The Old Port of Montreal is experiencing a significant surge in foot traffic this February as the Montreal Science Centre unveils its most diverse programming schedule for 2026. Two distinct experiences are currently dominating local search trends: the “hair-larious” photography safari known as Funny Creatures and the high-tech astronomical journey Signs of Life. This dual-blockbuster lineup has successfully positioned the venue as the premier destination for families looking for “events near me in Canada” that cater to both lighthearted entertainment and deep scientific inquiry.
Funny Creatures: A Wildly Hair-larious Photo Safari
Presented in partnership with TELUS and the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, the Funny Creatures exhibition is a refreshing pivot from traditional natural history displays. The exhibition features 60 award-winning photographs that capture animals in candid, comical, and surprisingly human-like poses. From “dancing” lemurs to “ballerina” otters, the collection aims to engage younger audiences with wildlife conservation through the universal language of humour. Beyond the visual gallery, the centre has integrated interactive elements such as an animal-call quiz and a themed photo booth where visitors can mimic the poses of the exhibition’s stars.
Signs of Life: The Ultimate Space Quest
While the ground-level gallery provides laughs, the upper levels of the centre invite visitors to leave the planet entirely. Signs of Life is currently the only exhibition in Quebec dedicated exclusively to astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life. Guided by a friendly alien avatar named Penta-Oculus, or “P-O,” the exhibition leads visitors through four themed zones. Highlights include a genuine 3.45-billion-year-old fossil—one of the earliest traces of life on Earth—and a rare lunar rock that visitors are permitted to touch. The space quest also features highly detailed 3D-printed models of the James Webb Space Telescope and Martian rovers, allowing for a tactile understanding of the technology currently scanning the stars for signs of habitability.
New Permanent Addition: Nanualuk – Northern Expedition
Adding to the momentum of the temporary shows, the centre has officially launched Nanualuk – Northern Expedition to coincide with its 25th anniversary year. This permanent immersive installation takes visitors into the heart of the Canadian North. Featuring over 20 unique missions, the exhibition challenges participants to navigate the Arctic environment, learn traditional harpoon techniques, and understand the delicate balance of life in Canada’s most northern reaches. This addition has become a staple for local schools and weekend explorers seeking high-quality “exhibitions in Montreal” that celebrate national heritage.
Venue Logistics and Planning Your Visit
The Montreal Science Centre is located at the foot of Saint-Laurent Boulevard at 2 Rue de la Commune Ouest (Postal Code: H2Y 4B2). The facility has a significant capacity but manages flow through fixed-time entry slots. Visitors are strongly encouraged to arrive no more than 15 minutes before their scheduled time to ensure a smooth transition through the galleries. The building is fully accessible with universal restrooms and elevators serving all exhibition levels. For those with special sensory needs, the centre hosts “Peaceful Mornings” on select Sundays, featuring dimmed lighting and reduced noise levels to create a more inclusive environment.
Tickets, Accessibility, and Parking Information
Tickets for the current season are available exclusively via the official Montreal Science Centre website and Ticketmaster Canada. There are various package options, including combined passes for the exhibitions and the on-site IMAX®TELUS theatre, which is currently showing nature and space-themed documentaries. Public transit is the most efficient travel method, with the Place-d’Armes Metro Station (Orange Line) located just a short walk away. For those driving, the King Edward Quay parking lot offers ample space, though weekend rates can reach $25 for a three-hour stay. Notably, holders of a disabled parking permit can park for free in any spot on the King-Edward pier by using the assistance button at the exit.
As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics continue to capture national attention, the Science Centre provides a perfect indoor alternative for those looking for kids events in Montreal during the cold February weekends. Whether you are checking hockey matches today in Canada or looking for a quiet morning of culture, the Old Port remains the city’s most vibrant weekend hub.
