Montreal Biodome
Five ecosystems under one roof
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Varies
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Indoor
Weather Fit
Great for rainy days
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free
Washrooms
On-site
Food
Cafe nearby
Parking
Paid lot nearby
Booking
Recommended
Parent Effort
Low to medium
The Montreal Biodome is a standout family destination where kids can walk through a tropical rainforest, watch penguins waddle, and spot underwater life in the Gulf of St. Lawrence—all without stepping outside. It is educational, visually stunning, and engaging for a wide range of ages.
About This Place
The Montréal Biodôme is a unique indoor nature museum that recreates five complete ecosystems from the Americas under one roof: a tropical rainforest, a Laurentian maple forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence estuary, the Labrador Coast, and the Sub-Antarctic Islands. Originally built as the velodrome for the 1976 Summer Olympics, the building now houses around 4,800 animals representing 229 species and 1,500 plants from 750 species, all living in conditions that closely replicate their natural habitats. After major renovations completed in 2020, it features augmented reality experiences, new walkways, and a dramatic ice tunnel. Part of the Space for Life museum complex alongside the Insectarium, Botanical Garden, and Planetarium.
Official Website open_in_new- Tuesday – Sunday
- 09:00 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Check the official website for current admission prices.
Walk Through Ecosystems
Explore five recreated habitats from the Americas, from lush rainforest to icy sub-Antarctic islands.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
See penguins, macareux, tropical birds, and marine life living in naturalistic settings.
Hands-On Learning
Augmented reality experiences and interactive displays make science fun and accessible.
All-Weather Destination
Fully indoors, making it a perfect rainy-day or winter outing for families.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Booking
- Advance tickets recommended, especially on weekends and school holidays.
- Stroller Access
- Fully step-free and stroller-friendly throughout.
- Food Policy
- No outside food allowed inside; cafe and dining options available nearby.
- Photography
- Personal photography allowed; no flash in animal habitats.
- Washrooms
- Accessible washrooms available on-site.
- Parking
- Paid parking available near the Olympic Park area.
Kid Fit by Age
Stroller-friendly and calm environments; sensory stimulation from nature sounds and sights.
Wide walkways, animals to spot at every turn, and immersive environments captivate little ones.
Perfect age for wonder and curiosity; ecosystems feel like real adventures.
Augmented reality and educational content align well with school-age interests.
Science and conservation themes resonate; Missions Nature game adds digital engagement.
Unique architecture and ecological messaging appeal to older kids with an interest in science.
Insider Tips
Arrive right at opening to enjoy the penguin and macareux feeding times with smaller crowds.
Download the Espace pour la vie app for real-time navigation and exclusive content.
Allow at least two hours so kids can explore each ecosystem at their own pace.
- •Supervise children near open water features and railings in the Gulf of St. Lawrence exhibit.
- •Keep hands and fingers away from animal enclosures and glass barriers.
- •The tropical rainforest area is warm and humid—dress in layers and stay hydrated.
- •Follow all posted signage and staff instructions during animal feedings or demonstrations.
- •Step-free access throughout the entire building.
- •Wheelchair and stroller accessible pathways in all five ecosystems.
- •Service animals may have restricted access in certain animal zones—check ahead.
- •Some areas may be dimly lit or have uneven simulated terrain; proceed with care.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter. Weekends, school holidays, and rainy days draw larger crowds, so book ahead.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxLayers of clothing—the tropical zone is warm and humid, while the sub-Antarctic area is cool.
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes for exploring all five ecosystems.
- check_boxWater bottle to stay hydrated, especially in the humid rainforest section.
- check_boxCamera for family photos with the stunning backdrops.
Location
Address
4777 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal, Quebec H1V 1B3, Canada
Phone
+15148683000
Make it a half-day
View All Montréal
Last checked: 2026