Curator’s statement
The Canada Grand Prix in Montreal is an exciting and accessible way for North American families to experience the thrill of Formula 1. While race weekend can be pricey, spending just two days in the city is the perfect way to enjoy the highlights without breaking the bank. Montreal’s excellent public transit makes getting to the track easy, even with little ones, and staying in the Old Port maximizes your time with walkable access to great food, green spaces, and the race itself. It’s just the right amount of time to take in the action, explore the charm of the city, and head home with unforgettable memories (and your sanity intact).
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Day 1: F1 race grounds, Family Zone & F1 Academy paddocks
Family Zone at the race track with lawn games
Kick off your Canada Grand Prix weekend with breakfast at Tommy Café, where great coffee, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfast options are served in a stylish, family-friendly space—head to the split-level location for easier bathroom access. Then, swing by La Cave à Manger Boulangerie in Old Port to grab picnic-ready sandwiches, drinks, and treats to take with you for the day.
Download the official Canada Grand Prix app to your phone for essential info like transit updates, interactive maps showing water refill stations and restrooms, and up-to-the-minute race schedules. You will also find it helpful as it tells you which bridge entrance(s) are closest to your grandstand. The F1 race tickets and purchases inside the grounds are all cashless, so ensure your tickets and wallet are ready to go on your phones. Also, bring wipes and tissues—there are a LOT of porta-potties and freestanding urinals but nowhere to wash your hands with water and they sometimes run out of TP.
By midmorning, make your way to the Navette Maritimes River Shuttle at the end of Jacques Cartier Pier and hop on Route N5 to Île Sainte-Hélène. From there, follow the shady walking paths to Espace 67, pass through security, and cross over the Cosmos or Concorde bridge into the heart of the F1 race grounds.
Between events, explore the F1 Academy paddocks and other support races, or find a shady spot in the nearby gardens to relax and refuel. The Family Zone at the F1 race grounds is a hidden gem—tucked away from the main walkways, it offers plenty of shade, lawn games, and a more relaxed vibe that’s perfect for an afternoon break with kids.
Head back to Old Port via river shuttle or metro—just be prepared for crowds during peak return times. End your day with dinner at Terrasse sur l’Auberge, a rooftop gem with sweeping views of the river and city, where small plates and sunset cocktails cap off your perfect first day.
Day 2: Southern track zones & Old Port
Garden in the center of the race course
Start your second day with a delicious to-go breakfast from Muru Crepe, where fresh crepes and hearty salads make for a quick and satisfying morning bite. Then, hop back on the river shuttle or metro to return to the F1 race grounds on Île Sainte-Hélène.
Today, explore the southern zones of the track, including a relaxed beach area perfect for a breather and a free river shuttle to the Montreal Casino (note: adults only). Between race events, grab lunch from the many onsite food vendors and don’t miss sweet treats like churros or ice cream to cool off. The shady garden areas in the center of the track offer a great place to unwind and recharge before the final events.
After the races, make your way back to Old Port and stretch your legs at the Old Port Playground or take a spin on La Grande Roue de Montréal for sweeping city views. For dinner, head to Modavie, a cozy and upscale bistro known for its Mediterranean-style French cuisine and live jazz that brings the evening to life. Wrap up your Montreal weekend with a stroll to Place Jacques Cartier for a scoop of ice cream or gelato under the city lights.
Need to know
You’re allowed to bring in water, refillable bottles, backpacks, coolers, and strollers (within reason), but note that security checks all items before ticket scanning and alcohol is not permitted. There are several free water refill stations throughout the venue, so stay hydrated!
While the river shuttle is the most scenic and stress-free way to get to the race, the metro to Parc Jean-Drapeau is a solid backup—it’s safe and reliable, but expect heavy crowds and heat during peak times. Do not attempt to drive, as parking is extremely limited and traffic is intense throughout race weekend.
Quick guide to the Canada Grand Prix race track zones
F1 Academy / Porsche Carrera / Support Race Paddocks: Located in the Orange Zone behind Grandstand 15, this is where you can get a closer look at the support races and future F1 stars
Family Zone: Found in the Red Zone, just behind Family Grandstand 33, this shaded area is perfect for kids with lawn games, space to relax, and fewer crowds.
F1 Fan Zone & Park Zone: Both in the Yellow Zone (near Grandstand 34 and Parc footbridge), these areas are packed with interactive activities like F1-themed LEGOs, race simulators, prize games, and drinks for all ages.
Heineken Terrace: A lively spot with a DJ and a surprising amount of shaded seating, making it a great break area—even with kids in tow.
Beach Zone: Located in the Pink Zone behind the Senna section and pool, this area offers a breezy atmosphere and a good place to cool off.
Best food zones: You’ll find the most variety and quality bites at Cosmos Zone, Family Zone, Lance Stroll Zone, and Senna Zone—perfect for grabbing lunch or taking a snack break.
Other recommendations
If you have extra time, check out:
Montreal Science Centre: A top-notch, stroller-friendly museum in Old Port with interactive exhibits, a Mini Mondo play area for kids under 7, and plenty of spots to rest.
Gaspar Brasserie: Classic French brasserie fare in a chic, family-friendly space with excellent service and a great kids’ menu.
Tips for getting to & from Old Port Montreal from YUL Airport
The 747 shuttle bus is a convenient and budget-friendly option, running approximately every 20 minutes and stopping downtown near Old Port (check current stop locations as they may vary during events). Taking an Uber or taxi is a faster, door-to-door option with a flat rate of $50 to and from Old Port. Do reserve your rideshare in advance, especially during race weekend, as demand is high—this is especially important if you need a larger vehicle or car seats.
Travel Advisor
Lacey Hayes
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