On top of an old quarry and municipal landfill is one of the most exquisite city parks anywhere. The park offers incredible lessons in the renewal of nature and renewal of a space that, until recently, was a toxic and noisy place resented by the local community.
The Frederic Back Park (192 hectares) is almost as large as Mount Royal but offers much smaller crowds and incredible vistas and trails that cross valleys and meadows. Dotted across the landscape are spherical objects that look like alien spaceships but are in fact methane capture devices. Distant views of the Mountain, and St-Joseph's oratory are pretty much the only reminders you're not in an open prairie.
The land is the site of rapid regeneration, beginning with massive indigenous wildflower meadows that lead quickly to the formation of new forests. The area is home to an impressive array of fauna, including coyotes. At the south end of the park is La Tohu, Montreal's famed circus school, as well as a co-generation plant (they use the methane from the park to generate heat and electricity).
During winter months, there is a 7 km cross-country ski trail around the park. Year-round, there is access to indoor soccer and an indoor skate park on the west side of the park.
Explore Montreal like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Montreal guide.
"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
Housed in an art deco building in Old Montreal, the PHI Foundation is focused on making contemporary art accessible to the largest number of people.
By
I really recommend their cortado, where the rich, chocolatey espresso meets a dose of milk in a really satisfying combination.
By
Sit on the sidewalk and eat the most delicious gnocchi for only $5, with a rich tomato sauce and imagine whatever you want in your own alternate reality.
By
I was struck by the enthusiastic staff and the very tender exhibit about window coverings that invited us to consider what is shown and what is hidden.
By
Here you will find a strange pyramid of benches that doubles as an art gallery, small fields & greenhouses tended by students from the nearby university.
By
Olimpico attracts the young and beautiful. And Club Social feels like it's been there longer, and remains true to its roots. Both have terrific bombolini!
By
The cannoli! A crisp shell that shatters a bit as you bite into it, first-class ricotta cheese. Not too sweet. Somehow light and filling at the same time.
By
Caffe Italia has been popular with Italian families for decades & it never lost the homey feeling. The coffee is delicious. The vibe is welcoming and loud.
By
Jean Talon market is the kind of place where there is a vast choice, but I'd bet that most regulars end up with their favorite sellers.
By
The exhibits are free to the public, and very well curated by Isabelle de Mévieus and her team. The converted post office is worth a visit on its own.
By
134 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 134 Insider Tips from our local Spotters