While prohibition and the temperance movement put a damper on the early 20th century in the United States and elsewhere in Canada, the booze kept flowing freely in Montreal and it quickly became known as “Sin City” and “Paris of the North”. Visitors flocked here to indulge in the notorious nightlife and raucous times. Whatever the vice or pleasure, it could be found in Montreal. Our cabarets and jazz clubs attracted talented musicians the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, amongst others. This history walking tour will enthrall you with stories about local institutions and the cast of characters that frequented them. Performers, mobsters, street workers, bookies, gamblers, and cops all rubbed elbows in the old Red Light District. Hear about the transformation of the district into the Quartier des Spectacles: home to Montreal’s world-famous International Jazz Festival and other events. Join MTL Detours to learn about this entertaining era in the unique city of Montreal!

• Minimum age to attend is 18+ years old.
• This tour is owned and operated by MTL Detours Walking Tours mtldetours.ca - the same team behind the bestselling “Explore Old Montreal” walking tour.
• Most of the tour is walking or standing with limited places to sit.
• Not recommended for travelers with mobility restrictions or other impairments