“Ruelle verte” (link in French) or "green alley" is a local initiative that allows local residents in Montreal to submit projects in order to make their streets greener. Montreal is full of back alleys that connect backyards to other backyards. Cars can go, but it’s mostly used by kids and local wild animals as a playground. By applying to this program the local residents agree to make this part of the street more pedestrian, greener and simply more human. If you walk or cycle in the city, you will encounter this sign many times.
Recently, an artist couple, Melsa Montagne et Nicolas Des Ormeaux did turn their back alley into a "ruelle verte" called “le raccourci” (ie. the shortcut) in the Villeray - Saint Michel - Parc Extension part of the city. They did much more than add many flowers or old public transport furniture; they flourished it with art. Of course, walls have been painted by local artists but they have also set up an outdoor gallery where you can witness the work of more local artists. Being outdoors makes it perfect while waiting for the slow re-opening of the art galleries. And since you are there, you are only a few meters from a new park in Montreal called Frederik Back, also worth visiting.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Trois Disques by Calder" in Montreal is one of the few remains of the 1967 Expo. Together with the others, like Habitat 67, it makes for a great bike ride...
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Their mission is to “help educate patrons on the brewing process & above all else, to brew quality, an independent beer that Montrealers can be proud of”.
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"Comptoir St-Jo" in an old building in Lachine, Montreal, has plenty of green spaces & a range of food options - I love the pistachio croissant!
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"Wishbone Art Gallery" is an oasis of freshness & gentleness in Old Montreal. It opened during the pandemic, and they're doing pretty well! Nice area too.
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"H8S Coffee Bar" is a laid-back cafe in Lachine, Montreal, is small, cozy and with an interesting decor. A great way to spend a Sunday morning!
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"Pikolo Espresso Bar" in Montreal is the place I go to for an afternoon escape from the office. I love it for all seasons. It looks like a coffee machine!
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"Cheap Thrills" in Montreal is a music store from the early '70s! If it looks chaotic on the outside, it's organised chaos inside, as a cool shop can be...
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"Summit Circle Lookout" amazing viewpoint on Montreal toward the East from Westmount, St-Henri, Verdun and more. I discovered it while jogging...
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"Léché Desserts" in Montreal hides many promises behind its pink benches and brick building! I recommend getting donuts here and going to watch the trains.
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Zab Café is a coffee roaster from Montreal that has an interesting story, four locations, and good coffee. It's small and smells of good coffee.
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"Nonnina Panini and Gelato" in Montreal is a café that offers Italian snacks & desserts - get your chocolate & peanut butter tartelette and explore Lachine!
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There are bird spotters, trainspotters... and plane spotters - and this is where they meet in Montreal! Ready for some plane spotting in YUL?
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135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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