Space for Life (Espace pour la Vie) is Montreal's largest museum and tourist complex, and includes the Biodome, the Botanical Garden, the Planetarium and the Insectarium.

A visit to the Space for Life group of attractions will provide interesting activities for the whole family. The 4 fascinating attractions are located close to each other. If you plan on getting there by car, parking is available but it is not free (pay parking). The Viau and Pie-IX metro stations serve the area (map), and they are in close proximity to the 4 different attractions.

The Biodome (map) is a unique concept bringing together ecosystems from across the Americas, and you'll be able to see exotic and fascinating animals. The different animal species are too numerous to try to list them all, but include monkeys, penguins, wildcats and bats among many others. Some animals, like the Biodome's otters, seem to really enjoy interactions with the public and are quite playful. The Biodome tries to recreate habitats that are as authentic as possible for its residents, and visitors marvel at seeing animals they've never seen before.

The Botanical Garden (map) is one of the world's most beautiful gardens, and puts on display an incredible amount of plants and trees. This attraction spans more than 1 kilometer, and there is a also a large arboretum attached, which includes dozens of species of trees. An immense complex of greenhouses is open year-round and features some rare and beautiful plants to discover or rediscover. There are several themed gardens, including the beautiful Chinese garden, and the Japanese garden featuring a collection of priceless bonsais, which alone would be worth the visit. There is so much to see at the Botanical Garden that you will probably want to spend a good amount of time there; a full visit can take at least a day. You can bring your lunch, and if you prefer not to, a cafeteria-style restaurant is available on-site.

The Insectarium (map) is located within the Botanical Garden, and features an impressive collection of insects from the world over. The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium (map)is brand new, and presents the marvels of our universe with state-of-the-art technology.