Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with your loved ones. They are also a fun activity option when you're on a budget! BentallGreenOak Residential Services has suggestions for some of the best places to have a late summer or early fall picnic in your city.
Burlington
Mount Nemo Conservation Area is a must-see park in the Burlington area. Not only does it offer amazing views of the surrounding area and some great hiking, it's also a wonderful place for a picnic. Make sure to pack your food and drinks before you get there because there are no stores nearby. Consider Mount Nemo Conservation area for your next picnic -- especially if you want to get away from the city.
Calgary
It's no wonder why Bowness Park is a popular spot in Calgary. If you want to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun, this is the place for you. Whether you bring your picnic blanket or decide to use one of the picnic tables, there's something to suit everybody's needs. You can even cool off in the river or at the pool if you get too hot. Check out the nearby Seasons of Bowness Market -- it's a great place to get all your picnic treats. Another option is Edworthy Park. It's got everything you could ask for -- gazebos, picnic sites, fire pits and barbecue stands. It's a great spot to spend time with your kids, or go on a date. Grab a delicious treat at Angel's Cappuccino and Ice Cream when you're in the area.
Edmonton
When you're planning your next picnic in Edmonton, consider going to Rundle Park. There's tons to do, so if you're someone who can't sit still for too long, this is your spot. You can rent paddleboats, canoes, stand-up paddleboards and even play some beach volleyball. Jackie Parker Pier is another great location. It's busy, so if people watching while you picnic is your thing, then this is the winner. There's lots of open space and sunny spots -- which is great for sunbathing. If you don't feel like bringing your own food, check out the nearby Indian restaurant, Rasoi. Grab a few items to-go and enjoy your picnic in the park!
Hamilton
One of Hamilton's most popular spots for picnics and gatherings is Confederation Beach Park. There are incredible lakefront views here, so it's no wonder why everyone loves it. Additionally, Fifty Point is a park to consider. It's large and ideal for family reunions and groups of friends. If you're interested in using one of the designated picnic areas, there's no need to make reservations and there's no need to plan ahead.
Kitchener
If you want to enjoy nature without travelling too far out of the Kitchener area, visit Lakeside Park. Located between Queen's Boulevard and Greenbrooke Drive, this is a wonderful spot for a picnic. You can bring your kids here or go on a date! Grab some food from one of the nearby restaurants and enjoy it in the park while you take in the stunning views of nearby meadows and wetlands.
Langley
If you're searching for a picnic area with picturesque views, you're in luck in Langley. There are a couple of good options here. Campbell Valley Regional Park is a wonderful place with wetlands, a forest and all kinds of wildlife. You can find many picnic benches here, so if you don't like sitting on the grass, this park is for you. You might also want to check out Nicomekl Park -- a very relaxing park in the heart of the city.
Markham
If you're in Markham, grab a coffee, a picnic basket and head over to Pomona Mills Park. Located at 244 Henderson Avenue, this park is equipped with picnic tables, ponds, trails and gardens. It tends to get busy on the weekends, but you can always find a quiet area and enjoy a picnic. Pomona Mills Park is open 24 hours a day. Wismer Park is another great option and right in Markham.
Montreal
If you want to have a picnic with views of an idyllic pond, then you must visit Saint Viateur Park in Montreal. You can grab a drink and a bite to eat from Cafe Olimpico and head over to this picturesque park. If you love nature and the outdoors, this is the place to check out this fall! You can also visit Jarry Park, which also has a beautiful pond, an open field and plenty of gorgeous natural scenery.
New Westminster
Glenbrooke Ravine is ideal if you want to escape the urban life without going too far from New Westminster. The park is very lush, with a pond, bridge and all kinds of birds and animals. This is definitely a hidden gem and a great place to spend the weekend. You can access the park from Glenbrooke Drive, Jamieson Court and Blackberry Drive.
North York
For a beautiful picnic spot in North York, head over to G Ross Lord Park. What's nice about this park is that it's never crowded and the scenery is wonderful. Not only does the park have picnic sites with firepits, but there is also an off-leash dog area, biking trails and soccer fields. So, if you get tired of sitting around, there's plenty of things to do. Not too far from here is Earl Bales Park, another good choice in North York.
Oakville
Gairloch Gardens is a wonderful place to have a picnic in Oakville. There is a large rose garden which is in full bloom until September and it's also right by the lake, making it a very romantic spot for a picnic. While you're there, you can also check out the gallery and explore the charming park.
St. Albert
If you appreciate a beautiful garden, the St. Albert Botanic Park is where you should plan your next picnic in the St. Albert area. You can explore this 5-acre park or find a quiet spot in it to enjoy with your loved ones. There are benches located throughout the park and admission is free! Red Willow Park is another great option -- especially if you want to bring your dogs along.
Toronto
There are many beautiful spots for a picnic in Toronto. Check out Riverdale Park to enjoy its panoramic views of the city. Make sure to grab a coffee and a snack at Rooster Coffee House, which is located on Broadview Street, at the very top of the hill. This is a spectacular place to visit on a sunny day or at sunset. If you're planning on taking the TTC, the park is less than a 10-minute walk from Broadview station. Another great option is High Park. It's very lush and big, so if you're looking for some privacy, you'll definitely find it here.
Vancouver
One of the most popular parks in Vancouver, and for good reason, also happens to be a great picnic spot. Stanley Park is the one place you need to check out this summer. Bring your favourite picnic snacks and enjoy gorgeous views of the Rockies! You might also want to check out Queen Elizabeth Park. It just happens to be the highest point in Vancouver -- making it a great spot for epic views of the city and mountains.
Waterloo
Waterloo Park is a beautiful picnic setting. It's located right in the heart of Waterloo -- so you don't have to go far. You can grab one of the picnic tables or just bring a blanket and claim your spot anywhere. If you're up for it, you can also check out the animal farm! If you're looking for something a little bit off the beaten path, head over to Floradale. Here you'll find shaded picnic areas and have the chance to visit a small Mennonite community that sells delicious homemade baked goods.
BentallGreenOak hopes these suggestions help you plan your next picnic in your Canadian city! For information on BentallGreenOak properties across Canada, please visit our website.