With four world-renowned higher education institutions active in research and innovation, Montréal is a globally recognized city of knowledge — as well as North America’s best student city, as recognized by the QS Best Student Cities ranking 2025. But these sacred places of learning aren’t just for students: Montréal’s major universities also offer unforgettable event spaces for meetings and conferences that guarantee an A+ experience for your attendees.
McGill University
Ranked within the world’s top universities, McGill University has a bucolic city centre setting that blends examples of old-world architecture across multiple buildings that reach up to Mount Royal — a comparison to Harry Potter’s Hogwarts is apt. But among the classrooms and lecture halls within await a multitude of rooms perfect for meetings and events, with catering and alcohol permits available. Looking for something ornate? The Thomson House offers old-school class and enviable views. Hosting something huge? The Molson Stadium seats over 25,000 for sporting or cultural events. And what could be more inspiring than the sense of stepping back in time while also surrounded by the world leaders of tomorrow?
Capacity: Up to 25,000 people seated in the largest space
Website: mcgill.ca
Concordia University
With over 200 venues over two campuses — one of which makes up a vibrant part of Montréal’s downtown core — ranging from classrooms to amphitheatres, Concordia University has got you covered for any size event. And they truly understand the ins and outs of modern business, as the school is home to the internationally renowned John Molson School of Business. Modern locations like the EV Building (a LEED-certified building by the Canada Green Building Council) or the Oscar Peterson Hall (with world-class acoustics for 570 attendees to swoon to) offer great conference spots right in the heart of the action.
Capacity: Up to 678 people seated in the largest space
Website: concordia.ca
Université de Montréal
Université de Montréal’s hillside campus overlooks the city, with a main campus comprised of 40 buildings packed with great spots to host successful meetings. Spaces like the bright and airy Agora Morris-et-Rosalind-Goodman, the Ernest Cormier-designed Hall d’honneur in the Pavillon Roger-Gaudry (check those marble columns and high ceilings) or the Carrefour des Arts et des Sciences, which is kitted out with cutting-edge technology, are perfect for events catering for small groups of up to 500 attendees. Hosting an event here also offers your attendees an inside look at a Montréal architectural icon.
Capacity: Up to 500 people seated in the largest space
Website: umontreal.ca
Université du Québec à Montréal
The Université du Québec à Montréal is noted for its innovations in the creative arts and research in social issues, with a downtown campus bordering the city’s exciting Village and just a quick 10-minute walk from Old Montréal. The university’s theatres and cinemas are available for events requiring top-line projection, including the vast Centre Pierre-Péladeau, while other spaces such as the Centre de Design are undeniably exciting just to be in. A nice bonus is the plethora of expertly laid out outdoor spaces that offer an invigorating urban backdrop for socializing, networking or team building.
Capacity: Up to 845 people seated in the largest space
Website: espaceslocatifs.uqam.ca
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