Now that the warmer weather is here (hurrah!) I’m looking to explore more of the city with my children and discovering new parks is an easy way to take the children along, play outside and get out of our little corner of Montreal. I’ll only be featuring parks that I feel are special in some way that make them worth the trip.
A friend suggested we head to Parc Jeanne-Mance and I was happy she did. It’s got a huge play area and a beautiful view towards the mountain (if you can ignore busy Avenue du Parc in-between).
Everything looked new to me and the play structures were pretty unique. In addition to multiple play areas for different ages there are quite a few musical structures like these giant tubes that you can hit with a mallet.
There was also this vertical xylophone (?) which the little ones really got into and you could even play the benches.
There’s quite a bit of sand, so bring your sand toys, and the little kids area is gated. Unfortunately, it looks like some of the new playground equipment either had defaults or was deemed to dangerous (my guess!) and it is fenced off.
If you want a quick change of pace, the insanely popular tam tams are just across the street on Sundays around the statue and you can always take a walk up the mountain. Just a warning that the path up the mountain is gravel and a bit bumpy in a regular stroller. If you want to walk up the mountain with a stroller I strongly suggest heading through the paved cemetery.
The boring but essential details:
Parking – We drove and parking was pretty slim but OK. But you can see the park in the photos is pretty empty. When we drove past again a little later the park was FULL and I can imagine parking would have been a nightmare. Either arrive early or take public transit.
Toilets – There are public toilets close by. My son had to use them and I asked my husband to rate cleanliness. He gave them a 4/10 on a Sunday morning before they had been in major use. So, take that as you will.
Want more ideas with the kids? See my Montreal Kid Activity category.
Have you ever been to Parc Jeanne-Mance? Do you know any other parks in Montreal that are destination worthy?
Michelle Little
Writer & Photographer
