A Bird’s-Eye View of Montreal: Experiencing the Grand Roue in Fall

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Montreal this fall, riding the Grand Roue de Montréal should definitely be on your list. Located in the Old Port, this towering observation wheel offers a fantastic vantage point to take in the autumn foliage. With sweeping views of over ten of Montreal’s iconic landmarks, including the Old Port, Mount Royal, and the St. Lawrence River, it’s one of the best spots in the city to soak up the stunning colors of the season. I visited for the first time on Saturday, October 19, and here’s a glimpse of my experience along with some helpful tips for your visit.

Highlights of the Grand Roue

Standing tall at 60 meters—about the height of a 20-story building—La Grande Roue de Montréal holds the title of the highest Ferris wheel in Canada. Each cabin offers 360-degree panoramic views that can stretch up to 28 kilometers on a clear day. The wheel operates year-round and is built to withstand the challenges of Quebec’s harsh winters. The 42 temperature-controlled cabins ensure passengers stay comfortable, whether it’s a hot summer day or a chilly winter afternoon. Plus, the ultra-clear tempered glass panes provide stunning views while protecting you from harmful UV rays.

Fun Fact: La Grande Roue can endure winds of up to 240 km/h and temperatures as low as -40°C, thanks to its sturdy steel construction that meets strict anti-seismic standards.

Our Pre-Ride Experience

We visited on a quiet Saturday morning in October, and the area was beautifully adorned with Halloween and fall decorations. The surrounding trees were bursting with vibrant fall colors, adding to the festive vibe. We decided to visit on a whim and bought our tickets at the booth without any prior booking. Since the wheel had just opened for the day, there was no line, and we were able to hop right on. 

The Gondola

Our gondola, which can seat up to eight people, was empty so we had our own private cabin. The interior of the gondola was absolutely stunning; with comfortable leather seats as well as its own temperature control. We could adjust the heat to our liking and each gondola also featured a monitor displaying information like our altitude and the outside temperature.

The Views from the Gondola

One aspect that amazed me was the clarity of the glass. It was spotless, offering a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area. We went around 3 rotations, and each one revealed stunning 360-degree vistas of Montreal’s iconic landmarks. We had incredible and unique views of the Jacques Cartier Bridge, Olympic Stadium, Notre-Dame Basilica, the Biosphere, Old Monrel and the city skyline and we even spotted Mont Royal bursting with fall colors in the distance. The contrast of the fall foliage against the blue sky and these historic sites was absolutely breathtaking.

Post-Ride Experience and Amenities

After our ride, we discovered some great amenities on-site. There’s a cozy café and bistro where you can grab a bite or a drink, plus a terrace & bright red Adirondack chairs—perfect for unwinding while taking in the views. The area is also equipped with restrooms and features accessible entrances for those with limited mobility, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Location and Getting There

La Grande Roue is conveniently located at 362 de la Commune Street East, Montreal, QC H2Y 0B4, right in the heart of the Old Port. If you’re already downtown, it’s an easy stroll through the charming streets of Old Montreal. Public transit is another hassle-free option, with both Place-d’Armes and Champs-de-Mars metro stations just a short walk away (plan your trip here). If you’re driving, be mindful that parking lots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during peak fall times (check out parking stations here). Alternatively, biking is a great choice, with several bike paths leading to the Old Port and bike racks available for parking. If you’re using a BIXI bike, there’s a BIXI Vieux-Port station just a few minutes’ walk away at Jean-Paul Riopelle Place.

Opening Hours

The Grand Roue is open year-round from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, regardless of the weather. It’s always a good idea to check Google or their social media for updates on closures due to extreme weather.

Best Time to Visit

I personally loved visiting in the fall to witness the vibrant colors, but the Grand Roue is stunning year-round. Catching the sunset during golden hour is also a magical experience, especially with the backdrop of Montreal’s famous skyline reflecting on the St. Lawrence River. Whether it’s a snowy day, a sunny summer afternoon, or a clear night with the illuminated Jacques Cartier Bridge, the sights will never disappoint.

How to Book & Cost 

Tickets can be purchased online for convenience, though buying on-site is also an option (which is what we did). However, booking online allows you to skip the line at the ticket booth. Ticket prices vary by season, but generally, an Adult Ticket is priced at CA$ 31.62 (including taxes). The Family Package, which includes 2 adults and 2 children or teenagers, costs CA$ 91.98. If you’re looking for a more private experience, the Group Cabin Package accommodates up to 8 people for around CA$ 192.58 per gondola. If you want to upgrade your experience and add a touch of luxury, the VIP Cabins feature a glass floor and four plush Italian leather seats. You can find all the ticket options on their website here.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist visiting for the first time, the Grand Roue de Montréal offers a truly unique perspective of the city. Each season presents a different panorama, but I highly recommend experiencing it this fall for stunning views of the vibrant autumn colors. Head to their website here to book your tickets!

Looking for more inspiration this fall? Check out my post here for the best things to do in Montreal this fall!