Phillips Square
Square Historic public square in Montreal adjacent to shops
A downtown Montreal square framed by heritage buildings and shops; visitors pass through for cafés, public art, seasonal markets and central city errands.
Phillips Square is a public plaza in downtown Montreal located at the intersection of Sainte-Catherine Street and the square that bears the same name, functioning as a central urban gathering and shopping area. The square is a well-known downtown landmark used for pedestrian circulation, outdoor seating and civic events.
The open space is surrounded by retail and office buildings and is closely linked to Montreal’s commercial corridor, with transit access nearby. The square hosts seasonal decorations and occasional public events, and it serves as a regular meeting point for shoppers and office workers.
Phillips Square dates to the 19th century as part of Montreal’s urban development and has evolved with surrounding commercial growth while retaining its role as an open public plaza in the city’s downtown core. It is located within walking distance of McGill University and the McGill Metro station.
- Central location: Situated on Sainte-Catherine Street in downtown Montreal, adjacent to major shopping streets and within walking distance of McGill Metro station.
- Public events: Acts as a frequent site for seasonal events and public gatherings and is surrounded by commercial buildings and storefronts.
How to Get to Phillips Square #
In the heart of downtown Montréal, between Sainte-Catherine Street and de Maisonneuve Boulevard. It’s a short walk from Peel or McGill Metro stations (Green Line). Many bus routes run along Sainte-Catherine.
Tips for Visiting Phillips Square #
- Visit at lunchtime when the square's cafés and food trucks animate the space.
- Stand on the north end to examine worn bronze plaques and the mid-century paving pattern.
- If a protest or civic event is planned, check local listings - Phillips Square has hosted markets, demonstrations, and performances for decades.
Best Time to Visit Phillips Square #
Accessible year-round; summer brings the liveliest atmosphere while winter offers a more reflective, often snowy scene.
Weather & Climate near Phillips Square #
Phillips Square's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -15°C to 27°C. Abundant rainfall (1064 mm/year), wettest in September, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -14°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 16°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (101 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (101 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).