Montreal Convention Centre — Attraction in Montreal

Of all Montreal's public art, Jean Paul Riopelle's La Joute remains my favorite—an exceptional representation of natural elements and artistic genius. Located in Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle, this dynamic bronze masterpiece blends mythology, sport, and nature into a single, mesmerizing experience.

Created in the 1970s after Riopelle’s return to Quebec, La Joute reflects his shift from painting to sculpture and his enduring connection to the Automatist movement.

The sculpture features a circular arrangement of figures—athletes, owls, and abstract forms—encircling a fountain that periodically activates with water jets and a ring of fire. This transformation turns the artwork into a living performance of earth, water, fire, and air.

What makes La Joute unforgettable is its public interactivity. Unlike museum pieces, it invites you to walk around it, feel the mist from its fountains, and witness the dramatic ignition of flames. It changes with the seasons—glistening with winter ice or shimmering in summer haze—making each visit unique.

Though Riopelle is now celebrated through major exhibitions and new museum spaces, La Joute remains his most accessible tribute. It requires no ticket, no appointment—just a moment of your time to experience the elemental poetry he left for the city.

A true landmark and a testament to one of Canada’s great artists, La Joute is more than a sculpture—it’s...

The 2025 Montreal Auto Show managed to reignite the passion for cars, even in a time when large events still face challenges. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere is electric—carefully designed lighting, gleaming vehicles, and a curious crowd wandering between the displays like they were strolling through a futuristic art gallery.

One of the highlights this year was the return of iconic brands that had been absent from recent editions. Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, Jeep, and others brought a sense of renewal. Alongside them, up-and-coming players like Lucid Motors and Polestar made a strong impression with their boldly designed electric vehicles.

The themed zones were thoughtfully curated. A private Ferrari collection from entrepreneur Luc Poirier turned plenty of heads, while the Performance Zone, featuring customized cars, attracted tuning and car mod enthusiasts. And the electric vehicle test drives? Getting behind the wheel and experiencing the smooth, silent ride firsthand was a great way to connect with the future of driving.

Sure, some big names like Honda, Porsche, and BMW were noticeably missing—gaps that hopefully will be filled next year. But overall, the show delivered an immersive, forward-thinking experience full of exciting discoveries, proving once again that Montreal remains a must-visit destination for...

After Covid-19 Some restaurants close early. Tim Horton's has no seating available because seating has bern removed. Don't know how safe it is. A few security guards, not sure if English friendly. Lady was standing outside bathroom just staring as I washed my hands. Did feel vulnerable. When it is busy creepiness is less visible, IMO. Obvious homeless situation near entrance doors and sometimes inside.

Before Covid-19 Really nice building; great view of Basillica; lots of entrances; has access to underground city and Place d’Armes Metro. Security guard standing by bathroom wouldn't say how long bathrooms were open til. He wouldn't or couldn't speak in English and looked disgusted when I asked in French and he said he didn't know and put his earphone piece back in his ear. I asked another guard and he actually called in to find out and told me subway was open until 1:00 AM but wasn't clear whether bathrooms stayed open til 10:00 PM or 1:00 AM. On new Year's Eve though metro is supposed to run all night. Some of the ghetto stuff outside was depressing to look at. Finding out what was open and what would be closed during New Year holidays was made to be difficult, time consuming and unpleasant. Few places posted their holiday hours, which made planning difficult and felt more provincial than a world...