3 Montreal streets are officially pedestrian-only until the end of summer

In case you weren't sure that spring is here and summer's on its way, behold the tell-tale signs: flowers are in bloom, festival season has begun and Montreal streets are starting to become pedestrian-only.

While 11 streets, totalling 9.4 kilometres, are set to be pedestrianized this summer, a few are already car-free, ready for you to enjoy on foot without having to worry about noise pollution, tailpipe fumes or getting injured.

Some have also added special attractions, making walks along these streets even more engaging and visually appealing.

Since May 1, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest has been closed to cars between rue De Bleury and boulevard Saint-Laurent, as have parts of rue Balmoral and rue Clark. The large downtown walkway, by Place des Arts and the Musée d'art contemporain, has its usual array of stores and restaurants to explore. But it has also added a Ville orchestre installation, which allows you to become an instant musician through hopping, spinning, tapping, singing and playing.

You'll also find Philippe Katerine's Mignonisme exhibit where you can try to find the giant "Monsieur Rose" sculptures. Monsieur Rose aka Mr. Pink moves quickly so you may encounter him getting up to his shenanigans more than once around the area.

This commercial artery, Canada's largest by the way, will continue to be pedestrianized until October 31.

Meanwhile, avenue Duluth Est, between boulevard Saint-Laurent and rue Saint-Hubert, said "sayonara" to vehicles on May 14, and will continue to do so until October 15. The tree-lined Plateau-Mont-Royal promenade is packed full of shops and terrasses for you to discover while taking a stroll.

Rue de Castelnau Est, between rue Saint-Denis and avenue De Gaspé, turned pedestrian-only on May 15. The family-friendly route in Villeray is home to large local art installations, parklets, cafés, terrases, benches, picnic areas and more. Every Monday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., the neighbourhood's mobile library, Le Roulivre, stops nearby, allowing young people under 13 to borrow books.

This zone will continue to be reserved for pedestrians until October 15.

Other streets that are set to become pedestrian zones very soon are avenue Bernard (May 20) and rue Sainte-Catherine Est between rue Saint-Hubert and avenue Papineau (May 17).

More will follow suit in June and July.

For further information about all 11 Montreal streets being pedestrianized this year and their opening dates, as well as to see a map, visit the City of Montreal website.