School has begun and you are undoubtedly running around campus and beyond, discovering the new hotspots. Montreal has a wide variety of student-friendly haunts, but do not restrict yourself—there are a lot of events outside the student bubble (and price range) for which you may want to save up. Also, you could take advantage of visits from your family and indulge yourself—and them, of course—to some of the finer (read: more expensive) attractions Montreal has to offer.
1. Hop-On, Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tour
The best way to discover Montreal is to jump on this tour bus as it guides you through all of the must-see attractions. You are given the opportunity to get off the bus at 10 different locations to soak up the full Montreal experience. During the peak months, tours run every 30 minutes and take about 2 hours. The cost is $52.17 per person, so definitely indulge with your parents. For tour routes, visit:
http://www.quebectours.org/?event =offer.detail&offerId=5246
2. Kava Tours
Montreal, and Quebec in general, is the home to countless micro-breweries and vineyards. On this tantalizing wine-tasting adventure, explore the vineyards of Quebec and learn about their histories. Perhaps this could be your first experience with the famous French tradition of ‘wine-and-cheese’, but it certainly will not be your last! Tours are either half-day or full-day, priced at $89 or $129, respectively. For more information, visit:
http://www.kavatours.com/english/
3. Cirque Du Soleil
This world renowned circus has been taken to new levels of awe-inspiring choreography in the shows offered by this gravity defying band of acrobats. The Cirque du Soleil is a spectacle not to be missed, and what better place to see it than in its hometown, Montreal? The innovative acrobatic routines, impressive strength and graceful musicality grow and improve with each new show, year after year, leaving its audiences breathless. Ticket prices vary depending on the show, and range from $50 – $150. For details, visit:
http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/welcome.aspx
4. Just For Laughs
The Just For Laughs festival runs annually in July, when hundreds of comedians come to Montreal for a variety of indoor and free outdoor performances over the course of a few days. Outside of the festival, you can find hilarious shows by world-renowned comedians year round. Tickets range from $50 – $100 depending on the artist, so it is definitely a place to bring your parents to the next time they are in town. For details on events, check out:
5. Montreal Canadiens Hall of Fame
Whether you are new to Canada and need to be officially introduced to the world of hockey, or you just aren’t a Habs fan yet, you must entertain a visit to the museum of hockey’s legends. Explore the history of the greatest sport ever invented and get a thorough introduction to the rowdy nights and hockey fever that you are sure to hear and experience during the season. For information on admission prices and hours of operation, visit:
http://canadiens.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=59997
6. Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens is a 75-acre outdoor complex in which you can meander around for a relaxing afternoon. In autumn, be sure to visit the Magic of Lanterns, where countless lanterns are lit in honour of Chinese history. Normal rates for the Botanical Gardens are $17.75 for adults and $13.50 for student, but additional charges apply for entrance into special events. For more information, go to:
http://www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/jardin/en/menu.htm
7. O Noir
This restaurant is like no other in Montreal. For one, your senses will be elevated by a dining experience in complete darkness. Embrace what it’s like to be blind for a few hours—like every waiter and waitress serving you. That’s right, no watches, cell phones, matches or candles – complete darkness. O Noir is located at 1631 Saint Catherine Street, right in the heart of downtown Montreal near the Guy Concordia metro station. Unfortunately, the extreme uniqueness of this restaurant is reflected in its prices and a three course meal will cost you $41. For reservation details, visit:
www.onoir.com/montreal/en/#.UEdkH2hYu10
8. The Biodome
The Biodome is a unique nature experience. Simulations of four ecosystems have been constructed inside the Velodrome, a cycling track made for the 1967 Olympics. In the Biodome, you can experience the tropical rain forests of South America, the marine ecosystems of the Saint-Lawrence, the forests of the Laurentians, and finally, the chilled Arctic and Antarctic. Prices for adults are $17.75, or $13.50 with a valid student card. For hours of operation, visit:
http://www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/biodome/site/site.php?langue=en
