La Piscinette isn’t just a clever name—it’s Montreal’s first public pool built into a shipping container, and a lifeline for Centre-Sud residents sweating through the city’s rising heat waves. Planted in the middle of Parc Jos-Montferrand, this compact, saltwater pool maxes out at 20 swimmers, but the surrounding setup makes it feel like more than just a dip. Think hammocks, parasols, sand underfoot, and a stash of books, toys, and board games courtesy of the local library. Born as a pilot project in 2022, it’s since become a full-blown seasonal fixture, with beach volleyball, family programming, and free yoga and dance classes rounding out the vibe. It’s free, it’s smart, and—unlike most civic infrastructure—it actually feels human-scaled. No wonder locals hope it spreads. When a neighbourhood has zero other outdoor pools, a well-placed shipping container can go a long way.
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The best indoor and outdoor pools in Montreal
Here’s where Montrealers actually go to cool off when the city starts to sweat: No hotel key cards, no rooftop DJs, just solid public swimming options.
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