Welcome to the heart of Old Montreal
The Hôtel William Gray is located in the heart of Old Montreal, the oldest and most lively district of the city. With its contrast between history and modernity, it is the best place to stay. We are proud to be part of the heritage of this emblematic district and we are certain that you will appreciate discovering its multiple facets. In order to help you prepare your stay, we have selected several of our favorite addresses as well as the staples to visit.
Staples
There are many must-sees in Old Montreal and the architecture is unique and magnificent. Explore historic buildings such as the Notre-Dame Basilica or the Bonsecours Market and learn about the city and the country’s past through quality museums such as the Pointe-à-Callière Museum.
Pass through Place Jacques Cartier near the hotel for a lively atmosphere in the heart of the neighbourhood. Also, make sure to walk by the Clock Tower, you can even lounge on the beautiful beach next to it.
Then, take a walk on Rue Saint-Paul and feel the lively and historic artery that will make you go back in time.
Finally, take a walk on the Old Port and discover the grandeur and splendor of the Saint Lawrence River.
Restaurants
Old Montreal is full of many restaurants with beautiful decor and delicious food, right by the hotel. Of course, we recommend you try the Maggie Oakes, the hotel restaurant, that offers tasty cuisine with local flavors (don’t miss their AAA Canadian cuts of beef). We also recommend the Terrasse William Gray to witness the view of Old Montreal while sipping on a refreshing cocktail and enjoying delicious bites.
Our neighbour Bevo makes delicious pizzas in a wood oven not to be missed. For an evening in an Italian trattoria where you can taste good wine and fresh pasta, stop at Jacopo.
If you fancy delicious seafood you should go to the Pincette. They have the largest sake list in Montreal.
Barroco serves very good dishes with European flavors.
We also love the Bremner, which offers comforting seafood as well as refined Hunting & Fishing meals from Quebec.
For a quality lunch, stop by Olive and Gourmando, their dishes are plentiful, and the staff is always pleasant.
Activities
There is no shortage of activities in Old Montreal and its surroundings. Everyone can find their happiness.
You could decide to explore the city by bike with Fitz & Follwell (we also offer a special discount for hotel guests, 20% for bike tours and 15% for walking tours and bicycle rentals. ) or witness the beautiful view from above with the Old Montreal Ferris wheel. You can also go on a cruise on the Saint Lawrence River with the fly boats.
If you are more interested in arts and culture, you should go to the Phi Center.
For lovers of nature and walking, take a long walk on the Canal Lachine. You can even rent boats, canoes and pedal boats without a license. Don’t forget to stop by Atwater Market, a public market housed in a notable art deco building where you will find many fresh produces from local merchants.
Leave Old Montreal for a moment and explore Mont-Royal, as the view of the city from the belvedere is simply magical. Take the opportunity to have a picnic near Beaver Lake.
Finally, don’t forget to visit the Botanical Garden. An Oasis in the heart of the city, recognized as one of the most beautiful public gardens in the world.
Boutiques & Galeries
Montreal is proud of its craftsmanship and its local brands.
At Le Cartel, located within the hotel, you will find several pieces (fashion, music, culture, sport) inspired by Montreal culture with international urban influences.
For lovers of decoration, you have to go to Maison Pépin, where you will find unique objects made by local designers, all in a magnificent setting.
Nuspace also offers high quality, comfortable and affordable furniture.
Fans of international design and streetstyle should definitely visit the Ssense boutique.
The Michel Brisson boutique also offers high-end men’s fashion.
In terms of Galleries, we recommend the Galerie LeRoyer which highlights local and international art or the Galerie Saint-Dizier which presents excellent contemporary Canadian artists. Gallery 203 is a real place of discovery, meetings and exchanges between artists and art enthusiasts.
Coffee shops, cocktail hour & nightlife
If you want to take a short break during the day while exploring the city, we recommend Café Olimpico. An authentic Italian café which has become a real Montreal institution over the years. They offer an amazing selection of coffees.
Crew Collective is an address we also love. Housed in an old bank, you will be amazed by its grandiose space.
By cocktail hour, nothing beats a good drink with an unobstructed and panoramic view of Old Montreal and the River, so make a stop at Terrasse Perché or Terrasse William Gray. You won’t be sorry.
For those who don’t want the evening to end, stop by Velvet, an elegant intimate speakasy club where you enter through the catacombs and drink delicious cocktails.
Very close to the hotel, the Coldroom will seduce you with its cozy atmosphere, its music from the 80s and its quality cocktails. Enter the secret door to enter.