8 green spaces for an urban getaway downtown Montreal

When you think of downtown Montreal, towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the ever-present orange cones and construction sites likely come to mind. But nestled within this urban jungle are numerous green spaces offering peaceful retreats and relaxation.

Whether you’re looking to work in an inspiring setting, quietly read a book, or simply recharge surrounded by urban nature, downtown is brimming with parks and hidden gardens perfect for unwinding.

Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul Garden

Twenty years ago, what was once a vacant lot transformed into a beautiful enclosed garden with two terraces, a pond, and plenty of benches for relaxation. This space also hosts prayer events, celebrations, and church gatherings.

Accessible via the entrance on Sherbrooke Street, the garden is open from 9 am to 4 pm during the season. Everyone is welcome in this inspiring space, where life and color abound. This little-known oasis of tranquility is perfect for moments of silence and reflection. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a little rabbit hopping between the bushes.

3415 Rue Redpath

Saint Patrick’s Basilica Park

Saint Patrick’s Basilica Park, located near HEC Montreal, is situated in the heart of the city’s business district. As part of the new urban development around HEC Montreal’s Hélène Desmarais building, this park offers a welcoming green space with trees, picnic tables, and relaxation areas for students and visitors.

Adjacent to the majestic Saint Patrick’s Basilica, an important historical and architectural site built in 1843, the park partly preserves its green spaces despite the new constructions. This little haven of peace is ideal for unwinding and recharging in the middle of downtown.

460 Boulevard René-Lévesque Ouest

McCord Stewart Museum Alley

Inspired by Montreal’s iconic alleys, the McCord Stewart Museum Alley buzzes with a vibrant summer program. Located on Victoria Street, this newly transformed pedestrian alley and green oasis offers Musical Wednesdays and engaging activities led by the Museum’s team.

The alley’s ground is adorned with a colorful mural by graphic designer and artist Olivier Charland. It features quintessential Montreal elements like hockey nets and children’s games, capturing the community spirit of the city’s beloved alleys, where people come together to socialize.

690 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest

Wallenberg Square

Wallenberg Square, nestled behind Christ Church Cathedral, is a charming garden dedicated to Raoul Wallenberg, Canada’s very first honorary citizen. Also known as the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park, this serene spot offers a peaceful retreat in the bustling heart of downtown Montreal.

Meticulously maintained, the garden showcases a variety of seasonal flowers throughout the summer. The central fountain provides a soothing backdrop to the city’s hustle and bustle, making it an ideal place to relax and escape the urban rush, all while honoring a great humanitarian.

1444 Avenue Union

The Jardin du Monastère

Nestled at the foot of St. Jax Church on Sainte-Catherine Street, the Jardin du Monastère is a remarkable outdoor space. Perfectly designed to host a variety of summer events, this garden offers a true oasis of calm in the heart of downtown Montreal.

Every Friday throughout the summer, starting at 5 pm, the Jardin du Monastère welcomes you to its Circus Guinguette. Here, you can enjoy free circus performances in the festive atmosphere of this green oasis dedicated to circus arts and imagination.

Le Monastère also hosts circus cabaret evenings all summer long. Don’t miss the highlight in August:  Pride Circus Cabaret.

1439 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Dorchester Square

A Green Oasis in Downtown, Dorchester Square is the perfect spot for a refreshing stroll. This iconic historic site, surrounded by splendid buildings, evokes Montreal’s Victorian era. With its restored monuments, new fountain, and harmonious landscaping, the square is beloved by both residents and tourists.

Once the site of Montreal’s Catholic cemetery, it now offers elegant walkways, comfortable benches, and shaded areas. At lunchtime, Dorchester Square becomes a favorite retreat for those seeking a moment of calm amidst the urban hustle and bustle.

2903 Rue Peel

Place du Canada

A Prime Relaxation Spot in the Heart of the City, Place du Canada is a large urban plaza spanning 14,000 square meters, slightly larger than the adjacent Dorchester Square.

The plaza features meticulously landscaped green pockets designed to disperse pedestrian traffic and provide stunning views from every angle. With numerous benches scattered throughout, city dwellers can enjoy this tranquil space in the heart of downtown at any time of the day.

Rue De La Gauchetière O

Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle

A Space for Relaxation and Contemplation, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle is a serene spot located in Montreal’s Quartier International, directly across from the Palais des congrès.

At the heart of the square is a basin showcasing Jean Paul Riopelle’s artwork, La Joute, featuring water jets and a fire circle that lights up on summer evenings. Created in 2004, the square boasts an urban forest of 88 trees from 11 different species, arranged to mimic the patterns of computer circuits.

This public space serves as a transition between the bustling modern downtown and the tranquil Old Montreal, offering a meeting point between these two worlds.

1000 Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle