Ice Castles, the Utah-based creator of handbuilt frozen attractions, is expanding into Quebec for the first time. The company will set up its interactive winter experience at Espace 67 in Montreal's Parc Jean-Drapeau, adding a new draw for the city's already robust cold-weather tourism calendar.
Founded in 2010 by Brent Christensen, who originally built a winter playground for his children in Alpine, Utah, Ice Castles has grown into a North American attraction brand. Each installation is constructed by artisans who grow, harvest, and place tens of thousands of icicles over several weeks, shaping tunnels, archways, towers, and caverns. The structures are then lit with color-changing LED lights, creating an otherworldly glow after dark.
"Montréal is one of the world's great winter cities, and we're proud to introduce Ice Castles here for the first time," said Kyle Standifird, CEO of Ice Castles. "Parc Jean-Drapeau is an exceptional setting, and we can't wait to share this magical winter experience with Montrealers and visitors this coming season."
The Montreal location joins a portfolio that includes installations in the United States and Canada, typically operating from late December through early March, depending on local climate conditions. Ice Castles has become a significant driver of winter tourism in its host cities, often partnering with local tourism boards and hotels to create package deals.
For travel professionals, the addition of Ice Castles to Montreal's winter lineup is notable. The city already attracts visitors for its festivals, including the Montreal en Lumière and Igloofest, and the new attraction could extend the season's appeal to families and international travelers. Parc Jean-Drapeau, located on the St. Lawrence River between Montreal and the South Shore, is accessible via the city's metro system and is a short ride from downtown hotels.
Opening dates for Ice Castles Montréal will depend on weather conditions, as the structures require sustained freezing temperatures to maintain integrity. The company plans to announce ticket sales through its website, and interested visitors can subscribe for updates. This weather-dependent model is common for ice attractions, and operators should advise clients to check forecasts before booking.
The move into Quebec is part of a broader trend of experiential winter attractions across Canada. In recent years, destinations have invested in ice hotels, snow festivals, and other cold-weather experiences to boost shoulder-season tourism. Montreal's tourism officials have been actively courting such investments, and the Ice Castles debut is expected to complement existing offerings.
For agents and tour operators, the new attraction provides a fresh selling point for winter packages to Montreal. It also aligns with the growing demand for unique, Instagram-worthy experiences that appeal to younger travelers. The attraction's location in Parc Jean-Drapeau, which also hosts the annual Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, adds a layer of brand recognition.
Ice Castles' expansion into Quebec comes as the company continues to scale its operations. The firm has faced challenges in recent years, including weather variability and rising construction costs, but has maintained a loyal following. The Montreal site is expected to employ local artisans and seasonal staff, contributing to the local economy.
Travel advisors looking to incorporate the attraction into itineraries should note that Ice Castles typically offers timed entry tickets, which can be sold in advance. The company also provides group rates and private event bookings, making it a potential option for corporate gatherings or MICE groups seeking a unique venue.
As Montreal prepares for another winter season, the arrival of Ice Castles adds a new chapter to its long history of embracing the cold. With its combination of artistry, technology, and tourism appeal, the attraction is poised to become a highlight of the city's winter landscape.
