Tag Archive for: Group Travel Canada

Montreal, the cultural capital and main entry location of Quebec, ranks second in size among Canadian cities. An extravagant history and immense culture make it one of the liveliest North American places. Besides coming in second for size, Montreal also ranks second in regards to use of the French language. The downtown area of Central Montreal consists of skyscrapers, museums, and various shopping facilities. Visitors can take a stroll through the older side of town where the quaint riverfront portion of the city resides or spend a day in The Plateau. The area offers a little something for everyone including: 

• Sporting Facilities
• Little Villages
• Upscale Neighborhoods
• Pubs
• Fine Dining
• Olympic Park
• Botanical Gardens
• Theatres
• Galleries 

An emerging culinary spot called Petite-Bourgogne can be found in the Mile End part of Montreal. Visitors have the choice of four varying seasons when planning a trip to this destination. Summers are fairly humid with a daily temperature average of seventy degrees Fahrenheit. July is one of the hottest months with temperatures surpassing eighty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Winter does not begin until the middle of November and lasts until March with temperatures often reaching below freezing. Spring brings fairly mild temperatures, but is also known to have unexpected and drastic fluctuations. Those desiring the mildest atmosphere with the most sunlight will find April to be the best time to travel. 

The Magic of Old Montreal 

This area, dating as far back as New France, resides in Ville-Marie as the oldest portion of the city. In 1964, a vast majority of the area became a historical site with its origination dating back to 1605. This section started out as a fur trading post; however, the trading inhabits were warded off by local Iroquois. Ville-Marie, created in 1642, is the original location of Montreal and the site of the city’s first fort. After Canada changed hands to the British in 1763, architectural creations of French nature were abandoned. Fires spanning over a timeframe of more than fifty years caused a large portion of the original French architecture to be lost. The region experienced a massive re-design in 1804, which led to the enlargement of Old Montreal along with community improvements. Today, visitors come to the older side of the city to see architectural creations dating back to as early as the seventeenth century, cobbled streets,  and museums while taking horse-drawn carriage rides. 

Additionally Notable Attractions 

Visitors can make a trip downtown to see large skyscrapers, galleries, colleges, underground malls, and experience some arcade fun. Park Jean-Drapeau, once the site of the World Fair of 1967, is now an outdoor venue for concerts. The area contributes to the racing circuit as well by hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix every year. A casino can also be found on the outskirts of this grand park location. The Rialto Theatre is not only an iconic structure, but also a great place to catch a performing arts show or enjoy some music. Theme parks, cross country skiing, ice skating, and water sports are additional activities in this region. Montreal is a wondrous destination consisting of old time charm, architectural wonders, and plenty to do.