Rivière-des-Prairies, Quebec
Area Montreal borough on the Island of Montreal
A borough on the Island of Montreal beside the Rivière des Prairies, Riviѐre‑des‑Prairies offers riverside parks, bike trails and local markets, serving as a residential gateway to greater Montreal.
Rivière-des-Prairies is a residential district on the northeastern edge of the Island of Montreal, named for the river that forms the northern boundary of the island.
A primarily residential neighbourhood with commercial strips, local parks and riverfront green space along the Rivière des Prairies. The area offers everyday amenities and access to riverside paths rather than tourist attractions.
Originally settled as parish and agricultural land, the district suburbanized during the 20th century as Montreal expanded; municipal boundaries and administrative arrangements have changed over time with the city’s reorganization.
Situated on the northern shore of Montreal Island facing Laval across the Rivière des Prairies, approximately 10-15 km northeast of downtown Montreal and linked to the rest of the city by road and public transit.
- Riverfront recreation: The riverfront along the Rivière des Prairies provides parks, green corridors and cycle paths popular for recreation and riverside walks.
How to Get to Rivière-des-Prairies, Quebec #
From downtown Montreal, Autoroute 40 (the Metropolitan) leads east with exits to the Rivière‑des‑Prairies area; for public transport take STM buses that connect the borough to several metro stations on the Blue and Green lines.
Commuter trains also serve parts of the wider northeast island; check STM and Exo schedules for the best routing on the day of travel.
Tips for Visiting Rivière-des-Prairies, Quebec #
- Explore the parks along the river early in the morning for birdlife and quieter streets.
- Use STM bus routes from Montreal metro stations for direct access rather than driving into limited residential streets.
- Check local community centre calendars for seasonal cultural events and markets that reveal the borough's local life.
Best Time to Visit Rivière-des-Prairies, Quebec #
Summer for outdoor activity and festivals; spring and autumn for pleasant walking weather and lower humidity.
