Montreal Science Centre

The Montreal Science Centre is one of the city's best family attractions, and it earns that reputation by getting the most important thing right: everything is hands-on. Located right on the Old Port waterfront at the foot of Boulevard Saint-Laurent, this is not a museum where kids stare at displays behind glass. It is a sprawling, interactive space where they push buttons, turn cranks, build things, break things, and learn by doing.

The permanent exhibitions cover a wide range of science and technology topics, all presented through interactive devices designed for different age groups. Kids can experiment with physics, explore the human body, learn about sustainable energy, and discover how everyday technology works. The exhibits are bilingual (French and English) and designed to be intuitive — even pre-readers can figure out how to interact with most stations.

The IMAX TELUS theatre is a major draw and worth adding to your visit. The giant screen and immersive sound system make nature and science documentaries come alive in a way that regular screens simply cannot match. For many kids, this is their first IMAX experience, and the reactions are priceless.

For families with toddlers, there is a dedicated play area designed for the youngest visitors. It is a safe, enclosed space where little ones can explore age-appropriate interactive elements while older siblings tackle the bigger exhibits.

Practically speaking, the Science Centre is brilliantly located. It is right on the Old Port quay, so you can easily combine a museum visit with a waterfront walk, pedal boat ride, or a spin on La Grande Roue. The Place-d'Armes metro station is a 10-minute walk away. There is paid parking nearby, but the Old Port lots fill up fast on summer weekends.

The family pass at $52 CAD for two adults and two children is excellent value, and kids under 4 are free. Budget about 2-3 hours for the exhibits alone, or add an hour for the IMAX. The building is fully accessible with elevators, wide pathways, and stroller-friendly layouts throughout.

One tip that experienced Montreal parents swear by: the Science Centre is your best rainy day backup plan. When the weather turns and outdoor plans fall through, this is where you go. The combination of interactive exhibits, IMAX, and the nearby indoor food options means you can easily fill a full day without stepping outside.