Whether you’re here to watch cyclists battle the cobbles or just soak up the local vibe, Roubaix has everything you need for a good time.
No need to suffer on the roads of the Hell of the North to enjoy this city—there’s something for everyone, from textile culture, cycling history, innovative local and sustainable brands to shopping and chill moments.
So, whether you’re here by chance, out of curiosity, or just to try the local beer, get ready to discover 11 must-see spots in Roubaix. Let’s go, I’ll show you around!
1. La Manufacture 🏭
Looking for some culture before or after your ride? La Manufacture takes you through Roubaix’s textile history, from thread to fabric. With vintage machines and weaving demos, you’ll get why this city used to be the beating heart of textile in France.
La Manufacture : 29 Avenue. Julien Lagache, 59100 Roubaix
2. Museum La Piscine 🏊
An old Art Deco swimming pool turned museum, La Piscine is an architectural gem where sculptures, paintings, and textiles come together under amazing light. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious, it’s a must-see in Roubaix.
Musée La Piscine : 23 Rue de l’Espérance, 59100 Roubaix
3. Archives Nationales du Monde du Travail 📚
A bit more serious, but just as fascinating, the National Archives of the World of Work holds tons of documents related to industrial and social history. An impressive building and a deep dive into the region’s economic history.
Archives Nationales du Monde du Travail : 78 Bd du Général Leclerc, 59100 Roubaix
4. Le Non-Lieu 🏭🎭
If you want to discover another side of Roubaix, Le Non-Lieu is a hybrid space between industrial heritage and alternative culture. Exhibitions, concerts, quirky events… This place blends history and contemporary creation in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Le Non-Lieu : 117 Rue Montgolfier, 59100 Roubaix
5. Les Trois Tricoteurs 🧶
If you want to take home a truly local souvenir, Les Trois Tricoteurs offers socks knitted on-site from recycled and local materials. A great way to leave with a piece of Roubaix while supporting responsible craftsmanship.
Les Trois Tricoteurs : 7 Rue du Chemin de Fer, 59100 Roubaix
6. La Vie est Belt 👖
Another must-visit shop, La Vie est Belt turns old bike tires into stylish belts, and hospital sheets into boxers. A local, eco-conscious brand that proves you can give materials a second life with creativity.
La Vie est Belt : 17 Rue du Nouveau Monde, 59100 Roubaix
7. Vera Cycling 🚴 hey -that’s me!
A must-visit for any cycling enthusiast, Vera Cycling is the perfect spot to grab a stylish cycling cap and unique cycling accessories, all made locally. A real goldmine for bike lovers. Come and say hi!
Vera Cycling : 36 Rue du Général Sarrail, 59100 Roubaix
8. Parc Barbieux 🌳
Need to catch your breath after the cobbles? Parc Barbieux, the largest urban park in the North, is perfect for a green break. With its ponds, shaded paths, and strategically placed benches for recovery, it’s the ideal spot to rest your tired legs.
Parc Barbieux : Avenue le Notre, 59100 Roubaix
9. Ateliers Jouret 🎨
This collaborative space brings together artists, creators, and craftsmen in an inspiring setting. Les Ateliers Jouret is a mix of art gallery, workshop, and coworking space—perfect for a walk off the beaten path to discover local talent.
Ateliers Jouret : 13 Rue de l’Hospice, 59100 Roubaix
10. The indoor Stab Vélodrome 🚴♂️
If the cobbles weren’t enough, come test your legs on the track at Stab Vélodrome, inspired by the Olympic velodrome in London. A unique experience for any speed and thrill enthusiast!!
Stab Vélodrome : 59 Rue Alexandre Fleming, 59100 Roubaix
11. Outlet – McArthurGlen 🛍️
And to finish off, a little shopping session at the McArthurGlen outlet stores, where you can find big brands at discounted prices. After riding the cobbles, you definitely deserve some retail therapy, right?
McArthurGlen : 44 Rue Mail de Lannoy, 59100 Roubaix
Sources & photo credits :
Manufacture : https://www.roubaixtourisme.com/avoir/la-manufacture-musee/ Triptyque.be Ensemble SNC
La piscine : https://www.roubaix-lapiscine.com/musee-la-piscine/historique/
Archives du monde du travail : https://archives-nationales-travail.culture.gouv.fr/Qui-sommes-nous/Histoire-de-l-usine-Motte-Bossut
Non-lieu : https://non-lieu.fr/historique-et-presentation-des-batiments
Les 3T : https://www.instagram.com/p/DFCZLKroIDQ/?hl=fr
La vie est belt : https://www.instagram.com/p/C9PxVmVO2pA/?hl=fr
Parc Barbieux : https://www.ville-roubaix.fr/services-infos-pratiques/environnement/la-nature-en-ville/parcs-squares-et-jardins/
Ateliers Jouret : https://ateliersjouret.fr/
McArthur: https://www.roubaixxl.fr/mc-arthur-glen-roubaix-fete-des-20-ans/
