10 Things to Do with Kids in Montréal (That Parents Actually Enjoy Too!)
- BonBOUGE
- Oct 29
- 4 min read
Montréal is a charming, vibrant city full of culture, greenspace, and quirky hide-aways that delight children and grown-ups alike. If you’re looking for family outings where everyone leaves smiling (yes, even the parents), we’ve pulled together ten fantastic activities and one of them is sure to become your new favourite weekend tradition.
1. Explore the historic streets of Old Montréal
Start your day strolling the charming cobblestones of Old Montréal. With horse-carriages, historic architecture and waterfront views, it’s a hit with kids who feel like they’re stepping into a storybook and parents who enjoy a slower pace and good photo ops.
Why families love it: Little ones can ride in strollers or run ahead safely, and there are plenty of cafés and gelato stops. Pro tip: Wander toward the waterfront and catch the breeze a perfect break for restless kids and tired parents.
2. Visit the Montréal Biodôme and its five ecosystems
Located in the city’s “living nature” complex, the Biodôme lets you and your children explore different ecosystems under one roof from tropical rainforest to polar climates.
Why families love it: It satisfies the “let’s see animals” request from kids and the “let’s stay warm and comfortable” desire from parents. Pro tip: Arrive when it opens to avoid crowds, and wear layers, the arctic zone gets chilly!
3. Stroll through the Montréal Botanical Garden & Insectarium
This duo is nestled near each other and delivers on green space, exploration and curiosity. The Botanical Garden delights with themed gardens (Japanese, Chinese, etc.) and the Insectarium gives kids (and curious parents) a chance to learn something new.
Why families love it: Kids get to roam outdoors (or indoors if weather drives you inside); parents get that “nature escape without leaving the city” vibe. Pro tip: Bring a picnic and make the most of the outdoor spaces if the weather’s nice.
4. Let off steam at the Old Port of Montréal
The Old Port area has something for everyone: mini-putt, carousel rides, riverside walks, and street-entertainers.
Why families love it: Parents can grab coffee while kids explore and you all get fresh air and scenic views. Pro tip: Time your visit around sunset for picturesque skies and fewer crowds.
5. Hike or bike up Parc du Mont-Royal
For a bit of nature within the city, Mont-Royal offers trails, lookouts, and fresh air.
Why families love it: It’s active (which is good for energetic kids) and the payoff is a breathtaking panoramic view of Montréal that even parents appreciate. Pro tip: Pack water and snacks the walk up the hill can do you in if you’re not prepped.
6. Dive into a hands-on adventure at an indoor play or VR centre
When the weather’s not cooperating (or you just need a change of pace), indoor family-friendly centres in Montréal offer arcade games, mini-putt and VR experiences.
Why families love it: Rain or shine, parents and kids can enjoy something energetic and different. Pro tip: Check for family-packs or afternoon discount rates the earlier the better.
7. Browse the vibrant Marché Jean-Talon or other local markets
Markets like Jean-Talon give kids a chance to see colourful produce, maybe taste something new, and parents to soak in local flavour.
Why families love it: It’s low-stress, indoors/outdoors depending on setting, and offers food stops everyone will enjoy. Pro tip: Grab a pastry or snack, then let the kids pick one fruit they’ve never tried.
8. Choose a cultural or quirky museum day
Montréal has a strong cultural scene for kids and families. From interactive exhibitions to guided family tours, you’ll find something beyond the usual.
Why families love it: It’s enriching for kids and offers parents something thoughtful, too. Pro tip: Choose exhibitions with interactive or multi-sensory elements to engage all ages.
9. Attend a community or festival event (and yes dance!)
Look for events where the whole family can move, groove, and celebrate together. That brings us to our final pick:
🎉 10. Spotlight: BonBOUGE – Montréal’s Daytime Family Dance Party
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing that everyone enjoys, this one’s a win. BonBOUGE was born in Montréal with the goal of bringing families together through music, movement, and memories.
The “Montréal's Ultimate Daytime Family Dance Party” is designed so kids, parents and even grandparents can groove together no one’s left on the sidelines.
Expect a fun mix of throwback hits, current tracks, salsa, hip-hop, disco and more.
The schedule is kid-friendly Daytime hours so you’re home in time for dinner, homework, bedtime routines.
Plus: you’re joining a community-minded movement. BonBOUGE donates a portion of every ticket to local family-focused charities.
Why families love it: Kids get to dance; parents rediscover their groove; memories are made. Pro tip: Follow @bonbouge on Instagram (see upcoming dates and themes) and book your tickets early, these events fill up. → Book Tickets
Conclusion
Montréal truly delivers when it comes to family-friendly fun and the best part? So many of these activities are ones parents look forward to, too. Whether you’re strolling historic streets, exploring lush gardens, or dancing your heart out with BonBOUGE, you’re creating joyful memories together.
Let the rhythm move you, the laughter surround you, and the whole family leave saying: “When’s the next one?”And for your next epic family outing: join the next BonBOUGE Daytime Family Dance Party because families that dance together, stay connected together.
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