Attractions and Places To See around La Prairie - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around La Prairie include a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. Situated on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River, the region offers a tranquil setting with access to various points of interest. Old La Prairie, a provincial heritage site, showcases centuries of history through its historic buildings and archaeological remains. The area also features green spaces and waterfront views along the Saint Lawrence River, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
…Last updated: May 4, 2026
Saint-Gabriel Lock (Lachine Canal)
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Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
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Old Port of Montreal
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Jacques Cartier Square
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Cycling on the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit
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The Old Port of Montreal is the historic port on the Saint Lawrence and was first used as a trading post by French fur traders in 1611. In 1976, Montreal's Port operations were moved east to its current location. The Old Port was redeveloped in the early 1990s and is now a recreational and historic area that attracts millions of tourists annually. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Montreal
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Here at the old harbor, the ferries depart for the islands in the St. Lawrence River. Pay attention to the timetables, as the return journey can be long...
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Long before Place Jacques-Cartier was created, the area served as a natural meeting place. Originally, an Indian trail crossed it, and it was home to indigenous peoples who farmed and fished nearby. Later, a governor established his residence here. Subsequently, the square became the "New Market," a covered market, until 1847, when it was replaced by the Bonsecours Market, becoming a center of city life. In the mid-19th century, the square was officially named Place Jacques-Cartier in honor of the French explorer. The 35-meter-high Nelson Monument stands at Place Jacques-Cartier. Built in 1809, the monument pays homage to the English naval hero who defeated the French at Trafalgar. https://aviewoncities.com/montreal/place-jacques-cartier
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Notre-Dame Basilica is the Catholic mother church of Montreal and was the first Gothic Revival church in Canada. In 1982, Notre-Dame, then a cathedral, was elevated to the rank of minor basilica by Pope John Paul II and designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989. https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en/history-and-heritage
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I love riding on the Gilles Villeneuve circuit. Very impressive,
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Very beautiful lock, lots of walkers
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The Old Port of Montreal (French: Vieux-Port de Montréal) is the historic port of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Located adjacent to Old Montreal, it stretches for over 2 km (1.2 mi) along the Saint Lawrence River. It was used as early as 1611, when French fur traders used it as a trading post. Hit the ice and take a spin in a winter wonderland on the magnificent skating rink. Enjoy some fine dining aboard Le Bateau-Mouche and the beauty of the city skyline from up above on La Grande Roue de Montréal. Pamper yourself at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau. Dance under the stars at the New Year's Eve or the Igloofest festival. Come enjoy the magic of winter at the Old Port of Montréal!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in La Prairie?
La Prairie is rich in history. You can delve into three centuries of history in Old La Prairie (Vieux-La Prairie), a provincial heritage site with historic buildings and archaeological remains. The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, known for its Gothic Revival architecture and intricate interior, is also a significant historical landmark nearby. Additionally, the Roussillon Archaeology Museum offers a journey through over 5,000 years of regional history with immersive exhibitions.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in La Prairie?
Yes, La Prairie offers several family-friendly options. The Roussillon Archaeology Museum provides hands-on activities, including archaeological excavation simulations, which are great for all ages. The Saint-Gabriel Lock (Lachine Canal) is interesting for families to observe how ships are raised and lowered. For outdoor fun, Bassin-de-La Prairie Park is popular for water sports, and the Old Port of Montreal offers an amusement park, zipline, and a Ferris wheel.
What natural features and green spaces can I visit in La Prairie?
La Prairie boasts beautiful natural settings. You can visit Bassin-de-La Prairie Park along the South Shore Canal of the St. Lawrence Seaway, which is great for water sports and connects to a riverside bike path. The city also features lush green parks and scenic waterfront views along the Saint Lawrence River. The Grand Boise Conservation Park is a key environmental project focused on preserving local wildlife and plant species, offering a place to explore nature.
Where can I go for outdoor activities like hiking or running near La Prairie?
There are several options for outdoor activities. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the Pointe Longue Bird Sanctuary loop or the Laprairie Pond loop. If you're interested in running, there are moderate running loops available, such as the Rivière Saint-Jacques loop from La Prairie. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around La Prairie and Running Trails around La Prairie guides.
Are there cycling opportunities around La Prairie?
Absolutely! La Prairie is great for cycling. You can experience Cycling on the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit, where you can ride the same track used by F1 cars. Additionally, there are road cycling routes like the Samuel de Champlain Bridge loop or the La Prairie Village Center loop. More cycling routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around La Prairie guide.
What is the significance of Old La Prairie?
Old La Prairie (Vieux-La Prairie) was declared a provincial heritage site in 1975. It allows visitors to explore three centuries of history through its well-preserved village center, historic buildings, and archaeological remains. There are interpretive signs along a trail, and you can use a smartphone for an immersive experience with an interactive map and audio capsules highlighting points of interest.
Can I learn about the region's past at a museum?
Yes, the Roussillon Archaeology Museum (ArchéoMusée Roussillon), located in the heart of Old La Prairie, is dedicated to the region's history. It showcases over 5,000 years of the area's past, from prehistoric times to the present, through immersive exhibitions and interactive activities.
What is the best time to visit La Prairie for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the presence of water sports at Bassin-de-La Prairie Park and the mention of a pedestrian plaza (Place Jacques-Cartier) being open in summer suggest that the warmer months, typically late spring through early autumn, would be ideal for enjoying most outdoor activities and attractions in La Prairie.
Are there any notable religious or architectural landmarks?
The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, featuring a deep blue ceiling with golden stars and intricate wooden carvings. Within Old La Prairie, the historic Church of La Nativité de la Vierge-Marie is also a significant landmark, offering guided tours that explore its interior and crypt.
What is there to see at the Old Port of Montreal?
The Old Port of Montreal is a vibrant area offering an amusement park with a zipline, various stalls, restaurants, a beautiful promenade, and a Ferris wheel. It's also where ferries depart for islands in the St. Lawrence River and is home to the Science Center.
What kind of historical information can I find about Fort Laprairie?
While no visible remains exist today, Fort Laprairie National Historic Site of Canada holds profound historical significance. Built in 1687, it served as a crucial defensive outpost for Montreal and a refuge for settlers until 1713. Its trapezoidal shape even influenced the layout of the surrounding roads and lots, making it an important part of the region's early history.
What is the Jacques Cartier Square known for?
Jacques Cartier Square is a lively pedestrian plaza in Old Montreal, especially vibrant in summer. It connects Rue Notre-Dame to the Old Port and is known for its tourist vocation, featuring flower dealers, caricaturists, and other entertainers.
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