What to do in Mons ?
— The guide to unusual outings
Live in the Mons area or planning a weekend here? Forget the usual tourist routes frozen in time. The Borinage is buzzing, reinventing itself, and packed with surprising experiences. Between repurposed industrial heritage, urban art, unspoiled nature, and futuristic tech, the region is an incredible playground for anyone looking to get away from it all.
This complete guide is your key to discovering the very best of Mons and the surrounding area, with one goal in mind: living authentic, immersive, unforgettable moments.
Mons and the Borinage: When history meets boldness
The Borinage has a soul all its own. Once shaped by its mining and industrial past, the area has turned old scars into hubs of creativity and fun. Today, this border region blends its legendary warm welcome with a confidently modern vibe.
Living heritage
From green slag heaps that have become biodiversity havens to old red-brick “cathedrals” transformed into cultural and leisure spaces, every place tells a story.A festive spirit
Here, they know how to make you feel welcome. Whether it’s during major folk traditions (like the Doudou festival) or in new entertainment hubs like Zoneo, the local energy is contagious.Unusual gems: Step off the beaten path
Want to surprise your friends, family, or team? Here are the must-try experiences that beat the usual bars and cinemas.
Mechanical and visual immersion
BattleKart (Zoneo Mons): Forget classic outdoor karting. Here, the track turns into a giant interactive game console thanks to floor projection. You drive real electric karts while interacting with virtual worlds, power-ups, and a range of game modes (race, football, co-op). It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and visual wow.
Futuristic virtual reality
Swarms VR (Zoneo Mons): Feel like leaving reality behind? Dive into the region’s most immersive LBE VR (Location-Based Entertainment). On the fictional mining base Corigis-B12, your body becomes the controller. An intense co-op adventure to experience as a squad—perfect for real, sci-fi-movie thrills.
The comeback of retro gaming
The Arcade Zone at Zoneo Mons: A space dedicated to legendary classics and modern machines. From iconic Air Hockey and table football for high-energy showdowns to reflex games like Kickboxer or Basketball, it’s the perfect spot to rediscover the physical joy of gaming—coin by coin, token by token.
Nature, culture, and great escapes around Mons
The Borinage also delivers a striking contrast between urban buzz and spectacular natural spaces.
Le Grand-Hornu
The Borinage slag heaps
Le Spadassin and green walks
Where to go out at night and where to unwind?
After the effort comes the comfort. Mons has a lively, friendly nightlife scene.
Mons’ historic centre: Around the stunning Grand-Place, café terraces, local brasseries, and specialty beer bars invite you to keep the day going. Tasting a regional beer in a warm atmosphere is a must.
Integrated leisure complexes: Places like Zoneo don’t just offer activities—they’re designed as real hangout spots where you can spend the whole afternoon, mixing game sessions, tasty breaks, and quality time with your favourite people.
01
Culture & fresh air morning
A morning walk on a slag heap trail or an architectural visit to Le Grand-Hornu to spark your curiosity.
02
A tasty lunch
A friendly meal in Mons’ historic centre to enjoy local specialities.
03
An action-packed afternoon
Head to Zoneo for a full-on action fix. Start with a BattleKart session, follow it up with a rescue mission on Swarms VR, then wind down late afternoon in the Arcade Zone with a game of table football or Air Hockey.
04
Evening
End your day with a drink in Zoneo’s Lounge Zone.
How to plan your ideal weekend or day in Mons?
To help you plan your visit, here’s a ready-to-go itinerary, tried and tested for a great day out:
So, what are you waiting for to come explore the best of Mons?
Mons and the Borinage have swapped coal dust for futuristic neon, lush landscapes, and overflowing creative energy. Whether you come for an hour or a full weekend, the region always has a surprise in store.
Discover all our articles to prepare for your visit to Zoneo
— Can't find the information you're looking for about Zoneo and its activities? Feel free to browse our recent articles below or contact us directly. The entire Zoneo team is here to help you plan your perfect adventure.
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BattleKart game modes
Master all the rules before getting behind the wheel
8 tips to crush it on the BattleKart track from your very first session
Our pro tips to dominate your opponents right from the first round
BattleKart vs. traditional go-karting
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Swarms VR: A Beginner's Guide
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The story of Swarms VR, told by Fishing Cactus
Home VR vs. LBE VR
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Swarms VR Mons : for what type of group ?
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