Parc Jean-Drapeau is a picturesque parkland spanning two islands in the St. Lawrence River. Visit this commons for a diverse selection of activities, from rolling the dice at a casino to watching spectacular firework displays. Sight-see some of the city's revolutionary landmarks and then get a sweat up racing around a professional bike track.
On the northern island, Saint Helen’s, admire the striking silhouette of the Biosphere. This post-modern structure was built in 1967 and designed by Buckminster Fuller. Originally used to host Expo '67, the world fair, it has been reinvented as an educational institution for environmental issues. Explore inside and learn about sustainable technologies.
Cross the Concorde Bridge south to Île Notre-Dame, a manmade island holding Parc Jean-Drapeaus other half. Try your luck at the Montréal Casino, which is open 24 hours every day. The flashy games room features slot machines, four restaurants and a cabaret.
Head to one of two park kiosk's and rent a bike for the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The racetracks 4.3-kilometre (2.7 mile) circuit hosts the Canadian Grand Prix every June. At any other time, it is used by walkers, bikers and roller skaters.
Delve into the city's history at the Stewart Museum. This museum, built within an old British military fort on Saint Helen’s Island, explores European influence on Canadian culture. Browse displays of military items, domestic goods and artworks spanning 5 centuries of colonization.
During May through to September, attend one of many festivals that bring their lights and energy to the park. Sundays around the commons are often enlivened by instalments of the electronic music festival, Piknic Électronik. Enjoy the rides of La Ronde, an amusement park on Saint Helens island. Visit on a Friday or Saturday from June through August to witness a stunning fireworks display.
Get to Parc Jean-Drapeau via the Jacques Cartier Bridge or the Concorde Bridge. Alternatively, get the metro to a station on Saint Helen's island. The park does not charge admission, though some of its attractions charge individual entry fees. Some attractions may be closed in winter.
