February in Montreal is all about embracing the city’s many winter festivities. I’ve listed the best things to do in Montreal this February if you’re planning to spend some time in the city and explore our metropolis. This article explores romantic Valentine’s Day ideas, thrilling outdoor sports, and charming cultural events. Whether you want to brave the cold or stay cozy, you’ll find many options to make your stay memorable.
And of course, be sure to get all the details on how to stay warm during your adventures in Montreal! Check out our Quebec winter packing list for winter attire and preparation tips.
Outdoors Things to Do in Montreal in February
In February, Montreal bursts with vibrant outdoor activities. Suit up and embrace the frosty fun with these outdoor things to do!
Parc Jean-Drapeau
Set on two islands just south of Montreal, Parc Jean-Drapeau is a natural oasis. Known for its scenic beauty and diverse attractions, it’s one of the region’s largest parks. Just a subway ride (Jean-Drapeau station on the yellow line from Berri-UQAM central station) or a short drive from downtown just off the Jacques-Cartier bridge, it offers a quick escape from urban excitement.
During winter, free activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fat biking, and even an ice-climbing wall are available. Need a break from the cold? Several warming refuge areas provide a cozy place to recharge.
Equipment rentals are available right in the park, making it easy for anyone to join in the fun. Parking is available at reasonable rates, ensuring easy access for those driving.
Montreal’s Iconic Parks
Montreal dedicates vast areas to its parks, each providing a unique escape into nature without leaving the city limits. Taking advantage of them during the snowy season is always interesting, whether you’re playing sports, just going for a walk or birdwatching!
- Parc La Fontaine (Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood) is a haven for those seeking tranquility. Its snow-draped paths are perfect for a romantic stroll or a reflective afternoon.
- Parc Maisonneuve (Hochelaga-Maisonneuve) boasts expansive landscapes ideal for cross-country skiing and vibrant sledding adventures really close to Espace pour la vie’s amazing museums you can warm up in.
- Mont-Royal, the city’s crown jewel, commands stunning views over a snowy Montreal from its peak, the highest on the island. It’s a favourite for snowshoeing and snowtubing. Try your hand at an electric fat tire bike ride tour or schedule Montreal’s Mount Royal Tour to uncover the mountain with a guide that will share all kinds of insights.
- Parc Jarry’s Hiver-o-Parc event brings the community together with free ice skating, snowshoeing, and playful activities for all ages. Once again, showing Montreal’s embrace of winter in an amazing neighbourhood, Villeray.
Ice Skating in Montreal
Ice skating is deeply woven into Montreal’s cultural fabric. The city boasts over 200 outdoor skating rinks, including several refrigerated ones for a reliable and smooth experience. Check out the Best Skate Rental in Montreal article that Jennifer wrote if you want to hit the ice while here but don’t want to bring skates!
This abundance of rinks ensures residents have easy access to outdoor skating. A reflection of the community’s love for this winter activity.
One highlight is the Ice Garden at the Esplanade rink. On Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., instructors and playful aids help kids learn to skate in a supportive environment.
While you’re at the Quartier des Spectacles in the Latin Quarter, don’t miss Lumino, an interactive light exhibition.
Montréal Boréal Winter Festival
Montréal Boréal brings Quebec’s folklore and snowy pastimes to life. This vibrant festival runs for 4 weekends, from mid-February to mid-March. It takes place in a dreamy winter pedestrian zone in Saint-Henri.
The festival celebrates Quebec’s rich winter traditions while enhancing the urban outdoors. It combines a variety of things to do for all ages with performances from musical artists. A lively soundtrack to Quebec winter fun!
Indoor Things to Do in Montreal in February
As delightful as it is to spend a day in the brisk Canadian winter, warm indoor activities are also welcome. This February, embrace Montreal’s indoor activities. They’re perfect after a chilly day outside.
Passeport MTL
Start your adventure with the Passeport MTL. This custom bundle of activities helps you discover Montreal’s best attractions while saving on entry tickets. Ideal for an introduction to the city’s rich cultural scene.
Atrium Le 1000
For those who love the ice but prefer a warmer setting, Atrium Le 1000 is an indoor skating rink. The best of skating without the winter wind, accessible directly through Montreal’s underground network (RESO) from the Bonaventure metro station without going outside.
La Poutine Week
Indulge in one of Quebec’s most beloved culinary delights during La Poutine Week. This festival celebrates the comforting dish, with restaurants across the city showing off their unique takes on poutine. It’s a great way to indulge in Montreal’s food scene and warm up from the inside out from February 1st to 7th every year.
Winterworks Theatre Festival
Winterworks Theatre Festival showcases innovative local theatre that pushes boundaries and explores new themes. A fantastic opportunity for theatre lovers to witness the vibrancy of Montreal’s performing arts scene (every February).
Les Rendez-vous Québec Cinéma
Dive into Quebec’s film culture with Les Rendez-vous Québec Cinéma. The only festival dedicated exclusively to films from the Quebec Province (end of February to beginning of March).
Black History Month
Celebrate the contributions and culture of black communities in Montreal. Venues like Vues d’Afrique and Fade to Black Festival host events ranging from visual arts to film screenings (every February).
Valentine’s Day Ideas in Montreal
Montreal is the perfect backdrop for your Valentine’s Day celebration. Make February in Montreal all about romantic gestures and creating memories that last a lifetime this upcoming February 14th:
Bota Bota Spa
Indulge in tranquility at Bota Bota Spa, located on the snowy banks of the St. Lawrence River right in the Old Port. This floating haven provides treatments and breathtaking views. It’s a dedicated spot for romance and relaxation and such a unique location for a Nordic spa.
Skating Under the Stars
On February 14th, The Old Port’s skating rink transforms into a Valentine’s Day paradise. Skate hand-in-hand under the stars and savour the magic of the night on this scenic rink.
Dining in Unique Settings
Renowned for its unique dining venues, Montreal turns a meal into a romantic adventure. These unique spots blend intimacy and magic. Make your Valentine’s Day enchanting and memorable.
- Winter Terraces: choose from a variety of cozy, heated domes like Les Domes Refuges du Bivouac, Terrasse William Grey, and Auberge Saint-Gabriel for a snug and intimate dinner.
- Glass Ceiling Terraces: Venues like Jabota and Maison Boulud offer dining under clear, starry skies, providing a magical winter terrace experience.
Navigating Montreal in Winter
Montreal’s public transit system remains a convenient way to explore the city comfortably during winter. Use the STM to traverse the city easily, bypassing the challenges of winter driving.
Ready to Visit?
Plan your trip and dive into the vibrant scene of Montreal this February. It’s the perfect place to celebrate love, enjoy fine food, and embrace winter’s beauty. From cultural festivals to dining in cozy igloos, Montreal offers countless ways to make your winter magical.
As you prepare for your trip, check out our essential guides for the best Montreal experience.
- Best Things to Do in Montreal in Winter
- Best Things to Do in Montreal in January
- Top 7 Montreal Landmarks You’ll Want to See
- 7 Best Winter Hikes in Quebec
- Best Dog Sledding in Quebec: Places to Try This Winter
Here are some other amazing tours in Montreal you may want to book!
- Try your hand at a bagel making workshop, an iconic Montreal institution!
- Vélo Festif MTL partying with friends (or new acquaintances) and biking collide.
- Combine bike and spa for sore joints with Fitz Tours.
- Spade & Palacio lead activities like Beyond the Bike Lanes, Beyond the Market, Beyond the Basilica, Mural Tours, and Beyond the Village.
- Secret Montreal offers hidden history tours of the Montreal red light district around what we now call the Quartier des Spectacles.
- Watch a Montreal Canadiens Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Bell Centre.
- Take a History Walking Tour of Old Montreal with Guidatour.
- Quartier des Spectacles offers a free walking tour around the Place des Festivals in the summer.
- Urban Marmotte and his owner Michel take you around the city for a Montreal by Night tour!
- Discover the RESO: Montreal’s Underground City + Downtown Tour.
- If you’re into architecture and quirky living spaces, Habitat 67 tours are for you!
- Indulge in some of the best bites in the city with Secret Food Tours.
- In the Shadow of the Mountain: Montreal Jewish History Walking Tour.
- The Montreal Street Art & Mural Tour with Fitz Montreal.
- Montreal’s Sin City Era & Golden Age Walking Tour by MTL Detours.
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