Society of Friends of the Biodome

The Society of Friends of the Biodome supports one of Montreal's most popular family attractions: the Biodome, which recreates four distinct ecosystems under the roof of the former Olympic Velodrome. It's consistently one of the top-rated family experiences in the city.

The Biodome houses four ecosystems: a tropical rainforest, a Laurentian maple forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence marine environment, and sub-Antarctic islands. You walk through each one on a path that takes about 45 minutes to complete without stopping, though most families take 2-3 hours.

The tropical rainforest is where kids lose their minds. Monkeys swing overhead, tropical birds call from the canopy, and you can spot piranhas, caimans, and colorful frogs if you look carefully. The humidity and warmth make it feel genuinely tropical.

The sub-Antarctic section with its penguin colony is another highlight. Kids press against the glass watching penguins swim, waddle, and interact. The Laurentian forest features porcupines, otters, and lynx in a setting that feels like being outdoors in Quebec.

The Biodome is fully stroller-accessible with clean washrooms and changing facilities throughout. A cafe serves basic food at premium prices. The gift shop at the exit has good quality nature-themed items.

Weekend lines can be brutal, especially during school holidays. Buying tickets online in advance is essentially mandatory for weekend visits. Weekday mornings are dramatically calmer and let you linger at exhibits without being rushed by crowds behind you.