Verdun

Verdun Montreal Historical Sites Visiting Guide: Tickets and Hours

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: Verdun’s Heritage and What to Expect

Verdun, a dynamic borough of Montreal, seamlessly fuses deep-rooted history, scenic riverfronts, and contemporary urban culture. With over 4,000 years of Indigenous presence along the strategic St. Lawrence River and a legacy of European settlement from the 17th century, Verdun is an exceptional destination for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Iconic landmarks—including the Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs, the Verdun Auditorium, and Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier—offer insights into Verdun’s evolving identity. Complemented by outdoor attractions such as Verdun Beach and the celebrated Promenade Wellington, this borough provides an enriching experience for all visitors.

Excellent public transit via Montreal’s Metro Green Line and the REM light metro ensures easy access, while pedestrian and cycle-friendly infrastructure enhances exploration. Whether you’re interested in guided historical tours, vibrant festivals, or enjoying the St. Lawrence River’s natural beauty, Verdun is a compelling stop on any Montreal itinerary.

This guide presents essential details on Verdun’s historical sites, including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips. For up-to-date event listings and guided tour options, consult local resources and visitor apps such as Audiala (Explore Verdun Neighborhood Map, Montreal Tourism - Verdun Neighborhood, Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier Cultural Programming).

Indigenous and Early European History
Founding and Naming of Verdun
Urbanization and Industrial Landmarks
Social Change and Modern Identity
Political and Administrative Evolution
Notable Architectural and Cultural Landmarks
Transportation and Access
Practical Visitor Information
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Events and Guided Tours
Community and Outdoor Assets
Cultural Significance and Recognition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
Top Attractions in Verdun
Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs
Promenade Wellington
Verdun Beach & Waterfront
Public Art
Strom Spa Nordique
Restaurants & Nightlife
Shopping & Markets
Festivals & Events
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Cultural Venues
Visitor Tips
Verdun Auditorium: History, Hours, and Guide
Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier: History, Events, and Getting There
Summary and Next Steps
Sources

Exploring Verdun’s History and Attractions

Indigenous Presence and Early Settlement

Ancient Roots Along the St. Lawrence

Verdun’s human history stretches back over 4,000 years, with Indigenous peoples utilizing the St. Lawrence River’s resources and natural portage routes. Boulevard LaSalle, tracing the river’s edge, follows these age-old pathways—evidence of Verdun’s enduring significance.

Early European Settlement

European presence began in the early 1600s, with a trading post at Fort Ville-Marie in 1611. By 1664, the area that would become Verdun—then known as Côte des Argoulets—was established as a seigneury, strategically located between the Saint-Pierre River and Lachine Rapids.

Naming and Founding

The name “Verdun” honors Zacharie Dupuy, an early settler from Saverdun, France, and owner of the Verdun fief. Incorporated as a municipality in 1875, Verdun celebrates 150 years in 2025, symbolized by the theme “Riding the Wave.”

Urbanization and Industrial Growth

From Farmland to Urban Borough

The transition from farmland to city accelerated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Verdun became a town in 1907, a city in 1912, and its population quickly grew. The distinctive Montreal “plexes” appeared in the Moffat area during the 1920s–30s, while Crawford Park developed a suburban identity after 1945.

Industrial Landmarks

Verdun played a major role during both World Wars with key war factories and was home to the Chapman Brewing Company, Montreal’s first rural brewery. Landmarks such as the Verdun Natatorium (1930), Verdun Hospital (1932), and Verdun Auditorium (1938) define its civic identity.

Historically working-class, Verdun has transformed into a sought-after neighborhood for families, professionals, and creatives. The revitalization of rue Wellington since the 1990s and the lifting of alcohol restrictions in 2013 have spurred a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

Political and Administrative Evolution

Verdun was incorporated into Montreal in 2002 and opted to remain following the 2004–06 referenda. The borough has a federalist political tradition, consistently voting “no” in Quebec sovereignty referenda.

Notable Architectural and Cultural Landmarks

Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs: A symbol of Quebec’s Catholic heritage, built 1899–1929, hosting services and cultural events.
Verdun Auditorium: An Art Deco sports and events venue, opened in 1939 and recently renovated.
Verdun Natatorium: An Art Deco swimming complex.
Nuns’ Island (Île-des-Sœurs): Renowned for its modernist architecture and urban planning.

Transportation and Connectivity

Verdun is served by three Metro Green Line stations (De l’Église, Verdun, LaSalle) and, since 2023, the REM light metro (Île-des-Soeurs station), providing quick access to downtown and future airport links.

Visiting Verdun: Practical Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Public Parks and Boardwalks: Open daily, year-round, from dawn to dusk. Free access.
Cultural Sites: Hours and ticketing vary. Check official venues for up-to-date information (see sources below).
Guided Tours: Offered seasonally; booking in advance is recommended.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Transit: Metro, buses, and REM stations serve the area. Verdun is pedestrian- and bike-friendly, with abundant bike lanes.
Parking: Paid street parking is available near commercial zones.
Suitability: The borough is accessible for people of all ages and mobility levels.

Nearby Attractions

Verdun Beach: Family-friendly swimming, sunbathing, and water sports (open daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM, seasonal).
St. Lawrence Waterfront: Ideal for walking, cycling, and photography.
Old Montreal and Lachine Rapids: Easy to reach for extended sightseeing.

Events and Guided Tours

Promenade Wellington: Pedestrianized in summer, hosting open-air concerts, street fairs, and markets.
Montreal Jazz Festival: Select events held in Verdun.
Walking Tours: Focused on history, architecture, or cuisine, available via local tour operators and the Audiala app.

Community, Recreation, and Natural Assets

Verdun boasts over 4 km of landscaped riverbanks, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, and walking. Opened in 2019, Verdun Beach is a summer favorite, while winter sees riverside cross-country ski trails. The borough is also home to top medical institutions such as Douglas Mental Health University Institute and Hôpital de Verdun.

Cultural Significance and Contemporary Recognition

Verdun’s festivals, artistic events, and community spirit have garnered international recognition. In 2020, Time Out named Verdun the eleventh “coolest” neighborhood in the world, highlighting its blend of culture, creativity, and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the public visiting hours in Verdun?
A: Parks and boardwalks are open from dawn to dusk. Check specific venues for cultural site hours.

Q: Are attractions free or ticketed?
A: Most outdoor spaces are free; tickets are required for select venues or events.

Q: How do I get to Verdun?
A: By Metro (Green Line: De l’Église, Verdun, LaSalle), REM (Île-des-Soeurs), bus, cycling, or car.

Q: Is Verdun family-friendly?
A: Yes, with parks, beaches, and activities for all ages.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Summer for festivals and outdoor events; spring and fall for pleasant weather.

Top Attractions and Cultural Venues in Verdun

Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs

A Verdun landmark, this early 20th-century church features remarkable architecture and serves as a hub for community and artistic events.

Hours: Mon–Sat: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sun: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tickets: Free admission; donations welcome
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Events: Candlelight Concerts ($15–$40; tickets online or at the door)
Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs Info

Wellington Street (Promenade Wellington)

A lively avenue recognized by TimeOut as “the coolest street in the world,” Wellington is home to restaurants, bars, boutiques, and cultural venues.

Seasonal: Pedestrian-friendly, with festivals and outdoor terraces in summer and early fall
Accessibility: Sidewalks and public spaces are wheelchair accessible

Promenade Wellington Directory

Verdun Beach & St. Lawrence Waterfront

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM (seasonal)
Facilities: Lifeguards, accessible pathways, bike rentals
Winter: Riverside promenade transforms into a cross-country ski trail

Public Art and Murals

Verdun’s public spaces are adorned with murals and installations. Notable is “Le Montréal de Miyuki Tanobe.” For an interactive map and audio guide, see Art Public Initiative.

Strom Spa Nordique

A relaxing retreat on Nuns’ Island, offering outdoor baths, saunas, and wellness treatments.

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Tickets: Day passes from $55; book online

Restaurants, Bars, and Nightlife

Centered around Wellington Street, the culinary scene features everything from fine dining to microbreweries and late-night venues.

Boutique Shopping and Local Markets

Discover unique boutiques and seasonal markets such as Marché Estival for local produce and crafts.

Festivals and Community Events

Key events include the BougeBouge Marathon and Verdun Festival in September, a Boston Marathon qualifier and major community celebration.

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Year-round recreation in Poirier Park and along riverside green spaces, including yoga in summer and snowshoeing in winter.

Cultural Venues and Artistic Initiatives

Community centers and galleries host workshops, exhibitions, and creative programming.

Visitor Tips

Transit: Metro Green Line, REM, buses, and BIXI bike rentals
Seasonality: Summer is best for festivals; winter offers unique riverside activities
Language: French is primary, but English is widely spoken
Safety: Verdun is considered safe and welcoming

Verdun Auditorium: History, Hours, and Visitor Guide

Introduction

The Verdun Auditorium is a historic Art Deco venue, known for sports, concerts, and community events since 1939. Its recent $44 million renovation preserves its heritage while upgrading facilities.

History & Significance

A beloved community hub, the Auditorium is celebrated for its architecture, twin ice rinks, and role in Montreal’s sporting and cultural life.

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Hours: Open during events; check official site for schedules
Tickets: Available online or at the box office; prices vary by event

Verdun Auditorium Official Site

Guided Tours & Special Events

Occasional architectural tours and cultural events are offered—especially during festivals.

Accessibility & Getting There

Address: 3600 LaSalle Blvd, Verdun
Public Transit: Close to De l’Église metro and bus routes
Parking: Limited; street and public lot options available
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible

Nearby Attractions

Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs
Verdun Beach
Rue Wellington

Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier: History, Events, and Getting There

Monument Overview

Built in the late 18th century, Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier is among Verdun’s oldest structures, serving as both museum and archaeological site.

Visitor Information

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, May–October (extended for events)
Tickets: Free admission; donations encouraged
Guided Tours: Weekly, covering history and archaeological discoveries
Accessibility: Fully accessible

Unique Features

Interactive historic and archaeological exhibits
Seasonal Indigenous culture programs

2025 Event Highlights

150th Anniversary Celebrations: Free tours, workshops, and family activities
Ohné:kanos – Rencontres en partage: Indigenous arts and traditions, curated by Nicole Jacobs (June 15–Sept 27)
Festival Verdun-sur-Fleuve: Open-air films and cultural events (June 20)

For full event listings, visit Cultural Programming.

Getting There

Metro: Verdun or De l’Église (Green Line)
Bus: Multiple STM routes
Cycling: BIXI rentals; Lachine Canal path nearby
Parking: Limited street parking; public transit recommended

Summary and Next Steps

Verdun offers a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial history, architectural landmarks, a thriving waterfront, and a dynamic cultural scene. From exploring historic sites like Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier and Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs to enjoying festivals, public art, and outdoor recreation, visitors are assured a rich and memorable experience. Excellent public transit and inclusive infrastructure make it accessible to all.

For the latest on hours, tickets, and events, consult official sources and visitor apps like Audiala. Stay connected via social media for updates and inspiration. Plan your visit and discover why Verdun shines as one of Montreal’s most cherished neighborhoods (Official Verdun Auditorium Website, Promenade Wellington, Audiala App).

Sources

Exploring Verdun: A Visitor’s Guide to Montreal’s Historic and Vibrant Borough, 2025 (https://verdun150.ca/en/map/)
Top Attractions and Cultural Venues in Verdun, Montreal, 2025 (https://montrealsecret.co/en/things-to-do-verdun/)
Visiting the Verdun Auditorium: History, Hours, and Visitor Guide, 2025 (https://www.verdunauditorium.ca)
Visiting Maison Nivard-De Saint-Dizier: History, Events, and Transportation in Verdun, Montreal, 2025 (https://montreal.ca/articles/programmation-culturelle-de-larrondissement-de-verdun-54013)
Montreal Tourism - Verdun Neighborhood (https://www.mtl.org/en/experience/discover-riverside-neighbourhood-verdun)
Promenade Wellington Official Website (https://promenadewellington.com/)

Images and media recommendations: Include optimized images with descriptive alt text such as “Verdun riverside boardwalk sunset,” “Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs facade,” “Verdun Beach family swimming,” and “Verdun Auditorium historic brick.” Embed an interactive map and virtual tour links where available.