Top 10 Educational Places for Kids in Montreal
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.Are you looking for some great spots in Montreal where you can take your kids for a fun and educational experience? If yes, then this post is for you.
Montreal is located in Canada and is one of the most visited places by tourists. However, while many adults go to Montreal for excitement, some parents take their kids to Montreal for fun and educational experiences.
Montreal is a beautiful city that offers countless activities to the tourists. However, it can be difficult for parents and kids to decide the best places to visit. That’s why I’ve put together a helpful list of the top 10 educational places in the Montreal area that are perfect for kids.
1. Biosphere
The Biosphere of Montreal, one attraction within Espace pour la Vie, is a unique museum dedicated to the environment and sustainability. The museum is housed in a geodesic dome designed by Buckminster Fuller, which makes it a fascinating architectural landmark.
Kids will love the Biosphere because it offers a fun and interactive way to learn about the environment and the impact of human activities on the planet. The museum features interactive exhibits, educational games, and hands-on activities that are designed to engage and inspire young visitors. They can learn about the water cycle, the importance of biodiversity, the impact of climate change, and much more. There are also outdoor spaces where kids can explore and discover the natural world around them. The Biosphere of Montreal is a great place for kids to learn, play, and connect with nature.
Did you know that Espace pour la Vie offers an annual pass that grants unlimited access to their 5 different attractions (Biodôme, Biosphère, Insectarium, Jardin Botanique and Planétarium)? With this pass, you have the freedom to explore and revisit these attractions as many times as you like throughout the year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children who are passionate about animals, astronomy, science, and nature.
This annual pass was a perfect fit for my daughter. In 2021-2022, I decided to give it a try, and it turned out to be well worth the investment. The regular price of the pass was $83 CAD, but luckily, I was able to take advantage of a promotional offer that gave me a 25% discount. So, I only paid $62.25 CAD, taxes included, which was an incredible deal. Additionally, since my daughter was under 5 years old, her entry was completely free.
For more information about the other 2 attractions within Espace pour la Vie, be sure to check out this post “FAVORITE SPOTS YOU MUST SEE IN MONTREAL“
2. Insectarium
The Insectarium of Montreal is a museum dedicated to the fascinating world of insects. Located in Montreal, Canada, this attraction offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the diversity, beauty, and importance of insects in our ecosystem.
The Insectarium boasts an extensive collection of insects from all corners of the world, showcasing over 250,000 specimens. Visitors have the opportunity to admire a diverse array of insect species, such as butterflies, beetles, giant stick insects, and so much more. The displays are carefully crafted to offer a glimpse into the complex existence of these extraordinary creatures.
The butterfly garden in the Insectarium is definitely one of our favorite spot. It offers visitors the chance to stroll through a vibrant tropical setting, surrounded by beautiful butterflies fluttering all around. Your kids will be absolutely captivated by the chance to get up close and personal with these charming creatures.
Centre des Sciences de Montreal is a paradise for curious kids who love to explore and discover new things. With tons of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, kids will have a blast discovering the wonders of science. From exploring space and the human body, to learning about the environment and technology, there’s something for every curious mind at the Centre des sciences de Montreal.
We absolutely love the Centre des Sciences de Montreal! It has become our favorite place to learn and have fun as a family. In fact, we were so impressed that we decided to purchase the annual pass, and it has been worth every penny.
Not only is the pass valid at the Centre des Sciences de Montreal, but it also give unlimited access to other participating science centers and museums worldwide. This feature opens up a whole world of exploration for us, and we love the idea of being able to continue our science adventures wherever we go. With this annual pass, we’re just not limited to a single location but have the freedom to discover science in various cities and regions, such as Ottawa and Toronto. This feature truly sets it apart and makes it a remarkable investment for me and my daughter, as it allows us to make the most of our travels while nurturing my daughter’s love for science and exploration.
4. Planetarium
The Planetarium of Montreal is an incredible attraction that is suitable for all ages, but particularly for families with kids. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to educate visitors about the wonders of space and the universe, and it offers a range of interactive exhibits and programs that are suitable for kids and adults.
At the Planetarium of Montreal, visitors can explore the mysteries of the cosmos through a variety of exhibits and displays, including a full-dome theater that features stunning shows and presentations on astronomy, astrophysics, and space exploration. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the thrill of space travel, learn about the latest discoveries in astronomy, and get up close and personal with actual space artifacts.
For kids, the Planetarium of Montreal is an especially exciting and educational destination. The exhibits and programs are designed to be engaging and fun, making it easy for kids to learn about space and science in a way that is both entertaining and informative. Whether your child is a budding astronomer or simply curious about the universe, the Planetarium of Montreal is a must-visit attraction that is sure to inspire and delight.
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5. Archaeology and natural history
This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and natural wonders of Montreal and the surrounding area.
The museum features a range of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient tools, pottery, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in the area thousands of years ago.
In addition to its archaeology exhibits, the museum also features a range of natural history exhibits that highlight the flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of fossils and learn about the geology of the area.
The Archaeology and Natural History Museum is another exciting destination for kids. The exhibits and programs are designed for kids to learn about history and science in a way that is both entertaining and informative.
6. Exporail / The Canadian Railway Museum
Exporail, also known as The Canadian Railway Museum, is a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the Canadian railway system.
The museum features a range of locomotives, railcars, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the evolution of rail transportation in Canada. Visitors can climb aboard historic trains, explore the interiors of vintage railcars, and even take a ride on a miniature train. Also, they can learn about the different types of trains, how they work, and the important role they played in the development of Canada.
Exporail is suitable for kids of all ages, but it is particularly well-suited for kids between the ages of 5 and 12. Younger kids will enjoy exploring the trains and learning about how they work, while older kids will appreciate the more in-depth exhibits and historical information.
The distance from Montreal downtown to get to Exporail, which is located in Saint-Constant, is approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles). By car, it takes around 30 minutes to reach Exporail from downtown Montreal, depending on traffic conditions. Even though it’s not right in Montreal, it’s just a short distance away and definitely worth the visit.
The Redpath Museum is actually located in Montreal, on the McGill University campus. Visitors can explore the wonders of the natural world through a variety of exhibits and displays. The museum features a range of specimens and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the diversity of life on Earth, including fossils, minerals, and taxidermied animals. Visitors can learn about the evolution of life on Earth, the geology of the planet, and the different ecosystems that exist around the world.
The exhibits at the Redpath Museum are both informative and entertaining, making it suitable for kids from around 5 years old and up. Regardless of your kids age, Redpath Museum will captivate their attention. Why? The museum has 3 million archaeological and ethnographic objects from ancient Egypt. Also, they have a full-size Gorgosaurus libratus skeleton and Triceratops skull in the Dinosaur museum.
8. Cosmodome (in Laval, north of Montreal)
Cosmodome, located in Laval just up north of Montreal, is an incredible space exploration center that will spark the curiosity of kids of all ages!
The distance from downtown Montreal to Laval Cosmodome is approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles). The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but under normal circumstances, it usually takes around 30 minutes by car.
Kids will embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the mysteries of the universe. They will have the chance to experience interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and captivating displays that bring the wonders of space right to their fingertips. From learning about the solar system to discovering the history of space exploration, every corner of Cosmodome offers an educational and entertaining experience.
Visitors will be able to experience an interactive concept of space adventure at the Cosmodome! Kids can be space exploration heroes through virtual and take challenges on adventurous voyages in outer space.
9. McCord Museum
The McCord Museum, located in the vibrant city of Montreal, is a destination that both kids and adults will love. This museum is a treasure trove of history and culture, offering a delightful experience for young explorers.
One of the reasons why kids will love the McCord Museum is its collection of toys and games from different eras. They can marvel at vintage dolls, action figures, and board games, sparking their imagination and connecting them to the past in an exciting way.
Another highlight for young visitors is the museum’s special exhibitions tailored specifically for kids. These exhibits often feature hands-on activities, interactive installations, and multimedia presentations that bring history to life. There is a wide variety of enjoyable activities available, ranging from dressing up in historical costumes to exploring replica archaeological sites.
The McCord Museum also hosts a variety of workshops and events designed to engage kids in creative pursuits. Whether it’s a craft session, a storytelling session, or a chance to create their own artwork, kids will have the opportunity to express themselves and unleash their artistic talents.
10. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal is a wonderful place to explore and discover art from around the world. Kids of all ages will love the museum’s interactive exhibits, which offer a hands-on approach to learning about art and culture.
In addition to the interactive exhibits, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal also offers a variety of workshops and programs specifically designed for kids. These programs provide a unique opportunity for kids to learn new skills, explore their creativity, and develop a deeper appreciation for art and culture.
One of the most popular attractions for kids at the museum is the sculpture garden, which features a variety of fascinating sculptures and installations that kids can interact with and explore. The garden also provides a beautiful setting for picnics and outdoor activities, making it a great place for families to spend an afternoon.
These 10 unique places are a few of the great places to visit in the Montreal area. Spending time with your kids is one of the valuable moments you share with them. So, before visiting a site, make sure to research ahead and ensure your kids will not only enjoy but also learn something new.
