The Word Bookstore is a timeless literary enclave tucked into a 19th-century brick building on Milton Street, just steps from McGill University. Operating since 1975, this secondhand bookshop is the heartbeat of Montreal’s literary scene, celebrated for its meticulously curated selection of used books, including rare finds and $1 gems. Overflowing shelves, a warm gas stove, and a single antique armchair evoke a bygone era where books—and the community around them—are the soul of the space.

Founder Adrian King-Edwards, who began his venture selling paperbacks from his apartment, has cultivated The Word into a haven for students, poets, and bibliophiles. It’s a place where Montreal’s English-language poetry community found its roots, with readings and salons shaping its storied legacy.

With no computers, electronic cash registers, or even a sign outside, The Word is a portal to simpler times.

A no-frills Vietnamese spot that’s been feeding Milton-Parc since 1976, Au 14 is as homey as they come. The décor is worn but warm, and that’s exactly the charm. This family-run standby has been serving comforting Vietnamese staples to students, neighbours, and longtime regulars alike for years. Here, you’ll find fragrant and restorative pho, crisp spring rolls, and unfussy but deeply satisfying stir fries. Three generations have kept the place going and it shows in the food, which is filling, consistent, and surprisingly affordable. Even after a fire forced them to relocate from Sherbrooke Street, their clientele followed without hesitation. Today, Cindy and her family still run the room with warmth, quietly maintaining one of Milton-Parc’s most enduring restaurants.

Farrouj Express doesn’t look like much at first—just a glowing counter tucked in the basement food court of Place du Parc. But behind the styrofoam containers and neon signs is one of the most consistent Lebanese counters in the city. Run by a warm and welcoming family team, they turn out juicy chicken shawarma, smoky beef doner, and perfectly crisp falafel, all served with seasoned rice, garlic potatoes, fresh salads, and housemade sauces. The menu is sprawling, but everything tastes like it came from the same trusted kitchen. Filet mignon brochettes? Done to a proper medium. Merguez couscous? Generous and well-spiced. Even the vegetarian plate holds its own. Regulars know to head downstairs, grab a tray, and claim a seat in the food court—Farrouj may not be fancy, but it’s the kind of place that quietly earns a following for a reason.

This shop doesn’t rely on hype—it’s built entirely on taste and the person behind it. Known mostly by word of mouth, this vintage boutique specializes in sharply curated menswear, with an emphasis on leather jackets, tailored suits, and classic accessories that punch above their weight. Think high-quality fabrics, timeless cuts, and a layout that feels more showroom than secondhand.

What really sets it apart is the owner, whose encyclopedic knowledge of vintage fashion and design is matched only by his warmth. Whether you’re on a mission or just browsing, he’ll talk you through the history and craft behind every piece—often sparking conversations that outlast the shopping. Prices reflect the quality, but most leave feeling they’ve scored something special, not just another thrift find.

Even if you’re not in the market for a jacket or tie, this place is worth a visit. For some, it’s a one-time stop. For others, it’s the only place they’ll shop again. Either way, you’ll remember it.

De Stiil Books is a testament to how personal passion can transform a space. Opened in 2020 by author and former fashion designer Aude Le Dubé, this independent bookstore on Duluth Avenue is as thoughtfully curated as it is charming. Specializing in culture-forward nonfiction and buzzworthy novels, De Stiil offers a selection that feels intimate but never sparse—every title on the shelves has been handpicked with purpose.

The minimalist, sunlit shop invites exploration, whether you’re seeking a new favourite or trusting Le Dubé’s discerning eye for recommendations. Beyond the books, De Stiil is a community hub, hosting writing classes, author talks, and even weekly reading hours where attendees check their phones at the door, fully immersing themselves in the joy of words. Stylish yet unpretentious, De Stiil is a reminder that sometimes the perfect escape is just a good book away.

Else’s looks like your classic Plateau pub—cozy, cluttered with knick-knacks, and the kind of place that feels lived-in. Step inside, and you’ll find a menu of comforting bar food that’s anything but basic at this local institution. Pulled pork, butter chicken, mac ’n’ cheese, shrimp tacos, and vegetarian-friendly options are satisfying and delicious, often paired with a pint from the draft selection. The kitchen keeps things inventive yet approachable, turning simple ingredients into elevated comfort food without breaking the bank. Whether you’re settling in for lunch, dinner, or a late-night pint, Else’s quietly does double duty as a beloved neighbourhood bar and comfort-food spot.

The McCord Stewart Museum offers a vibrant window into Montreal’s social history, capturing the city’s evolving identity through an impressive collection of 1.5 million artifacts. Located across from McGill University’s main campus, this mid-sized museum covers everything from fashion and textiles to photographs and decorative arts. Its crown jewel, the Notman Photographic Archives, offers a sweeping visual history of Montreal, while temporary exhibitions draw crowds year-round.

For those seeking a deeper dive, the museum’s extensive archives and historical walking tours provide immersive explorations of Montreal’s heritage. Don’t miss the seasonal Urban Forest, an outdoor space that brings artistically simulated nature to downtown Montreal each summer.

Turbo Haüs offers Montrealers a vibrant DIY venue for musicians and community to collide. Evolving from its earlier incarnations, this place balances its own edgy charm with inclusivity, with features including cheap food and drinks alongside a reliable performance space.

It’s also a hub for eclectic events—think live performances, trivia nights, and comedy shows—all curated to appeal to a broad audience. Whether you’re a punk fan, a local student, or someone exploring the city’s cultural offerings, Turbo Haüs provides a welcoming environment for connection and creativity.

Parc La Fontaine is the Plateau’s backyard, a sprawling green expanse where Montrealers claim their patch of grass for picnics, pétanque, or a midday nap under the towering trees. In summer, the park’s pond reflects the city’s energy, with fountains spraying mist into the air and Théâtre de Verdure hosting free outdoor performances. When winter sets in, that same pond transforms into an open-air skating rink, complete with rentals and music. Sports fields, tennis courts, and bocce lanes keep the competitive types busy, while playgrounds and wading pools cater to kids. The park’s network of trails makes it a prime spot for cycling and cross-country skiing, with enough tree cover to make you forget you’re still in the middle of the city. Steps from the Plateau’s best cafés and bars, it’s the kind of place you pass through—and somehow end up staying all day.

Cinéma du Parc is where Montreal’s art film enthusiasts have gone for bold and eclectic programming that showcases the best international films since 1976. Originally called Cinéma La Cité, it has evolved over the years while staying true to its mission of connecting Montreal’s diverse, bilingual film community with culture. Reinvigorated in 2006, the cinema now blends old and new, keeping its 35mm projectors for retrospectives and special events while adding modern digital equipment and comfy renovated seating.

As part of a non-profit collective with Cinéma Beaubien and Cinéma du Musée, Cinéma du Parc is a hub that celebrates storytelling and creativity through a myriad of festivals, themed screenings, or hidden gems from around the world.