PHI Centre
Experience cutting-edge digital art and immersive VR at the PHI Centre, a hub for new media and contemporary exhibitions in Old Montreal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
PHI Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience cutting-edge digital art and immersive VR at the PHI Centre, a hub for new media and contemporary exhibitions in Old Montreal.
"Some visitors found the VR experience to be on the pricier side for what was offered."
🎟️ Book VR Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the VR Cinema in advance, as shows can sell out quickly!
🤔 Check Exhibit Details
Confirm current exhibitions and their themes to ensure they match your interests.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
VR Cinema
VR Cinema Room
Immersive virtual reality films that adapt to your input, offering a unique storytelling experience.
Rotating Art Exhibitions
Gallery Spaces
Explore cutting-edge digital art and multimedia installations from local and international artists.
Interactive Art Installations
Various Locations
Engage with dynamic artworks that respond to your presence and participation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for VR Experiences
Check Exhibit Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
A hello from England
🎟️ Book VR Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the VR Cinema in advance, as shows can sell out quickly!
🤔 Check Exhibit Details
Confirm current exhibitions and their themes to ensure they match your interests.
Cheap(er)/free tickets to Museums?
🗣️ French & English Support
Subtitles are available for some VR experiences, making them accessible to English speakers.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Stand
Some exhibits and VR experiences involve standing or limited seating. Wear comfortable shoes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book VR Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the VR Cinema in advance, as shows can sell out quickly!
🤔 Check Exhibit Details
Confirm current exhibitions and their themes to ensure they match your interests.
🗣️ French & English Support
Subtitles are available for some VR experiences, making them accessible to English speakers.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Stand
Some exhibits and VR experiences involve standing or limited seating. Wear comfortable shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The PHI Centre offers a unique blend of digital art and immersive VR experiences, drawing praise for its innovative approach. However, some visitors found the VR content to be less impactful than expected for the price, and accessibility can be a concern for some.
"We were visiting from the states and decided to check this out. It was $35.00 US for two people. It’s an AI experience and have to say we weren’t very impressed. They start you out in a small room where you answer some questions on a small computer. Then you put the VR headset on and it interprets a story to include your answers. The pictures in the VR didn’t match up very well in our opinion and it was more 3D than actual VR experience. Once completed they take you to another room with 3 benches and 3 large screens on the wall with a small screen on the floor that has English subtitles.
You can type in random words on a set of two computers that will add into the story on the screens and spin a tale on the floor monitor in English as the voice of the story is in French. It was something to do and we figured why not check it out. However, for the price I would have rather gone and purchased some souvenirs."
amy rodriguez
"Very disappointed that we were not able to experience the total potential of it. The main centre were closed we only get to see the two exhibits - Bingo and that shadow thing and they are not good at all, I would not have mind it if they were bonus as part of the main one. The staff from the main one didn’t really advise us of what we are missing if we proceed with just the exhibits and not experience the main one, we would have just turned around and find another attraction from the MTL passport. The exhibits are not very main stream, maybe I would have appreciated it more if context were provided on each one, but who have time to read pamphlets:) so no I don’t recommend this for an average person, that’s me included."
primalrunner
"Poor and limited choice of subject matter for VR Cinema presentation. Not culturally relevant, very heavy, gory, depressing, totally repetitive. Not a good choice for summer fare which should be much lighter and maybe contain a little fantasy, escapism. Also extremely short presentation. Building not accessible for anyone older and/or with any degree of physical limitation."
Joyce Ostroff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The PHI Centre is centrally located in Old Montreal. You can easily reach it by metro (Place-d'Armes station is nearby) or bus. Parking is available in surrounding lots, though it can be pricey.
Yes, the PHI Centre is well-served by Montreal's public transport system. The closest metro station is Place-d'Armes on the Orange Line.
Several parking garages are located within walking distance of the PHI Centre. It's advisable to check parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Absolutely! The PHI Centre is situated in the heart of Old Montreal, making it easily walkable from many other historical sites and attractions.
The closest metro station is Place-d'Armes. You can also walk from Champ-de-Mars station, though it's a slightly longer walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibition or VR experience. It's recommended to check the official PHI Centre website for current pricing and package deals. Some visitors found the VR experience to be on the pricier side for what was offered.
For popular VR Cinema shows and special events, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your entry. General exhibitions may have more flexibility, but checking online is always best.
Tickets typically grant access to specific exhibitions or VR experiences. Some visitors noted that purchasing tickets for one exhibit did not include access to others, so clarify what your ticket covers.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's best to inquire directly with the PHI Centre or check their website for any ongoing promotions.
While some tickets might be available at the door, it's not guaranteed, especially for high-demand VR shows. Purchasing online in advance is the safest bet.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The PHI Centre focuses on digital art, new media, and immersive experiences, including VR cinema, interactive installations, and contemporary art exhibitions.
Visitor opinions are mixed. Some find the VR cinema to be a unique and engaging experience, while others felt it was overpriced for the duration and content.
Habitat sonore is described as a relaxing, immersive audio-visual experience in a dark room with comfortable seating, designed for a calming sensory journey.
While some exhibits are broadly appealing, others, particularly the VR content, might be more suited for adults or older teens due to themes or complexity. It's best to check individual exhibit descriptions.
A visit can range from 1-2 hours for a single exhibition or VR experience to longer if you plan to see multiple shows or explore at a leisurely pace.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The PHI Centre does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there might be a small cafe or vending options. You'll find numerous dining options in the surrounding Old Montreal area.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside exhibition spaces or the VR cinema. Check their specific policies upon arrival.
Old Montreal boasts a wide array of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, offering various cuisines. You'll have no trouble finding a place to eat before or after your visit.
Depending on the event, there might be a bar service available. It's best to check the PHI Centre's website or inquire upon arrival for current offerings.
Yes, Old Montreal has a diverse culinary scene, and you'll find many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by exhibition. Generally, personal photos without flash are allowed in exhibition areas, but flash photography and professional videography are usually prohibited. VR experiences often do not allow photography during the show.
No, flash photography is almost always prohibited inside the PHI Centre to protect the artwork and ensure a good experience for all visitors.
While the focus is on the art, the modern design of the PHI Centre and some of the more visually striking digital installations can offer interesting photo opportunities.
Personal video recording is usually restricted, especially during VR experiences. Professional filming requires prior authorization.
This can change with new exhibitions, but generally, interactive digital art installations and visually dynamic VR environments offer the most compelling photo potential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to check the specific content of current exhibitions and VR films to ensure they are age-appropriate. Some exhibits might be more abstract, so engaging children in discussion about what they see can enhance their experience. The novelty of digital art can spark curiosity and creativity in young minds.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Be prepared for a diverse range of artistic styles and concepts. The PHI Centre often showcases thought-provoking pieces that can spark conversation and deeper reflection. Engaging with the staff or reading available information can enrich your understanding of the featured artists and their work.
✨ Tech-Savvy Explorers
While some reviews suggest managing expectations regarding the depth of VR experiences, the PHI Centre remains at the forefront of showcasing these technologies. It's an excellent opportunity to explore how art and technology are merging to create new forms of expression.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Immersive VR Experiences
It's important to note that the VR experiences are often short and may not be what everyone anticipates from a traditional film. The technology aims to blend 3D visuals with interactive elements, but the interpretation of 'true VR' can vary. For those seeking a cutting-edge digital art encounter, the VR cinema is a must-try, but managing expectations regarding duration and depth is key.
When booking, pay attention to the specific VR film descriptions to ensure it aligns with your interests. Some experiences might be more abstract or experimental than others. The PHI Centre's commitment to exploring new media makes its VR offerings a significant draw for tech-savvy art enthusiasts.
Contemporary Art Exhibitions
Visitors should be aware that the art presented can be avant-garde and may require some context to fully appreciate. While some reviewers mentioned a lack of provided context for exhibits, the PHI Centre aims to push artistic boundaries. The space itself is designed to complement these modern works, creating an engaging environment for exploration.
It's advisable to check the PHI Centre's official website for current exhibition schedules and details before your visit. This ensures you can plan your trip around the specific artists and themes that most interest you, maximizing your cultural experience.
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Comfort during visits can also vary. Some experiences, like the 'Habitat sonore,' offer comfortable seating, allowing visitors to relax and even fall asleep. However, other exhibits or VR sessions might require standing for extended periods, so wearing comfortable footwear is recommended.
It's always a good idea to contact the PHI Centre in advance if you have specific accessibility needs or concerns to ensure they can accommodate your visit smoothly.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit