Outdoor public art pieces are entry points to discovering a city. The more I cycle in new areas, the more I get visually attracted by elements in the public space. Going to Hochelaga by Ontario street, I spotted several color tiles on the wall, after passing again and again on my way to le Sino or visiting Marc Gosselin gallery.
The same happened earlier this summer while exploring Montreal-Nord. Again while I was cycling, along the River-of-the-Prairies this time. I saw a big metallic structure from a few hundred meters away, but didn't get closer.
It's only a few weeks later, again talking with local artists, that this big wheel was mentioned to me. If you are already in this part of Montreal, you should totally go to the BGL installation at the crossroads of Pie IX and Henri Bourassa. It's big and it's fun.
Once you are there, there are several options for you. You could have a stop at the local fast-food chain Dic Anns - exploration makes one hungry - and then leave these busy streets to discover some of the green backalley of Montreal by visiting an outdoor gallery, for example.
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...
by
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”.
by
"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!
by
"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.
by
"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!
by
"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!
by
"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...
by
"Summit Circle Lookout" amazing viewpoint on Montreal toward the East from Westmount, St-Henri, Verdun and more. I discovered it while jogging...
by
"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.
by
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.
by
"Nonnina Panini and Gelato" in Montreal is a café that offers Italian snacks & desserts - get your chocolate & peanut butter tartelette and explore Lachine!
by
There are bird spotters, trainspotters... and plane spotters - and this is where they meet in Montreal! Ready for some plane spotting in YUL?
by
135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 135 Insider Tips