A local's guide to the best things to do in Montreal [February 2025]

February in Montreal isn’t for hibernating—it’s for stepping into a city that knows how to light up the cold. MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE takes over downtown with art, music, and late-night energy, while Nuit Blanche keeps the party going till sunrise.

But it’s not all high-octane. This is also the season for après-ski vibes without the ski pass, winter markets stocked with local finds, and brunches worth waking up early for (or rolling into late). There’s a free snow park in the city core, a legendary mountain to climb, and heated terrasses that make winter dining a mood. And if you need an escape, the Eastern Townships are right there, waiting.

Whether you’re here for the nightlife, the food, the shopping, or just to touch some actual grass (even in February), this is the best of Montreal right now.

Map out your nights at the MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE festival and Nuit Blanche

 For nearly 25 years, MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE has been proof that this city doesn’t just endure winter—it thrives in it. The festival floods downtown with larger-than-life light installations, outdoor performances, and culinary events featuring world-class chefs. Then there’s Nuit Blanche, the festival’s all-night finale, where art spaces, galleries, and pop-ups stay open till sunrise, turning the city into a playground for the sleep-optional. Whether you’re chasing light shows, late-night eats, or an unexpected adventure, this is winter done right.

Slide through downtown Montreal's free city core snow park

Montreal has plenty of hills for winter thrills, but only one official downtown snow park—and it’s free. The Glissades Gamelin has three slopes, six trails, and options for snowskates, snow scooters, or classic sleds, this setup is built for all levels, whether you’re chasing speed or just here for the vibes. Need a break? Warm up in the heated chalet or grab a coffee before heading back out. Bonus: show your sliding pass for discounts at select Village and Quartier Latin businesses, plus eats at LE CENTRAL. Winter just got a little more fun—until March 9th, anyway.

Climb and explore Montreal’s namesake, Mont-Royal

Montreal’s namesake of Mount Royal is so much more than a scenic backdrop. It’s the city’s backyard, workout spot, and unofficial gathering place.

In winter, Mont-Royal transforms into a snow-draped playground, with trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, plus unbeatable skyline views from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. Got energy to burn? Climb the 400+ steps for a lung-busting ascent. More of a glide-down type? Beaver Lake is your go-to for skating or sledding. Whether you’re here for the exercise or just to soak in the crisp winter air, this is Montreal at its purest.

Dine on the latest and greatest 

Montreal’s dining scene never sleeps, and every season brings a new wave of openings worth your appetite. From innovative tasting menus to casual spots redefining comfort food, the city is constantly upping its game. Whether you’re craving something bold, nostalgic, or entirely unexpected, this is where to find the freshest talent and the most exciting plates right now. Don’t get stuck in a routine—explore what’s new on Montreal's collective table.

Explore the city’s upsurge in cowboy core

Montreal might not be the Wild West, but cowboy culture is having a moment—think bolo ties at dive bars, country nights in Mile End, and a full-blown honky-tonk revival. From vintage Western wear to dance halls serving up two-step lessons, the city is leaning into its long-overlooked frontier roots. Whether you’re in it for the fashion, the music, or just an excuse to break out the boots, now’s the time to ride the wave.

Settle in for live jazz at a Montreal institution

Montreal’s jazz scene runs deep, and a night at a proper jazz club is still one of the best ways to take it in. Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill is a mainstay, offering a mix of local talent and international acts in a setting that keeps the focus on the music. Whether you’re settling in for dinner or just grabbing a drink at the bar, the vibe is intimate, the sound is rich, and the lineup rarely misses. Here’s why Upstairs still sets the standard.

Plan a date night that actually feels special

Montreal doesn’t do romance halfway. Whether it’s a candlelit bistro, a vibey wine bar, or a spot that makes even a casual night out feel like something more. From timeless French classics to intimate hideaways with natural wine and shareable plates, the city has no shortage of settings for a memorable evening. Whether it’s a first date, an anniversary, or just a good excuse to dress up, here’s where to go when you want to impress.

Dig through Montreal’s best record shops and bookstores

For those who love the thrill of the hunt, Montreal’s indie record and bookstores are goldmines. Cheap Thrills has been a go-to for vinyl heads and underground finds for decades, while Encore Books & Records offers a treasure trove of used books and rare LPs, complete with a staff that knows their stuff. Whether you’re after first editions, forgotten gems, or just a place to lose track of time, the best bookstores in Montreal deliver.

Touch grass during the winter months

When the city feels like an ice planet, a little greenery goes a long way. The Biodôme offers a full climate shift—walk from the tropics to the Laurentian forest without leaving the building, complete with lush flora and free-roaming wildlife. For something quieter, the Westmount Library’s greenhouse is a hidden gem, where you can warm up among towering plants with a book in hand. Both spots prove you don’t need to wait for spring to touch grass.

Working for the weekend? Plan a brunch

 You’ve made it through the week—now it’s time to do brunch right. Go all in with a feast at Larrys, where the small plates lineup never misses, or lean into old-school diner comfort at Arthurs Nosh Bar. If you’re chasing that perfect pastry-to-coffee ratio, Butterblume has you covered. And for those who like their eggs with a side of natural wine, Janine Café delivers. However you brunch, make it count. Here’s where to find the best in Montreal.

Explore the seasons at local markets

Montreal’s public markets don’t shut down when the cold rolls in, they just swap strawberries for squash and patios for steaming cups of cider. Jean-Talon Market stays lively with local produce, fresh bread, and Québécois cheeses, while Atwater Market keeps the seasonal spirit alive with butchers, bakers, and gourmet staples. Whether you’re hunting for peak-season ingredients, a quick bite, or just an excuse to wander, these markets are the city’s best reminder that good food is always in season.

Treat yourself with unique boutiques in Montreal

Montreal’s boutique scene is built for those who like their shopping with a little more personality. Whether it’s curated vintage, indie fashion labels, handcrafted home goods, or design-forward accessories, the city’s independent shops offer a mix you won’t find anywhere else. From tucked-away ateliers to beautifully designed concept stores, these spots make browsing as much of an experience as the buy itself. Ready to splurge a little? Here’s where to start.

Catch pop-ups and weekend events before they're gone

Montreal moves fast—one weekend it’s a buzzy food pop-up, the next it’s a secret vinyl market or an underground art show. Blink and you’ll miss something great. Stay ahead of the game with The Bulletin, our weekly rundown of the best things happening in the city. From last-minute shows to can’t-miss openings, we’ve got your weekend plans covered. Subscribe here and never miss out.

Catch a Montreal Canadiens or Laval Rocket game

Hockey is a cultural cornerstone in Montreal. A night at the Bell Centre watching the Canadiens is as electric as it gets, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the atmosphere (and the steamies). Want a closer look at the future of the game? The Laval Rocket deliver fast-paced action with a rowdier, up-close experience at Place Bell. Either way, you’re in for big energy, big hits, and a crowd that lives and breathes every play.

Take in winter dining and après-ski vibes without leaving the city

You don’t need to leave the city to channel full après-ski energy—Montreal’s restaurants and bars have mastered the art of cozy winter dining. Think hearty dishes, roaring fireplaces, and heated outdoor setups that make braving the cold worth it. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine on a terrasse, tucking into a fondue spread, or settling into a chalet-style spot with comfort food that sticks, this is how winter should taste. Here’s where to find the best spots. 

Plan a getaway to the Eastern Townships

Sometimes the best way to enjoy winter in Montreal is to leave it—at least for a weekend. The Eastern Townships offer the perfect mix of small-town charm, rolling landscapes, and cozy stays, whether you’re in for a ski trip, a wine-fuelled retreat, or just a quiet escape from the city. From boutique inns to forest cabins, there’s no shortage of spots to unwind, recharge, and maybe even slow down a little.