11 Family-Friendly Hotels in the Wisconsin Dells

I like to think every state has a zone like the Wisconsin Dells.

I’m talking about places where nature comes alive, making for perfect, sunny days out on the lake. I’m talking about quaint towns where families reunite year after year for summer fun. I’m talking about destinations where kids make lifelong friends, and adults get to kick their feet up at long last.

Places like Gatlinburg in Tennessee, the Ozarks in Missouri, or even Myrtle Beach offer similar low-stakes, high-quality vacations that families look for.

Usually, families visiting the Dells head back to their tried-and-true hotels—or maybe they follow the discounts and book a room based on lowered room rates.

But if you have a little wiggle room in terms of your next hotel booking, maybe it’s time to expand your horizons with some of the best hotels in Wisconsin Dells.

After all, with a new hotel comes a new adventure, from schmoozing poolside with friends to learning about hidden gem recommendations. If you’re ready to dive into the most family-friendly hotels in the Wisconsin Dells this year, start with the picks listed below.

Great hotels in the Wisconsin Dells—at a glance

All the basics, then some: Tamarack Wisconsin Dells, a Ramada by Wyndham
Room for a large group: Bluegreen Vacations Odyssey Dells Resort
Simple and comfortable: Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells
Highly affordable & highly rated: Starlite Motel
Highly affordable & highly rated—Part II: Black Hawk Motel & Suites
Non-stop fun for the kids: Spring Brook Resort
Right on the water: Delton Oaks Resort
Classic rustic vibes: Wilderness on the Lake
Quaint & quiet for adults & kids: Birchcliff Resort
Relaxation to the max: Delton Grand Resort & Spa
Off the beaten path: Aloha Beach Resort & Suites

Family-friendly hotels in the Wisconsin Dells

All the basics, then some: Tamarack Wisconsin Dells, a Ramada by Wyndham

No need to reinvent the wheel—all you need for a reliably great time in the Dells is a stay at Tamarack. The property offers an indoor and outdoor pool, along with both volleyball and tennis courts.

It’s also close to Kalahari Waterpark and the Ripley’s Museum, putting you right in the action. There’s also a lovely little park and pond out back that lets you stay in touch with nature.

Room for a large group: Bluegreen Vacations Odyssey Dells Resort

Bluegreen Vacations Odyssey is a hotel that many families return to. The staff are known for being gracious and warm (they might even help decorate your room for a surprise birthday), while the property is large and well-maintained.

You’ve got two waterparks within walking distance, along with the Rick Wilcox Magic Theatre. That’s a pretty unbeatable setup. But this hotel is huge, which makes it ideal for multi-generational families or multi-family groups.

Simple and comfortable: Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells

If you’re looking for a modern, well-kept hotel that doesn’t come with any pools or loud groups, head to the Hilton Garden Inn. You’ve got access to a great breakfast buffet, a charming bar area, a solid fitness center, and you’re close to the best shopping in the area. (If you’re visiting in winter, this is also a great stay thanks to those indoor sitting areas.)

Highly affordable & highly rated: Starlite Motel

Looking to enjoy a vacation in the Wisconsin Dells without shelling out big? As you’ll see by the next two picks, you’ve got options—and they’re highly rated by recent guests. At Starlite Motel, expect a classic setup framed around a large outdoor pool.

Though some of the room décor is a bit dated, it’s very clean, and each room comes with a little patio setup overlooking the pool. Think of it like a classic motel stay that’s been zhuzhed up with plenty of love and care.

Highly affordable & highly rated—Part II: Black Hawk Motel & Suites

Again, you don’t need to overspend in the Wisconsin Dells for a great trip. With a near five-star rating from close to 2,500 guests (at the time of writing), Black Hawk Motel & Suites seems to have perfected its setup. The rooms face a large pool that includes two slides and plenty of chairs for lounging.

But there’s also an indoor pool, sauna, arcade, grills, coin-operated laundry, and just about every other amenity you could hope for in such a reasonably priced motel.

Non-stop fun: Spring Brook Resort

Spring Brook Resort has something to offer the whole family. Set on over 350 private, wooded acres, you’ve got a front-row seat to the best natural wonders in the Dells… along with offers like swimming, fishing, golfing, and lounging by the lakeside.

There’s also a brand-new Clubhouse Complex with indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness room, a game room, and even a sports bar and grill. It’s great for summer fun or winter escapes alike.

Right on the water: Delton Oaks Resort

Delton Oaks Resort sits right on the water, letting you unwind under the sun and at the water’s edge all summer long. Plus, there are outdoor grills so families can whip up a meal, along with campfire spots for when the sun sets—as a bonus, the resort provides the wood.

I also love that Delton Oaks hosts weekly live musical performances during high season. It showcases the amount of thought and care that goes into this resort’s features and amenities.

Classic rustic vibes: Wilderness on the Lake

Similar to Aloha Beach Resort & Suites (listed below), Wilderness on the Lake abuts the Dells, giving you direct access to the water. There’s also a pool (basically a mini adventure park) and a lounge, letting both kids and parents unwind on their own time.

I also really like the classic and rustic wilderness-style décor, with plenty of wood features and textiles that you’d see in a cabin deep in the woods.

Quaint & quiet for adults & kids: Birchcliff Resort

If you’re looking for hotels in the Wisconsin Dells that capitalize on the natural setting, head to Birchcliff Resort. This gorgeous property consists of wooden cabins that are surrounded by protected State Forest. You can play basketball, tennis, shuffleboard, ping pong, horseshoes, hike along the beach, and enjoy a community campfire.

Though kids are more than welcome, this hotel would appeal especially to adults looking for a quieter escape. (Including a winter wonderland-style vacation later on in the year.)

Relaxation to the max: Delton Grand Resort & Spa

This luxury hotel sits right on the edge of Lake Delton, offering suites up to 3,700 square feet. That’s plenty of room to stretch for larger groups, but the real focus is on those upscale amenities.

There are saunas, outdoor heated pools, full-suite spas, and even lakefront villas with two-car garages and chef-caliber kitchens. Think of it like your gateway to a truly high-class Wisconsin Dells retreat.

Off the beaten path: Aloha Beach Resort & Suites

Removed from the hustle and bustle of other hotels in the Wisconsin Dells, Aloha Beach Resort & Suites provides a quieter escape—one that still comes with a great pool.

There’s a tapas restaurant nearby, along with Wisconsin Deer Park and The Bavarian Village. But the big coup is the direct access to the Dells via the private docks, giving you the keys to a lakeside adventure day-in and day-out.

The DOS Issued a ‘Worldwide Caution’ for Americans—What Does It Mean?

On June 22, 2025, the US Department of State issued a media note urging travelers to exercise worldwide caution.

The update flew under the radar for travelers around the country, as news headlines during the weekend overwhelmingly focused on conflicts in the Middle East.

The DOS update also comes on the back of other high-profile announcements regarding the United States and travel.

The first was a travel ban that the United States issued against residents of 12 countries around the world. The second was a list of travel alerts that ten countries subsequently listed for the United States.

Seasoned travelers didn’t pay too much attention to either political announcement from Spring 2025. The travel bans are geared toward nationals interested in studying and immigration—not casual travel. And, on the flip side, those alerts issued for foreign citizens visiting the US were merely suggestions—not bans.

But the June 22 announcement from the Department of State is a little different. First, because it’s a warning for Americans to exercise ‘worldwide caution’, even in places with little crime. Second, they don’t come around too often.

The big question is, why did the DOS issue the alert? And do Americans need to listen to it?

The DOS issues a ‘worldwide caution’

Here’s the official media note from the Department of State:

“The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution. Please read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent security alerts when planning travel at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html.”

If you click on the link, you’re directed to the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. There, you can search for your trip destination to learn more about the consulates and embassies that are located nearby.

What does this warning from the DOS actually mean?

As outlined in the note from the DOS, Americans are strongly urged to exercise worldwide caution due to potential ‘demonstrations’ against American citizens abroad based on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. In fact, the last two examples of the DOS issuing a call for worldwide caution came from similar events.

The last time the Department of State issued a worldwide caution order was in October 2023 during a heightened period of conflict in Israel. A similar alert came in August 2022 after a high-ranking member of an extremist group was killed.

But not all warnings are due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

In May 2024, the Department of State issued a similar warning, citing sharp increases in violent actions taken against the LGBTQ+ community. The goal of the alert was to remind Americans to be careful and mindful when joining LGBTQ+ and similar events.

That last note stands out to me because, in 2024, I also covered the fact that the US landed on the ACLED’s list of Top 50 Most Conflict-Ridden Countries. And it got there thanks to heightened potential danger to civilians, including at-risk LGBTQ+ populations, from armed groups.

Here’s my point: travel warnings, alerts, bans, and more come in all shapes and sizes. In my experience, they also seem geared toward travelers who aren’t following the news. I think anyone who has been tuning in to headlines in the US recently would instinctively avoid planning that bucket list trip to the Middle East. At least, for now.

Should Americans listen to the DOS’s worldwide caution order?

According to some early reports, it doesn’t look like many travelers are heeding the latest Worldwide Caution warning from the Department of State.

I personally wouldn’t cancel or alter any international travel plans unless they specifically involved the Middle Eastern regions mentioned. In fact, I’d probably change or cancel my plans to Southern Europe due to an issue like rising anti-tourism sentiment before I’d alter a trip based on this last DOS warning.

That’s due to my experience living abroad and traveling extensively for almost two decades, where one golden rule has worked out well for me: keep it simple and don’t go where you’re not welcome.

That being said, the DOS’s recent update is a great reminder to take safety seriously while traveling. It’s also the perfect opportunity to study up on how to stay safe while traveling internationally.

If you want, you can exercise caution by:

Finding embassies and consulates at your destination (and learning about how they can help you)
Joining STEP for added information and coverage
Purchasing comprehensive medical and evacuation insurance, such as MedJet

Skip Going Abroad With These 5 Domestic Trip Ideas

Travelers across the country are swapping their international trips for domestic adventures this year.

The reasons are manifold, from economic concerns to safety problems to ongoing travel issues, from airport delays to anti-tourism protests. If you’re one of the millions of Americans staying stateside this summer, you aren’t alone.

While you save money and wait for those tourism and safety concerns to resolve, you can still travel—and you can head into never-before-seen territory if you have a few good domestic trip ideas under your belt.

The US is home to dozens of hidden-gem caliber destinations, has plenty of unique side quests around major landmarks and parks, and is also home to landscapes and cities that feel international.

Ready to see which domestic trip ideas will transport you on an unforgettable adventure?

Start with these five destinations that feel like another country. I’ve listed out a few recommendations for hotels, but you can also search for your own.

5 domestic trip ideas that feel international

A Caribbean feel in Key West

Long Exposure sunset on Smathers Beach in Key West Florida at sunset (Getty)

Key West is one of the best places in the US to soak up those tropical Caribbean vibes. In fact, it’s the only part of the continental US that dips into a tropical region, meaning those palm trees and cerulean waters are as close to the real thing as you can get without leaving the country. And while Key West is small when it comes to land mass, the adventures just keep rolling—even in winter.

If you can’t swing an escape to the Bahamas or USVI, don’t worry—Key West has all the elements of an unbeatable vacation in the tropics. Whether you want to swim with the dolphins or gather at Mallory Square to watch the sunset across the water, a little slice of heaven awaits.

If you want to head as far south as possible, book a room at Southernmost Beach Resort. The property offers adults-only options for lodging, along with four bars, a secluded pier, and multiple pools (all lined with gorgeous palms). Best of all, you also have Key West’s historic shopping district in reach.

An alpine atmosphere in Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has quickly become one of the US’s most quietly luxurious destinations. Though it launched as a winter wonderland for adventurers and sports enthusiasts, it has since taken off as an ideal cool-cation destination in summer.

From dude ranches to endless hiking trails to stargazing like a pro, there are dozens of warm-weather activities to take on.

And while it’s hard to compare the grand Rockies to any other mountain range, the Swiss Alps aren’t far behind. The towering peaks around Jackson Hole bring to mind the mammoth Alps, as do its green, fertile valleys. There’s just one difference: Jackson Hole is brimming with wildlife.

One of the best places to soak up those Alps-in-the-Rockies atmosphere is at Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa. Only a few blocks from the Town Square, you’ll have a front-row seat to the steep hillsides and mountaintops. Plus, you also have all those Alps-style amenities, from an upscale and full-service spa to high-class, onsite dining.

A Tuscan dream in Napa Valley

vineyard in Pope Valley, a region of Napa Valley (Getty)

The Keys as the Caribbean, the Rockies as the Alps—and now, we’re onto wine country. Italy’s Tuscany is one of the world’s most prolific and well-known winegrowing regions. Tuscan vineyards are responsible for the famous Sangiovese grapes that produce Chianti, for example.

But in the US’s famed Napa Valley, those sprawling hills don’t grow Sangiovese—most grow Cabernet Sauvignon. But you won’t know the difference as you travel from town to town, drifting into stately and charming wine tasting rooms. (There’s even a Napa Valley Wine Train, if you’re interested in picturesque journeys by rail.)

If you’re looking for the perfect hermitage to take on your Tuscany-in-California escape, head to The Meritage Resort and Spa. It delivers on those Mediterranean features you’d expect in Tuscany, from a stone-and-brick-lined outdoor pool to a full-service and acclaimed spa to a subterranean tasting room. There’s also a bowling alley, in case you’re looking for a little excitement.

A jaunt to Japan just outside Seattle

A suspension walking bridge in a garden in Bellevue, Washington (Getty)

You can find gorgeous Japanese destinations across the US. Off the top of my head, Miami’s Morikami Japanese Gardens and Hawaii’s Byodo-In Temple in Oahu.

But if you want to walk the walk when it comes to a Japanese adventure in the United States, go with a destination that has a sister city in Japan. Welcome to Bellevue, Washington, a short drive from Seattle and the sister city to Yao, Japan, since 1969.

You’ll feel this mainly through Bellevue’s dedication to green spaces, calming walking paths, and official gardens, like the Bellevue Botanical Garden. Similar to Yao, Bellevue places a strong emphasis on connection to nature.

But you’ll also notice its East Asian influences via Bellevue’s food scene, from pan-Asian food halls to omakase counters. (At the moment, Visit Bellevue has 56 top-notch Asian restaurants for you to sink your teeth into!)

I love Bellevue as a domestic trip swap thanks to its proximity to Seattle. In just 15 minutes, you can make it from downtown Seattle to Bellevue, making this Japanese-inspired escape within reach for another heading to Seattle—even if you only have a half-day to spare. Or if you want to stay out of the hustle and bustle of Seattle, book a room in Bellevue instead.

Your gateway to Latin America in Puerto Rico

The surreal beauty of Monserrate Beach in Luquillo, Puerto Rico. The beach is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico (Getty)

Last but not least, one of the best domestic trip ideas for Americans is to head ‘abroad’ to an Overseas Territory that’s part of the US.

It’s more than an average swap-this-for-that domestic trip because it gives you the best of both worlds: as an Overseas Territory, you don’t need a passport to get into Puerto Rico, a veritable Latin American paradise.

The big question is… where should you stay? Almost all flights head into the capital of San Juan—and you’ll find plenty to do.

I suggest staying a night or two in San Juan while you get used to the culture shift and time zone jump, in some cases. You can find affordable hotels and resorts from just about every brand in the city.

From there, head off the beaten path to a spot like Rio Grande, where you’ll find larger and highly acclaimed resorts like the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve. It’s got everything you could want from a Latin American escape, from golf courses to a lagoon-style outdoor pool to lush, tropical grounds.

Experts Warn of 4th of July Storms in Upper Midwest & Southeast

Storms, floods, and fast winds—it’s gearing up to be a temperamental Fourth of July.

At least, according to meteorologists.

This year, Americans are expected to head out in record numbers for annual 4^th of July celebrations. Part of that reason is the date; this year’s Independence Day falls on a Friday, giving Americans the perfect three-day weekend. According to AAA, that number could rise to over 72 million travelers.

Expect roads to be busy and airport terminals to the packed—even as early as July 1.

You might also want to plan ahead for inclement weather. Upwards of 20 tornadoes tore across the upper Midwest this last weekend, with more severe storms and powerful tornadoes expected to come in the next few days. The Southeast could also weather serious tropical storms.

Meteorologists say storms could come over the 4^th of July

Poor weather over the 4^th of July is a crushing blow for Americans who look forward to their pool days, barbecues, and family catch-ups. But here’s the good news: the US is massive, meaning inclement weather in one region might not affect another.

According to longer-term weather forecasts, the regions that are likely to see poor weather and/or rain are:

Upper Midwest: Rain, possible storms, and tornadoes
Southeast: Rain and storms, including heavy tropical storms

If you’re flying out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, look out for heavy storms and flooding. The area dealt with severe flooding over the weekend, which has already led to several delays at the airport.

Additionally, if you’re heading to Florida, beware of tropical storms. While it’s been a relatively quiet hurricane season, there’s a chance that tropical storms will form around July 4^th and lead to a rainy weekend.

What should you do if you’re affected by the weather?

There are a few different ways that you can (and should) plan ahead for this week’s poor weather if you’re in the Upper Midwest or Southeast.

If you’re driving, keep a close eye on weather updates via apps. Prepare for extensive travel delays by giving yourself enough time to get to your destination. If possible, consider leaving earlier in the morning or even traveling at night to avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic leaving cities. If it looks like you’ll be driving through a storm, delay the journey—don’t try to drive through heavy tropical storms or tornado-producing fronts.

If you’re flying from a hub like Miami or Atlanta, make a few backup travel plans in case your flights are delayed for long periods. That might mean finding someone to stay with (or finding a reliable hotel near the airport) to deal with overnight delays. It might also mean keeping your eye on backup flights in case yours is canceled or delayed.

Southwest Stunners: 11 Coolest Boutique Hotels in Arizona

The desert is usually the main reason travelers head to the Southwest.

Oftentimes, warmer temperatures are a motivation, too. Each winter, tens of thousands of Americans flock to the Southwest to enjoy downtime in the warm sunlight—far from the snowy winters farther north.

But it’s the desert that usually keeps them coming back. From Monument Valley to Antelope Canyon to the red rocks framing Sedona, it’s a wonderland for anyone who enjoys vibrant displays and rock formations.

The desert is both stunning and introspective, making it an ideal place to get lost while tuning in.

That being said, you might want to think about where you stay when you visit the Southwest. The more aligned your lodging is with the surrounding landscape, the greater the sense of immersion.

The big question is… where can you find an unforgettable hotel stay in the desert?

For now, I’m focusing on the coolest boutique hotels in Arizona. Not only do they give you a front-row seat to the country’s most inhospitable-but-lovely deserts, but they do it with pure style and class.

Coolest boutique hotels in Arizona

Total health and wellbeing escape: Mii Amo (Sedona)
A romantic getaway: Enchantment Resort (Sedona)
Authentic Southwestern feel: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (Tucson)
Privacy in the city: Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows (Scottsdale)
Lush Adobe stay: El Portal Sedona Hotel (Sedona)
Plenty of space to roam: Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (Paradise Valley)
Soak in the springs: Castle Hot Springs (Morristown)
Your gateway into the wild: The Global Ambassador (Phoenix)
DIY wellness programs: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa (Catalina)
An artistic and cozy stay: The Hermosa Inn (Paradise Valley)
Historic edge, modern amenities: The Wigwam (Litchfield Park)

11 of the coolest boutique hotels in Arizona

Mii Amo (Sedona)

Welcome to one of Sedona’s coziest little enclaves. Set among the red rocks and pinyon pines, expect a blend of upscale settings and wellness-driven accents. Guests are paired with world-class therapists who set them up on a health-driven program that lasts between 3 to 10 nights, which they can undertake while they enjoy the pool, library, and signature restaurant.

Think of it like a wellness retreat—just one that comes with professional aides and all-inclusive, multi-night programs.

Enchantment Resort (Sedona)

Located in the heart of Sedona’s Boynton Canyon, you’re further off the beaten path than many other resorts in the area. The goal here is to take you away from the bustle and let you unwind the way the canyons intended.

You can also upgrade to a stylish and private suite that has its own private pool or hot tub. Romance abounds at this chic boutique outside of town.

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (Tucson)

Set inside the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains on 34 private acres, you’re in store for a masterful blend of luxury amenities, authentic Southwestern features, and personalized care.

But the main star of the show is the grounds, some of which still retain the wood-beamed ceilings from the 1920s. The Adobe structures and bright accents aren’t too shabby either.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows

Designed in a calming mid-century modern style, this property includes private bungalows that are spread across its 23 acres. Enjoy oversized features, like its bathtubs, along with high-design works of art from local names.

There are also fully customizable services at the on-site spa, three different pools, and even an organic apothecary on the grounds.

El Portal Sedona Hotel

As a AAA Four Diamond boutique hotel, you can expect a truly lush and opulent stay at El Portal. As with Hacienda Del Sol, you also get to feel truly immersed in the Southwest thanks to the property’s Adobe structures.

They’ve been painstakingly renovated and decorated to give you an austere and minimalist take on Southwestern décor—while also giving you a balcony and patio with stunning views of the surprisingly green grounds.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain

With fantastic views of Camelback Mountain across the property’s stunning 53 acres, this is pure desert joy. Expect lovely grounds with manicured gardens, along with multiple pools and wildly stylish lounges and restaurants.

But don’t forget about the spa, which offers a full suite of classic treatments and more cutting-edge services, like sound bath immersions.

Castle Hot Springs

Dive into the Sonoran Desert at this reclusive oasis and its mineral-rich hot springs. Though off the beaten path, you’re in for a curated and delightful stay—one that includes farm-to-table meals, guided tours, and plenty of wellness-focused activities. All that’s left to do is let go and unwind.

The Global Ambassador

I’ve written about this luxury hotel in Phoenix since it opened back in 2024. It’s got one of the most decadent interiors I’ve ever written about—one that will capture your attention and keep you looking around in wonder.

Though set inside the city, which makes this location less desert-focused than the rest, it’s still worth mentioning. When you go to Phoenix, don’t forget about the Global Ambassador—even if you can’t swing a stay, book a table to eat at one of its restaurants.

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for space to roam the Sonoran Desert, look no further. Miraval is spread across 400 acres of unspoiled desert, which showcases the Santa Catalina Mountains.

Think of it like the union of total luxury with the rugged landscape—one that’s hyper-focused on wellness. Whether you want a duet massage or a bag to hide away your smartphone for a digital detox, Miraval has you covered.

The Hermosa Inn

The Hermosa Inn is located on the grounds of one of the state’s most renowned artists, Lon Magargee. Today, it stands as a AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel set in the cooling shade of Camelback Mountain.

Its décor is classy and Southwestern, its pool area is spacious and has great views, and its menus are hailed universally by guests.

The Wigwam

Last, but certainly not least, welcome to one of the coolest boutique hotels in Arizona—one that comes with a Historic Hotel of America designation. Despite its age, The Wigwam is newly restored, and includes three pools, water slides, a golf course, a spa, and tons of programming that’s inspired the Southwestern spirit.

And don’t worry—the water slides and pool area don’t give it a kitschy, childish feel. The Wigwam grounds feel effortlessly classy throughout.

10 Historic Sites in Old Montreal That You Might Miss

What do you know about the history of Montreal, one of Canada’s most charming (and modern) cities?

As the capital of Quebec, Canada’s hub of Francophone culture, most travelers can name a few things about the city.

You might know that most locals speak French, that there’s plenty of architecture reminiscent of Europe, and that locals love to gather for cultural and social festivities.

But lying beneath the surface, there’s a lot going on in this city, especially in the way of history.

Off the top of my head, I can name one really wild factoid: Montreal got along really well with the Confederates during the Civil War. Many of the top generals and leaders in the Confederate Army chose to move to Montreal after the war rather than remain in the South.

It’s kind of a crazy story—one that I’ll leave for someone else.

Here’s my point: Montreal’s history has a few twists and turns, and some of its oldest historic sites are still standing today.

And given that Montreal was first founded by a French settler named Jacques Cartier back in 1535, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into on your next visit. While you don’t need to frame your visit around history, you might want to tack on a little visit to one of the sites below.

(Want a short-and-sweet take on local history? Head to the Point-a-Calliere Archaeology & History Museum. And don’t miss the Memory Collector exhibit downstairs.)

(What about a place to stay in Montreal? The city is home to many charming Airbnbs.)

Don’t miss these historic sites in Old Montreal

Hochelaga (1300s)

Arrivée de Jacques Cartier à Hochelaga, future Montréal, en 1556, Canada. (Photo by API/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

As mentioned above, a French explorer named Jacques Cartier first landed in the area of modern-day Montreal. He visited an Iroquois village called Hochelaga, which was located near current-day Mount Royal. The village had likely existed since the 14^th century as a major hub and residential area.

You can visit the spot where Hochelaga is thought to have existed, though no archaeological evidence has definitively proven where the village was located.

Today, you can visit the historic marker plaque on Sherbrooke Street at the entrance of McGill University. To be fair, it’s just a plaque—there’s no larger exhibit or museum for you to learn more.

Still, it’s a callback to Montreal’s pre-history that not many people know about—and a name that you’ll see around town. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is a neighborhood in Montreal that’s quickly becoming trendy. Think of it like knowing the origin of the name Manhattan in New York City.

Maison Saint-Gabriel (1668)

Take a look at how rural French settlers lived in the mid-17^th century. Inside, you’ll find an accurate replica of earlier décor and household items. Plus, you can take a tour with guides in period costumes—and they’re passionate about what they do, which bodes well for travelers. From the medicinal gardens to the fire-burning oven, you’re in for plenty of historic (and delightfully educational) fun.

LeBer-LeMoyne House & Musee de Lachine (1671)

LeBer-LeMoyne House is the oldest still-standing homes on the island of Montreal. At the Lachine Museum (Musee de Lachine), you’ll get to take a look inside a fur trader’s humble home. This building was constructed by two trappers and traders, which today houses an archaeological collection of items from the time period.

Unfortunately, this site is currently undergoing renovations—but they should conclude in 2025.

Sulpician Towers/Fort de la Montagne (1694)

When you traverse downtown Montreal, you might see two large stone towers on Sherbrooke Street, which date back to the late 1600s. They were part of the Fort de la Montagne, which was constructed by a Catholic Sulpician Order to Christianize indigenous groups and protect the area.

Over time, the fort was used for different purposes before, in 1854, the entire fort was destroyed, aside from the towers.

Chateau Ramezay (1705)

Similar to Maison Saint-Gabriel, this historic home lets you take a glimpse into the past. Once again, you can expect a faithful representation of what life would have looked like for the area’s earliest European settlers and the local indigenous groups.

This time, through the lens of a slightly larger chateau. Plus, there are bonuses like high-tech exhibits, costumed guides, and a lovely Governor’s Garden tour.

Notre-Dame Basilica (1672-1830)

You probably already have Montreal’s Notre-Dame on your bucket list—but you should know that the modern church that people visit today wasn’t constructed until the 19^th century.

The original parish church, dating back to the 17^th Century, was replaced by a new construction that was erected in 1830 and later finished in 1865 when the façade was completed. (That’s not counting the interior, however, which wasn’t fully finished until the organ was installed in 1891.)

Sir George-Etienne Cartier Historic Mansion (1838)

MONTRÉAL, Quebec:, Lieu historique national de Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier, 15/09/2024, Photo Bernard Brault, Parcs Canada

Forget the early settlers of Montreal—let’s move into flashier territory. If you want to see how the upper middle class lived in the mid-19^th century, head to this gorgeous, massive mansion.

It belonged to George-Etienne Cartier, an important political figure who supported Quebec’s union with Canada. During the tour, you’ll get a look at the home’s gorgeous interior, along with a few exhibits on the political history of Montreal and Canada.

Bonsecours Market (1847)

Outside of Bonsecours Market in Montreal, Quebec, Canada – March, 2024

If you go on a walking tour around Old Montreal near the Saint Lawrence River, you’re bound to hear someone mention Bonsecours Market. Up until the 1960s, it was a massive fresh food market for locals.

Since then, it’s been converted into government offices, then revamped with some shopping. Apparently, the shopping is a little soulless and basic—but the architecture might still draw you inside.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory (Mount Royal) (1904)

As with Notre-Dame, you likely already have Saint Joseph’s Oratory on your radar. It’s a little bit off the beaten path on Mont Royal, but you’re bound to spot this grand, stunning structure from the city.

It’s a Catholic shrine to Saint Joseph (patron saint of the New World) that welcome two million visitors each year. Whether or not you’re into saints, it’s got a great view and is the largest domed Basilica in North America—one that usually has close to 10,000 votive candles lit inside.

Cormier House (1931)

My last suggestion for semi-hidden Montreal historic sites is the Cormier House, a stylish Art Deco mansion completed around one century ago. It’s funky, somehow still modern-feeling, and will make you obsessed with Art Deco.

Unfortunately, it’s not currently open to the public (former PM Justin Trudeau’s younger brother lives in it, for now), but you might spot it if you enter Mount Royal Park from Park Percy-Walters. I’m also hopeful that one day it will fall into the public domain and tours will be offered. (Who doesn’t love masterful Art Deco?)