The building was designed by architect Roger Taillibert for the 1976 Olympic track cycling events.
The Tropical Rainforest exhibit features a canopy path that allows visitors to view the ecosystem from a raised elevation.
The Sub-Antarctic exhibit is kept at a strictly controlled cold temperature to house species like penguins and puffins.
The Gulf of St. Lawrence exhibit contains a massive aquarium tank that mimics the underwater environment of the estuary.
The Biodome is part of an international network of science museums that prioritize biological conservation and education.
The building’s design utilizes a complex system to simulate seasonal natural light changes for the animals inside.
The Montreal Biodome is an immersive nature centre that recreates five distinct ecosystems of the Americas under one roof. Originally constructed as the velodrome for the 1976 Summer Olympics, the facility was repurposed into an indoor zoo and botanical garden in 1992. Visitors follow a sequential path through the Tropical Rainforest, Laurentian Maple Forest, Gulf of St. Lawrence, Labrador Coast, and Sub-Antarctic Islands. Each zone maintains strict microclimates, complete with appropriate lighting, humidity, and temperature settings. The facility is part of the Space for Life (Espace pour la vie) complex, which includes the Planetarium and Botanical Garden. The building's interior was extensively renovated between 2015 and 2020 to modernize exhibits and improve accessibility. It houses thousands of animal specimens and thousands of plant species. The climate control systems are integrated with the site's original architectural structure.
The raised walkway within the Tropical Rainforest provides a comprehensive view of the flora and water features.
Wear comfortable, slip-resistant walking shoes as you will traverse environments with high humidity and varied floor textures.
Bring a light sweater or jacket, as the transition between the tropical zone and the sub-antarctic zone involves significant temperature shifts.
Use the interactive maps provided at the entrance to track the locations of specific animal feedings.
Do not attempt to touch or feed the animals, as the exhibits are strictly protected environments.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; check official site for seasonal closures.
Maintain silence near animal enclosures; flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the well-being of the species.
