Old Port of Montreal, Historic riverfront in Ville-Marie, Canada.
The Old Port of Montreal runs for two kilometers along the Saint Lawrence River, blending historic buildings and infrastructure with modern recreational spaces. The area includes pedestrian walkways, a science center, an observation tower, boat rental facilities, and gardens designed for both walking and water activities.
French fur traders founded this location in 1611 as a trading post, and it remained Montreal's main port until commercial shipping moved eastward in the 1970s. This shift allowed the site to transform from a working harbor into a public destination.
The old port is now a gathering place where Montrealers come to be near the water, walk, cycle, and enjoy waterfront activities year-round. The space serves as a bridge between the city's working-class past and its modern recreational identity.
The area is easily accessible on foot with wide, flat pathways suitable for walking and cycling throughout the year. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and plan to explore at their own pace, as different sections offer various activities at different times of day.
A giant observation wheel rises 60 meters and rotates slowly to provide views of the river and city skyline from above. Riding it at different times of day reveals how the light and colors change across the water and buildings.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
