Lapping it Up in Montreal
I love seeking out public pools when I travel. It’s a great way to dive into local life and get in some laps. Montreal has a number of great options, both indoors and out.
Even if your hotel has a pool, don’t let that keep you from getting out there and swimming alongside locals. It’s a completely different—and very cool—way to experience the city.
Here are two of my favorite piscines publiques.
Piscine Schubert, in the Plateau
Piscine Schubert is a beautiful 25-meter indoor pool in the Plateau. Built in 1929, it retains much of its original character. With wide lanes under a vaulted ceiling, it’s a delightful place to swim—even in the dead of winter.
I try to get in a swim or two here whenever I’m in the city. Every time, it’s pretty much me and a mix of Montrealers (I assume—as everyone is speaking French). I generally find my rhythm in the lent (slow) lane, sometimes moyen (medium)—rapide is much too fast. The water temp is always perfect.
Admission is free—just show up! Bring a lock for the locker room or borrow one by leaving an ID. The entire facility was renovated in 2020. The showers and changing areas are modern and spotless.
Lane swimming is available most afternoons and some evenings, with set times for adult-only and open/family swim as well. Check the schedule here.
Lap lanes at Parc Jean-Drapeau
For outdoor swimming, the most spectacular spot in town is The Aquatic Complex at Parc Jean-Drapeau—an exceptional facility on Île Sainte-Hélène in the St. Lawrence River.
The main pool has eight dedicated 50-meter lap lanes. It was crowded when I went, but at this scale, there’s plenty of space to accommodate everyone. I swam my heart out, loving the unique, local vibe. Île Sainte-Hélène is home of the Biosphere, which rises just beyond the pool. It’s a fantastic setting for a swim.
Along with lap lanes, the pool has a vast open area that’s perfect for families, kids, and grown-ups alike to swim and play. Jean-Drapeau also has loads of space to lounge and soak up the sun.
Admission is about $6. You can pay online or on site. A locker is included (set your own combination). See the schedule here.
Open water swimming is also an option at Parc Jean-Drapeau in Lake Doré. Check the admission info and guidelines, which differ from the pool.
Getting There
Crossing the St. Lawrence on the river shuttle from Île Sainte-Hélène to Old Port
The metro (Yellow Line) is a fast and easy way to get to Parc Jean-Drapeau. When you exit the station, the Biosphere is right in front of you, and the pool is a five-minute walk away.
The river shuttle is also a great way to go. I took it back to the city, crossing the mighty St. Lawrence at dusk. During the summer months, the shuttle runs between the Old Port and Île Sainte-Hélène, with departures on the hour in both directions. Tickets are $7 one way. Here’s the schedule.
Parc Jean-Drapeau is a great destination with much to offer beyond swimming. Learn more here.
