Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can ride the free shuttle, explore the nativity museum, roam lawns and stations trail, but many stairs, quiet worship areas, and few hands-on exhibits make long visits tiring.
Positives:
- Kid-friendly exhibits: The museum’s nativity scenes and dioramas engage children with story-style displays.
- Safe play space: Gardens and lawns offer open areas for kids to run under parent supervision.
Challenges:
- Steep staircase: 283 steps lead to the main entrance; parents may need to carry small children.
- Crowds on weekends: Lines for the shuttle and inside the basilica can form quickly on Saturdays.
What is Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal?
- A monumental Roman Catholic basilica and national pilgrimage site set atop Montreal’s Mount Royal, designated a Canadian National Historic Site
- A towering dome, one of the world’s largest, crowns the structure with Renaissance and Baroque-inspired architectural motifs
- A multi-tiered complex housing a crypt chapel, an art and heritage museum and terraced gardens featuring life-size Stations of the Cross sculptures
What is so special about Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal for with kids?
- Free shuttle ride saves little legs from 283 stairs
- Interactive museum with kid-friendly nativity scenes
- Outdoor gardens and Stations of the Cross trail for play
- Carillon recitals add live music without extra cost
- Picnic areas on lawns provide family rest stops
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2–3 hours let you ride the shuttle, wander the basilica, explore the museum and relax in the gardens without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Ride the free shuttle:
Take the shuttle from the gatehouse to the Oratory entrance to avoid 283 stairs.
Tip: Shuttle runs every 10 minutes; board early to get seats for little ones.
Explore the Oratory Museum:
See 100+ nativity scenes and life-size Brother André dioramas.
Tip: Kids under 6 enter free; pick up the free kids' guide at the ticket desk.
Walk the Garden of the Way of the Cross:
Stroll past 16 Stations of the Cross with 42 life-size figures.
Tip: Let kids spot their favorite scenes as you follow the numbered path.
Attend a carillon recital:
Watch the 62-bell carillon play from the outdoor pavilion.
Tip: Check the schedule (around 12 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.) and arrive 10 minutes early.
Picnic on the lawns:
Spread a blanket on the green slopes for snacks and play time.
Tip: Bring reusable plates and bottles; trash bins are at the pavilion entrance.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
- Visit early: Arrive at opening (9 a.m.) to beat crowds and secure shuttle seats.
- Pack your own snacks: A picnic saves time and aligns with limited on-site food options.
- Download the map: Get the free printable map from the website to plan your route in advance.
Reviews of Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Negaresh Navid
Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is a truly breathtaking and spiritual place to visit. The architecture is stunning, with its majestic dome visible from all around Montreal, and the interior is peaceful, welcoming, and filled with history. The gardens and surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained, offering a perfect place for reflection and quiet walks. Whether you visit for faith, cultu...
inky Lalita
An impressive basilica where you can easily spend at least half an hour to an hour. There’s no entrance fee, and the interior holds many fascinating stories to explore. It’s also a great spot to enjoy the sunset. Highly recommended if you’re visiting Montreal!
Sssherin Raffiq
One of the much visit place. Some reasons this place bring real calm and mindfulness. Good to see anytime morning and evening ( if you wish for a wonderful sunset ) . The hill walk is awesome and there is a large space to sit&relax there are no guard walls so kids have to be watched careful on corners . So they will not be tripped. We even had an opportunity to talk with a priest over there while ...
Jim H
Totally amazing place! My daughters and I hiked up to it from the Old Town and we enjoyed the 8th level. We came back a couple days later by car and brought my wife. She was in amazement. There is a parking charge if you drive but it is minimal. Oddly, mine didn’t actually cost me (I scanned my ticket and it said it was $0). Just remember to pay for your parking before trying to leave. We also vi...
Abinash Panda
⛪️St. Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal – Montreal’s Spiritual Crown Jewel 🌄✨ Majestic. Peaceful. Awe-inspiring. St. Joseph’s Oratory isn’t just Montreal’s largest church—it’s a spiritual and architectural masterpiece perched high on Mount Royal, drawing visitors from all over the world. 🌟 First Impressions: As you approach, the grand dome—one of the largest in the world—instantly takes your bre...
When is the best time to visit Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal (Montreal, Canada)?
In summer, join daily guided tours at 1:30 p.m. for free with kids; in fall, enjoy Mount Royal foliage from the terrace; in winter, use the shuttle and wear boots on icy steps.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Oratory Museum (2 adults at $3 + 2 kids at $1) | CAD 8 |
| Guided tour (4 × $5) | CAD 20 |
| Snacks & picnic supplies | CAD 15 |
| Shuttle bus | CAD 0 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 43 |
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 Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
Address: 3800 Chem. Queen Mary, Montréal, QC H3Y 1N5, Canada
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About Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
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
+1 514-733-821110 BEST nearby Activities
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