Eco-Friendly Pedicab Tours Document Montreal’s Urban Transformation

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is a Montreal district with a rich history and a lot of architectural gems, yet it is often overlooked by locals and travelers due to its longstanding reputation as a rough neighborhood. Vélopousse Maisonneuve, a pedicab tour service, is trying to change that. The main goal of the pedicab service, a partnership between the district’s youth employment hub and Development Corporation, is to get people to stick around in the area after they visit popular tourist attractions like the Olympic stadium or the Espace pour la vie nature museums.

Following a successful first season in 2012, the eco-friendly pedicab service was renewed this year. Currently, the semi-electric vehicles are stationed at three spots, five days a week. The guides have all been trained to give an in-depth presentation of the district, covering history, architecture, urban planning, and the current revival of the area.

Tour guides for Vélopousse Maisonneuve stress the fact that this means of transportation is very flexible. Those that prefer to keep the tour short can ask tours lasting less than one hour. Others who prefer to take their time can also be accommodated. For example, you can ask your guide to drop you off for lunch and you will be picked up later on so you can resume your visit. Themed packages are also available, focusing on aspects such as food, local businesses and pampering.

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is slowly changing and a growing number of people are starting to discover the area’s potential. This pedicab tour is a great way for Montrealers and tourists to witness this transformation and to enjoy the massive flow of enthusiasm and creative energy that citizens are putting into it.

Here are some of sights you can see along the pedi-cab tour: