McGill University and the Redpath Museum
Founded in 1821 McGill University has s number of old historical buildings that are well worth seeing

As a visitor to Montreal you may want to visit McGill University just to witness the great architecture of its historic old buildings, or you may wish to visit the Redpath Museum; one of the oldest in the country. The research museum features an extensive collection of artefacts and fossils pertaining to the evolution of life, world cultures, and the study of minerals. Admission is by free, however a donation of $5 CAD is suggested, which is actually a bargain.
The founder of the University is John McGill a wealthy Scottish merchant who resides in Montreal. Before his death he bequeathed one of his estates to the Royal Institution for the Advancement of Learning with the stipulation that the estate and funds be used for the establishment of a University or College and that this place of learning bear his name.
The motto of McGill University is 'Grandescunt Aucta Labore' is Latin meaning 'By work, all things increase and grow', and the adhering to this ethos can clearly be seen by the progresses made over the years by the University as well as its Alumni.
McGill University is an establishment of great pride for the city of Montreal. It has a long history of achievements both of its alumni and also as a stellar faculty. As a research centre it is one of the best in the world, where many advancements has been made including the research on the nature of radioactivity by Noble Prize winner Ernest Rutherford. The creation of the first artificial blood cell as well as Plexiglas was also done on one of the McGill campuses.
You may also find yourself on the campus of McGill University if you are a football fan and decide to take in a Montreal Alouettes home game at Molson Stadium, as it is owned by and part of the University.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: 845 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
Phone: (514) 398-4455
Official Website: McGill University and the Redpath Museum
McGill University and the Redpath Museum Reviews
Rated
McGill University, one of the top 3 universities in Canada, stands out not only for its academic excellence but also for its rich history and stunning campus. Located in the heart of Montreal, McGill is known for its world-class research programs and diverse student body. The university’s historic buildings, like the iconic Arts Building and the Redpath Museum, blend beautifully with more modern structures, creating a unique atmosphere that mixes tradition with innovation. Its central location provides easy access to everything Montreal has to offer, making it a perfect spot for both students and visitors. Whether you’re exploring the academic landmarks or simply strolling through the campus, McGill offers a memorable experience.
Hamid Boleydei - 2 months ago
Walking through University to reach out Mount Royal Park, gave a chance to see Pro-Palestinian camps and old academic facilities including Arts Building, Redpath Museum, Burnside Hall, McLennan Library Building, and McIntyre Medical Sciences Building.
It is a must for Montreal tourists to see it!
Nima M. - 5 months ago
Great university built in the middle of the city, surrounded with buildings and natural beauty
What a nice and unique mixture
Dr. Zakaria H. Helles - 3 months ago
My experience as an applicant has already been challenging. As a top university, we would think the customer service goes to it’s standards, unfortunately isn’t the case. I have had issues with the portal and between each department they play tennis with who should look into it. On the portal it says the deadline to apply to a scholarship has passed when it hasn’t. Then, someone from the Scholarship department first replied I am not elegible. When I mentioned I am, the referred me to an online service. I’ve contacted Service Point several times and my first call was answered by someone polite who transferred me to the Admissions department, and I’ve had different answers since then. No one has replied, I’ve been contacting them since January 20, 2025, the deadline is in 2 weeks to give you an idea about the challenging back and forth I’ve gone through without an answer.
They haven’t event taken the time to check my profile before answering the questions. The deadline will pass and I still don’t have an answer, so I will be paying the consequences for management
incompetency.
I decided to apply here due to it’s reputation, but if this is my entrance experience I highly doubt that as a student the service will get better. I am highly disappointed and if another opportunity arises, I might consider it, as no one pays for a service to be denied. The 2 stars in giving it its due to its reputation only that somehow seems to stand, despite the public difficulties the university has faced.
Long story short, do your research properly, don’t trust on its ranking only, unfortunately that will not shape your experience nor your career as a future professional, as it isn’t a guarantee either.
Michelle Serrano - a week ago
Very cool university! Perfect location. Classic-looking buildings with modern equipment inside. Visited a chemistry lab - nicely organized. Also the book store is good, bought a couple souvenirs. Parking is expensive tho on Rue University.
Jingxu Zheng - 2 years ago
Directions
Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Line 1 - Green | McGill Station | 3 Minutes |
How to get to McGill University and the Redpath Museum by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro LIne 1 to McGill Station and take the University Exit. Walk one block north on University Street and turn left onto Sherbrook Street W and right at the columned gate into the University grounds.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near McGill University and the Redpath Museum:
Photo Gallery
-
Sherbrook Street gate to McGill University Campus cc licensed photo by TravelingOtter -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: subarcticmike - cc license via Flickr
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.