Noah CôtéCool and trendy things to do in Montreal for young adults
Remember that night you stayed out way past your bedtime, danced until your feet ached, and laughed until your sides hurt? Yeah, Montreal can feel like that every night. And you, my friend, are invited to the party.
Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, a nightlife enthusiast, or just someone who loves to wander and explore, everything’s here. To prove it, I’ll take you through the top things the young adults on our own staff do when it’s time to let loose!
- Dance to techno beats at Stereo Nightclub
- Discover indie fashion at Boutique Unicorn
- Browse eclectic records at Cheap Thrills
- Watch an indie film at Cinéma Moderne
- Admire contemporary art at the Phi Centre
- Play vintage arcade games at North Star Pinball
- Spend the day at LaRonde
- Give Cabaret Kingdom a whirl
- Dive into summer vibes at Piknic Électronik's
- Freeze your way to fun at Igloofest
- Volunteer with Dans la Rue Chez Pops
- Go skateboarding at Le TAZ
- Party like never before at Circus Afterhours
Dance to techno beats at Stereo Nightclub
Media credit to enricosangiuliano
Location: 858 St Catherine St E, Montreal, Quebec H2L 2E3, Canada
Contact: +1 514-658-2646
Opening hours:
- Friday to Saturday – 11:59 PM to 9:00 AM
Unlike most clubs that wind down around 3 AM, Stereo keeps the party going well into the morning. The main dance floor doesn’t even get started until other venues close, ensuring a seamless transition for those who crave non-stop beats.
The club even regularly features both international legends and local talents, from heavy hitters like Danny Tenaglia and Nicole Moudaber to local stars.
To top it all off, Stereo’s alcohol-free policy on the main dance floor ensures the focus remains solely on the music, creating an environment where you can lose yourself in the rhythm without worrying about a drunken jerk starting trouble.
Discover indie fashion at Boutique Unicorn
Media from boutiqueunicorn
Location: 5135 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2T 1R9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-544-2828
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
This is only for the fashionistas! Boutique Unicorn showcases a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces from brands like Barilà, Betina Lou, Uranium, and Eve Gravel. You won’t find these unique items anywhere else!
Whether you’re searching for the perfect vintage-inspired dress to turn heads, or chic minimalist jewellery to elevate your everyday look, this boutique has something to satisfy every fashionista’s cravings.
You won’t find even mass-produced trends here, but rather statement pieces that spark conversation and reflect your personal style.
Browse eclectic records at Cheap Thrills
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Location: 2044 Metcalfe St, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1X8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-844-8988
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Established in 1971, Cheap Thrills is no one-hit-wonder: it’s Montreal’s oldest and most beloved record store. With its rich history and overflowing shelves of eclectic vinyl and CDs, it’s a haven for music aficionados who appreciate the analogue charm in an increasingly digital world.
You won’t find any “Cheap Thrills” (cue Sia!) here, but you will find a treasure trove of genres, including avant-garde, jazz, world music, and more.
So, if you’re tired of algorithm-generated playlists and want to experience the joy of tangible music, this place is your haven. Who knows, you might just find the soundtrack to your next adventure.
Watch an indie film at Cinéma Moderne
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Location: 5150 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2T 1R8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-282-2087
Located in the artsy Mile End district, Cinéma Moderne is your place if you’re seeking a unique and intimate cinematic experience.
It’s a cultural hub where independent films, documentaries, and experimental shorts take centre stage in a cosy, intimate setting. The carefully curated selection of films showcases both local Canadian talent and international gems, catering to a diverse range of tastes and interests.
After the film, the experience continues at the on-site café-bar, a welcoming space where you can discuss the latest releases, sip on a craft beer, or simply unwind with friends.
Admire contemporary art at the Phi Centre
Media from phicentre
Location: 407 Rue Saint-Pierre, Montréal, QC H2Y 2M3, Canada
Contact: +1 514-225-0525
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
The Phi Centre is a cultural playground that’s redefining the way we experience art. With exhibitions showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works by artists like Sonia Boyce and Rajni Perera, the centre is constantly pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.
But it doesn’t stop there. This place is a versatile hub that seamlessly blends art, film, music, and technology into an immersive experience, making it a dynamic space where young adults can engage with a variety of art forms in a single visit.
And the cherry on top? Admission to the exhibitions is absolutely free, ensuring that everyone, regardless of budget, can enjoy and be inspired by high-quality contemporary art.
Play vintage arcade games at North Star Pinball
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Location: 3908 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1Y2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-904-6444
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday & Sunday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Saturday – 3:00 PM to 3:00 AM
North Star Pinball is a retro gaming paradise where Montreal’s cool kids go to relive the golden age of gaming. Imagine rows of lovingly restored pinball machines, featuring classics like “Godzilla”, “Stranger Things”, and “The Mandalorian”, alongside newer favourites.
It’s a paradise for both old-school gamers and newbies looking to unleash their inner pinball wizards. And when you need a break from button-mashing, the bar boasts an impressive selection of local beers and craft cocktails!
Spend the day at LaRonde
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Location: 22 Chem. Macdonald, Montréal, QC H3C 6A3, Canada
Contact: +1 514-397-2000
Opening hours:
- Saturday to Monday – 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
With over 40 rides including the Goliath and Le Monstre (the world’s tallest wooden roller coaster), your adrenaline will be pumping faster here than you can scream “sacré bleu!”
But that’s not all. La Ronde lights up the summer nights with L’International des Feux Loto-Québec, a fireworks competition that’ll make your heart explode.
And when the leaves start falling, the park transforms into a spooky wonderland for Fright Fest, where you can test your courage in haunted houses and embrace your inner ghoul. They even recently launched adults-only Soirées Techno, where you can ride the roller coasters by day and dance to the beats of live DJs by night.
Give Cabaret Kingdom a whirl
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Location: 1417 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2X 2S8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-286-1417
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Cabaret Kingdom is where the night comes alive with glitter, glamour, and jaw-dropping performances. The showgirls here enchant, mesmerise, and leave you breathless with their talent and artistry.
It’s also a social hub where Montreal’s young adults gather to dance, mingle, and revel in the extraordinary atmosphere. And with exclusive themed events popping up regularly, you’ll always find a fresh and exciting reason to give this place a whirl.
Dive into summer vibes at Piknic Électronik’s
Media from piknicmtl
Location: Montréal, QC H3C 4G8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-904-1247
Opening dates: May to October
Each Sunday from May to October, the grounds of Parc Jean-Drapeau transform into an outdoor dance floor, where both international and local DJs spin infectious beats that cater to a wide range of electronic music tastes.
The 2023 lineup of this festival even included renowned artists like TOKiMONSTA, Ben UFO, and Kerri Chandler, which is a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing top-tier talent and delivering an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts.
But this festival is also a multi-sensory experience. You can feast on a diverse array of culinary delights from gourmet food trucks to classic Montreal poutine, all while sipping on refreshing drinks served in eco-friendly cups.
Freeze your way to fun at Igloofest
Media from igloofest_mtl
Location: Jacques-Cartier Pier in the Old Port of Montreal
Contact: [email protected]
Opening dates: Every January to February
This annual festival, held from mid-January to early February, is the place to be if you refuse to let the cold dampen your spirit. With past headliners like REZZ, Diplo, and Armin van Buuren gracing the stage, you know the beats are as hot as the fire pits scattered throughout the Igloo village.
Speaking of Igloo village, it’s complete with eye-popping visuals, striking architectural installations, and even a marshmallow roasting station.
And let’s not forget the iconic tacky snowsuit contest, where you can unleash your inner fashion daredevil in a flurry of neon and faux fur.
Volunteer with Dans la Rue Chez Pops
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Location: 1664 Ontario St E, Montreal, Quebec H2L 1S7, Canada
Contact: +1 514-526-7677
Opening dates:
- Monday & Friday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 9:00 am to 5:00 PM
Founded by the legendary Father Emmett “Pops” Johns, volunteering at Dans la Rue Chez Pops can be your chance to roll up your sleeves and make a tangible difference in the lives of homeless youth.
Whether you’re dishing up delicious meals in the depot or simply lending a listening ear, volunteering here is an opportunity to connect with a community, build meaningful relationships, and leave a lasting impact.
If you’re wondering how you can volunteer, just make sure you’re above 18, bilingual (both English and French), have a police verification and you’re committed to at least do it for one year. Then, you can submit your application on their website.
Go skateboarding at Le TAZ
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Location: 8931 Av. Papineau, Montréal, QC H2M 0A5, Canada
Contact: +1 514-284-0051
Opening dates:
- Monday – 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
As the largest indoor skatepark in Canada, Le TAZ is a 60,000-square-foot concrete jungle designed to unleash your inner Tony Hawk. With a mind-blowing array of ramps, rails, bowls, and half-pipes, it’s a playground where skateboarders, BMX riders, inline skaters, and scooter enthusiasts of all levels can shred to their heart’s content.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for a challenge or a newbie finding your footing (or wheels), this place has something to get your adrenaline pumping.
And when you need a breather, you can refuel at the snack bar and soak in the electric atmosphere as you watch fellow riders defy gravity.
Party like never before at Circus Afterhours
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Location: 917 St Catherine St E, Montreal, Quebec H2L 3N5, Canada
Contact: +1 438-998-4017
Opening dates:
- Sunday to Monday & Friday – 2:00 AM to 9:00 AM
- Saturday – 2:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Opening its doors at 2 AM, Circus Afterhours is the city’s ultimate after-party destination, where the energy is electric and the beats are relentless.
With three distinct rooms pumping out a mix of trance, house, techno, and other electronic genres, it’s a playground for those who thrive on high-energy dance floors and immersive light shows.
It’s also a stage for world-renowned DJs like Gareth Emery, Benny Benassi, and John Digweed, who have graced the decks alongside a plethora of emerging artists.
