Nature lovers will revel in exploring this hidden gem in Montreal. Built in 1935, the city’s gardens have come a long way since, and the site is now regarded as one of the finest botanical gardens in the world.
Consisting of 10 greenhouses and 30 different gardens, the 75 hectares of land in the Botanical Garden are a joy to explore. Each garden represents a different culture or theme, so it is a great way to learn about different plant species from around the world and how they play a role in each culture. The Chinese Garden is the biggest of its kind outside China. The Japanese Garden offers you the chance to join their daily tea ceremonies. Other themed gardens include Toxic Plants and First Nations, and there is even an Insectarium with over 160,000 insect species.
The Arboretum is the largest garden on the site and is home to more than 7,000 beautiful trees and plants. It is extra special during the autumn, when the area is awash with colourful, falling leaves.
The Botanical Garden is enormous, and you could easily spend several hours strolling round here and admiring the natural beauty on display. However, if you’re feeling tired or are short of time, you can also hop on the free trolley bus that will guide you around the park.
The Olympic Stadium and the Biodome are two other attractions located near to the Botanical Garden, so if you have time, it is convenient to visit both of these on the same day.
Ticket prices include full access to everything in the Botanical Garden, including the Insectarium. The gardens are open all year round but, naturally, the summer months are the best time to visit, in order to witness the beauty of the gardens in full bloom.
To get there, take a bus or the metro to Maisonneuve Park, just outside Downtown. If you are going by car, there is paid parking available in the area.
