Montreal Biodome is an indoor nature museum and zoo in Olympic Park, at 4777 Avenue Pierre-de-Coubertin. Walk through recreated habitats of the Americas, from tropical forest to polar environments, and look for penguins, otters, lynx and smaller animals tucked among the plants. The building began as the velodrome for the 1976 Olympic Games and reopened as the Biodome in 1992. Touchscreens and other interactive displays add an educational element, making this a good stop for families and anyone interested in wildlife, whatever the weather outside.
From Olympic velodrome to Biodome
The Biodome occupies the former velodrome built for the 1976 Montréal Olympic Games. The building was converted into an indoor nature attraction and opened to visitors in 1992. Its original sporting purpose gives the visit an unusual setting: instead of viewing the space as a stadium, you move through environments designed around plants and animals.
The Biodome is part of Montréal’s Space for Life complex. Other venues in the complex include the Botanical Garden, the Insectarium and the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium. The Olympic Park setting also puts the Biodome near other attractions, so it can fit into a day focused on the area.
Walking through the habitats
The visit takes you through recreated environments from the Americas, including tropical forest, Laurentian forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence and polar or subpolar regions. The changing habitats bring together plants and animals associated with each setting. In the tropical forest, look up among the foliage for birds and monkeys; in colder environments, watch for penguins. Otters and lynx are among the animals associated with the forest habitats.
Some animals are small or partly hidden among plants and habitat details, so take your time looking around rather than moving quickly from one section to the next. The Biodome also uses touchscreens and other interactive displays to support learning about the environments. This combination of animal viewing and exhibits can keep children engaged while giving adults context for what they see.
Planning time for a visit
The Biodome is indoors, which makes it an option in hot, wet or cold weather. It can draw crowds, especially at busy times, so weekdays or off-peak hours are a practical choice if you prefer more space. Buying tickets online can also save time at the entrance. Comfortable shoes help with walking through the different habitats.
To make a longer Olympic Park visit, consider pairing the Biodome with another Space for Life venue, such as the Planetarium, Botanical Garden or Insectarium. The Biodome itself can take a substantial part of the day, particularly if you stop to watch animals and use the interactive exhibits.
FAQ
Where is the Montreal Biodome?
It is at 4777 Avenue Pierre-de-Coubertin in Montréal’s Olympic Park.
What can you see at the Montreal Biodome?
You can walk through recreated habitats of the Americas, including tropical forest, Laurentian forest, the Gulf of St. Lawrence and polar or subpolar environments. Animals include penguins, otters and lynx.
How long should you allow for the Montreal Biodome?
A visit can take a substantial part of the day, especially if you stop to watch the animals and explore the interactive displays.
Is the Montreal Biodome indoors?
Yes. It is an indoor attraction, so the habitats can be explored in any weather.
