Habitat 67
A revolutionary residential complex by Moshe Safdie, featuring 354 stacked concrete modules, showcasing innovative modular architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Habitat 67
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revolutionary residential complex by Moshe Safdie, featuring 354 stacked concrete modules, showcasing innovative modular architecture.
"A first-class piece of architecture that looks like Jenga blocks designed by Dr. Seuss’s even more maniacal brother."
Book Tours in Advance
Tours are essential for access. Book ahead, especially for the architect's suite.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, even on tours. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Cube Architecture
The entire complex
A mesmerizing cluster of stacked concrete cubes, resembling a futuristic Jenga tower. A true architectural marvel.
Architect's Suite Tour
Inside Habitat 67
Step inside a unit designed by Moshe Safdie himself. Offers a unique glimpse into the original vision and living spaces.
Skyline and River Views
Exterior vantage points
Enjoy panoramic views of the Montreal skyline and the Saint Lawrence River from this unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Habitat 67
What to Expect on a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Are there other ways to get to Habitat 67 on foot without passing those sketchy deserted factories/warehouses??
Book Tours in Advance
Tours are essential for access. Book ahead, especially for the architect's suite.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, even on tours. :athletic_shoe:
Is the Habitat 67 tour cool?
The famous Habitat 67 in Montreal Canada, up close and personal. Built for Expo 67, it remains a inspiring piece of brutalist architecture.
Plan Your Transport
Closest metro is 30 min walk. Bus available, or consider rideshare.
No Amenities Onsite
Bring water and snacks; there's no food or coffee available. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Tours are essential for access. Book ahead, especially for the architect's suite.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, even on tours. :athletic_shoe:
Plan Your Transport
Closest metro is 30 min walk. Bus available, or consider rideshare.
No Amenities Onsite
Bring water and snacks; there's no food or coffee available. :water_wave:
Respect Private Property
Do not enter any units or private areas without an invitation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Habitat 67 is widely praised for its groundbreaking and unique architecture, often described as a 'fever-dream design' or resembling 'Jenga blocks.' Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see this iconic structure up close, especially through informative tours that highlight its modular construction and the architect's vision. However, many note that beyond the visual appeal and tours, there's little else to do on-site, with no amenities like food or coffee available, and access is strictly controlled.
"Its an interesting set of buildings. Good for a click and move on visit. Fascinating architecture but there is nothing there. Private property. No food. No coffee. If you walk here you will have to uber somewhere else from here. Guess if you don't do a tour its a come oh cool, ok now what place."
V Perera
"Walking tour:
I took the walking of this is an icon building, that I have wanted to visit for over fifty years, and it did not disappoint. From the day it opened, this complex has been an inspiration for it novels modular style of construction and the uniqueness of the open design."
Raymond Hitchcock
"This is Habitat 67 — a first-class piece of architecture that looks like Jenga blocks were designed by Dr. Seuss’s even more maniacal brother. People actually live here, though I don’t know how they find their apartments. A living room could be attached to someone else’s front door. It’s also one of the three things to do in Montreal (not really kidding), so you owe yourself and your weird friend a scenic stop. Skyline, river views, and the fever-dream design make it a worthwhile experience."
Durell Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Habitat 67 is accessible by bus, and the closest metro station is a 30-minute walk away. Some visitors find the walking routes a bit sketchy, so rideshare services like Uber are a popular alternative for direct access.
While it's geographically close to the Old Port and Griffintown, some routes can feel deserted and sketchy. It's advisable to check your route beforehand or opt for a more direct transport method.
Yes, driving is possible, and there is likely parking available, especially if you are on an organized tour. However, be mindful of the residential nature of the complex.
The nearest metro station is a considerable walk, approximately 30 minutes. It's often recommended to combine a metro ride with a bus or a short taxi/rideshare trip.
Yes, bus service does stop at Habitat 67, offering a more direct public transit option than walking from the metro. Check local bus schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no. Habitat 67 is a private residential complex. To see the interiors and learn about its history, booking an official walking tour is necessary.
Tour prices can vary, but they typically offer excellent value for the architectural insights provided. It's best to check the official Habitat 67 website for current pricing and booking information.
Tours for Habitat 67 can usually be booked through their official website or authorized tour operators. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Tour availability often varies by season and day of the week. It's essential to check the official booking platform for the most up-to-date tour schedules.
While apartments are occasionally available for rent or sale, they are rare and highly sought after due to the unique nature of the building. Information on rentals is not readily available and would likely be through specialized real estate channels.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior offers incredible photographic opportunities. From various angles, you can capture the unique stacked cube design. The views of the Montreal skyline from Habitat 67 are also stunning.
During official tours, photography is generally permitted in designated areas, including the architect's suite. However, always respect the privacy of residents and follow your tour guide's instructions.
As it's a residential building, be mindful of residents' privacy. Stick to public areas and tour routes. Professional photography or drone usage may require special permits.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting for the concrete structures. Midday provides clear, sharp light, ideal for showcasing the architectural details.
Drone photography is likely restricted due to it being a residential area and its proximity to the Old Port. It's best to check local drone regulations and obtain any necessary permissions beforehand.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The primary activity is taking an architectural tour to learn about its history and design. The visual experience of the unique architecture and surrounding views is the main draw.
No, Habitat 67 is a residential complex and does not have any public dining facilities. Visitors will need to travel elsewhere for food and drinks.
Habitat 67 is a prime example of Brutalist and modular architecture, designed by Moshe Safdie. Its design was revolutionary for its time, aiming to integrate nature into urban living.
A typical tour lasts about an hour. If you're just viewing from the outside, a quick visit might be 15-30 minutes. Allocate more time if you plan to explore the surrounding area.
Accessibility can be challenging due to the unique multi-level design. It's best to inquire directly with the tour operators about specific accessibility accommodations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that it's a residential area, so maintaining a respectful volume and staying with the tour group is important. The walk from the metro can be long for little legs, so consider a bus or rideshare for easier access. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities for families on-site.
Architecture Enthusiasts
Opt for the most comprehensive tour available, ideally one that includes the architect's suite. Take your time to absorb the details of the prefabricated concrete modules and the innovative use of space. Researching the Habitat 67 concept beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation of its historical and architectural significance.
Day-Trippers from Montreal
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Old Port or explore the nearby Griffintown neighborhood. Since there are no amenities on-site, ensure you have transportation arranged and any refreshments needed before or after your visit. The unique architecture provides excellent photo opportunities for a memorable day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Moshe Safdie
This innovative approach aimed to address the challenges of urban density and provide a higher quality of life for residents. Each apartment is designed to have its own garden terrace, and the arrangement of the modules ensures that each unit receives ample sunlight and ventilation. The modular construction was a key element, allowing for efficient and repeatable building processes. Despite its initial experimental nature, Habitat 67 has become an enduring icon of architectural innovation and a testament to Safdie's forward-thinking design philosophy.
Visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Safdie's genius by taking an official tour, which often includes access to the architect's own suite. This provides a firsthand look at how the modular concept translates into functional living spaces and offers insights into the daily life within this unique structure. The Habitat 67 concept continues to inspire architects and urban planners worldwide, showcasing a bold experiment in housing design.
Exploring Habitat 67: Tours and Access
It's crucial to book these tours in advance, as they are popular and have limited capacity. The tours provide a safe and informative way to explore the grounds and learn about the building's significance without intruding on residents' privacy. Remember that wandering into unauthorized areas is strictly prohibited.
When planning your visit, consider transportation. While the Habitat 67 location is relatively central, the closest metro station is a significant walk away. Many visitors opt for bus services that stop nearby or use rideshare apps for a more direct and convenient arrival. Be prepared for a walk if relying solely on public transport from the metro.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit