Musée d'Art Contemporain de Montréal (MAC)

The Basics

MAC displays homegrown Quebec talent, with works from local legends, including Les Automatistes, a group of dissident, Surrealist-inspired artists that emerged in the 1940s in Montreal. In addition to the permanent collections, the museum also hosts popular temporary exhibitions showcasing international and Canadian artists. Examples of previous temporary shows include an exhibition of the work of Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson and another dedicated to the late Montreal native, Leonard Cohen.

Visitors can either pay for admission at the door, or purchase a sightseeing pass, which grants free access to MAC and other top city attractions like the Montreal Tower Observatory, Montreal Biosphere, and McCord Museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

MAC is a must-visit for modern art fans and anyone with an interest in Quebec and Canadian art.
A restaurant is located on the museum’s first floor, while a museum shop can be found near the main entrance.
The museum is wheelchair accessible through the entrance at 185 Saint-Catherine, situated next to the main door.

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When to Get There

MAC is busiest on weekends; come early to avoid the crowds. One of the best times to visit is during the Nocturnes at the MAC, a series of nighttime events that sees the museum open until well past midnight. During these events, visitors can take part in interactive tours, art workshops, and enjoy drinks and snacks from the bar as well as live music from a DJ.

Where Else to See Art in Montreal

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) focuses on more traditional art, from paintings to furniture and decorative arts, and makes an excellent complement to a visit to MAC. Famous European artists, such as Rembrandt and Picasso, are represented alongside 20th-century Canadian greats like the Group of Seven and Jean-Paul Riopelle.