Things To Do
in Dorval
Dorval is a small, waterfront city on the western edge of the Island of Montreal. It blends residential neighborhoods with quick access to Montreal's urban core, making it a convenient base for travelers. The shoreline along Lake Saint-Louis provides scenic walks, views of boats, and a backdrop for photos and sunsets.
With its bilingual culture, parks, and proximity to the airport, Dorval feel welcoming and easy to explore for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Dorval. Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront to admire the beautiful views of Lake Saint-Louis. After breakfast, visit the Dorval Museum of Local History and Heritage to learn about the city's rich past.
Make your way to Mont Royal Park for a fun hiking adventure and a glimpse of Montreal’s skyline. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park surrounded by nature. Return to Dorval for some light shopping at the local boutiques.
Wrap up the day with a visit to a lakeside restaurant for dinner. Enjoy a picturesque sunset while tasting some local cuisines. Later, stroll along the Dorval Promenade for a peaceful end to your day.
Begin your morning with a visit to the nearby St. Joseph's Oratory, one of the largest churches in the world. Marvel at the stunning architecture and take in the serene atmosphere. Afterwards, head back for brunch in Dorval at a cozy eatery.
Explore the historical heritage of Dorval by visiting local galleries and art studios. Take part in an art workshop if available, allowing you to create something memorable. End with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood's parks.
Experience a vibrant cultural scene at a local theater showcasing plays or live music. Engage with the community and make friends during intermissions. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby pub or bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍷Mid-range three-course dinner for two | $40-90 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-150 |
| 🚖Taxi starting fare | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Montreal and easy access to the airport
- Safe, family-friendly West Island
- Bilingual environment with French and English
- Limited nightlife within Dorval
- Traffic on major routes can be heavy
- Weather-related winter conditions
Places to Visit in Dorval
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront views with gentle sunsets and distant aircraft in approach; great for wide, tranquil landscape shots.
Historic industrial backdrop with boats, bridges, and reflective water for urban-nature contrast.
Coastal trails and vantage points offering a mix of forest, water, and skyline views.
Food in Dorval
Dorval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and gravy; a quintessential Quebecois comfort dish.
Must-Try!
Montreal-style smoked meat on rye, often served with mustard and pickles.
Chewy, slightly sweet bagel boiled in honey-water and baked to a crisp; many shops near Montreal offer a distinctive version.
Traditional meat pie, typically enjoyed during festive seasons, sometimes served with cranberry sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market in Montreal offering produce, cheeses, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Gourmet market known for butchers, cheesemongers, and prepared foods; great for picnic supplies.
Local market experience with producers offering fresh seasonal goods and street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is widely used; greeting in French is appreciated. Be polite and patient with language differences.
Public spaces value courtesy, queuing, and respecting quiet residential areas, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Dorval
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, 15–20% is standard for restaurant service; rounding up for taxis is common; tips are usually given in cash or added to a credit card receipt.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and cash are common; Interac is common for in-person purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with longer days; great for waterfront strolls, markets, and outdoor dining; occasional thunderstorms.
Mild to cool with beautiful fall colors; excellent light for photography and pleasant walking weather.
Cold with snow; plan for warm clothing and indoor activities; road conditions can vary.
Mild and rainy at times; trees bloom, and outdoor spaces become more active as the weather improves.
Dorval at Night
Hiking in Dorval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal nature trails with views of the water and surrounding green spaces.
Forest trails and marshland habitats with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Extensive trails and scenic overlook points a short drive away; excellent for longer hikes and city views.
Airports
How to reach Dorval by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, located adjacent to Dorval; easy access by car, taxi, or public transit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large proportion of families reside in the West Island with a focus on safety and good schools.
Many residents speak both French and English, facilitating communication for visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport in Quebec with a strong local culture and many amateur and junior programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dorval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for markets with fresh produce, plant-based options at cafes, and ask restaurants for meat-free dishes or adaptions.