The Montreal Biosphere is a popular city landmark, with its striking lattice-shelled sphere visible from many parts of Montreal. See the structure up close while exploring Jean-Drapeau Park (Parc Jean-Drapeau) on foot or by bike or by following snowshoe and cross-country trails through the park in winter.
Some Montreal sightseeing passes include access to the biosphere’s exhibitions, which focus on environmental issues. Permanent exhibits inside the museum include “+1°C What Difference Does it Make?,” which looks at the effects of global warming, and “Renewable Energy: Time to Decide,” which explores alternative energy sources.
The Montreal Biosphere is a must for architecture enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in environmental sustainability.
Drinking fountains and picnic areas can be found in the surrounding Jean-Drapeau Park.
The biosphere is wheelchair accessible.
Montreal Biosphere in Jean-Drapeau Park spans two islands—St. Helen's Island and Notre Dame Island—in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. To get there, ride the Yellow Line Metro to Jean-Drapeau station. From there, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the biosphere.
The biosphere is open year-round, though opening days vary according to season, and the museum typically closes for a few weeks during the Christmas and New Year’s period. The best time to visit is summer as warm weather allows visitors to enjoy all that Jean-Drapeau Park has to offer.
Originally designed for Expo 67, the biosphere was first covered by a clear acrylic coating but this was destroyed during a major fire in 1976. The biosphere remained closed from that time until the opening of the museum in 1995. For sci-fi fans, the structure may be familiar, having appeared inBattlestar Galactica and Robert Altman’s 1979 film,Quintet.
