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A series of greenhouses in the gardens, just past the entrance, provide enough humidity for various botanical environments to thrive, including a rainforest canopy, tropical medicinal plants, and beautiful, brightly colored orchids.

A classic example of a Ming Dynasty garden, complete with its own Lac du Rêve (Lake of Dreams (see First Nations Garden)). This garden covers over 6 acres and is lovingly nurtured by specialist teams from both Montréal and Shanghai. These are the largest Chinese gardens outside China.

A lush domain in the center of the Chinese Gardens, where visitors can watch resident geese and ducks, find a comfortable area to relax, or just wander through the landscaped lake area surrounded by rock gardens, bridges and areas for reflection.

The First Nations (native Canadians) celebrate their magical relationship with the plant kingdom within these 6 acres of gardens filled with interactive terminals, shows and special events. The area is divided up into five different zones: hardwood and softwood forests, an exploration of Nordic life, an interpretation pavilion, and a gathering area.

Honoring the traditional Japanese home, architect Hisato Hiraoka has gathered together the artistic ideals of Japanese society within this graceful structure. There is also an art gallery, Zen and bonsai gardens, an exhibition room and a gift shop.

At any time of year, in any kind of weather, the captivating Wu Yee-Sun Collection of miniature bonsai trees is on permanent exhibit inside their greenhouse. This is one of the most impressive and largest collections of its kind in the world.

This remarkable interpretation center and interactive exhibition is laid out in four parts: Trees in our History, Anatomy and Growth, Trees and the Forest, and The Many Uses of Trees. The Treehouse exhibit is located in the northeast sector of the gardens.

Since the gardens spread over many acres, take advantage of the popular Ballade minibus circulating continuously throughout the day along the paved pathways. Clearly marked areas within the gardens indicate where buses make regular stops.

Two fascinating libraries are situated within the gardens. The public library boasts an extensive children’s section and there is an academic library that is home to numerous scientific books, journals and papers, including studies of botany.

Exciting and informative permanent features in the garden are part of the ongoing effort to educate Montréal children and bring them closer to nature. Exhibitions that are exclusively for kids include the Youth Garden, Butterflies Go Free, Noah’s Ark, the Hallowe’en Mask Competition and the Chlorophyll Room. Each season boasts an additional theme.