Complexe Desjardins

My roommate and I love the fountain. We can't get enough of it. There is a light/fountain show that happens on the hour every hour. SPECTACULAR!

Complexe Desjardins is a prominent mixed-use complex located in downtown Montreal's Quartier des Spectacles. It encompasses a shopping mall, office towers, and a hotel, serving as a central hub for commerce, culture, and community events.nn Historical and Architectural SignificancennConceived during Montreal's urban renewal era, construction of Complexe Desjardins began in 1972 and was completed in 1975. The project was a collaboration between the Government of Quebec and the Desjardins Group, aiming to revitalize the eastern end of downtown Montreal. The complex features modernist architectural design with several towers housing offices, including those of the Desjardins Group and Quebec Government, as well as a hotel. These structures are interconnected by an atrium shopping center, creating the effect of an indoor square.nn Shopping and DiningnnThe shopping gallery within Complexe Desjardins hosts over 100 shops and restaurants, offering a diverse range of retail and dining options. The complex includes a newly redesigned food hall and is anchored by an IGA supermarket.nn Cultural and Community HubnnAt the heart of the complex is La Grande-Place, a vast public square that hosts more than 200 events annually, including fairs, exhibitions, and concerts. This space is designed to accommodate crowds ranging from 50 to 5,000 people and can be reconfigured for various public and private events.nn Accessibility and ConnectivitynnComplexe Desjardins is strategically connected to Montreal's extensive underground city, providing direct access to Place-des-Arts and Place-d'Armes Metro stations. This connectivity facilitates easy access to nearby landmarks such as Place des Arts, Complexe Guy-Favreau, and the Palais des congrès de Montréal.nn AccommodationnnThe complex includes the DoubleTree by Hilton Montreal hotel, offering convenient lodging options for visitors. The hotel has undergone several rebrandings since its opening, reflecting the evolving hospitality landscape in Montreal.

Complexe Desjardins is a great destination in the heart of downtown Montreal. Its prime location across from Place des Arts and the Quartier des Spectacles makes it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors. The mall is easily accessible, with entrances on Saint Catherine Street, Saint-Urbain Street, Jeanne Mance Street, and René Lévesque Boulevard. Notably, the Saint Catherine entrance is at sidewalk level and wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenience for all patrons.nnIts expansive design features a beautiful central atrium with a breathtaking fountain, creating a serene ambiance for shoppers and diners alike. While the mall doesn’t boast an extensive array of shops, it does including a grocery store and one of the loveliest food courts in Montreal. The food court offers a diverse selection of dining options, catering to various tastes and preferences.nnAccessibility is further enhanced by its connection to Montreal’s Underground City and proximity to two metro stations: Place-des-Arts and Place-d’Armes. This makes navigating the city and reaching the mall straightforward, even during inclement weather.

It’s a great place to take shelter from the weather hot/cold and still get your steps in. Lots of places to walk around in and browse shops. Most shops are non generic and seem to be local. The perimeter is lined with a grocery and some upscale restaurants. Lovely communal space in the middle with a gorgeous fountain show and lots of seating. The food court is pretty big with a good variety of restaurants to choose from.

Complexe Desjardins is a practical shopping and dining destination located in the heart of downtown Montreal, within the vibrant Quartier des Spectacles. While it might not have unique attractions to justify a special trip, it’s clean, accessible, and connected to Place des Arts and the metro station, making it convenient for those already in the area.nnStores you’ll find at Complexe Desjardins:nnDollaramanPharmacie Jean CoutunRenaud-BraynSAQnBest Buy ExpressnBijouterie Ralph et EllenAu Nouveau Jardin des FleursnChocolat FavorisnA&WnBâton RougennHotel: Hyatt Regency Montreal is located within the Complexe Desjardins, providing direct access to the mall and the connected amenities.nnOverall, it’s a handy spot for shopping, dining, and staying in downtown Montreal.