Biosphere Montreal
The most popular pavilion at the Expo 67 World Fair, today the Biosphere serves as North America's only museum dedicated to the environment
The Biosphere is fascinating as both a renowned Montreal landmark and as a unique museum that will please visitors of all ages. There are a variety of permanent exhibits located both inside and outside this gigantic steel tube dome that will educate on the latest issues surrounding our environment and its many eco-systems.
One of Montreal's most prominent and iconic landmarks, the Biosphere located on Île Sainte-Hélène, was originally designed by the forward thinking architect Richard Buckminster Fuller as the United States Pavilion for the 1967 World's Fair. Constructed of tubular steel this giant geometric dome stands as tall as a 20 storey building. Fuller wanted the structure to be bolted together but the American officials wanted it to be welded. This helped ensure that the structure remained as the legacy that it is today. The frame was covered with tinted transparent acrylic panels.
The Biosphere became the most successful pavilion at the fair with a total of 5.3 million visitors passing through it during the six month Expo. After the fair, the United States government donated the Biosphere to the City of Montreal. It served a variety of functions which included that of a conservatory housing a variety of plants and birds.
In 1976 the Biosphere was engulfed in flames when a welders torch accidentally set fire to the acrylic panels resulting in the complete loss of its covering. After that it sat dormant for about 15 years at which time Environment Canada made an agreement with the City of Montreal to turn it into the environmental Museum it is today. After a major restoration of the steel frame and the design and construction of new interior structures the museum opened to the public in 1995
The Biosphere Today
Since its inauguration in 1995 the Biosphere has built up a wide range of permanent exhibitions as well as hosting a variety of temporary exhibitions which all focus on aspects of our environment and eco-systems. Many exhibits are hands on and children and adults will find the museum both fun and educational.
You should try to include a visit to the Biosphere on your itinerary when you visit Montreal because the admission charges are nominal and you will not be disappointed with its many the exhibits. You can also enjoy some great 360 degree views of the city from inside the dome.
Nearby attraction: Ile Sainte-Helene and Parc Jean-Drapeau
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesBiosphere Montreal Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 160 Chem. du Tour de l'isle, Montréal, QC H3C 4G8, Canada
Phone: (514) 868-3000
Official Website: Biosphere Montreal
Biosphere Montreal Reviews
Rated out of 5
Showed up to close to closing time to really see it all in-depth.
Would like to go back.
Give it at least two hours to actually give the exhibits all their proper due.
The two free exhibits near the entrance are a good 20+ minutes alone.
The 360 rooftop view is amazing.
John - a month ago
Interesting architecture and a cool concept focused on the environment. The dome itself is impressive, but the exhibits felt a bit limited. Good for a one-time visit if you're nearby, especially if you're into eco-friendly topics. Not a must-see for everyone, but worth a look.
Niraj Baraiya - 3 months ago
The Biosphere in Parc Jean-Drapeau is a must-visit—both for its stunning geodesic dome (originally built for Expo 67) and its inspiring focus on the environment. The exhibits are interactive and easy to grasp, covering climate change, water, and sustainability in a way that’s great for all ages. The museum isn’t huge, but it’s beautifully curated, and the peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of the city and St. Lawrence River make the visit extra special. A perfect spot for families, tourists, or anyone curious about our planet’s future
Sunmeet Dhaliwal - a month ago
While the building is aesthetically pleasing, I didn't find it to be worth the hefty price tag. The view from the top is nice, but not spectacular enough to justify the cost. You can get a sense of the 'wow factor' from the base of the sphere, and the lobby offers some free exhibits that are just as impressive.
Manan Pandya - 3 months ago
The nature and atmosphere surrounding the area is magnificent. The story behind the structure is fascinating. The whole structure reminds me of the pilot episode of Star Trek The Next Generation with Q. The view is grand and there is a lot to keep you fascinated from the bug section, the water purification lessons, the plants. Highly recommend checking this place out.
Paulo Coelho - 3 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 4 - Yellow | Station Jean-Drapeau | 2 Minutes |
How to get to Biosphere Montreal by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro Line 4 to Station Jean-Drapeau and follow the signs for the Biosphere
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Biosphere Montreal:
Photo Gallery
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Approaching the entrance to the Montreal Biosphere cc licensed photo by HBarrison -
Photo Credit: akigabo - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Joe Passe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: MassiveKontent - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: akigabo - cc license via Flickr
