Outdoor public art pieces are entry points to discovering a city. The more I cycle in new areas, the more I get visually attracted by elements in the public space. Going to Hochelaga by Ontario street, I spotted several color tiles on the wall, after passing again and again on my way to le Sino or visiting Marc Gosselin gallery.
The same happened earlier this summer while exploring Montreal-Nord. Again while I was cycling, along the River-of-the-Prairies this time. I saw a big metallic structure from a few hundred meters away, but didn't get closer.
It's only a few weeks later, again talking with local artists, that this big wheel was mentioned to me. If you are already in this part of Montreal, you should totally go to the BGL installation at the crossroads of Pie IX and Henri Bourassa. It's big and it's fun.
Once you are there, there are several options for you. You could have a stop at the local fast-food chain Dic Anns - exploration makes one hungry - and then leave these busy streets to discover some of the green backalley of Montreal by visiting an outdoor gallery, for example.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"H8S Coffee Bar" is a laid-back cafe in Lachine, Montreal, is small, cozy and with an interesting decor. A great way to spend a Sunday morning!
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"Pikolo Espresso Bar" in Montreal is the place I go to for an afternoon escape from the office. I love it for all seasons. It looks like a coffee machine!
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"Cheap Thrills" in Montreal is a music store from the early '70s! If it looks chaotic on the outside, it's organised chaos inside, as a cool shop can be...
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"Summit Circle Lookout" amazing viewpoint on Montreal toward the East from Westmount, St-Henri, Verdun and more. I discovered it while jogging...
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"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.
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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.
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"Nonnina Panini and Gelato" in Montreal is a café that offers Italian snacks & desserts - get your chocolate & peanut butter tartelette and explore Lachine!
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There are bird spotters, trainspotters... and plane spotters - and this is where they meet in Montreal! Ready for some plane spotting in YUL?
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Most belvederes offer views from above - this one is different and offers views to Montreal's skyline!
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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?
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"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
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Ruelle Verte is a local initiative in Montreal for greener back alleys. One artist couple made their own even prettier, by flourishing it with art!
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135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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✓ 135 Insider Tips