Things To Do
in Kirkland

Kirkland, Canada, is a picturesque suburb located on the western tip of the Island of Montreal, known for its beautiful parks and vibrant community. The city is characterized by its family-friendly atmosphere, rich cultural diversity, and a blend of suburban charm with urban conveniences. Kirkland is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive destination for both locals and visitors.

With its proximity to the waterfront and outdoor spaces, residents and tourists can enjoy a range of activities throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kirkland's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk in the picturesque Parc des Trois-Sources, where you can enjoy the serene views of the lakes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kirkland Town Centre for lunch, where you can shop and explore local boutiques.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro, followed by a stroll through the nearby waterfront to enjoy the sunset over Lake des Deux Montagnes.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café, then head to the Kirkland Library for some local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Centre de loisirs de Kirkland for recreational activities or enjoy an afternoon at the Aquatic Centre.

evening
:

Spend your night at a local pub enjoying live music and sampling craft beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel (per night)$100-$200
🍕Pizza slice$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and natural surroundings.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with many activities.
  • Cultural diversity and rich local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • Winter weather can be harsh and cold.

Places to Visit in Kirkland

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc des Trois-Sources

A beautiful park with scenic lakes and lush greenery, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Kirkland Town Centre

A bustling shopping area with modern architecture and vibrant street life, ideal for urban photography.

Lake des Deux Montagnes

Offers stunning views, especially at sunset, making it a perfect backdrop for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kirkland

Kirkland offers a delightful culinary experience featuring a mix of international flavors and local specialties. From cozy cafes to fine dining, there's something for everyone.

Kirkland Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pouding Chômeur

A traditional Quebec dessert made of cake batter topped with hot syrup, creating a sweet, rich pudding.

Must-Try!

Tourtière

A savory meat pie typical of Quebec, often made with pork, veal, or beef, seasoned with spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kirkland Farmers Market

A vibrant market held weekly, featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kirkland experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and can be humid, with average highs around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and fall are transitional, characterized by mild temperatures and beautiful foliage in the fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language Respect

French is the official language; greeting in French is appreciated.

Politeness

Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Quebec Culture

Understanding and respecting local traditions, especially during festivals, is important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kirkland is generally considered a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take basic precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Kirkland

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for street vendors and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, ideal for water sports and outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional humidity.

Fall

Fall showcases beautiful foliage, making it a great time for photography and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold with heavy snowfall, perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kirkland at Night

Kirkland's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with various options ranging from lively pubs to quiet cafés. You can enjoy live music at local bars or unwind at lounges with friends. The town also hosts events and festivals, particularly in the summer, where the community gathers for entertainment and socializing.

Hiking in Kirkland

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

The largest park in Montreal, offering numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Mont-Royal Park

Located a short drive away, this park features various trails leading to scenic lookout points over the city.

Airports

How to reach Kirkland by plane.

Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Kirkland, this major airport offers domestic and international flights and has various transport options to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kirkland is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where shops, restaurants, and parks are in close proximity. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many areas are pedestrian-friendly. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Kirkland has a significant population of families, drawn by its parks, schools, and community-oriented amenities.

Retirees

The area is also home to a sizable number of retirees seeking a peaceful community with access to recreational activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is a beloved sport in Quebec, with local teams and community leagues actively participating in the winter months.

Soccer

Soccer has been growing in popularity, with many youth leagues and community teams engaging in the sport during the warmer seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kirkland is generally moderate, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Montreal and other surrounding areas. However, biking and walking can be effective alternatives for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkland.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants offer gluten-free menus, but it’s advisable to notify your server of any dietary restrictions.

Vegetarian/Vegan Choices

Numerous eateries cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, especially in health-conscious cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kirkland has access to quality healthcare services, with several clinics and hospitals nearby. Emergency services are prompt, and residents can access general practitioners and specialists. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide