Since it's October and we’re all about spooky vibes, exploring Montreal's abandoned places fits the mood perfectly! Montreal is the city of adventure & I’ve always been fascinated by the hidden corners of the underground & those mysterious places that hold stories and an energy you won’t find with your typical tourist guides.

If you’re like me and you get a thrill from wondering through forgotten spaces, you appreciate history & you're a curious person, let me tell you; Montreal has plenty to offer.

Here’s a list of six abandoned spots that’ll give you chills, excitement, and a glimpse into the city’s haunting side.

Let's dig into it!

1. Silo No. 5

Location: 900 Rue Mill, Montréal, QC H3C 1Y3

Silo No. 5 came to life in four stages, with construction spanning from 1906 to 1958. It all started in 1903 when the Grand Trunk Railway broke ground on what would become an iconic part of Montreal’s industrial history. Back in the late 19th century and for many decades after, grain was the top export passing through the Port of Montreal, making this silo a key player in the city’s booming trade scene

Silo No. 5 is like a time capsule of Montreal’s industrial past, standing as the last remaining grain elevator from the 20th century. With Silo No. 1 and No. 2 long gone, this massive structure and the Old Port’s conveyor pier tower are the final pieces of Old Montreal’s iconic harbour skyline from that era. It’s even earned heritage status from the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office, but despite its cool history, it’s been abandoned since 1996. Owned by the Canada Lands Corporation, this giant is now suffering from neglect, with no maintenance or public access, just waiting for someone to be curious about him!

Actually, there's tours from time to time, for the curious ones ;) Do your proper researcher about it and stay safe!

2. The Abandoned Snowdon Theatre

Location: 5225 Boulevard Décarie, Côte-des-Neiges

Neighborhood: Snowdon

The Snowdon Theatre opened its doors in February 1937, dazzling visitors with a lavish art deco interior designed by the legendary Emmanuel Briffa, the creative mind behind Montreal’s iconic Rialto Theatre and over 60 other cinemas across Canada. In 1950, the theater got a fresh new look with a revamped façade and marquee. By the late '60s, the place took a wild turn, showing X-rated films, only to switch gears in 1972 for a full year of Charlie Chaplin classics. After 45 years of screening films, the curtain fell in May 1982, leaving the theater vacant.

But the story didn’t end there! In the ‘90s, the Snowdon was transformed into a small shopping center by Rafid Louis and Emile Fattal. They split the 25,000-square-foot space into two floors, keeping the original art deco details intact on the second floor, where a gymnastics center later operated. Despite its architectural charm, the building struggled as a retail and office hub, becoming mostly vacant again by the late '90s. The final tenant, Flexart Gymnastics, was evicted in 2013 due to safety issues, leaving the once-glorious theatre abandoned and boarded up, waiting for its next chapter.

In 2016, the building suffered severe fire damage caused by vandals, and it has remained mostly abandoned since then. While some urban explorers might seek ways to sneak in, it’s important to note that doing so is illegal and unsafe due to the instability of the structure.

For your safety and legal reasons, it’s best to admire this piece of Montreal's history from the outside!

3. Royal Victoria Hospital

Location: 687 Avenue des Pins Ouest, 

Neighborhood: Plateau-Mont-Royal

The Royal Victoria Hospital, or "The Vic," is like something straight out of a fairytale, built in 1893, it looks more like a Scottish castle perched on Mount Royal than a hospital! Funded by two Scottish philanthropists, Donald Smith and George Stephen, this architectural beauty was designed to bring top-notch medical care to Montreal’s booming population. Over the years, it became one of Canada’s leading hospitals, saving lives and advancing medical science. Even though the hospital moved to a new location in 2015, The Vic still stands tall with its castle-like charm. Now, it's set for a new chapter as McGill University plans to turn it into a hub for academics and research. It’s a place where history meets innovation like Hogwarts, but for science!

The old Royal Victoria Hospital isn't open to the public since it closed in 2015. While there are plans for McGill University to repurpose it, for now, it's off-limits. You can still enjoy the view from the outside on a walk around Mount Royal!

4. The Wellington Tunnel

Location: Rue Smith, 1230 Smith St, Montreal, Quebec H3C 4B8

The Wellington Tunnel, completed in 1943, was built to connect Montreal’s Griffintown area with the South Shore, running under the Lachine Canal. Initially meant to ease traffic between the city and industrial areas, the tunnel was a major infrastructure project during World War II. However, with the opening of new bridges and highways, the tunnel became obsolete and was closed in 1994. Today, it's sealed off, but its forgotten underground passage remains a hidden relic of Montreal's transportation history.

The Wellington Tunnel is sealed and off-limits to the public. Access is restricted due to safety concerns, and the entrances have been closed for years. While urban explorers might be curious, attempting to enter would be illegal and potentially dangerous due to the tunnel's condition.

5. Canada Malting Plant

Location: 205 Riverside St, Montreal, Quebec H3C 6V9

The Canada Malting Plant, constructed in 1905 along the Lachine Canal, was a key player in Montreal’s brewing industry, cranking out malt for breweries across North America. This iconic facility thrived for decades but officially closed its doors in 1989 as modern production methods took over. Today, it stands abandoned, with its crumbling walls and vibrant graffiti inviting urban explorers to uncover its hidden stories and embrace its haunting beauty.

The Lil Pink House, nestled near the Canada Malting Plant, was designed by Scottish architect James M. McMillan in the early 1900s. Originally built as a residence for workers of the malting plant, its charming pastel pink hue and whimsical architecture were intended to add a touch of vibrancy to the industrial landscape. The elevated design served practical purposes, such as flood prevention from the nearby Lachine Canal, while also enhancing its visibility and appeal in an area dominated by warehouses and factories.

Today, the Lil Pink House stands as a beloved landmark that continues to captivate the hearts of locals and tourists alike. While it is no longer a residence, its charming aesthetic has made it a popular spot for photography and social media, symbolizing the unique character of the neighborhood. The house has become a delightful reminder of the area's history and creativity, proving that even amidst industrial surroundings, a splash of color can bring joy and charm!

6. Gray Nuns Motherhouse

Location: 1190 Guy St, Montreal, Quebec H3H 2L4

The Gray Nuns Motherhouse in Montreal, founded in 1738 by the trailblazing Marguerite d'Youville, is a vibrant piece of history that showcases the incredible impact of the Grey Nuns on Canadian society. Completed in 1861, this architectural gem boasts stunning Second Empire design, making it not only a hub for spiritual and community service but also a feast for the eyes! The Grey Nuns dedicated their lives to caring for the sick and needy, laying the groundwork for hospitals and schools that transformed Montreal's social landscape. Talk about making a difference!

Today, the Motherhouse is more than just a historical landmark; it’s a lively cultural heritage site that houses the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and offers various community services. Visitors can explore its beautiful spaces while soaking in the inspiring legacy of the Grey Nuns. With its rich history and architectural charm, the Gray Nuns Motherhouse remains a captivating reminder of the power of compassion and community service in Montreal!

What was once a massive limestone quarry and later a garbage dump has been transformed into Parc Frédéric-Back. While it’s technically no longer abandoned, remnants of the old quarry are still visible and provide an amazing contrast with the park’s green transformation. You can walk around what used to be a deep pit of industrial activity! Pretty wild when you think about it.

These spots are perfect for anyone wanting to dig a little deeper into Montreal’s forgotten past. They offer more than just decay; they tell the story of a city that’s constantly transforming. Grab your camera, throw on some sturdy shoes, and get ready to explore Montreal’s abandoned places!

But remember, always be cautious, and don’t trespass where you’re not supposed to!! Happy exploration tho :)