Vélopousse Maisonneuve

This is a really fun way to explore a neighbourhood most tourists, and even lots of Montrealers, miss out on. Millions of people pour through the Big O every summer without realizing that they are just a few blocks away from beautiful heritage buildings, and a quarter with an impassioned history and community. Hop on one of the Velopousse bikes and you’re in for a fun ride, but also an education. The drivers are young people from the neighbourhood who are proud to tell you about the different community kitchens, coops, youth employment programs and other initiatives that have defined the character of this scrappy area, and served as a model for other community organizations internationally.
From my experience they are also really flexible — they can run you over to the Biodome, drop you off at a bar and pick you up later, and go fast down hills to make the kids squeal. Very inexpensive — plus special rates for locals — and well worth it.