Artistic Shortcut Montreal
Open-air exhibition
“Ruelle verte” (link in French) or "green alley" is a local initiative that allows local residents in Montreal to submit projects in order to make their streets greener. Montreal is full of back alleys that connect backyards to other backyards. Cars can go, but it’s mostly used by kids and local wild animals as a playground. By applying to this program the local residents agree to make this part of the street more pedestrian, greener and simply more human. If you walk or cycle in the city, you will encounter this sign many times.
Recently, an artist couple, Melsa Montagne et Nicolas Des Ormeaux did turn their back alley into a "ruelle verte" called “le raccourci” (ie. the shortcut) in the Villeray - Saint Michel - Parc Extension part of the city. They did much more than add many flowers or old public transport furniture; they flourished it with art. Of course, walls have been painted by local artists but they have also set up an outdoor gallery where you can witness the work of more local artists. Being outdoors makes it perfect while waiting for the slow re-opening of the art galleries. And since you are there, you are only a few meters from a new park in Montreal called Frederik Back, also worth visiting.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Montreal
Léché Desserts
Sweet spot
"Léché Desserts" in Montreal hides many promises behind its pink benches and brick building! I recommend getting donuts here and going to watch the trains.
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Zab Café
Good coffee roaster
Zab Café is a coffee roaster from Montreal that has an interesting story, four locations, and good coffee. It's small and smells of good coffee.
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Nonnina Panini and Gelato
Italian snacks
"Nonnina Panini and Gelato" in Montreal is a café that offers Italian snacks & desserts - get your chocolate & peanut butter tartelette and explore Lachine!
by
Dasilva
Arthur
YUL Plane Spotting
Giant steel bird observatory
There are bird spotters, trainspotters... and plane spotters - and this is where they meet in Montreal! Ready for some plane spotting in YUL?
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Ground-level Belvedere
Hidden viewpoint
Most belvederes offer views from above - this one is different and offers views to Montreal's skyline!
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Montreal Olympic Park
Sleeping concrete scorpio
The "Montreal Olympic Park" is so big, you can never tell how close to it you are. Its retro-futuristic vibe reminds me of some kind of animal; a scorpion?
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Big Wheel
Giant outdoor public art
The "Big Wheel" in Montreal is a surprise! It's big, it's fun, and it's a nice highlight to visit while exploring...
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
The Belgo Βuilding
Gallery nest
"Belgo Visions" in Montreal is in the Belgo Building, an iconic old building in the center of the city with five floors, zillions of art pieces & galleries
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Belvédère Outremont
Sunset view spot
"Belvédère Outremont" in Montreal is one of my favorite places to go jogging. It goes a bit uphill, but the view is just amazing, especially at sunset...
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Drawn and Quarterly
Food for thoughts
"Drawn and Quarterly" in Montreal is now a world-famous bookstore specialized in classic and contemporary comics. Coming here, my addiction comes out...
by
Jeremy
Petrus
Tennis Jeanne-Mance
Tennis with a view
"Tennis Jeanne-Mance" in Montreal is one of the best places to get your game in the city. I think it's a very interesting and unique court to play...
by
Jeremy
Petrus
Nouveau Palais
Burger heaven
"Nouveau Palais" in Montreal is like an old diner. It doesn't look like much, but believe me they have great burgers, spätzle & desserts. People come back.
by
Jérémie
Gerhardt
Heading to Montreal?
135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Montreal?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 135 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Montreal
Get to know our other Spotters from Montreal
As featured on:
