Spring in Montreal isn't just about shedding those winter layers; it's about rekindling the flame or sparking a new one with fresh, fun date ideas that make the most of the city's thawing charm. As the snow melts and the trees begins to bloom, so too should your romantic endeavours.
Montreal is bursting with unique experiences that can turn any regular outing into a memorable meetup, from sipping on seasonal cocktails at a trendy Lebanese restaurant to stretching out with adorable puppies. And for those looking for a bit of competition, you can challenge your date to a claw machine showdown to find the best plush prizes.
So grab your partner, ditch the down jackets, and try out some of these Montreal date ideas:
Share a cocktail tree at SHAY
Where: 1414, rue Notre-Dame Ouest
Cost $160
Reason to try: The cocktail tree served at this Lebanese restaurant in Griffintown features eight unique seasonal drinks, so you and your date can swap sips and steal favourites. When presented to your table, you'll get an explanation of the concoctions' origins and ingredients before they're topped with fresh garnishes, and maybe even flambéed for a dramatic effect. The colourful assortment, featuring glasses of all shapes and sizes, will turn your table into a shareable spectacle. Finishing them all might be a stretch, but the fun is in the attempt – and the inevitable mix-up of whose drink is whose.
Taste test some viral street food in Chinatown
Where: 52a, rue De la Gauchetière Ouest
Reason to try: These glistening, candied fruit skewers, called Tanghulu, mix the tartness of fresh fruit with a crunchy sugar coating, which can be an unexpected combination of textures and flavours. Originating from Northern China, the viral treats have made their way from viral TikTok fame to Montreal's Chinatown. You and your date can check out the trend together while exploring the area, maybe ducking into tea shops or chatting it up in Place Sun-Yat-Sen. And if those sugar-coated delights hit the sweet spot, why not roll up your sleeves for a DIY Tanghulu session next time? It's a fun, hands-on activity, a test of teamwork, and a chance to recreate those street market vibes at home.
Have a blind date with a book from PULP
Where: 3952, rue Wellington
Cost: $1
Reason to try: A loonie goes a long way with the Pulp Random Book Recommendation Machine. You and your date can each get a surprise book suggestion and a discount on any purchases. It's a fun, low-stakes gamble that could lead to discovering a new favourite together. The chance of snagging a free coffee voucher also means your date could extend from book browsing to coffee sipping in no time. It’s a playful, budget-friendly way to enjoy an afternoon together. Plus, it adds an element of mystery and surprise to your date, setting the stage for interesting conversations.
Get a self-guided view of the city with TourBird
Cost: $20/two hours
Reason to try: This Montreal startup's self-guided audio tours let you and your date walk at your own pace, and find out the stories behind street art, local history, and city sights you never noticed before. One tour will take you across Square Victoria, past a unique metro station entrance, where you'll learn about the architecture of rue McGill and iconic buildings in the Old Port area, including Habitat 67. Another walks you through the meaning behind the murals around boulevard Saint-Laurent, including Kevin Ledo's hommage to Montreal's singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen who lived in the neighbourhood. Plus, it’s a great way to spark conversation and enjoy each other's company without the usual date distractions.
Pick up some plushies at Claw Sur-Prize
Where: 1181, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest
Cost: About $20 for two dozen coins
Reason to try: You can challenge your date to a friendly face-off among life-sized anime figures and cute photo ops. With a bundle of coins, you can each try different claw machines to test your skill and luck. Even if your coordination isn't up to par, the joy is in the play — and watching others snag plushie prizes. From Hello Kitty to Dragon Ball Z, the real prize could be a quirky memento of a date well spent.
Sample sugar shack treats at a public market
Where: Atwater Market
When: March 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free entry, tastings free for the first 300 visitors
Reason to try: A syrupy adventure awaits you and your date at this celebration of the maple sugar season. Between axe-throwing and traditional Québécois music, the event is a full sensory experience. New this year, maple-based liquor producers will attend so you can try their products and learn a thing or two about their craft. Maple delicacies, from the classic taffy on ice to maple pizza Bianca, will give a sweet taste of traditional Quebec fare. The outdoor area will feature a full sugar shack menu by the popular Aylwin Barbecue, including maple-smoked sausages among other treats. Early birds will catch free tastings, which means more maple for you both.
More at marchespublics-mtl.com
Stretch together at Puppy Yoga
Someone holding a phone is ambushed by puppies next to another person holding a yoga pose.
@puppyyogamontreal | Instagram
Where: Secret downtown Montreal location
Cost: $42/hour
Reason to try: Downward dog meets actual dogs on this date. Puppy Yoga offers an hour split between stretching and puppy playtime. After you register, the details of where to go will land in your inbox. The mystery location is intended to keep the puppies safe and your anticipation high. The classes are open to all skill levels since it's less about perfect poses and more about the bliss of relaxing with puppy snuggles. Along with finding inner peace and bonding with your date, you might also find a new four-legged friend to bring home, since participating puppies are up for adoption
More at puppyyogamontreal.com
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