If you’re planning a trip to Montreal and you’re an art enthusiast or history buff, you’re in luck. This vibrant city is home to over 40 museums, offering a wide range of exhibits and experiences. From the Redpath Museum with its collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which houses works by Rembrandt, there’s something for everyone. To help you navigate through the multitude of options, we’ve handpicked the 10 best museums in Montreal that we think you should start with. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, social history, or natural sciences, these museums are sure to captivate your imagination and make your visit truly unforgettable.
McCord Museum
About
The McCord Museum is a beloved mid-size museum near McGill University that celebrates the history and culture of Montreal. It showcases both the past and present life of the city through its 1.5 million artifacts, which are organized into categories such as fashion and textiles, photography, and decorative arts. The museum hosts several temporary interactive installations and exhibitions each year, many of which have wide appeal and are hugely popular. For example, the recent North American premiere of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s “Balenciaga: Master of Couture” exhibition drew in visitors from all over.
Collections
The McCord Museum boasts a diverse collection of artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Montreal. The fashion and textile collection includes clothing and accessories from various time periods, providing insights into changing fashion trends. The photography collection features an extensive range of photographs capturing iconic moments in Montreal’s history. The decorative arts collection showcases objects such as furniture, ceramics, and glassware, offering a glimpse into the artistic traditions of the city. These collections, among others, provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s rich heritage.
Temporary Exhibitions
The McCord Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific themes and aspects of Montreal’s history and culture. These exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to explore different perspectives and learn about lesser-known aspects of the city’s heritage. The museum strives to make these exhibitions interactive and engaging, providing visitors with a memorable and immersive experience. From exploring the works of renowned fashion designers to delving into the social history of Montreal, the temporary exhibitions at the McCord Museum offer something for everyone.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
History
Founded in 1860, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) is one of the most-visited museums in North America. It has a rich history and is located on the historic Golden Square Mile stretch of Sherbrooke Street. The museum’s establishment was driven by a desire to promote art and culture in Montreal, and it has since become a significant cultural institution in the city. Over the years, the MMFA has grown in size and prominence, becoming a hub for art lovers, scholars, and visitors from around the world.
Collections
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts houses a vast and diverse collection of art spanning different time periods and genres. Its heritage collection consists of approximately 43,000 works, which are displayed throughout the museum’s five pavilions. The collection includes international art, antiquities from around the world, decorative arts and design, as well as Quebec and Canadian art. From Ancient Egyptian sarcophagi to works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, the MMFA offers visitors an extensive range of artistic treasures to explore.
Pavilions
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts comprises five connected pavilions that house different sections of the museum’s collection and exhibitions. These pavilions include the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion, the Michal and Renata Hornstein Pavilion, the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion, the Liliane and David M. Stewart Pavilion, and the Stephan Crétier and Stéphany Maillery Wing for the Arts of One World. Each pavilion has its own distinct architectural design and ambiance, creating unique experiences for visitors as they explore the museum.
Tours
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts offers guided tours in both French and English, providing visitors with in-depth insights into the museum’s collection and exhibitions. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting anecdotes and stories about the artworks on display, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious beginner, joining a guided tour at the MMFA is a great way to engage with the art and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
Pointe-à-Callière – Museum of Archaeology and History
Location
Pointe-à-Callière, located in Old Montreal, is the largest history museum in Montreal and the largest archaeology museum in Canada. Its location is significant because it is built on the site where Montreal was founded in 1642. The museum itself is an architectural marvel, seamlessly integrating modern elements with the historic ruins of Montreal’s past. Its striking design and captivating location make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.
Permanent Exhibitions
Pointe-à-Callière showcases permanent exhibitions that take visitors on a journey through Montreal’s history and archaeology. These exhibitions present the fascinating stories and discoveries that have shaped the city over centuries. From the birth of Montreal to its development as a major trading hub, the museum brings the past to life through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. Visitors have the opportunity to explore archaeological sites, uncover historical artifacts, and gain a deeper understanding of Montreal’s cultural heritage.
Temporary Exhibitions
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, Pointe-à-Callière also presents three to four temporary exhibitions each year. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including themes beyond Montreal’s history, such as Easter Island and the Royal Queens of Ancient Egypt. These temporary exhibitions offer visitors a chance to explore different cultures and historical periods, further enriching their understanding of the world and its diverse heritage. With each temporary exhibition bringing new perspectives and insights, there is always something exciting to discover at Pointe-à-Callière.
DHC/ART Foundation for Contemporary Art
Overview
The DHC/ART Foundation for Contemporary Art is a non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in Old Montreal. It operates as a private museum and aims to foster a conversation about contemporary art within the community. Despite not having a permanent collection, the DHC/ART Foundation hosts two to three temporary exhibitions each year, providing visitors with a dynamic and ever-changing art experience. The foundation’s commitment to promoting contemporary art and its engaging approach make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those interested in exploring new artistic expressions.
Exhibitions
The DHC/ART Foundation’s temporary exhibitions showcase the works of contemporary artists from Canada and abroad. These exhibitions are often thought-provoking, challenging conventional notions of art and inviting visitors to explore new perspectives. The foundation takes pride in curating exhibitions that reflect diverse art forms, including digital, sound, and video works, installations, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and paper artifacts. Each exhibition offers a unique and immersive art experience, encouraging visitors to engage with contemporary art in a meaningful way.
Admission
One of the notable aspects of the DHC/ART Foundation is its commitment to accessibility. Admission to the foundation is free, allowing visitors from all walks of life to explore contemporary art without financial barriers. This approach reflects the foundation’s belief in the transformative power of art and its dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive art community in Montreal. Free admission encourages visitors to return frequently and engage with different exhibitions, fostering an ongoing dialogue about contemporary art within the city.
Montreal Holocaust Museum
Focus
The Montreal Holocaust Museum has a distinct focus on educating visitors about the Holocaust from the perspective of survivors. The museum primarily consists of video installations and artifacts donated by Holocaust survivors living in Montreal. Montreal is home to the third-largest Holocaust survivor population in the world, making the museum’s collection particularly significant. The mission of the museum goes beyond exploring the historical events; it aims to raise awareness about the universal perils of antisemitism, racism, hatred, and indifference that still exist today.
Permanent Exhibition
The Montreal Holocaust Museum features a permanent exhibition that provides an in-depth and personal exploration of the Holocaust. Through multimedia displays, personal testimonies, and authentic artifacts, visitors gain insights into the experiences of Holocaust survivors. The exhibition chronicles the events leading up to the Holocaust, the atrocities committed, and the aftermath. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance and the need to learn from history to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.
Seasonal Events
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the Montreal Holocaust Museum hosts seasonal events and exhibitions that further explore the themes of the Holocaust and its impact on society. These events include lectures, film screenings, panel discussions, and interactive activities designed to engage visitors and promote dialogue. By creating a range of educational and thought-provoking experiences, the museum aims to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the Holocaust and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society.
Montreal Science Centre
Location
The Montreal Science Centre is a large and family-friendly museum located in the Old Port area of Montreal. Its central location makes it easily accessible to both locals and visitors. Situated in a vibrant waterfront district, the museum offers a spectacular setting with views of the St. Lawrence River. Its proximity to other attractions and entertainment options makes it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day of exploration.
Exhibitions
The Montreal Science Centre features a wide range of both temporary and permanent interactive exhibitions that explore various aspects of science and technology. These exhibitions cover diverse topics such as space exploration, environmental sustainability, human anatomy, and robotics. The museum’s hands-on approach allows visitors to actively engage with the exhibits, conducting experiments, and discovering scientific principles through interactive displays. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just curious about the world around you, the Montreal Science Centre offers a captivating learning experience for visitors of all ages.
Family-friendly Features
One of the highlights of the Montreal Science Centre is its family-friendly features. The museum is designed to cater to the needs and interests of young visitors, offering interactive exhibits and activities specifically aimed at children. The exhibits are designed to be educational while also being entertaining, ensuring that learning about science is a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. The Montreal Science Centre also offers workshops and educational programs that further enhance the educational value of the museum, making it an ideal destination for families with children.
Space for Life
Overview
Space for Life is a comprehensive museum complex dedicated to showcasing the wonders of the natural world. It comprises four different institutions: the Biodôme, Insectarium, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, and Botanical Garden. This diverse range of attractions makes Space for Life the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. From exploring immersive ecosystems to stargazing in a state-of-the-art planetarium, Space for Life offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature and deepen their understanding of the world we live in.
Attractions
Each institution within Space for Life offers its own unique set of attractions and experiences.
The Biodôme allows visitors to explore four distinct ecosystems found in the Americas: the Tropical Forest, the Laurentian Maple Forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Sub-Antarctic Islands. The immersive exhibits provide an up-close and personal encounter with a wide range of animal and plant species, offering insights into the delicate balance of these ecosystems.
The Insectarium is dedicated to showcasing the incredible world of insects. Visitors can marvel at live insect specimens, learn about their unique characteristics, and understand the vital role they play in our ecosystem. The Insectarium’s interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium offers visitors the chance to embark on a cosmic journey, exploring the wonders of the universe through state-of-the-art technology. The planetarium features immersive shows that take audiences on captivating voyages through space, allowing them to witness astronomical phenomena and gain a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos.
The Botanical Garden is a breathtaking oasis of tranquility and beauty, housing a vast collection of plant species from around the world. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Chinese Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the First Nations Garden, each offering a unique cultural and horticultural experience. The Botanical Garden also hosts special events and exhibitions, such as the annual “Gardens of Light” lantern festival.
Special Events
Space for Life regularly hosts special events and activities that further enhance the visitor experience. These events include workshops, conferences, guided tours, and seasonal celebrations. Whether it’s a horticulture workshop at the Botanical Garden or a stargazing event at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, these special events provide visitors with unique opportunities to deepen their knowledge and engage with the natural world in meaningful ways.
Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal
History
The Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal (MACM), also known as “the MAC,” is a renowned contemporary art museum located in the heart of downtown Montreal. Founded in 1964, the MACM has played a significant role in promoting and showcasing contemporary art from Canada and around the world. Over the years, it has established itself as a cultural hub, attracting both art enthusiasts and the general public with its diverse range of exhibitions and activities.
Exhibitions
The MACM hosts temporary exhibitions that feature the works of current artists from Canada and abroad. These exhibitions cover a wide range of artistic mediums, including digital, sound, and video works, installations, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and paper artifacts. The museum’s exhibitions are known for their thought-provoking and innovative nature, often pushing boundaries and challenging conventional notions of contemporary art. With each new exhibition, the MACM offers visitors a unique and immersive experience that reflects the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.
Special Events
In addition to its exhibitions, the MACM organizes special events throughout the year to engage with the local art community and attract a diverse audience. These events include artistic performances, lectures, workshops, and Nocturne evenings, which feature late-night festivities with DJs and drinks. By organizing a wide range of events, the MACM aims to create a vibrant and inclusive space where art enthusiasts and the public can come together to celebrate and explore contemporary art.
Château Ramezay
Museum Overview
The Château Ramezay is a small and intimate museum located in Old Montreal. Originally built in 1705 as the personal residence of Montreal’s then-governor, Claude de Ramezay, the building was later transformed into a museum in 1895. As the province’s oldest private historical museum, the Château Ramezay holds significant historical and architectural value. Its unique history and charming atmosphere attract visitors who are interested in exploring Montreal’s rich past.
Exhibitions
The Château Ramezay features seasonal exhibitions that delve into different aspects of Montreal’s history. These exhibitions explore various themes and time periods, shedding light on the city’s evolution and cultural heritage. Through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the history and gain a deeper understanding of Montreal’s vibrant past. The exhibitions offer a compelling narrative and provide visitors with a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the city.
Governor’s Garden
The Château Ramezay’s Governor’s Garden is a charming outdoor space that complements the museum’s historical ambiance. The garden, which recreates the gardens of New France, offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. With its lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and tranquil atmosphere, the Governor’s Garden provides a serene escape and serves as a reminder of the city’s colonial past. It’s a fantastic place to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature while exploring the historical significance of the Château Ramezay.
Redpath Museum
Introduction
The Redpath Museum is a museum of natural history belonging to McGill University. Established in 1882 and named after sugar magnate Peter Redpath, the museum is an architectural gem that showcases the wonders of the natural world. With its impressive collections and diverse range of exhibits, the Redpath Museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through Earth’s history and the diversity of life.
Permanent Collection
The Redpath Museum’s permanent collection consists of close to three million objects, each offering a unique perspective on the natural world. Highlights of the collection include Ancient Egyptian mummies, the cast of the Rosetta Stone, a Charles Darwin exhibition, and a spectacular minke whale skeleton. These artifacts provide valuable insights into various scientific disciplines, such as paleontology, anthropology, and mineralogy. Visitors can explore the exhibits and marvel at the wonders of the natural world, gaining a deeper appreciation for Earth’s biodiversity and geological history.
In conclusion, Montreal’s museums offer a vast array of experiences that cater to all interests and ages. From delving into the city’s history at the McCord Museum and Pointe-à-Callière to exploring contemporary art at the DHC/ART Foundation and Musée d’Art Contemporain de Montréal, there is something for everyone. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts showcases a comprehensive collection spanning different time periods and artistic genres, while the Montreal Science Centre and Space for Life provide interactive and educational experiences centered around science and nature. Lastly, the Montreal Holocaust Museum and Château Ramezay offer poignant reflections on important historical events. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a science enthusiast, Montreal’s museums have it all.
