Montreal Botanical Garden, Montreal (must see)

The Montreal Botanical Garden is a vast botanical garden located in Montreal. Encompassing 75 hectares (190 acres) of beautifully curated thematic gardens and greenhouses, it holds great significance as one of the world's most prominent botanical gardens. Recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2008, its extensive collections and top-notch facilities contribute to its esteemed status.

Established in 1931 during the challenging times of the Great Depression, the garden was brought to life through the efforts of Mayor Camillien Houde and Brother Marie-Victorin, who tirelessly campaigned for its creation. The visionary design of the grounds was executed by Henry Teuscher, while the architect Lucien F. Kéroack skillfully crafted the Art Deco style administration building. Today, the garden nurtures around 20,000 plant species, showcasing a diverse range of alpine plants, ferns, bonsai, commercially important plants, medicinal herbs, woodland plants, cacti, succulents, begonias, aroids, bromeliads, and gesneriads. Additionally, it houses a herbarium with nearly 100,000 reference specimens.

The Montreal Botanical Garden serves as an educational hub, enlightening both the general public and horticulture students. It plays a crucial role in conserving endangered plant species. Moreover, within its grounds, you'll find a botanical research institution, the Société d'astronomie de Montréal, and the Montreal Insectarium. The Garden's dedicated staff also manages the Ferme Angrignon educational farm and petting zoo, even though it's located offsite.

While there is an admission fee, city residents have the privilege of obtaining a pass that grants them free access to the outdoor gardens. Consequently, many people visit regularly, drawn to the tranquil atmosphere and the chance to relax beneath the shade of the trees. Notably, during the summer season (May to September), the outdoor areas are open to everyone free of charge from 6 pm until nightfall.

Why You Should Visit:
An all-season place to go.
In the Winter you can stick to the glass house; in the Spring you start with the butterflies in the glass house then a quick tour of the gardens and Insectarium;
In Summer you also go to the gardens (Chinese & Japanese); in the Fall you go to see the pumpkins and the lanterns in the Chinese garden and the colors in the arboretum part.

Tip:
Leave time for a drink on the large patio outside the restaurant which features excellent local beers and ciders.