Lea GagnonPetals and pathways: What are the best gardens in Montreal?
Montreal’s got killer nightlife and killer poutine, but did you know it’s also got some seriously stunning gardens?
Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good dose of nature, we’ll uncover the must-visit gardens that make Montreal a city in full bloom.
So grab your pruning shears (just kidding, leave those to the experts) and let’s get ready to explore Montreal’s blossoming masterpieces.
Jardins des Floralies
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Location: 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montréal, QC H3C 1A9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-872-6120
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Having blossomed from a 1980 international flower competition, Jardins des Floralies is a meticulously manicured garden that boasts a relaxed, free-flowing charm that makes it perfect for picnics or simply soaking in the sun while surrounded by beautiful blooms.
It’s more than just flowers though, the garden seamlessly integrates public art pieces which turns your simple stroll into a thought-provoking cultural experience.
Sure, flowers are the star here, but Jardins des Floralies is also a birdwatcher’s haven. It’s like those nature documentaries, but you’re in it, and the soundtrack’s better than anything Hans Zimmer could score.
Montreal Botanical Garden
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Location: 4101 Sherbrooke St E, Montreal, Quebec H1X 2B2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-868-3000
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Montreal Botanical Garden is the superstar’s botanical equivalent. It’s got size (think sprawling estate, not studio apartment) and diversity (exotic plants from around the world mingle like it’s an international garden party).
Oh, we can’t forget the year-round appeal either. Greenhouses keep the floral fun going even in winter here!
Plus, think of the cultural immersion – you can wander through a traditional Chinese garden or meditate in a Japanese Zen garden, all without buying a plane ticket!
First Nations Garden
Media from espacepourlavie
Location: Montreal, Quebec H1X 2B2, Canada
The First Nations Garden stands apart from other, more traditional botanical gardens in Montreal in a way we appreciate at Waterview Vancouver. That is, it offers a journey of discovery to highlight the incredible ways Indigenous cultures intertwine with our natural world.
Here, you won’t just see plants – you’ll understand their significance as sources of food, medicine, and materials used in traditional crafts. The garden itself is designed to evoke First Nations environments to immerse you in the landscapes where these plants thrive.
Most importantly, this garden honours the heritage and wisdom passed down through generations, inviting you to gain a deeper appreciation for the profound connection between Indigenous peoples and the land.
Angrignon Park Community Garden
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Location: Rue Lacroix, Montréal, QC H4E, Canada
Contact: +1 514-872-0311
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Angrignon Park Community Garden probably has the most relaxed vibe of any garden in Montreal. Think of it as the garden equivalent of a comfy old sweater instead of a fancy tailored suit.
With its location inside the sprawling, English-garden-inspired Angrignon Park, it’s easy to imagine this community garden as a hidden gem. You’ll likely find a mix of tended plots overflowing with veggies and maybe even a few wildflowers that snuck in for good measure.
Picture neighbours swapping gardening tips beside a tranquil pond or sharing a picnic with friends – the perfect blend of nature and community spirit.
Governor’s Garden at Château Ramezay
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Location: 280 Notre-Dame St. East, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1C5, Canada
Contact: +1 514-861-3708
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Governor’s Garden at Château Ramezay is a hidden gem tucked away in Old Montreal. It’s attached to a grand French Colonial-style house built in 1705 – a piece of history in itself as Quebec’s first designated historical monument.
While the garden is smaller than it once was, it still offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Stroll along paths lined with meticulously arranged herbs, vibrant flowers, and maybe even a fruit tree or two.
Plus, the plants here are closely related to the varieties grown in the 18th century which offer a unique connection to the era of Governor Claude de Ramezay.
Sentier Urbain
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Location: 1710 Rue Beaudry, Montréal, QC H2L 3E7, Canada
Contact: +1 514-521-9292
Sentier Urbain is proof that gardens can be agents of change in a city like Montreal. They’re on a mission to bring nature back into urban spaces, one vacant lot at a time.
Their Garden Circuit is a treasure map of sorts that leads you to unexpected pockets of greenery throughout the city – think rooftop vegetable gardens, vibrant pollinator-friendly flower beds, and maybe even a tranquil oasis where a neglected alley once stood.
These aren’t your typical manicured gardens, they’re spaces where the community comes together to learn about urban agriculture, sustainability, and the simple joy of getting your hands in the soil.
