A Long Weekend in Montreal: Ferris Wheels, Gardens, and Bagels
There’s something magical about your first big trip to a new city. For me, that city was Montreal — a blend of history, culture, and simple joys that unfolded over a long Easter weekend in April. Looking back, it feels less like a trip and more like a series of little stories stitched together.
Day 1: Ferris Wheels, Tacos, and a Bird’s-Eye View
We arrived in Montreal on a chilly Thursday evening, settling into an Airbnb just a short walk from the La Salle metro. Tired from work and travel, we did what any weary travellers would — ordered food, curled up, and saved our energy for the adventure ahead.
The next morning, the city greeted us with sunshine. We started at the Biosphere, wandering through environmental exhibits before walking to the edge of St. Helen’s Island. From there, the city skyline stretched out in a breathtaking panorama.
Lunch was at 3 Amigos, where taco bowls, enchiladas, and piña coladas filled both our plates and our spirits. But the real magic came later at the Old Port. We strolled beside the St. Lawrence River, rode the La Grande Ferris wheel, and even dared to zipline over the water — hearts racing, laughter echoing.
That night, I fell asleep with the feeling that the trip had only just begun, yet was already unforgettable.
Day 2: Ecosystems, Gardens, and a Cozy Movie Night
The second day was a slower rhythm but equally rewarding. We headed to the Biodome, tucked inside Montreal’s old Olympic Stadium. Walking through replicas of ecosystems — from tropical rainforests to Arctic tundra — felt like stepping into entirely different worlds.
From there, we wandered into the Botanical Gardens, home to tranquil Japanese and Chinese gardens. Hours passed in a blur of greenery, bridges, and winding paths.
By evening, exhaustion settled in, and we retreated to our Airbnb with Indian food and a cozy movie night. Watching Wicked while sharing mango lassis and pav bhaji felt like the perfect mix of travel and home.
Day 3: Mystery Games and Local Cafés
Day three was lighter and playful. We grabbed salads and rice pudding at a small café before heading to A/Maze, an outdoor adventure game that turned the streets of Montreal into a playground of puzzles and history. Solving mysteries while exploring the city gave us a new way to see it — part escape room, part walking tour, part time machine.
Later, we unwound with another movie (Legally Blonde), a simple pleasure that balanced the buzz of exploration.
Day 4: Bagels, Parks, and Goodbyes
On our last morning, we packed early but carved out time for one final adventure — a walk through Mount Royal Park. The hike up brought us past Beaver Lake and finally to the lookout, where Montreal stretched out in postcard-perfect fashion. It was the kind of view that stays with you, etched in memory more than in photos.
Before boarding our bus home, we made one last stop at the famous St. Viateur Bagel shop, indulging in maple apple and butterscotch caramel bagels. Sweet, warm, and utterly Montreal — the perfect farewell.
Looking Back
In the end, what made Montreal special wasn’t just the sights but the moments in between: morning chats with a French couple at breakfast, laughing over Indian takeout, or simply walking hand in hand through a new city.
Even better? The whole trip cost just $183 each — thanks to our wellness spending account. A reminder that meaningful travel doesn’t always require lavish budgets; sometimes it’s just about planning and embracing each moment fully.
This was the beginning of a dream — to see more cities and towns across Canada, to collect more stories with my buddy, and to keep cherishing the simple, fleeting joys of life. Montreal was just the first chapter. ♥️
Practical Tips for Montreal Visitors
If you’re planning your own Montreal trip, here are a few tips we picked up along the way.
1. Getting Around
Montreal’s metro system is fast, cheap, and reliable. Buy a 3-day pass if you’re staying over a long weekend — it’s more cost-effective than single fares and makes it easy to hop between neighbourhoods.
2. Airbnb Location
Staying near a metro station (like La Salle) is a big win. The city is walkable in pockets, but the metro saves time and energy — especially after a full day at museums or gardens.
3. Biosphere & Biodome
Both are must-visits if you love science and nature. For the Biodome, book tickets online in advance to avoid lineups, especially during long weekends or school breaks.
4. Botanical Gardens
Set aside at least half a day to wander. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are highlights, and spring or early summer is when the park is at its most colourful. Wear comfortable shoes — it’s a lot of walking.
5. Old Port Activities
Try the La Grande Roue de Montréal (Ferris wheel) in the evening for a romantic skyline view. If you’re adventurous, the zipline is worth it — it’s short but gives you a fun thrill over the water.
6. Mount Royal Park
Go early in the morning for a quieter experience and softer light for photos. The lookout point offers one of the best views of Montreal.
7. Food Musts
Montreal is famous for its bagels — St. Viateur or Fairmount Bagels are local institutions. If you’re on a budget, grab fresh bagels with coffee for breakfast.
Also, don’t skip the multicultural food scene: Mexican (3 Amigos), Indian takeout, and French cafés are all great ways to taste the city.
8. Budgeting
Wellness spending accounts or travel perks can cover parts of your trip if your employer offers them.
Even without that, Montreal is affordable if you plan — many outdoor activities (like Mount Royal or Old Port walks) are free.
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