La Grande Roue de Montreal Observation Wheel Ticket
Overview
This ticket gives you one ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, the observation wheel in the Old Port on the shore of the St Lawrence River. The wheel lifts you 60 metres above the city in an enclosed, climate-controlled gondola with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and the ride lasts around twenty minutes. Access to the on-site café and toilets is included. It is an easy, comfortable way to see Montreal's skyline, Mont-Royal and the river in any weather.
Highlights
- One ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, 60 metres high
- Enclosed, climate-controlled gondola with clear glass
- Views of Old Montreal, the downtown skyline, Mont-Royal and the St Lawrence River
- Bluetooth in the gondola and Wi-Fi on site
- Access to the on-site café and toilets
- Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be accommodated
Full Description
La Grande Roue de Montréal
La Grande Roue de Montréal is the largest observation wheel in Canada, at 60 metres high, and it opened in 2017 as part of Montreal's 375th anniversary celebrations. It stands in the Old Port and turns slowly, with enclosed gondolas made of ultra-clear glass. A La Grande Roue Montreal ticket includes one ride, and the ride lasts around twenty minutes, long enough to enjoy a full turn or more.
The gondolas are climate-controlled, so you are warm in winter and cool in summer, and the wheel runs all year in most weather. Bluetooth in the gondola lets you play your own music, and there is Wi-Fi on site. The wheel may pause in extreme weather for safety, and your ticket is for one entry during opening hours.
The view from the top
From 60 metres you look over Old Montreal's stone buildings and the towers of Notre-Dame Basilica, the towers of downtown and the green slope of Mont-Royal behind. On the other side, the wide St Lawrence River, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the islands stretch out. On a clear day you can see up to about 28 kilometres in the distance.
After sunset the city lights come on, and the Montreal observation wheel at night is one of the most photographed views in the city. Ask the staff which side of the gondola faces the skyline, and bring a phone or camera with a clean lens, since reflections on the glass are easier to avoid when the camera is close to the window.
The Old Port of Montreal
The Old Port of Montreal is a long waterfront park along the river, with walking and cycling paths, terraces, the Clock Tower and views of the bridge. The wheel is at one end, near the entrance from Old Montreal, and the area is lively in summer and festive in winter. It is one of the best places to spend a couple of hours if you are wondering what to do in Montreal.
You can combine the wheel with a walk through Old Montreal, with its cobbled streets, Bonsecours Market and Place Jacques-Cartier. Go directly to the entrance of the wheel in the Old Port. There is a café and toilets at the base of the wheel, which are included in your ticket, and you can relax before or after your ride.
Planning your ride
Your ticket is for one entry during opening hours, and the voucher shows the validity dates. You can choose a time slot when you book, but the ride is flexible, so check the details on your voucher. Sunset and evening are the most popular times, so arrive early on weekends and holidays, or choose a weekday afternoon for a quieter experience.
The ride is comfortable for families and older visitors, since the gondolas are enclosed and there is no need to climb. The wheel can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters, and smoking is not allowed. It works well as a short stop on any Montreal itinerary, whether you have a full day or a spare hour.
Itinerary
- Arrive at the wheelGo directly to La Grande Roue de Montréal in the Old Port with your voucher.
- Board an enclosed gondolaStep into a climate-controlled gondola with clear glass.
- The ride, about twenty minutesRise to 60 metres and enjoy views of Old Montreal, the skyline, Mont-Royal and the river.
- Café and Old PortRelax at the on-site café or walk along the waterfront.
What's included
- Entry ticket for one ride
- Enclosed gondola
- Bluetooth in the gondola
- Wi-Fi
- Access to the on-site café and toilets
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Transport
Not suitable for
- Anyone who is very afraid of heights
- Guests who want a guided tour, as this ticket is entry only
- Travellers hoping to use the ticket outside opening hours or in extreme weather closures
Meeting point
La Grande Roue de Montréal is in the Old Port of Montreal. Go directly to the entrance with your voucher. Hotel transfers are not included. Your ticket is valid for one entry during the wheel's opening hours, and the voucher shows the details. It is sent by email after booking.
Important information
- The ticket is valid for one entry during opening hours; check the validity on your voucher.
- The wheel runs all year in most weather, but may pause in extreme weather for safety.
- Bring your voucher on your phone.
- Smoking is not allowed.
- The wheel can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Food and drinks and transport are not included; the on-site café is available.
- Arrive early at sunset and on weekends, when queues are longest.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the La Grande Roue ticket cost?
The price depends on the age of each visitor. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for adults, youth and children, and updates when you choose your date.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. This is an entry ticket only, so you go directly to the wheel in the Old Port. Most central hotels are a short walk, taxi or metro ride away.
How long is the ride on La Grande Roue?
The ride lasts around twenty minutes. Allow a little extra time for queueing and for the café or a walk in the Old Port.
What does the ticket include?
An entry ticket for one ride in an enclosed gondola, Bluetooth in the gondola, Wi-Fi, and access to the on-site café and toilets. Food and drinks and transport are not included.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The gondolas are enclosed and comfortable, and the booking panel shows the age bands for children and infants. Young children need to be accompanied by an adult.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes for the weather, since the gondolas are heated or cooled, and bring a phone or camera and your voucher. Sunglasses help on bright days.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Choose your date in the booking panel and it will show which options are available. Booking ahead is wise for summer evenings, weekends and holidays.
What is the best time to ride the Montreal observation wheel?
Late afternoon into sunset gives golden light and then city lights, while clear mornings give the sharpest views. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Does the wheel run in winter or in rain?
Yes, it runs all year in most weather, since the gondolas are enclosed and climate-controlled. In extreme weather it may pause for safety.
Is La Grande Roue de Montréal worth it?
Yes, if you want an easy, comfortable view of the city and the river. It is short, accessible and fits well into a walk around the Old Port.
