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Redpath Museum

4.6
·2k reviews·Montréal, Canada

Discover dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gems, and world cultures in a historic Montreal gem with donation-based entry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Redpath Museum - Image 1

Redpath Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gems, and world cultures in a historic Montreal gem with donation-based entry.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"One of those hidden gems in Montreal you don’t want to miss."

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Donation-Based Entry

Pay what you can! It's a donation-based museum, so contribute what feels right to support this treasure.

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple floors. Comfortable footwear is a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Skeletons

Dinosaur Skeletons

Main Hall

Stand in awe beneath towering dinosaur fossils and a majestic whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling.

Gemstone & Mineral Collection

Gemstone & Mineral Collection

Upper Floors

Marvel at a dazzling array of sparkling gemstones and minerals, a true feast for the eyes.

World Cultures Gallery

World Cultures Gallery

Explore fascinating artifacts and exhibits showcasing diverse global cultures and history.

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Planning Your Visit

Donation-Based Admission

The Redpath Museum operates on a donation basis, making it an accessible cultural experience. While there's no fixed entry fee, consider contributing what you can to support this gem. Check their website for current donation suggestions before your visit.

Accessibility & Comfort

Be aware that the historic building has no elevators, making the upper floors inaccessible for those with mobility issues. It can also get warm inside, especially on hotter days, as there's no air conditioning. Plan accordingly for comfort.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
More dynamic atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Once a year, I come to pay my respects to the dinosaur on McGill Campus

💰 Donation-Based Entry

Pay what you can! It's a donation-based museum, so contribute what feels right to support this treasure. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple floors. Comfortable footwear is a must! Reddit

reddit.com

One of Montreal's hidden gems: Redpath Museum (it's free to enter!)

reddit.com

Redpath museum VS Musee des Beaux Arts?

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring a water bottle, especially on warm days, as there's no air conditioning inside. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Prepare for Stairs

The museum is historic and lacks elevators, so be ready to climb stairs to access all exhibits. Reddit

reddit.com

Montrealers, what's your favourite museum and why?

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Donation-Based Entry

Pay what you can! It's a donation-based museum, so contribute what feels right to support this treasure. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring across multiple floors. Comfortable footwear is a must! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring a water bottle, especially on warm days, as there's no air conditioning inside. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Prepare for Stairs

The museum is historic and lacks elevators, so be ready to climb stairs to access all exhibits. Reddit

🛍️ Browse the Gift Shop

Don't miss the gift shop; it has some really appealing items that are worth checking out. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Redpath Museum's impressive collections, especially the dinosaur skeletons and dazzling gemstones, all offered on a donation basis. While the historic building's lack of elevators and air conditioning is noted, the unique charm and educational value make it a highly recommended hidden gem in Montreal.

"The Redpath Museum is absolutely worth a visit, with its rich collection and donation-based admission. Kid loves animals. The gift shop offers appealing items and is well worth browsing. The building is old, so unfortunately there are no accessibility features or elevators. It was a bit stuffy inside as the temperature was 18°C outside but there was no air conditioning or fan running indoors, which is a bit of a shame."

Crystal Y

"Really cool museum to visit! The kids really liked it! No fixed entry fee - It’s by donation. Recommend a visit but there are 3 floors - no elevators or air con!"

Jolyne Daigle

"I like the style of this museum. Lots to see in a relatively small space, making everything more interesting. Cool dinosaurs. No air conditioning. Just overall unique experience. Would recommend."

Zzz

What People Like

Impressive dinosaur fossils
Sparkling gemstone collection
Donation-based admission

What People Dislike

No elevators
No air conditioning

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Redpath Museum is located in Montreal, Quebec. It's accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, check for available parking in the surrounding areas, though it can be limited. Reddit

Parking near the Redpath Museum can be challenging due to its urban location. Street parking may be available, but it's often metered and time-limited. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services for easier access. Reddit

Several STM bus routes serve the area around the Redpath Museum. Consult the STM website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules based on your starting point. Reddit

Unfortunately, the historic nature of the Redpath Museum means it lacks elevators and full accessibility features. Visitors with mobility challenges may find it difficult to access all exhibits. Reddit

Depending on your exact location downtown, walking to the Redpath Museum is feasible. It's a pleasant walk through the city, allowing you to see more of Montreal's urban landscape. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Redpath Museum operates on a donation basis. There is no fixed admission fee, allowing visitors to contribute what they feel is appropriate. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for the Redpath Museum due to its donation-based entry. However, for special events or group visits, it's always best to check their official website. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's highly recommended to check the official Redpath Museum website for the most current information on days and times before your visit. Reddit

While there's no mandatory fee, the Redpath Museum is donation-based. Visitors are encouraged to donate to support the museum's operations and collections. Reddit

The Redpath Museum's donation-based admission typically means it's not included in standard museum passes that require a fixed entry fee. It's best to confirm directly with the museum or pass provider. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive dinosaur skeletons, the giant whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling, and the extensive gemstone and mineral collection. The world cultures gallery also offers fascinating insights. Reddit

Yes, the Redpath Museum is very kid-friendly! Children often love the dinosaur fossils, animal exhibits, and the sheer scale of some of the displays. Reddit

A visit to the Redpath Museum can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest level and how thoroughly you explore each gallery. Reddit

Information on guided tours can vary. It's advisable to check the Redpath Museum's official website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for any available tour options. Reddit

The Redpath Museum is housed in a historic building without air conditioning. It can get quite warm inside, especially during summer months, so dress accordingly. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Redpath Museum does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to eat before or after their visit at nearby establishments. Reddit

Generally, it's best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the museum galleries to preserve the exhibits. Check with staff for specific policies. Reddit

The area around the Redpath Museum offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets. Explore the streets nearby for local favorites. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the Redpath Museum, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the exhibits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff. Reddit

The main hall with the dinosaur skeletons and whale skeleton is a prime photo spot. The gemstone collection also offers visually striking opportunities. Reddit

Professional photography or videography often requires special permission and may incur fees. Contact the museum administration in advance if you plan to do this. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Redpath Museum is a fantastic destination for families. Kids are often mesmerized by the dinosaur skeletons and the giant whale hanging from the ceiling. The gemstone and mineral collection is also a huge hit, with its sparkling displays. Remember that the museum is spread across three floors with no elevators, so be prepared for stair climbing. It can also get warm inside, so keep the little ones comfortable with light clothing and water. Reddit

Given the donation-based admission, it's an affordable outing for families. The exhibits are engaging and educational, making it a great way to spark curiosity in young minds about natural history and the world. The gift shop also offers some appealing items that kids might enjoy. Plan for a visit of at least 1-2 hours to allow ample time for exploration without rushing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Redpath Museum is an absolute must-visit. Its donation-based admission means you can contribute what you can afford, making it an incredibly accessible cultural experience in Montreal. You can enjoy a rich collection of natural history and world cultures without a hefty price tag. Reddit

Combine your visit with a picnic lunch from a local market, as there are no food facilities inside. Be mindful of the lack of elevators and air conditioning, which are factors to consider for comfort but don't detract from the value. It's a perfect way to spend a few hours learning and exploring without overspending. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Redpath Museum's Collections

The Redpath Museum (or Musée Redpath) is a treasure trove of natural history and world cultures, housed within a beautiful, historic building. Its collections are diverse, ranging from impressive dinosaur skeletons and ancient fossils to a dazzling array of gemstones and minerals. Visitors often express delight at the sheer density of exhibits packed into the relatively compact space, making every corner an opportunity for discovery. The world cultures gallery provides a glimpse into human history and traditions from around the globe. Reddit

One of the most striking features is the whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling in the main hall, a truly awe-inspiring sight that sets the tone for the museum. The gemstone and mineral collection is another highlight, with many pieces sparkling under the lights, captivating both children and adults alike. These collections are not just for display; they serve as vital educational resources, offering insights into paleontology, geology, and anthropology. Reddit

While the museum is celebrated for its rich content, it's important to note its historical context. The building itself is a significant part of the experience, with its majestic interior adding to the charm. However, this also means that accessibility can be a challenge, as there are no elevators, and the museum can get warm without air conditioning. Despite these limitations, the unique exhibits and the donation-based admission make the Redpath Museum a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in natural history and cultural heritage. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips

When planning a trip to the Redpath Museum, understanding its unique operational aspects is key. The museum operates on a donation-based admission system, meaning there's no fixed ticket price. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for all visitors, encouraging contributions that support the museum's ongoing work. While this flexibility is appreciated, it's wise to check their website for suggested donation amounts or to be prepared to contribute generously to help preserve this cultural institution. Reddit

Comfort is another important consideration. The historic building lacks modern amenities like elevators and air conditioning. This means visitors will need to navigate stairs to explore all three floors, and the interior temperature can rise significantly on warmer days. Wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended, as you'll likely be on your feet for a good portion of your visit. Bringing a water bottle is also a smart move to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Despite these practical considerations, the Redpath Museum is consistently praised for its unique charm and engaging exhibits. Many visitors, including families, find it to be a delightful and educational experience. The staff are often described as unobtrusive and helpful, contributing to a positive overall atmosphere. It's truly one of those hidden gems in Montreal that offers a memorable outing without breaking the bank. Reddit

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