Museum · Ville-Marie

Chateau Ramezay Historic Site and Museum of Montreal

4 · 649 reviews Travelers Choice
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Chateau Ramezay Historic Site and Museum of Montreal is a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion that once served as the residence of Montreal's French governor. Today, it offers visitors a captivating journey through the city's past, from its Indigenous roots to the present day. The museum's permanent collection includes over 30,000 artifacts, including furniture, paintings, and decorative arts, displayed in period rooms that evoke the elegance of New France. The highlight for many is the Governor's Garden, a recreated colonial garden with medicinal and culinary plants. Located in the heart of Old Montreal, the museum provides a intimate and immersive experience, distinct from larger institutions, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Don't miss

  • Period rooms recreating 18th- and 19th-century life
  • The Governor's Garden with heirloom plants
  • Exhibits on Montreal's Indigenous and colonial history
  • Temporary art and history exhibitions

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Chateau Ramezay Historic Site and Museum of Montreal

You can visit on your own (Paid entry, check official site for current prices and discounts for students, seniors, and families). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
251
4 star
288
3 star
93
2 star
14
1 star
3

Know before you go

  • Allow at least 1.5 hours to explore the museum and garden.
  • Audio guides are available in several languages.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas, but no flash in the period rooms.
  • The garden is a peaceful spot to rest; it's free to enter with museum admission.

A bit of history

Built in 1705 for Governor Claude de Ramezay, the chateau later housed the British governors and was the headquarters of the American Continental Army in 1775–76. It became a museum in 1895, one of the oldest in Quebec.

Common questions

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes, there are interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities, but some rooms may be less engaging for very young kids.

How long does it take to visit?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours.

Is there a café on site?

No, but there are many cafés and restaurants nearby in Old Montreal.

Can I take photos?

Yes, non-flash photography is allowed in most areas.

Is the garden open year-round?

The garden is open from May to October, weather permitting.

Is the museum accessible by public transit?

Yes, the Champ-de-Mars metro station is a 5-minute walk away.

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