4 Top Picnic Spots Across Canada for Enjoying Takeout

The sizzling summer heat has us eager to get outside and stay there. On days when it’s just too hot to cook in the kitchen, takeout picnics serve as the perfect solution.

Plus it’s an excuse to round up your friends and family. Take the opportunity to connect with nature and explore one of these lesser-known and easy-to-access parks in destinations across Canada, and enjoy your meal in the fresh breeze with a side of sweeping views.

Picnic goers at Vancouver’s Jonathan Rogers Park are blessed with a view of the glistening downtown skyline backed by the snow-capped peaks of the North Shore Mountains. With a steady rotation of food trucks, and its close proximity to breweries, cafes, and bakeries, this urban green space is a favourite hangout spot among locals in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. Its grassy slopes invite dogs to roam off-leash, and the small playground at the eastern end of the park encourages children to play. There’s also a community garden tucked in the northeast corner of the park.

Address: 110 W 7th Ave, Vancouver, BC.

Situated in the quaint residential neighbourhood of Cromdale, Kinnaird Park looks out over the North Saskatchewan River and downtown Edmonton’s skyline. This dog-friendly park features a small network of quiet walking and cycling trails for those who are keen to explore the area. Take a stroll along the Kinnaird Ravine and appreciate some local art on the way. This public display of painted murals was put together by members of the local community.

Address: 7696 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB.

Trillium Park at Ontario Place enjoys a picturesque waterfront location along Lake Ontario. Picnic goers here can marvel at plentiful views of the Toronto skyline, as well as take a casual stroll or leisurely bike ride on the William G. Davis and Martin Goodman trails that criss-cross this 7.5-acre park. For a rustic summer cottage experience against a backdrop of Toronto’s glittering skyscrapers, book the park’s community fire pit and gather around with some cozy blankets.

Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON.

The six-acre Stephen Juba Park on the Red River’s western bank spans both downtown and the historic Exchange District. Visit with takeout breakfast to hear the morning melodies of the American Robins and Song Sparrows. Or take a relaxing evening stroll following a lazy afternoon of laying on the open grass fields. This waterfront park also features bike paths that take you past soaring Manitoba maples, American elms and cottonwood trees that’ll make you forget you’re in the middle of the city.

Address: 130 Galt Ave, Winnipeg, MB.