Place des Arts

Place des Arts is Montreal's largest cultural complex, located in the Westmount area (though actually in the Quartier des Spectacles). It comprises six performance venues, including the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier (home to the Montreal Symphony Orchestra), the Théâtre Maisonneuve, and the Cinquième Salle. The complex hosts a diverse array of events, from classical concerts and opera to contemporary dance, theater, and film festivals. The outdoor Esplanade is a lively public space used for free concerts, art installations, and the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Visitors can explore the underground network connecting to the Musée d'art contemporain and the Place des Arts metro station. The architecture is a mix of 1960s modernism and recent renovations, with glass facades and open spaces that invite exploration. Whether you're attending a performance or simply strolling through, Place des Arts is a hub of Montreal's creative energy.

Don't miss

• Catch a performance by the Montreal Symphony Orchestra in Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier
• Explore the outdoor Esplanade during summer festivals
• Visit the adjacent Musée d'art contemporain for modern art
• See a play or dance show in one of the intimate theaters
• Enjoy free outdoor concerts and events year-round

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Place des Arts

Cheapest way inMontreal City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based4.6★ · 136 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedParis Montmartre Walking Tour Best Art Culture and Food4.9★ · 2,820 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleCity tour; Like a Montrealer5★ · 12 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$126 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Check the schedule in advance; many shows sell out quickly.
• Dress in layers; theaters can be air-conditioned in summer.
• Nearby restaurants and cafes offer pre-show dining options.
• The metro station connects directly to the complex underground.

A bit of history

Place des Arts opened in 1963 as part of Montreal's cultural renaissance during the Quiet Revolution. It was expanded in the 1990s and 2000s to include additional venues and the Esplanade.