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The Parc
Sustainable development
Visitors
Practical info
Customer service
Venues
Rental halls
Société du parc Jean-Drapeau
Contact Us
Contacts
| Customer Service | 514 872-6120 |
| Emergency and security | 514 872-9999 |
| Jean-Doré Beach | 514 872-0199 |
| Aquatic Complex | 514 872-7368 |
| Athletes' Quarters | 514 872-6222 |
#ParcJeanDrapeau
Notices
Mobility
Sports training is prohibited due to the reconfiguration of the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve during the resurfacing work: removal of the multi-purpose track and introduction of a two-way traffic. For a safe cohabitation, reduce your speed and follow the directions of the traffic signs.
The access ramp, that allows automobile traffic between the Concorde Bridge and Macdonald Road on Île Sainte-Hélène, will be demolished and rebuilt. Delays and detours to be expected, reduce your speed and follow the directions of the traffic signs.
← Schedule and rates of the Biosphere
Biosphere
The dome
Mandated by the United States Information Agency in 1964, Richard Buckminster Fuller, an architect, designer, inventor and philosopher, developed the geodesic dome as the structure for the United States Pavilion at Expo 67.
The dynamic, free-standing structure is composed of cylindrical steel tubes sub-divided into side-by-side plastic covered triangles. This concept required a considerably small amount of materials than conventional architectural designs of such magnitude.
The Biosphere's structure reproduces more than 75% of the surface of a sphere and is the largest building of its kind in the world. Fuller's work quickly became a symbol of Expo 67.
Donation
Once Expo 67 was over, many of the pavilions on the site were dismantled. But the United States Pavilion was donated to the City of Montréal by then-U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. The City of Montréal officially took possession of the geodesic dome on January 31, 1968.
Man and His World
For more than eight years, from 1968 to 1976, the Biosphere played host to exhibitions, works of art, theme-based gardens, many bird species (the forerunner of the Biodome) and a wide range of activities for the family, even a movie theatre!
The scientific aspect was also featured with the addition of animated activities on photosynthesis, soil conservation, pollution problems in cities, etc.
The 1975 brochure has a line that reads: « Une oasis de joie de vivre » (A joyful oasis)
Museum
In 1995, after many years of studies, the City of Montréal finally announced the Biosphere's new vocation: a museum promoting the environment and its protection. Now that's a mission in keeping with the philosophy of the Biosphere's creator, Mr. Fuller!
The restoration costs were so expensive that the City of Montréal decided to keep just the tubular structure and completely redo the interior. The renovation project was carried out in collaboration with Environment Canada, which has occupied the premises ever since.
Sources
- Société du parc Jean-Drapeau Archives
- City of Montréal Archives
- Environment Canada
Learn more
To obtain more details or for any request for information, do not hesitate to contact our staff.
Mobility
Getting to Biosphère, Environment Museum
To make it easier to get around, here is the exact location of the Biosphere at Parc Jean-Drapeau posted on Google Maps.
Subway Station
The Jean-Drapeau subway station is located on Île Sainte-Hélène, in the heart of Parc Jean-Drapeau. To get to the Parc easily and quickly, the subway is still the best way to go!
River shuttle
During the summer season, Parc Jean-Drapeau visitors can use the river shuttle as a means of transportation, from the Vieux-Port de Montréal (Jacques-Cartier pier) and the city of Longueuil.
Users can also bring along their bikes and they have access to a network of cycling paths at each stop.
STM shuttle
Three STM shuttles provide a connection between the Jean-Drapeau subway station and various attractions:
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767 (summer season only)
- Jean-Drapeau Subway Station
- La Ronde
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768 (summer season only)
- Jean-Drapeau Subway Station
- Jean-Doré Beach
-
777 (every day of the year)
- Jean-Drapeau Subway Station
- Casino de Montréal
- Since June 19, 2023, the 777 bus line is extended to downtown Montreal.
To find out about STM shuttle routes and schedules, click here.
Bike
The Parc is one of the few places where you can cross the Saint Lawrence River on your bike: simply take the bike paths of the Jacques Cartier Bridge, the Concorde Bridge or the Bike link.
Walking
People can enjoy many of the cycling paths to get to or pass through the Parc Jean-Drapeau, either running or walking.
With more than 25 kilometres of trails and pathways, the Parc is a pleasant spot for hiking, all year round.
Parking
Motorists can get to Parc Jean-Drapeau by taking the Jacques Cartier Bridge or the Concorde Bridge.
Nearby parking areas: P10, P11
Taxibus service
You can reserve a taxi for your travels at the Parc by using a valid STM transport fare.
Schedule
| September 3 to June 23 | |
|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. |
- The service is not offered on statutory holidays
- Find out more about how it works and the STM transport fare accepted in taxibus service.
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River
shuttle - Bike
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Taxibus
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