You don't need to board a plane to enjoy some Disney-inspired magic. This enchanting new sculpture garden is a road trip from Ottawa and looks like it was plucked straight out of EPCOT.
You'll feel like you've stepped into a scene from Moana as you gaze at giant, whimsical sculptures made entirely of plants.
The best part? The garden is free to visit, so you don't have to stretch your budget to enjoy this magical spot.
Parc Jean-Drapeau, located about 2 hours from Ottawa in Montreal, recently welcomed three stunning works of horticultural art to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal.
Comprising half a million flowers and plants, these massive sculptures have found a permanent home in the heart of the Floralies Gardens.
You can wander past these incredible, flower-filled wonders and immerse yourself in nature for the perfect summer road trip.
According to the park's website, the sculptures "embody the perfect alliance between nature, creativity and ecological engagement, while providing an area of contemplation and wonder."
One of the highlights is the Mother Earth installation, which "pays homage to the source of all life, human, vegetal, animal and cultural."
Mother EarthCourtesy of Parc Jean-Drapeau
Standing at a towering 11 feet tall, the majestic figure features colourful hair and a waterfall cascading from her palm. It has major Moana vibes and looks like something you'd find in Disney World's Journey of Water.
Mother Earth was first introduced in 2013 when it received several awards at the Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal.
You can also check out The Man Who Planted Trees, created from 100,000 plants and inspired by the famous short story by Jean Giono.
The Man Who Planted TreesCourtesy of Parc Jean-Drapeau
The scene depicts a man planting a small sapling and "illustrates the positive impact one individual can have on their environment."
The final artwork to experience is The Six Pairs of YY, which is spread across the Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame islands. Representing human silhouettes, the sculptures pay tribute to Expo 67, symbolizing unity, collaboration, and friendship.
The Six Pairs of YYCourtesy of Parc Jean-Drapeau
While you can enjoy these majestic works of horticultural art for most of the year, the best time for viewing is from the beginning of June to the start of September.
The area is free to explore, making it an ideal spot to visit if you're trying to save some cash.
With its Disney vibes and summer magic, Parc Jean-Drapeau is a dreamy road trip destination from Ottawa.
Parc Jean-Drapeau
Price: Free, paid parking
When: Daily, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Address: 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montréal, QC
This story was inspired by the article “This Disney-like sculpture garden just opened in the middle of Montreal and it's free to visit,” which was originally published on MTL Blog by Al Sciola.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.