In the heart of Montreal, a captivating walking tour delves into the city’s infamous "Sin City" era and its subsequent Golden Age. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this exclusive small-group experience promises an immersive exploration of Montreal’s rich history. Participants can expect a meticulously curated itinerary, filled with must-see attractions, dining recommendations, and even unique parting gifts. With a strict adherence to schedule and a maximum group size of 10, the tour guarantees an intimate and personalized adventure. But the true allure lies in the stories that await, as this tour promises to uncover the captivating tales that have shaped Montreal’s vibrant past.
Key Points
- This 2-hour walking tour explores Montreal’s infamous ‘Sin City’ era and its Golden Age, led by a local certified guide.
- The tour is operated by MTL Detours, a 100% locally owned and independent small tour company.
- The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 people for an exclusive small-group experience.
- Guests will receive recommendations for things to see, do, and eat in Montreal, as well as unique parting gifts.
- The tour starts and ends at the MEM – Centre des mémoires montréalaises, and guests are responsible for their own transportation.
Tour Overview
Hosted by MTL Detours, a 100% locally owned and operated small independent tour company, the Montreal’s Sin City Era + Golden Age Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s captivating past.
The 2-hour tour is led by a local, certified guide with a mandatory city guide permit, ensuring a knowledgeable and engaging experience.
With a maximum group size of 10 people, guests can expect an exclusive small-group adventure.
The tour covers Montreal’s infamous ‘Sin City’ era as well as its Golden Age, providing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Guests will receive a list of recommendations for things to see, do, and eat in Montreal, along with unique parting gifts to remember their experience.
What’s Included
The tour includes an exclusive small-group experience, with a maximum group size of 10 people.
Guests also receive a list of recommendations for things to see, do, and eat in Montreal, as well as unique parting gifts. Gratuities are optional.
The tour is guided by a local, certified guide who holds a mandatory city guide permit, ensuring a knowledgeable and engaging experience.
Throughout the 2-hour tour, guests will explore Montreal’s fascinating history, delving into the city’s ‘Sin City’ era and Golden Age.
With a focus on providing a personalized and memorable outing, the tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Montreal’s rich cultural heritage.
Meeting and End Point
The meeting point for the tour is MEM – Centre des mémoires montréalaises, and the end point is the same location. Guests are responsible for making their own way to the meeting spot, as the tour starts promptly on time without waiting for late arrivals.
The tour begins and ends at the same central location.
Guests must arrive at the meeting point on their own.
The tour starts on time, so latecomers won’t be accommodated.
There’s no waiting for late arrivals, as the guide won’t delay the start.
The tour adheres to a strict schedule, so punctuality is important.
Accessibility and Requirements
While the tour starts and ends at a central location, it’s not wheelchair accessible. Service animals, however, are allowed.
The majority of travelers can participate, but the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility restrictions or other impairments. Much of the experience involves walking or standing, with limited opportunities to sit.
The tour is recommended for guests aged 18 and above. Those with concerns about their physical abilities should consult the tour provider before booking.
Cancellation Policy
MTL Detours offers a full refund if guests cancel at least 24 hours before the experience. However, no refunds are provided for cancellations less than 24 hours in advance.
Plus, the tour may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions or if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met.
The cancellation policy for the ‘Montreal’s Sin City Era + Golden Age Walking Tour’ includes:
- Full refund for cancellations 24 hours or more in advance
- No refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour
- Possibility of tour cancellation due to poor weather
- Requirement of minimum number of travelers to operate the tour
Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.
Exploring Montreal’s Sin City Era
Exploring Montreal’s captivating Sin City era, guests on this walking tour will uncover the city’s sordid past of illicit activities, organized crime, and underground gambling during the 1920s through 1940s.
Guests will explore the dark underbelly of Montreal’s notorious red-light district, Jactobiere, where speakeasies, brothels, and illegal gambling dens thrived.
The guide will share tales of the shadowy mobsters and corrupt politicians who controlled this underworld, as well as the brave journalists and law enforcement officials who tried to expose the corruption.
Through carefully curated stops and riveting storytelling, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Montreal’s gritty history as a hub of vice and debauchery during its ‘Golden Age’ of sin.
Discovering the Golden Age
Guests on this tour will then uncover the city’s vibrant ‘Golden Age’ from the 1920s to 1940s, when Montreal flourished as a hub of arts, culture, and nightlife.
They’ll explore the area’s glamorous theaters, renowned jazz clubs, and posh hotels that catered to the city’s elite and visiting celebrities. The guide will share captivating stories of the city’s cultural renaissance during this prosperous era, painting a vivid picture of Montreal’s transformation into a cosmopolitan metropolis.
Highlights of this era include:
- The iconic Ritz-Carlton Hotel, a favorite of Hollywood stars and high society
- The elegant Deco-style Orpheum Theatre, a premier venue for live performances
- Montreal’s thriving jazz scene, with renowned clubs like the Café St-Michel
- The city’s burgeoning fashion industry, showcased in upscale boutiques
- Prohibition-era speakeasies and the underground world of organized crime
Parting Gifts and Recommendations
At the conclusion of the captivating tour, guests receive a unique parting gift that serves as a memento of their exploration of Montreal’s vibrant history. Alongside the gift, the guide thoughtfully provides a curated list of recommendations for the best places to see, dine, and experience during the remainder of their time in the city. This list covers a variety of categories, ensuring that travelers can make the most of their visit to Montreal.
| Category | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Sights | Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Port, Mount Royal |
| Dining | Schwartz’s Deli, Hometown, Crew Collective |
| Activities | Bota Bota Spa, Biking Tours, Jazz Festivals |
With these parting gifts and insider tips, guests can continue their journey of discovery, seeing the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is not specified. Participants should dress comfortably for walking and standing, as the tour involves limited opportunities to sit. Appropriate attire for the weather conditions is recommended.
Can Participants Take Photos During the Tour?
Participants are generally permitted to take photos during the tour, as long as they do not disrupt the group or the guide. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator for any specific photography policies or restrictions.
Is the Tour Guide Available for Questions After the Tour?
The tour guide is typically available to answer questions from participants after the tour has concluded. They can provide additional information or recommendations about the area and may be willing to further discuss topics covered during the walking tour.
Is It Possible to Do the Tour in a Language Other Than English?
The tour is available in English only. There’s no option to do the tour in other languages. The tour company, MTL Detours, doesn’t offer multilingual tours at this time.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Rates for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts or special rates for students or seniors. All guests pay the standard tour price, regardless of age or student status. Concessions may be considered in the future, but are not available at this time.
Recap
MTL Detours’ walking tour offers an immersive exploration of Montreal’s vibrant past.
Led by a local expert, the 2-hour experience transports guests through the city’s infamous ‘Sin City’ era and its prosperous Golden Age.
With a small group size, the tour guarantees an intimate and personalized adventure, complete with insider recommendations and unique parting gifts – a must for anyone seeking to uncover Montreal’s rich history.
