The Esplanade de la Place des Arts is a large outdoor public plaza at 260 Maisonneuve Boulevard West, in the heart of Montreal, Canada. It sits in the Quartier des spectacles, the city's entertainment district, and serves as the open-air centre of the area around the Place des Arts performing arts complex.
What a visit looks like
The esplanade is a gathering place rather than a single sight to tick off. It is used for cultural events, festivals and performances across the year, so what you find on any given day depends on the season and the programme. Fountains, public art and seasonal activities give the open space its character, and many visitors simply spend time walking through, watching the people around them.
Around the square
- The Place des Arts complex, which the plaza surrounds, is the reason many people come here. Check its schedule if you want to attend a performance.
- The Quartier des spectacles places the esplanade among other venues and streets devoted to music, theatre and the arts, so it works well as a starting point for an evening out.
- Downtown Montreal is within easy walking distance, making it simple to combine a stop here with shopping, dining or sightseeing in the surrounding streets.
Planning your visit
Because the esplanade hosts events throughout the year, it is worth looking up what is on before you go, especially if you hope to see a particular festival or performance. Dress for the weather, as much of the space is open to the sky. The square is a good choice for anyone interested in Montreal's arts scene who wants to experience it outdoors, whether or not they have a ticket to a show.