Lionel Groulx

Lionel-Groulx Montreal Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Lionel-Groulx Metro Station is not just a pivotal node in Montreal’s transit system; it’s a gateway to the city’s southwest neighborhoods and a site rich in architectural, cultural, and historical significance. Located at the intersection of Atwater Avenue and Saint-Jacques Street in the Sud-Ouest borough, Lionel-Groulx serves as a major interchange between the Green and Orange metro lines. Its design, accessibility, and proximity to some of Montreal’s most vibrant districts make it essential for commuters and visitors alike. This comprehensive guide outlines the station’s history, practical information, nearby attractions, and the ongoing conversations around its namesake, offering everything you need for an enriching visit.

Introduction
Historical Background and Naming
Architectural Features and Public Art
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions and Neighborhoods
Contemporary Debates and Legacy
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Summary Table of Nearby Attractions
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources

Historical Background and Naming

Lionel-Groulx Metro Station opened in 1978 as part of the Green Line, with the Orange Line platforms following in 1980 (STM; Wikipedia). It is named after Avenue Lionel-Groulx, itself a tribute to Canon Lionel Groulx (1878–1967), a Catholic priest, historian, and nationalist who played a central role in shaping Quebec’s historical narrative and French-Canadian identity. Originally, the station was to be called “Albert,” but the current name reflects Montreal’s tradition of metro stations bearing the names of local streets or institutions (STM).

Lionel Groulx: The Man Behind the Name

Lionel Groulx was a significant intellectual force in Quebec, advocating for the preservation of French language and culture. However, his legacy is complex: while credited with fostering Quebecois pride and academic rigor, Groulx also held and expressed antisemitic and racist views, which have prompted contemporary debate about public commemoration (NSNews; CBC).

Architectural Features and Public Art

Designed by architect Yves Roy, Lionel-Groulx station stands out for its modernist architecture and innovative two-level layout that allows cross-platform transfers between metro lines. The station’s spacious, concrete-finished platforms reflect the robust style of the 1970s and are built entirely underground for climate protection (Montreal Visitors Guide; Wikipedia).

Integrated Public Art

Lionel-Groulx features notable artworks that enhance its cultural presence:

L’Arbre de vie (The Tree of Life) by Joseph Rifesser (1978): Carved from a 150-year-old walnut tree, this sculpture represents five continents and stands as a symbol of unity. Originally made for Expo 67, it is now a popular meeting point in the mezzanine (Spotted by Locals).
Stainless Steel Murals by Yves Roy: These reflective works complement the station’s architecture (Wikipedia).
The station is part of the celebrated “Art du métro de Montréal” circuit, showcasing Montreal’s commitment to public art (Designboom).

Visitor Information

Operating Hours

Daily: Approximately 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM (service times may vary slightly by day and direction).
Train Frequency: Every 3 to 12 minutes, ensuring easy transfers (Wikipedia).

Ticketing and Fares

Tickets and Passes: Purchase at vending machines, ticket counters, or via the STM app. Options include single-ride tickets, day passes, and OPUS cards (reloadable smart cards for discounted fares) (STM Tickets).
No separate entry ticket is needed for the station itself.

Accessibility

Elevators connect both metro lines.
Tactile guidance paths and adapted facilities for persons with reduced mobility.
Real-time elevator status updates available on the STM website and app (STM Visitors Guide).

Station Layout and Facilities

Two central island platforms across two levels allow easy cross-platform transfers.
Main entrance: 620 Avenue Atwater, near Atwater Market and Lachine Canal.
Bicycle parking: 95 outdoor spaces.
Cellular network: Full coverage within the station.
Bus connections: Multiple STM bus lines, including the 747 airport shuttle (STM Visitors Guide).

Safety and Renovations

Recent improvements include waterproofing, upgraded staircases, and enhanced accessibility features (Wikipedia).

Nearby Attractions and Neighborhoods

Lionel-Groulx’s location provides quick access to some of Montreal’s most celebrated districts:

Saint-Henri

A historic neighborhood with a creative edge, Saint-Henri features:

Trendy cafés, microbreweries, and acclaimed restaurants like Joe Beef.
The Atwater Market, a landmark for fresh produce and gourmet food.
Repurposed factories and lofts reflecting the area’s industrial past (Time Out Montreal).

Little Burgundy

Known for its Black heritage and jazz legacy, Little Burgundy offers:

The Corona Theatre for live concerts.
Dining spots like Burgundy Lion and Liverpool House.
Tributes to jazz legend Oscar Peterson (Montreal Tourism).

Griffintown

A hub of urban renewal, Griffintown boasts:

Modern architecture, art galleries, and stylish eateries.
Proximity to the Lachine Canal for outdoor recreation.

Lachine Canal

A National Historic Site, the canal features:

13.5 km of walking and cycling paths.
Water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Winter trails for skiing and snowshoeing (Montreal Family Vacation).

Atwater Market

Just steps from the station, this year-round Art Deco market features:

Fresh local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and flowers.
A lively, inviting atmosphere (This Remote Corner).

Contemporary Debates and Legacy

Lionel Groulx’s Legacy and Controversy

While Lionel Groulx contributed significantly to Quebec’s historical scholarship, his legacy is marred by antisemitic and racist views, leading to debates about whether public spaces should continue to bear his name (NSNews; CBC).

Calls for Renaming

Since the mid-1990s, and especially in 2020, there have been public petitions to rename the station after Oscar Peterson, a celebrated jazz musician and native of Little Burgundy (Freshdaily; Times of Israel). A notable petition in 2020 garnered over 26,000 signatures.

Institutional Responses

The city and STM have maintained the station’s name, citing the need for transit continuity and a moratorium on station renamings since 2006. However, they have expressed openness to honoring Oscar Peterson and other underrepresented figures through public art and educational initiatives (CBC; NSNews).

Visitor Tips and FAQs

Tips for a Smooth Visit

Purchase or reload an OPUS card before your visit for convenient fare payment.
Use the cross-platform layout for quick and easy transfers between lines.
Check elevator status on the STM website if step-free access is required.
Explore nearby neighborhoods on foot or by using BIXI bike rentals.
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the station’s operating hours?
A: Approximately 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM daily.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Use vending machines, ticket counters, or the STM app. OPUS cards offer the best convenience.

Q: Is the station accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, tactile guidance, and assistance services for travelers with reduced mobility.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Atwater Market, Lachine Canal, Saint-Henri, Little Burgundy, and Griffintown are all within walking distance.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: The station itself does not offer official tours, but local organizations may include the area in their walking or cycling tours.

Summary Table: Key Attractions Near Lionel-Groulx

Attraction	Distance from Station	Highlights
Atwater Market	350 m (5 min walk)	Local food, produce, flowers
Lachine Canal	400 m (5 min walk)	Biking, kayaking, waterfront views
Saint-Henri	500 m (7 min walk)	Trendy cafés, shops, historic sites
Little Burgundy	700 m (10 min walk)	Jazz history, dining, antique shops
Griffintown	1 km (15 min walk)	Modern architecture, art galleries

References: (Montreal Family Vacation), (Time Out Montreal)

Conclusion and Recommendations

Lionel-Groulx Metro Station is more than a transit hub—it’s a cultural gateway that bridges Montreal’s rich historical past with its dynamic present. Its efficient design, integrated artworks, and proximity to diverse neighborhoods make it an essential starting point for exploring the city’s southwest. While debates about its name reflect ongoing societal conversations, the station remains a testament to Montreal’s commitment to accessibility, public art, and community engagement.