Montreal after dark is a whole new world, buzzing with energy, creativity, and a nightlife scene that truly shines. Known for its vibrant mix of cultures, this city offers everything from late-night jazz clubs and rooftop bars to immersive art installations and lively festivals. Whether you’re in the mood for a night stroll through historic Old Montreal or want to dance till dawn at a local club, Montreal’s nightlife has something unforgettable for everyone.
Having explored Montreal’s best after-hours spots, I’ve curated 16 incredible things to do in the city at night for 2025. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these experiences showcase Montreal’s unique blend of sophistication and fun. Get ready to see why this city’s nightlife is one of the most exciting in North America!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this Montreal walking food tour in Little Italy and Mile End. They take you to the city’s top restaurants, bars, and bakeries to sample things like Alsatian tarts, Montreal-style bagels, and local ice cream. You also learn what makes Montreal a top nightlife destination with its thriving restaurant and bar scene. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a Montreal itinerary in my opinion.
Best Things to do in Montreal at Night
Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Montreal at night? This ultimate guide is your gateway to the very best experiences to enjoy in Montreal at night. From romantic dinners to awe-inspiring stargazing, here’s your essential list of all the best things to do in Montreal at night.
1. Ride the giant Ferris wheel at La Grande Roue
For one of the best views of Montreal at night, head to La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port. Standing 60 meters high, this Ferris wheel offers sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, the downtown skyline, and beyond. Each ride lasts about 20 minutes in a climate-controlled cabin, so you’ll stay comfortable no matter the season.
It’s open until 11 p.m. most nights, making it a great late activity whether you’re out on a date or exploring solo. Try to time your visit with sunset or twilight for the best photo opportunities. After your ride, you’ll find plenty of spots nearby for food or drinks along Rue de la Commune. Tickets cost around $25 for adults and can be purchased on-site or online. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to kick off your night in Montreal.
2. Join a five-course supper club with a Michelin-trained chef
Step into an artist’s loft in Montreal for a five-course supper that tells the story of the city’s diverse culinary communities. Each dish is crafted by a Michelin-trained chef, blending familiar flavors with inventive twists, and paired thoughtfully with wine to elevate the experience.
The intimate setting encourages conversation, so you’ll meet travelers from all over while savoring courses inspired by Montreal’s immigrant flavors. Chef Robert shares stories behind each plate, making the evening as much about culture and history as it is about taste.
Arrive hungry and ready to explore. Wear comfortable shoes for the fourth-floor walk-up, and consider starting your night with a stroll through nearby Saint-Sacrement streets to catch the neighborhood’s evening vibe before the meal begins.
3. Cruise the St. Lawrence River at sunset
A night cruise on the St. Lawrence River is a peaceful way to experience Montreal’s skyline and waterfront. Bateau-Mouche, based in the Old Port, offers one of the city’s top-rated evening cruises. Their open-deck catamaran departs at sunset and glides past landmarks like Habitat 67, Île Sainte-Hélène, and the Jacques Cartier Bridge, which lights up at night.
You can choose a basic cruise or upgrade to a gourmet dinner package with multi-course meals served on board. Cruises typically last 60 to 90 minutes and include commentary in French and English.
It’s a relaxing alternative to busier nightlife options and ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a scenic break. Tickets start around $30 for evening departures. Make sure to book ahead, especially during the summer when tours fill up quickly. It’s one of the city’s best low-key nighttime experiences.
4. Walk Old Montreal’s lit streets
Old Montreal feels like a movie set after dark, with its cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and glowing historic architecture. The area is especially beautiful at night, when buildings like the Notre-Dame Basilica and Place d’Armes are illuminated. It’s free to explore and perfect for a slow-paced, self-guided walk filled with history and ambiance.
You’ll pass landmarks like Bonsecours Market and Rue Saint-Paul, which are dotted with boutique shops, wine bars, and cafés. Some buildings date back to the 17th century, giving the district a timeless feel.
It’s a great place for photography or a quiet evening stroll, with plenty of casual restaurants along the way. For something guided, consider an after-dark walking tour from local providers like Guidatour. Whether you’re sightseeing or just taking it in, this neighborhood is one of Montreal’s most atmospheric spots after sunset.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada
5. Cruise through Old Montreal in a ’60s Cadillac
If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising Old Montreal in style, this vintage Cadillac tour hits the spot. You’ll glide past cobblestone streets, Notre-Dame Basilica, and Bonsecours Market while your guide mixes history, local stories, and quirky tidbits about the city. It feels more like hanging out with a knowledgeable friend than a formal tour.
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The ride itself steals the show. The convertible Cadillac turns heads everywhere you go, and it’s surprisingly comfortable for an hour-long spin. You can ask questions, linger at your favorite spots, and snap photos without rushing.
I always tell friends to finish the tour with a stroll along Place Jacques-Cartier or pop into a nearby café. The streets are lively at night, and it’s the perfect way to keep the energy going after your Cadillac adventure.
6. Catch a show at Quartier des Spectacles
If you want to experience Montreal’s cultural energy at night, head to Quartier des Spectacles. Located near Place des Arts, this district is the heart of the city’s performing arts scene and hosts everything from theater and dance to outdoor concerts and film screenings. The area is always buzzing, especially during summer festivals like MUTEK, Just for Laughs, and Festival International de Jazz de Montréal.
When no major festival is happening, the Place des Festivals often features free light installations, projections, or pop-up performances. For ticketed events, check out what’s playing at Théâtre Maisonneuve or Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier.
Grab a bite beforehand at nearby restaurants on Boulevard de Maisonneuve, then head into the square to enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you’re into live music, experimental art, or people-watching, Quartier des Spectacles is one of the liveliest nighttime destinations in the city.
7. Watch the sunset from Mount Royal lookout
For panoramic views of Montreal after dark, hike or drive up to Mount Royal Lookout at Kondiaronk Belvedere. From this popular viewpoint, you can see the downtown skyline, St. Lawrence River, and surrounding neighborhoods glowing at night. It’s one of the most scenic—and free—places to spend an evening in the city.
The lookout is accessible by walking trails or by car, with the easiest route starting near Camillien-Houde Way. Sunset is a popular time to go, but the views remain stunning even after nightfall. Streetlights illuminate the trail, and the area is generally safe for nighttime visitors.
Bring a snack or coffee and sit on the stone steps to take it all in. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment or a great photo spot, Mount Royal offers a peaceful break from Montreal’s busier neighborhoods.
8. Unwind at Strøm Nordic Spa on Nuns Island
Need a break from the city lights? Strøm Nordic Spa turns Montreal evenings into a full-on relaxation escape. Just minutes from downtown, you can drift between steamy Finnish saunas, bubbling whirlpools, and bracing ice baths while the world outside slows to a hush. Cozy fireplaces and quiet corners make it easy to sink in and truly unwind.
The spa’s thermal circuit is designed to refresh both body and mind, but there’s freedom to wander between outdoor baths, eucalyptus steam rooms, and indoor relaxation areas at your own pace. Nights here feel surprisingly magical once the city lights start to dim.
Bring a swimsuit and plan to linger for a few hours. If hunger strikes afterward, the café’s charcuterie board is an easy way to cap off a serene night of self-care.
9. Explore Montreal’s underground city
If the weather’s cold or rainy, the Underground City—also known as RÉSO—is one of Montreal’s most practical and interesting nighttime spots. This 33-kilometer network connects shopping centers, hotels, museums, and metro stations, all beneath the city’s streets. In the evening, it’s less crowded and easy to navigate.
Start at Place Ville Marie or Complexe Desjardins, where you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores. The walkways are clean, climate-controlled, and dotted with occasional public art displays.
While most stores close by 9 p.m., some cafés, movie theaters, and gyms stay open later. It’s also a convenient way to reach venues like Place des Arts or Bell Centre without heading outside. Whether you’re escaping the weather or just exploring a unique urban feature, the Underground City offers a different way to experience Montreal after dark.
10. See the stars at Montreal Planetarium
Located within the Space for Life complex, the Montreal Planetarium is a great nighttime stop for those curious about astronomy. Evening shows are presented inside two dome theaters—Chaos and Milky Way—offering immersive programs that explore galaxies, planets, and cosmic phenomena using cutting-edge projection technology.
Most presentations last about 30–45 minutes and are offered in both English and French. Topics vary, from scientific explorations of the solar system to artistic journeys through space. It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a low-key but engaging evening.
Check the schedule ahead of time, especially for limited-run shows or special events like meteor shower nights. The planetarium is easily accessible via Viau Metro Station, and you can pair your visit with a walk in Parc Maisonneuve nearby. For an educational, visually stunning night out, this spot definitely delivers.
11. Grab late-night poutine and smoked meat
Montreal’s food culture thrives after dark, with top-tier restaurants, street eats, and iconic local dishes available well into the night. If you want classic Québécois comfort food, head to La Banquise for 24-hour poutine in dozens of varieties. For a more upscale dinner, Toqué! or Joe Beef offer French-inspired tasting menus worth planning ahead for.
Casual diners should check out Schwartz’s Deli for smoked meat sandwiches or stop by Bouillon Bilk for inventive small plates. On weekends, food trucks gather near Saint-Laurent Boulevard and Jean-Talon Market, serving up everything from tacos to steamed buns.
Many restaurants in Little Italy and Plateau Mont-Royal stay open late and maintain lively atmospheres. Whether you’re in the mood for street food or a reservation-only spot, Montreal offers plenty of late-night options that highlight why it’s considered Canada’s culinary capital.
12. Laugh at a Montreal comedy club
Montreal’s comedy scene goes far beyond the Just for Laughs Festival. Year-round, the city is home to several comedy clubs that spotlight local talent and big-name acts. One of the best-known is The Comedy Nest, located inside the Pepsi Forum, which hosts shows Thursday through Sunday. It’s an affordable, casual venue with a mix of rising comedians and touring headliners.
For something a little different, check out The Wiggle Room, a burlesque and variety venue that often includes stand-up in its programming. Both spots offer a laid-back environment with drinks available throughout the night.
Showtimes typically start around 8 or 9 p.m., so you can grab dinner beforehand. Comedy shows are a great choice for date nights or low-key evenings with friends. With its blend of French and English performers, Montreal brings unique flavor to the stand-up experience.
13. Stroll along the St. Lawrence River at night
A nighttime walk along the St. Lawrence River, especially near the Old Port, is one of Montreal’s most peaceful and scenic experiences. The promenade is well-lit and stretches for several kilometers, offering views of the city skyline, moored boats, and the Jacques Cartier Bridge, which lights up in shifting colors after sunset.
Start your walk at Clock Tower Beach and follow the path west toward the Grande Roue and Marché Bonsecours. The atmosphere is relaxed and safe, making it ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone wanting to unwind after dinner.
In the summer, you might pass street performers or pop-up art installations along the route. Bring a warm drink and take your time—it’s a perfect way to end the evening with views that reflect both the natural and urban sides of the city.
14. Tour the city on a double-decker bus
Hop aboard a double-decker bus for a night tour that lets you see Montreal’s top landmarks lit up after dark. Several companies, including Gray Line Montreal, offer 90-minute evening tours with English- and French-speaking guides. You’ll pass illuminated sites like Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and Mount Royal, all from an open-air upper deck.
Tours usually begin in Old Montreal, and many let you hop on and off at major locations. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in a short time, especially if you’re visiting for the first time or only have one night in the city.
Tickets are affordable, and you don’t need to worry about navigation or parking. For panoramic views and local commentary without the walking, this is one of the easiest and most informative ways to experience Montreal at night.
15. Drink craft beer at Dieu du Ciel
Montreal’s nightlife isn’t complete without a visit to one of its standout bars. For craft beer lovers, Dieu du Ciel! in Mile End is a favorite, known for its rotating taps of small-batch brews and relaxed atmosphere. If cocktails are more your style, head to The Coldroom, a hidden speakeasy tucked behind an unmarked black door near Place d’Armes.
Known for its expertly crafted drinks and cozy, dimly lit interior, it’s a favorite among locals who appreciate inventive cocktails and low-key vibes. Bartenders here are known to customize drinks based on your preferences, making the experience feel personal and elevated.
These spots offer something different but reflect the city’s social, casual, and creative character. You’ll find locals and visitors chatting over drinks, with music in the background and no pressure to rush. These aren’t massive party venues—they’re more about quality drinks, conversation, and atmosphere.
16. Mess with your mind at Museum of Illusions
For something interactive and offbeat, the Museum of Illusions in Old Montreal offers a quirky and fun evening option. Open until 8 p.m. most nights, this indoor attraction features over 70 exhibits that play with perception, color, and balance. Expect mirror mazes, gravity-defying rooms, and visual puzzles that make for great laughs and even better photos.
It’s a compact space, but you can easily spend an hour or more exploring each illusion at your own pace. The museum is kid-friendly, but also enjoyable for adults looking for something playful and different from the typical museum experience.
It’s especially great on rainy nights or when you want something indoors and lighthearted. Located near Rue Saint-Antoine, it’s an easy add-on if you’re already exploring the Old Port area. For a unique nighttime stop, this one checks all the boxes for fun, weird, and memorable.
