
St. Mary’s Hospital Montreal: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: St. Mary’s Hospital Montreal – History, Significance, and Visitor Appeal
St. Mary’s Hospital in Montreal, Canada, is a unique blend of an active healthcare institution and a historical landmark. Established in 1924, it reflects Montreal’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, serving generations of residents while contributing to the city’s evolving medical landscape. Located in the Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough, the hospital stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to compassionate, inclusive care and multicultural community service. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or a traveler interested in Montreal’s urban heritage, this guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, tours, accessibility, travel tips, and local attractions.
St. Mary’s Hospital is affiliated with McGill University and continues to play a pioneering role in healthcare education, research, and community outreach. Visitors may appreciate the hospital’s early 20th-century architecture, explore commemorative displays, and access interactive resources such as virtual tours and photo galleries. The hospital’s proximity to major Montreal landmarks like Mount Royal Park and the Canadian Centre for Architecture adds further appeal for those seeking to explore the city’s medical and cultural history.
For a seamless visit, this guide addresses essential details such as parking, visitor policies, and amenities. Planning ahead is recommended, especially for organized tours or special events. For the latest updates, refer to the official St. Mary’s Hospital website and Montreal’s tourism portals. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app, which offers audio tours and exclusive content about Montreal’s historic sites (St. Mary’s Hospital official website, Tourisme Montréal).
Table of Contents
- Introduction & Historical Overview
- Visiting Hours and Access
- Tickets and Guided Tours
- Getting There: Transportation and Parking
- Accessibility
- Highlights for Visitors
- Visual and Interactive Resources
- Nearby Attractions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Planning Your Visit
- Visitor Amenities and Support Services
- Safety and Emergency Information
- Contact Information
- Additional Tips and Resources
- References
Historical Overview: From Community Hospital to Landmark Institution
Founded in 1924 by Dr. Donald A. Hingston and the Sisters of St. Mary, St. Mary’s Hospital was created to serve Montreal’s English-speaking Catholic community. Over the decades, it has grown into a major teaching institution, affiliated with McGill University, and now serves Montreal’s diverse and multicultural population. Its storied past is visible in its architecture and commemorative exhibits, making it an enduring symbol of the city’s healthcare evolution.
Visiting Hours and Access
General Visiting Hours (for public and tours):
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: Limited access; tours by appointment only
Patient Visiting Hours:
- Vary by department and are subject to public health guidelines. Always check the current policy on the official hospital website or by calling ahead.
Access Notes:
- Clinical areas are restricted to protect patient privacy and safety.
- Educational tours and special events are available by advance booking.
Tickets and Guided Tours
- Admission: Free for educational tours (booking required)
- Guided Tours: Focus on the hospital’s history, architecture, and community impact. Group and school visits are accommodated with advance notice.
- How to Book: Contact visitor services via the official website or phone.
Getting There: Transportation and Parking
Address: 3830 Lacombe Avenue, Montreal, QC, H3T 1M5
Public Transit:
- Metro: Côte-des-Neiges station (Blue Line), 10-minute walk
- Bus: STM routes 165, 166, 535, and others serve the vicinity
Driving:
- Accessible via Jean-Talon, Van Horne, and major highways (Autoroute 40 West, Décarie Expressway)
- Parking: On-site parking (paid) at the main entrance; limited street parking nearby. Alternative parking at St. Joseph’s Oratory.
Accessibility
- Entrances: Wheelchair ramps, automatic doors
- Facilities: Accessible restrooms, elevators, and signage
- Support: Assistance for visitors with mobility needs available upon request
Highlights for Visitors
- Historic Architecture: The 1934 main building on Lacombe Avenue exemplifies early 20th-century institutional design.
- Commemorative Displays: Exhibits and displays mark the hospital’s founding and key milestones.
- Community Impact: The hospital’s evolution mirrors Montreal’s shifting demographics and commitment to inclusive care.
Visual and Interactive Resources
- Virtual Tours and Photo Galleries: Available on the official website
- Maps and Timelines: Provided during tours and at the information desk
Nearby Attractions
- Canadian Centre for Architecture: Housed at St. Mary’s original location, offers exhibitions and gardens
- Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery: Historic resting place reflecting Montreal’s heritage
- Mount Royal Park: Ideal for nature walks and panoramic city views
- Saint Joseph’s Oratory: Major pilgrimage site and architectural landmark
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I visit the original St. Mary’s Hospital building?
A: The original building now houses the Canadian Centre for Architecture, which is open to the public.
Q: Are photos allowed inside the hospital?
A: Photography is permitted in public and tour areas but prohibited in clinical zones.
Q: Is there a café or gift shop?
A: While the hospital lacks a dedicated café or gift shop, numerous dining options are available in the surrounding neighborhood.
Q: Are tours available in languages other than English?
A: Tours are offered in English and French, with additional languages on request.
Q: Is St. Mary’s Hospital suitable for children?
A: Yes, educational tours are available for school groups; family visits are welcome with proper supervision.
Planning Your Visit
Arrival and Check-in
- Check in at the main reception or at the ward you are visiting
- Bring valid photo ID and patient details (if visiting a patient)
- Screening may be required during public health advisories
What to Bring
- Minimal personal items
- Masks and hand sanitizer (as required)
- Payment for parking
Safety and Emergency Information
- Emergency Department: Pavilion A
- For urgent issues, dial 911
- Info-Santé (811) for non-urgent health advice
- Poison Control: 1-800-463-5060
Visitor Amenities and Support Services
- Cafeteria: Meals and snacks (hours may vary)
- Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating
- Information Booth: Maps and visitor assistance
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout public areas
- Restrooms: Accessible on every floor
Contact Information
- Main Hospital Phone: (514) 345-3511
- Women’s Clinic (Hayes Pavilion): 3777 Jean-Brillant Street, basement
- Admissions Office: Pavilion A, room A-G310
- Laboratory Department: Pavilion D, ground floor
For up-to-date information, visit the official St. Mary’s Hospital Center website.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Confirm visiting hours and parking availability before arrival
- Arrive early for check-in and parking
- Respect all hospital policies for patient privacy and safety
- Staff are bilingual (French and English)
- Consider travel health insurance for international visitors
Download the Audiala app for guided tours, interactive maps, and exclusive content. For more on Montreal’s historic and cultural sites, consult Tourisme Montréal.
References
- St. Mary’s Hospital Montreal: Visitor’s Guide to History, Tours, and Travel Tips, 2025 (St. Mary’s Hospital official website)
- St. Mary’s Hospital Montreal: Visiting Hours, History & Tourist Guide, 2025 (https://www.smh-montreal.ca)
- Visiting St. Mary’s Hospital Center: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Visitors, 2025 (https://www.smhc.qc.ca/)
- St. Mary’s Monument in Montreal: Visitor Guide, History, and Travel Tips, 2025 (https://www.stmarysmonument-mtl.ca)
- Tourisme Montréal, 2025 (https://www.mtl.org/en)