Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral?
What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: Kids can hunt for statues and hear the organ, yet the church demands silence, offers no play corner or interactive displays, so younger children may tire quickly.
Positives:
- Free admission: No ticket needed to enter or photograph inside. Perfect for budget-conscious families.
- Central location: Across from Dorchester Square for easy park breaks before or after your visit.
Challenges:
- No play area: There is no dedicated space for children to run; restless kids may need a break in the nearby park.
- Accessibility limits: A few steps at the entrance and narrow aisles can be tricky for strollers.
What is Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral?
- A 19th-century Catholic cathedral in downtown Montreal, modeled on St. Peter’s Basilica at one-quarter scale
- A Baroque Revival edifice crowned by a painted dome, supported by Corinthian columns, and anchored by an ornate baldachin above the high altar
- The episcopal seat of the Archdiocese of Montreal, embodying classical Roman architectural motifs in its cruciform layout
What is so special about Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral for with kids?
- Explore a 1/4 scale of St. Peter’s Basilica with a kid-friendly scavenger hunt
- Let children light candles and learn about local traditions
- Capture family photos under the painted cupola
- Enjoy free entry and nearby park breaks
- Browse small souvenirs in the cathedral shop
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: About 1-2 hours lets a family see highlights without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
Self-guided scavenger hunt:
Use a free leaflet to find numbered stations like the bronze statue of Bishop Bourget or stained-glass panels.
Tip: Pick up a leaflet at the welcome desk and turn it into a fun game for kids.
Photo under the dome:
Walk down the nave and pose under the painted cupola for family photos.
Tip: Use natural light; no flash or tripod allowed.
Candle-lighting tradition:
Let kids light a votive candle at the altar to learn about prayer customs.
Tip: Bring small coins (about CAD 2 per candle) and supervise children closely.
Listen to the organ or choir:
Catch organ practice or choir during a service to enjoy the echoing acoustics.
Tip: Check service times at the welcome desk or online before your visit.
Quick shop visit:
Browse the small shop for postcards or prayer cards as souvenirs.
Tip: Budget about CAD 1.50 per postcard and support the parish.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
- Visit outside service times: Arrive between services to avoid crowds and hear the organ without a full mass.
- Grab the leaflet early: Pick up the scavenger hunt guide first to keep kids engaged from the start.
Reviews of Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
Patrick Villacorta
An enormous and beautiful cathedral where both the interior and exterior remind me of the churches in Rome and the Vatican, particularly St. Peter's Basilica. Visited May 2011, July 2025
Nena “NENA”
Beautiful church, one of my favourite churches in Montreal. The architecture is just beautiful, and I also love to come to celebrate the Holy Mass here. I believe most of the masses are held in French. Confession is mostly in French too. I love the priests from this church too. The gift shop is also nice. PLEASE, If you’re not Catholic and visiting , respect this holy place. Do not enter wearing...
Alaric Boyle-Poirier
Entrance is free!! Mary Queen of the World Cathedral is a beautiful Catholic temple in the heart of downtown montreal. It's a scaled down replica of the St. Peter's Cathedral in the Vatican. Visit the interior and be treated with a beautiful display of religious interior design and historical paintings. Now I'm no religious person but I often find myself visiting this temple. Alaric recommends 👐�...
C Neon
Definitely one of the best, if not the best, grandest, and beautiful churches in Montreal. The interior is magnificent and awesome inspiring. The organ was also very cool. If you are in the area, this church is a must.
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
Mary, the Queen of the World Cathedral, has an impressive architecture and stands in downtown Montreal. It is built in the form of a cross and has very beautiful artwork in the interior section. It was completed in 1894 and is the third largest cathedral in Quebec. It can be visited every day and the staff at the entrance are very helpful with providing information about the cathedral. Consider t...
When is the best time to visit Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (Montreal, Canada)?
Winter: wear shoes with good grip for icy sidewalks and warm up inside. Summer: combine your visit with a shaded picnic in Dorchester Square across the street.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Candle-lighting donation (2 candles) | CAD 4 |
| Postcards from shop (2) | CAD 3 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 7 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
Address: 1085 Rue de la Cathédrale, Montréal, QC H3B 2V3, Canada
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About Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 514-866-166110 BEST nearby Activities
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