Explore the vibrant blend of history and art at the Montreal Art Center and Museum. This audio-guided tour lets you discover remarkable 19th-century works, historical wax figures, and the studios of over 45 resident artists. Nestled in a beautifully preserved 140-year-old building, the tour promises a unique journey through time for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike. At just $9.60 per person, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
About Your Stay
- The art center offers an audio-guided tour starting at $9.60 per person, valid for one day with a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
- Visitors can discover 19th-century paintings and works on paper by renowned artists, as well as experience historical wax figures from the former Grévin Museum.
- The museum is housed in a 140-year-old patrimonial building with antique furniture and architectural details, blending modern art and historical representation.
- The tour includes access to museum rooms and galleries, with audio guides available in English and French, though the museum may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments.
- The museum has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with visitors highlighting the unique mix of modern art and historical elements, and praising the availability of the audio guide.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Montreal Art Center and Museum offers an audio-guided tour, with prices starting from $9.60 per person.
The tour is valid for one day, and visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, securing their place without an upfront payment.
The tour is available at various starting times, so visitors can choose a convenient schedule. The museum encourages guests to check availability to ensure their preferred time slot is open.
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Highlights and Features
Visitors can discover 19th-century paintings and Works on Paper by renowned artists like Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt at the Montreal Art Center and Museum. The museum also features historical wax statues from the former Grévin Museum and an opportunity to meet over 45 resident artists. Explore the unique 140-year-old patrimonial building with its antique furniture, safes, and Douglas fir wood structural elements.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| 19th-century Art | Discover paintings and works on paper by Picasso, Monet, Rembrandt |
| Wax Statues | Experience historical wax figures from the former Grévin Museum |
| Resident Artists | Meet and support over 45 resident artists |
| Patrimonial Building | Explore a 140-year-old building with antique furniture and architectural details |
Historical Context
Constructed in 1879, the building that now houses the Montreal Art Center and Museum originally served as the headquarters for the Caledonian Iron Works company.
Described as a "time machine" showcasing modern art and a permanent collection of 19th-century European and international art, the building features antique furniture, 140-year-old safes, and Douglas fir wood structural elements that evoke its industrial past.
Today, the museum offers visitors a unique experience, blending the historical significance of the patrimonial building with a diverse collection of paintings, works on paper, and historical wax statues from the former Grévin Museum.
Tour Inclusions and Accessibility
When visiting the Montreal Art Center and Museum, guests can access the museum rooms and galleries, as well as enjoy a guided tour of the artists’ studio spaces.
Audio guides are available in both English and French, providing informative commentary.
However, the museum may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it spans three floors without an elevator.
While general admission excludes access to special events, additional event tickets can be purchased online or at the front desk.
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If visitors need assistance, they can call 514-667-2270 in case the door is closed.
The tour operates rain or shine, with three floors and no elevator, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Despite these limitations, the museum has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 12 reviews.
Visitors highlight the beautiful mix of modern art and historical representation, praising the audio guide available in English and French.
General admission excludes access to special events, but tickets for additional events can be purchased online or at the front desk.
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Exploring the Art Center and Museum
What can visitors expect as they explore the Art Center and Museum in Montreal?
Visitors can discover 19th-century masterpieces by renowned artists like Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt.
They’ll also encounter historical wax statues from the former Grévin Museum and have the opportunity to meet over 45 resident artists.
The museum is housed in a 140-year-old patrimonial building that once served as the Caledonia Iron Works, offering a unique blend of modern art and historical charm.
The self-guided audio tour allows guests to explore the galleries and artist studios at their own pace.
Discovering the Resident Artists
One of the key highlights for visitors is the opportunity to meet and support over 45 resident artists working onsite.
These artists showcase their talent across a variety of mediums, including:
The artists at the art center showcase their talents in a diverse array of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and murals.
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Intricate paintings depicting scenes from Montreal and beyond
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Elegant sculptures crafted from wood, metal, and stone
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Unique handmade jewelry and accessories
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Colorful murals and installations adorning the museum’s walls
Visitors can interact with the artists, learn about their creative processes, and even purchase their work to take home as a memento of their unforgettable art center experience.
Experiencing the Patrimonial Building
Although the building was originally constructed in 1879 to house the Caledonian Iron Works company, today it serves as a captivating time machine showcasing a permanent collection of 19th-century European and International art.
Visitors can explore the unique 140-year-old patrimonial building, admiring its antique furniture, 140-year-old safes, and Douglas fir wood structural elements.
The building’s historical context and architectural features provide an immersive experience, transporting guests back in time while they discover the modern art and wax statues on display.
This one-of-a-kind venue offers a truly memorable art and cultural experience.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Purchase Tickets at the Door on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door on the day of the tour. The museum offers a flexible schedule, allowing visitors to book their spot and pay upon arrival without pre-payment.
Are Any Guided Tours Available in Other Languages Besides English and French?
The audio guide is available in English and French. However, the website doesn’t mention if there are guided tours in other languages. You’ll need to contact the tour provider to inquire about availability of tours in additional languages.
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?
The tour has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols like requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Visitors must follow social distancing guidelines. Cleaning and disinfection procedures have been enhanced to ensure a safe experience.
Do I Need to Make a Reservation in Advance, or Can I Walk In?
You can either reserve your spot in advance or walk in. The tour operator offers a reserve now, pay later option, allowing you to secure your place without upfront payment. Walk-ins are also welcome, subject to availability.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Families?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention student, senior, or family discounts. However, it allows for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options, which could provide some flexibility. It’s best to check the website or contact the museum directly for any available discounts.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The Montreal Art Center and Museum offers a captivating audio-guided tour that transports visitors through the city’s rich artistic and historical heritage. Exploring the remarkable 19th-century works, resident artist studios, and a beautifully preserved 140-year-old building, this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant blend of art and history for just $9.60 per person, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
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