Resources
About the Author:
Peggy Epstein is a freelance writer specializing in education and parenting. She has authored two books, "Great Ideas for Grandkids" and "Family Writes," and published more than 100 articles for various print and online publications. Epstein is also a former public school teacher with 25 years' experience. She received a Master of Arts in curriculum and instruction from the University of Missouri.
