Coming to study at McGill University gives you the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Montreal. Immerse yourself in the vivid scapes of the island, savour its multicultural cuisines, explore different neighbourhoods, and always find an excuse to step outside! We've put together a guide to help you get started and make the most out of your time around campus.
We've made a Google Maps just for your reference to get around the campus and Montreal city. Feel free to embed this onto your Google Maps and get started exploring!
Study Spots on Campus
McGill has a great blend of big libraries, spaces to collaborate and small hidden nooks all around campus. The Redpath Library & McLennan Library Building serves as the as a central hub for students, they are what you expect from university libraries as they provide extensive resources and different quiet study areas. Schulich Library recently opened up after a long renovation, which is a perfect if you like a rustic environment and lots of natural light. Birks Reading Room on the other hand is a unique space, that is not only cozy but is perfect for focused study sessions. Would you have have guessed that there is a Heritage Chapel in the same building! We have another hidden gem on campus with a peaceful ambiance located in Morrice Hall - Islamic Studies Library (it doesn't get better, there are couches under the round stairs). For Nahum Gelber Law Library, you might have a do a little up-hill walk but it is totally worth it, you can find personal desks by the view to crunch up during exam season (Tip: while you're at it, hike up to Kondiaronk Belvedere for a nature break). Osler Library of the History of Medicine is right around the corner, it might be out of your way coming from Max Bell but if you want a change of environment (& look at rare and historic works on the history of medicine), you should try it once.
In the fall, take advantage of the weather and spend time outside on the lower field!
Other Resources:
Cafés Around the Campus
Montreal is a cafe city, as much as it is a student city. Whichever direction you walk to, you'll always find bustling cafes! We've added a bunch of cafes near our campus, but feel free to always explore more than proximity and where you heart desires.
When you need a caffeine fix or a cozy place to read, there are numerous popular cafés around campus. Café Olimpico in Centre-Ville is renowned for its espresso and vibrant atmosphere, while Café Castel is a great spot for both coffee and conversation. Café Notman is right next door, great for getting a coffee before classes or even for a quick bite, and Café Humble Lion is known for its artisanal coffee and inviting ambiance. Pigeon Café & Bar is ideal for studying or socializing, and Lola Rosa Milton is a vegan place with delicious vegetarian options and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Columbus Café & Co Bourassa is a spot with excellent pastries and coffee, while Pikolo Espresso Bar is a must-visit for coffee aficionados. OSMO X MARUSAN Café-Terrasse combines great coffee with a beautiful terrace.
McGill also has on-campus dining: mcgill.ca/foodservices/locations/retail
Nature Walks
Whether you have to take a hat, an umbrella, or snuggle up in a scarf and a cap, it's always a great time to step outside! Rutherford Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, you can always find people playing soccer, frisbee, or even sitting down to admire the skyline. A little hike to Kondiaronk Belvedere never fails to surprise, it offers stunning views of the city, especially beautiful at sunrise & sunset. Beaver Lake on the other hand, is a serene spot for walking or simply enjoying nature, and the Summit Circle Lookout offers panoramic views of Montreal, making it great for a relaxing walk. L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal is a beautiful and historic site with lush surroundings, and is perfect to watch sunsets! Dorchester Square and Phillips Square are green spaces in the heart of the city. The Mordecai Richler Gazebo is a quaint spot named after the famous Montreal writer, and Jeanne-Mance Park is a lively park great for people-watching and picnics. Square Saint-Louis is right off of St-Laurent, known for its charming vivid architecture and serene atmosphere. Vieux-Port de Montreal is a historic waterfront area perfect for a scenic walk, the Clock Tower is perfect to see Biodôme from distance and even better to explore Old Port for art galleries and vintage stores. Parc Pointe-des-Seigneurs is by the canal and has picturesque views with a tranquil environment, you will always find people walking their pets, jogging and having picnics or even playing volleyball. While you're by the canal, you can walk to Marché Atwater for getting local fresh produce and enjoying another neighbourhood.
We hope that this helps you get started into a new city which is so much more than the words could ever explain. The beauty of Montreal truly lies within you, how you see it and make it yours through your own lived experiences. It does get daunting at start but open your heart to new people, new places and within a matter of time you'll start calling it home :)
