By Maria Barillaro
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to give your Dad the Father’s Day weekend he deserves. Montreal has loads of budget-friendly – and even free – activities that are sure to make his special day exciting and memorable. Here are some awesome ways to spoil Dad without breaking the bank. [image credit: iStockphoto]
Montrealers often forget we have a beach right here on the island (finally!). It may not be the Mediterranean Coast, but it’s as close as you can get to feeling the sand between your toes without spending thousands on a vacation. Clock Tower Beach officially opens for the season this Father’s Day weekend. Dad will love the feeling of the sun on his skin, and the peaceful atmosphere of this quiet, cozy little beach. There are even chairs and parasols to make Dad’s day the ultimate in relaxation.
There’s no better way to celebrate a holiday than with a mouthful of sweet dessert. Take a stroll down to the Old City with the world’s greatest Dad to enjoy the scenery along the boardwalk, check out some of the impressive yachts docked at the port, and of course, indulge in the city’s most well-known treat – a Beaver Tail! Dad can go to town with this limitless dessert, choosing anything from chocolate and maple spreads to sprinkles, candies, nuts, and loads more toppings. The summer is so short-lived here so any excuse to get outdoors, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the city’s old brick roads and unique architecture, and enjoy a local delicacy, is definitely going to make him smile this Father’s Day.
The city’s annual Beer Fest is back again this Father’s Day weekend at the Palais Des Congrès. If Dad appreciates a nice, cold brewsky, he’ll love the hundreds of different beer options he can try. There will be tastings (though he probably shouldn’t taste each one!), lots of snacks to munch on, and even a Privilege Lunch where you could score a chance to win a trip to Rio de Janeiro! (Limited spots are available for the lunch so be sure to book soon.) The best part? Each tasting only costs a couple of bucks so you and Dad can enjoy the entire day at the Beer Fest without breaking the bank. Plus, the event takes place indoors as well as on the surrounding streets, so no matter the weather, you’ll be able to sample tasty brews comfortably.
If your Dad loves to enjoy the outdoors, take him to Old Port to rent a quadricycle! Or maybe a pedal boat, a kayak, or even a Segway. For the last 25 years, Éco Récréo has been renting out recreational vehicles to make exploring the old city easier and lots more fun. Dad will have so much fun taking to his own city like a tourist, that it could be the start of not only a fun adventure, but maybe even a new annual family tradition.
Does your father have an appreciation for chamber music? Then he will really appreciate visiting this festival on what happens to be its last weekend in the city of Montreal. With various shows this weekend, including performances by Vivaldi and fiddler extraordinaire, Natalie MacMaster, Dad will get his musical fix here. There are lots of great performances making their debut at this unique festival. At affordable rates, your musically inclined Pop is definitely going to love this extraordinary experience, the first of its kind here in the city.
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This Father’s Day, think outside the box. Instead of the usual BBQ steak plan, try bringing Dad out in the city to enjoy a day of family fun. This walking tour is hosted by Heritage Montreal and brings guests on a tour of one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. It’s a great way to introduce everyone to the unique architecture of the area, and the history of the city of Montreal. Plus, it’s a fun way to get some exercise, and enjoy the nice weather as a family on Dad’s special day. Just visit the Heritage Montreal website for details and booking information.
This Father’s Day, let Dad take the kids to a cooking class at the Provigo on Newman Blvd. in Lasalle. Dad can sit back and relax while the kids learn to cook some dad-friendly meals, like cheddar bacon rollups, burgers, and tie cakes. Not only will everyone enjoy the fun experience together, but Dad will be able to indulge in some of his favourite foods, cooked with love by his very own kids.
This weekend only, the Biodome is allowing visitors to take a unique peek behind what are usually closed doors, in celebration of their 25th anniversary. At just $15 per adult and $8 for children, this affordable experience is one fabulous way to show Dad a fun time on the cheap. You’ll get to see the veterinary clinic where the animals are cared for, the technology behind the man-made ecosystems, and even learn about animal protection and conservation from the experts who work there every day. If Dad is fascinated by wildlife, he’ll definitely enjoy this unique opportunity.
Choo! Choo! Revive Dad’s childhood love of trains by taking him on a train ride through the old city. At just $4 per person, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a less expensive activity that dad will love. The whole family can ride aboard the colourful, electric train and ride around the Port’s main attractions. You’ll pass the Clock Tower, the Science Centre, the Natrel Basin and more. Get on and off to enjoy the scenery along the way or maybe even stop off and see an exhibit at the Science Centre. This is a leisurely way to reconnect Dad with his inner child. Plus, it’s fun for the whole family to enjoy altogether.
At only $20 per adult, this picnic expedition is both affordable and lots of fun. Dad can ride aboard a vintage 1928 streetcar with the whole family. Folksinger Clement Courtois will also be on board with you for entertainment as you stroll along the Exporail in St. Constant. The streetcar will stop at three different picnic grounds. So you can have your choice of where you’d like to stop and enjoy a bite to eat in the peaceful, and serene settings near Barrington Station. Dad is sure to love this unique, family-friendly experience and it won’t set you back too much. It’s recommended to book your spots in advance.
The world’s greatest Dad deserves the very best, but that doesn’t mean you have to invest a fortune on Dad’s special day either. Luckily, Montreal is an active and beautiful city, with loads to do on the cheap. Give Dad a unique and fun experience with any one of these budget-friendly activities around town.
