Mansions and Museums: A Walking Tour of Montreal's Golden Square Mile

The Golden Square Mile is a symbol of Montréal’s wealth and opulence, where the city’s wealthiest families once resided.

On this walking tour, you’ll find out how this area was the epitome of glamor in the late 1800s, and hear about the social and economic elite who left an indelible mark on the city. From the McGills who founded McGill University to the influential Molson family, these captains of industry shaped Montréal’s identity in lasting ways.

The tour starts at the cenotaph in Dorchester Square and ends at the Bell Center, a multi-purpose arena formerly known as Molson Centre. You’ll stroll down Sherbrooke Street West with its blend of old-world and contemporary charm, en route to the Leonard Cohen Mural, in vibrant downtown Montréal.

There, you’ll hear about the 10,000 square-foot “Tower of Songs” mural that honors the legendary singer, songwriter, and poet from Montréal – and which took two muralists, 13 assistant artists, 240 cans of paint, and countless hours to bring to life.

Along the way, you’ll also have a chance to see:

• The Ring, a 30-meter stainless steel installation suspended above the staircase at Place Ville Marie, a hub for business and the arts with remarkable architecture
• McCord Stewart Museum, one of North America’s premier historical institutions
• Christ Church Cathedral, a remarkable Anglican Gothic Revival cathedral that’s stood on St. Catherine Street since 1859, and witnessed the development of downtown Montreal
• The Roddick Memorial Gates, the primary entrance to McGill University, where I’ll tell you about its founding family
• Redpath Museum, a natural history museum that boasts an impressive collection of ancient and modern organisms, minerals, and ethnological artifacts
• The Mount Royal Club, one of the oldest private clubs in the city, founded by old members of Club St-James who disagreed with its “overly liberal” atmosphere

Montréal’s Victorian mansions may have given way to modern developments, but the Golden Square Mile still exudes a sense of history and elegance. By the end of this 75-minute tour, you’ll have an understanding of its opulent past, and the families that shaped this part of the city.

There are plenty of trendy shops and bustling restaurants to take a break along the way. Whether you’re in need of a comfortable stay or a delicious meal, this downtown stretch has got you covered. With so much to offer, the Golden Square Mile truly lives up to its reputation as a hub of hospitality.