The Lachine Canal was one of the most important waterways in Canadian history. Its construction, between 1825 and 1873, allowed expanded navigation into the St Lawrence River and facilitated Montreal's continued expansion. Nowadays the main attraction is the delightful cycle, walking and inline skating path leading from Lachine right into the Downtown area. An interpretive center offers a permanent exhibit outlining the phases of the canal's construction and history.
This huge complex is the center of the city's large-scale culture. The buildings themselves are a striking landmark in the Latin Quarter, while their various concert halls and theaters are home to the Opéra de Montréal, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and other local companies. The entire complex is linked to the Underground City. The individual halls are the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Théâtre Maisonneuve, Théâtre Jean-Duceppe, Studio-théâtre, Maison Symphonique, and Le Cinquième Salle.
Do not expect stadium seating, interactive experiences or IMAX screens. There is nothing fancy here, but this student-favorite repertory house is the source in Montreal for English art films, second-runs, Canadian productions and specialty films like midnight horror features. Their program is available all over the city in various bars and restaurants.
What was once an industrial shipyard for more than hundred years has been converted into a magnificent exhibition space for contemporary art by the local art enthusiasts Pierre and Anne-Marie Trahan. The sprawling complex comprises two main exhibition halls known as René Blouin - Division Gallery and the Collection Majudia, which exhibits the works of national as well as international artists throughout the year. And while you are at it, make sure to check out the performing arts events taking place at the magnificent artist studio and an expansive event space. Events like large scale product launches, concerts and exhibitions are held here regularly.
Blouin Division is located in Toronto and Montreal. The one in Montreal is owned by art enthusiasts Pierre and Anne-Marie Trahan. The main purpose of this gallery is to portray and showcase the contemporary side of Canadian and International art. Blouin Division, being a commercial art gallery shares the building with Arsenal, which is another contemporary art gallery. The duo together supports and promotes some of the best Canadian and international artists. This is one place that art aficionados simply cannot skip.
Musée des Beaux-arts de Montréal has put together one of the best collections of fine art in North America. The museum moved to its present location just before the World War. The Jean-Noel Desmarais building holds most of the temporary exhibits while the permanent collection lies in the Benaiah Gibb building across the street. The museum also stages special programs such as lectures, noontime and evening concerts, and films.