At the heart of Vieux-Terrebonne, on the Mille Îles River, Île-des-Moulins is one of the most beautiful historical sites in the greater Montreal area. Its 19th-century stone buildings, waterfront trails, and cultural programming make it an ideal outing for families, friends, or couples. Entry to the park is free, year-round. Here's what to do on Île-des-Moulins, its history, activity fees, and information to plan your visit.

A Seigneury on the Mille Îles River

Île-des-Moulins was part of the Terrebonne seigneury. As early as the 18th century, mills powered by water were operated here. In the early 19th century, merchant Simon McTavish, a leading figure of the North West Company, acquired the seigneury. The island then became an important industrial and commercial center: flour, wood, textiles, and fur trade. In 1832, Joseph Masson became the seigneur and further strengthened its industrial character.

Today, the mills of Île-des-Moulins form one of the oldest industrial complexes of this scale in Quebec, with neoclassical-inspired industrial architecture. It was designated a historical site in 1973 and is listed in the Quebec Cultural Heritage Directory.

The Historical Buildings of the Island

As you stroll around, you'll encounter several restored buildings, each with its original function:

  • the bakery (1803), the oldest building on the site;
  • the flour mill (1846);
  • the seigneurial office, built in the mid-19th century, now housing the Raby exhibition hall;
  • the new mill (1850), which hosts the Christmas Market;
  • the remains of the jetty mills, which once housed flour, saw, and carding mills, as well as dams.

Interpretive panels tell the story of each building and its mills throughout the tour. In Old Terrebonne, the Maison Bélisle presents the permanent exhibition L'Histoire avec un grand… T! and temporary exhibitions.

What to Do on Île-des-Moulins?

The site is managed by La nouvelle société (formerly SODECT), which also oversees the Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne. There are activities year-round:

  • Exhibitions: In 2026, the exhibition Au courant du temps is presented on Saturdays and Sundays until September 27.
  • Boat Tour: A six-seat electric boat navigates the lock (departures every 45 minutes, 30-minute ride), included with exhibition access.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are offered from June to September; groups of 10 or more enjoy a special rate.
  • Free Concerts: In summer, the Théâtre de verdure presents classical music, jazz, and world music.
  • Picnic and Cycling: The island is a lovely spot for a picnic by the water, and the TransTerrebonne trail runs along the river to Vieux-Terrebonne.

Events at Île-des-Moulins in 2026

  • Les Morts nous ont conté – McTavish, la chute du marquis maudit: A 45-minute theatrical circuit, Fridays and Saturdays from October 9 to 31, 2026 (7 PM and 9 PM), for ages 13 and up.
  • Terrebonne Christmas Market: From December 4 to 20, 2026, over three weekends, with exhibitors in cottages and inside the new mill.
  • Île-des-Moulins Skating Rink: In winter, a natural skating rink is set up on the lock, with a skater's path.
  • Terrebonne Wine and History Festival: Every summer, in August.

To not miss anything at the Île-des-Moulins historical site, check the full program on La nouvelle société's website: events are added throughout the year.

Hours and Fees

Access to the park is free. Some activities are paid, such as exhibitions, the Festival vins et histoire de Terrebonne, or the antique car exhibition. For the Au courant du temps exhibition (boat included), it's $10 per adult, $5 for those 17 and under, and free for children 2 and under. The October theatrical circuit costs $30 (regular rate). Tickets for exhibitions are sold in person only.

In the summer season, the island kiosk is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 1 PM to 8 PM (from June 25 to September 6 in 2026). Hours change according to the season: check them before your visit.

How to Get There?

  • By Car: Several free parking lots are nearby, including those at Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne and Collège Saint-Sacrement (901 Saint-Louis Street). Cars are not allowed on the island.
  • By Bus: Exo bus 8 connects the Terrebonne terminal to Vieux-Terrebonne.
  • By Bike: Bike racks are installed at the island entrance, and BIXI bikes are available for rent from April 15 to November 15 in the theater parking lot.

Practical Information

  • Address: Place de l'Île-des-Moulins, Vieux-Terrebonne.
  • Restaurants: The streets of Vieux-Terrebonne, nearby, have several restaurants and terraces.
  • Dogs: Allowed on a leash, but not inside buildings.
  • Picnic: Allowed, but barbecues are prohibited.
  • Accessibility: The site is relatively flat, with paved or packed paths.
  • Information: 450 492-5514 or the La nouvelle société website.

Frequently Asked Questions about Île-des-Moulins

What activities are available at Île-des-Moulins in Terrebonne?

Exhibitions, electric boat tours on the lock, guided tours in summer, free concerts at Théâtre de verdure, theatrical circuit in October, Christmas Market, and winter skating rink.

What is the history of Île-des-Moulins?

It is a former industrial center of the Terrebonne seigneury, developed notably by Simon McTavish and then Joseph Masson in the 19th century. It has been a designated historical site since 1973.

Are there concerts at Île-des-Moulins?

Yes. Every summer, the Théâtre de verdure presents free concerts, and shows are added during major events.

Are dogs allowed on Île-des-Moulins?

Yes, on a leash at all times, but they cannot enter the buildings.

Also Discover in Terrebonne

Check out the Île-des-Moulins page and the guided tours on the island. Complete your outing with a show at the Théâtre du Vieux-Terrebonne or a visit to the Maison Bélisle.