3 essential winter activities on the South Shore
Montréal’s South Shore has lots of unique activities and experiences, both indoors and out, that are perfect for cold winter days. Here are my favourites, all of which are easy to get to by public transit.
Exporail in Saint-Constant: a trip back in time
Exporail — accessible via bus lines 153 and 155—is located at the Canadian Railway Museum in Saint-Constant. It’s a veritable gold mine for train enthusiasts and history buffs, but that’s not all! With an impressive collection of more than 140 railcars, Exporail invites you to travel back in time. You’ll find steam locomotives as well as rolling stock from every era, including some that look just like Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Express! The museum is lively and interactive, with train rides available in the summer and special events on the weekends, such as their Murder at the Museum mystery game. I really loved my visit, and I’m sure it would even win over people who aren’t big fans of museums!
Skating on the Chambly Locks: a winter rediscovery
In winter, the Canal de Chambly — accessible via bus lines 105, 106 and 481—transforms its frozen locks into a magnificent open-air skating rink. It’s the perfect occasion to (re)discover this historical site in a unique way. The canal is 20 km long and located in a picturesque setting, bordered by paths that are ideal for a leisurely stroll. Lacing up your skates and gliding along the ice provides a fresh perspective of this history-filled site, while allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and take in the natural beauty of the winter scenery. It’s an activity that’s 100% relaxing and ideal for those looking to recharge their batteries, both physically and mentally.
Sledding at Parc Gérard-Laframboise in Saint-Philippe: winter fun for everyone
To top off your classic winter experience, a trip to Parc Gérard-Laframboise in Saint-Philippe—accessible via bus line 134—for some sledding is an absolute must. With its groomed toboggan runs that will delight sledders of all ages, the park is the ultimate destination for those who like to burn energy and have fun outdoors. The activity is free, making it a great way to enjoy some winter fun without breaking the bank!
In my opinion, these three activities attest to the wide variety of fun things to do on the South Shore. And what do they all have in common? They’re accessible by public transit via the exo network, making them easy to get to and allowing everyone to discover—or rediscover—these local treasures, especially if you’re coming from Montréal and don’t own a car.
Mangozzle has called Montréal’s South Shore home for several years, sharing her daily life and recommendations for places to visit, activities to do, delicious things to eat and lots more through photos and videos on Instagram and TikTok.
