The 18 Best Picnic Spots in Toronto [2022]

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At the best picnic spots in Toronto, you’re sure to have a lovely time!

There’s nothing like spending having a picnic at a beautiful park! In Toronto, there are many great parks where you can have a picnic at. Whether you have a huge family event, a small group of friends, or want to go on a solo date, picnicking at a Toronto park sounds like the perfect way to spend the day. We found the very best so all you have to think about is packing that picnic basket!

We chose these picnic spots based on visitor reviews, stunning landscapes, the different activities you can do there, amenities, and the open, welcoming atmosphere.

There’s nothing like eating a freshly cooked meal outdoors. For an outdoor dining experience, visit the best parks in Toronto to have your own barbeque and the best patios in Toronto!

Summary

What Should You Bring to Your Picnic?

Picnicking is a popular activity in Toronto, as the city has many beautiful parks and gardens. If you’re planning a picnic, there are a few things you should remember to bring.

First, make sure to pack food that is easy to eat and won’t spoil quickly. Good picnic food includes sandwiches, fruit, cheese, and crackers. You should also bring drinks, preferably in a cooler. Water is always a good choice, but you might also want to pack some lemonade or iced tea.

Next, don’t forget to pack utensils, plates, and cups. It’s also a good idea to bring napkins or paper towels. You’ll need these for messy foods like barbecued chicken or ice cream.

Finally, don’t forget the sunscreen! Toronto can be quite sunny, especially in the summer months. Make sure to pack a sunscreen with a high SPF rating, and reapply it every few hours.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a wonderful picnic in Toronto!

The Best Picnic Spots in Toronto

Now that you know what to bring, it’s time to choose a picnic spot. Toronto is home to many beautiful parks and green spaces, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your picnic. Here are a few of our favourites:

1. Riverdale Park East

Google/Android Dave

Riverdale Park East is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. With something for everyone, the park has something to offer visitors of all ages. The naturalized area at the north end of the park is a great place to take a walk or go for a bike ride, and the swimming pool is perfect for cooling off on hot days.

The ice rink is also a great place to visit, and with a pleasure pad it’s perfect for hosting special events. There are also changing rooms, toilets and washrooms facilities nearby. In addition to all of this, the park features two ball diamonds, three multipurpose sports fields, a running track, seven tennis courts, a ball hockey pad, a picnic area and a children’s playground.

With so much to see and do, Riverdale Park East is sure to be a hit with everyone in the family.

Business Information:

Website:toronto.ca
Telephone:+14163922489
Address:550 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2N6

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Beautiful in summer to have a nice evening of picnic and just have a great time with friends. Also for winter best place to slide where you can have a view of the skyline of Toronto Downtown. “

Pros

Cons

2. Sugar Beach

Photo by Raysonho

Sugar Beach Park is a beautiful urban beach that allows visitors to enjoy the afternoon sun. The beach draws upon the industrial heritage of the area and its relationship to the neighbouring Redpath Sugar Refinery Museum to create an interesting setting for relaxation.

The sand, ocean water and boats on Lake Ontario make this a delightful place to spend a summer day. In addition, there are plenty of picnic areas where families can gather together and have fun while they relax in nature.

The park’s plaza offers a dynamic space for public events. A large candy-striped granite rock outcropping and three grass mounds give the public unique vantage points for larger events and the space between the mounds results in a natural performance space for smaller events.

In addition, the best thing about this venue is that it’s really clean and pets are not allowed to be unleashed. This makes for a comfortable environment where you can relax and have some fun without having to worry about distractions or messes!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163384386
Address:11 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON M5A 1B6

Customer Review Highlight:

“ An incredible public space, where giant ships and sandy peaches coexist and create a unique urban utopia. Best time to visit is throughout summer, but even during brutal Canadian winters, this place can be enchanting. “

Pros

Cons

3. Toronto Music Garden

Google/Glen E. Grant

The Toronto Music Garden is a beautiful location that’s perfect for enjoying free, outstanding classical performances from around the world. The park design is inspired by Bach’s First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello, with each dance movement within the suite corresponding to a different section of the garden.

The garden is a great place to spend an afternoon with family or friends. There’s plenty of space to relax and take in the sights, sounds and smells of nature. You might even see a guitarist performing live – it’ll be sure to put you in a good mood!

Located near the Toronto Harbourfront, it provides visitors with an amazing view of the cityscape – it is a beautiful place to visit and walk through. It has lots of pathways and picture opportunities, which are prettier during the day but still worth visiting at night!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14169734000
Address: Toronto, ON

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Absolutely love this space, a real sanctuary! I go for walks here all the time, and early mornings are my favourite. The lighting in the gardens is romantic af, and sunrises are absolutely magical. “

Pros

Cons

4. Toronto Island Park

Google/Manish Rughani

Toronto Island Park is one of the most popular parks in Toronto. It has plenty to offer visitors including scenic views of the city skyline, numerous playgrounds and recreation areas, as well as an amusement park with rides for all ages!

There are a variety of activities and services available at the park, such as rentals, Franklin Children’s Garden which is a hands-on learning environment that combines interactive features with recreational programming for children or Far Enough Farm where you can meet ponies, rabbits, sheep, chickens, and other barnyard creatures.

The park has several restaurants and ice cream trucks, as well as picnic tables near the waterfront where you can have a picnic along the Skyline View.

Keep in mind that if you’re planning to host a gathering of 25 or more people, it is important to book the area. This booking will allow you to reserve the picnic area – otherwise, picnic spaces are first-come, first-serve.

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Address: Toronto, ON

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Awesome spot for a picnic or just a nice long walk. I loved the ferry ride and how convenient it was to see the schedule and buy tickets online (you can also buy tickets at the ferry station). There are other services for Tourists, be sure to check online first. “

Pros

Cons

5. Ward’s Island Park

Google/Carrie Guo

Ward’s Island Park provides an amazing view of the Toronto skyline from its location on the banks of Lake Ontario. The park is also a popular spot for walking, biking, and running; it has several paths that are perfect for these activities.

In addition to its great recreational opportunities, Ward’s Island Park is also home to many beautiful trees and flowers. The City of Toronto’s Birds of Toronto Biodiversity Series booklet lists this park as a top spot to see in the city. This is due to its rich birdlife, which includes both common and endangered species.

This park is also known as a good spot for fishing. The park features several lakes that are perfect for angling, and there is plenty of fish in the waters to be caught. It also offers a variety of other amenities, including a drinking fountain, outdoor table tennis, picnic site, playground, and washroom facility.

So if you’re looking for an idyllic place to spend a day or two in Toronto, Ward’s Island Park should definitely be at the top of your list!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone:+14163922489
Address: 17 Lakeshore Ave, Toronto, ON M5J 2C3

Customer Review Highlight:

“ In love with our city's natural beauty. A great weekend getaway 10 minutes away from the city. Best place to spend a sunny day with friends and family. You'll have the best views of the city, while enjoying a tropical paradise. “

Pros

Cons

6. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Google/Weige

Trinity Bellwoods Park is one of Toronto’s favourite outdoor destinations for recreation enthusiasts. The expansive 36-acre park features rolling hills and ravines as well as plenty of trails perfect for hiking or biking.

The park has a canopy of over 400 trees of old and young growth, making it perfect for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful weather. The recreational area of the park features a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

There are three ball diamonds, eight tennis courts, two volleyball courts, a dog off-leash area, picnic areas, slackline poles, a children’s wading pool, a playground and an outdoor artificial ice rink which is also used in the off-season for pickleball and/or ball hockey.

The park is a popular local and international destination for meeting up, hanging out, picnics, friendly outdoor activities and special events. During the good weather months, the park becomes especially popular as it offers an ideal location for enjoying nature’s beauty!

Business Information:

Website: trinitybellwoods.ca
Telephone: +14163382614
Address: 790 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Had the most amazing time here. So many people were with family having a picnic, some were dancing with friends. Beautiful sakura flowers/cherry blossoms at this time of the year but the highlight was the sunset at the dog's pit. Nearby places for coffee and food are really great too. “

Pros

Cons

7. High Park

Google/tycoon kaiser khan

High Park has 18 designated picnic sites that are perfect for a day out with friends. The park features a variety of activities, including hiking and biking trails, a playground, and several lakes.

The picnic areas in the park are all marked with a wooden pole with a number on the top of it and reminders that no BBQs are allowed in the park. The park’s picnic areas are popular among large families seeking to get together outdoors.

In addition, the picnic areas offer plenty of space for children to run and play without having to worry about being in the way of adults. There are also several playgrounds in the park including the Children’s Adventure Playground on the east side of the park close to Parkside Rd. entrance.

There are garbage and recycling bins near each picnic area so please use them. Please also clean up before you leave so others can enjoy the site just like you did.

Business Information:

Website: highparktoronto.com
Telephone: +14163380338
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3

Customer Review Highlight:

“ It’s beautiful. Very nice place to hangout with friends, family or alone if you like. You can see various types of birds, geese, and swans. On top you will find parking, washroom, food place for convenience (not sure if they are open around the year). Rent a bicycle or walk around to see beautiful nature. Only issue I would say it’s busy sometime “

Pros

Cons

8. Berczy Park

Google/Da Ria

Berczy Park is a public park located in the triangle of land between Wellington, Front and Scott streets. The revitalization of the well-used and well-worn park has been a long process that started with the City of Toronto working closely with the local community.

Over the last few years, they have been planning how to best use this space for its residents and visitors. And now it is an ideal place to have to spend some quality time with your family and friends or on your own.

The park has a beautiful green lawn, perfect for sitting down and enjoying your lunch or dinner. In addition to the grassy area, there is also a large playground that kids will love.

Berczy Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the city. The park has a few pretty cool pieces of abstract art in the middle of the grassy picnic area. There are tons of benches all over the park as well as a few tables to sit at and have a coffee or breakfast with friends.

It’s also perfect for taking pictures because there are so many beautiful downtown buildings visible from here!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163384386
Address: 35 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C6

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Small park with a lovely atmosphere and right in the middle of the downtown core. The dog fountain, the large mural, and the beautiful architecture of the neighbouring buildings are the highlights of this gem. “

Pros

Cons

9. Corktown Common

Google/David MacBride

Corktown Common is one of the most beautiful parks in Toronto. Located at the foot of Lower River Street and Bayview Avenue, it features a variety of recreational activities such as cycling, jogging, walking, picnicking and bird watching. The jewel in the landscape, Corktown Common has transformed an underutilized brownfield into a spectacular park and community meeting place.

Featuring a marsh, sprawling lawns, urban prairies, playground areas, a splash pad and a variety of inviting features like a fireplace, permanent barbeque, large communal picnic tables and washrooms – the park is perfect for day trips or long weekends.

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Corktown Common is one of the most popular parks in Toronto!

In addition, there are several nice benches and gardens where you can sit and enjoy the fresh air, so whether you’re looking to take a walk or relax in the sun, Corktown Common has something for you!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163922489
Address: 155 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M5A 0G4

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Beautiful park in Corktown and such a quiet peaceful area. Even though it's part of the city it's feeling is outside of the hectic city. Great spot for families and kids. Most of the area is designed for children. Perfect for walks and taking the family dogs for a walk. “

Pros

Cons

10. Christie Pits Park

Google/Geng Zhang

Christie Pits is an 8.9-hectare park located across from the Christie subway station that provides residents and visitors with a wide range of recreational activities, including walking, biking, skating, playing sports and picnicking.

The park features a variety of recreational opportunities, including three baseball diamonds, a multi-sport field, basketball and volleyball courts, an artificial ice rink, a children’s playground and a labyrinth.

In addition to these standard amenities, you’ll also find a splash pad and wading pool perfect for cooling off on hot days. Finally, there is also the community garden which allows visitors to use the tools provided to create their own fresh produce plot!

The park is nice and quiet during the morning and loud during the evening. They have music playing and parties going on. Plus, in the summer, they have Sunday night movies going on as well!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163384386
Address: 750 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 3K4

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Wow, this park has a lot of options for recreation! It was easily accessed by subway and free parking can be found along the residential streets that border the park. I will be back on warmer days to use the water slide. Really big space and lots of seating, (even covered seating is available). “

Pros

Cons

11. Dufferin Grove Park

Google/Kiran Binu

Dufferin Grove Park is a 5.3-hectare park on Dufferin Street just south of Bloor Street West with a large mature forest canopy. The park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, basketball courts, and picnic areas.

In addition to its recreational benefits, the park also serves as a valuable natural resource for residents in the area. The wide range of trees and plants found at the park provide shelter from harsh weather conditions and help to maintain biodiversity in the neighbourhood.

At the north end of the park is the Dufferin Grove Park Artificial Ice Rink and Clubhouse. This allows visitors to enjoy all sorts of activities year-round! Dufferin Grove Park is a great place to spend a summer day. It has something for everyone, including a space for children to play and adults to relax.

So whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or some fun in the sun, Dufferin Grove Park is perfect for you!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163920913
Address: 875 Dufferin St, Toronto, ON M6H 3K8

Customer Review Highlight:

“ This has to be the best park in toronto, kids and adults alike love to play at the water way because its just a fun thing. The park is very big and has many activities and is located in a great area. If you have kids i highly recommend bringing them here because the memory is unforgettable and will stick with them. I remember when my parents used to bring me here, very fun! “

Pros

Cons

12. Grange Park

Grange Park is a 1.8-hectare park near Queen Street West and University Avenue that features a picnic area, a wading pool and a children’s playground. The park is perfect for family outings or picnics with friends.

In addition to the traditional outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, visitors can also enjoy relaxing in the sun on one of the many benches or taking some time out to read at one of the many public areas around Grange Park.

This park also includes a bottle filling station, dogs off-leash area, and a fieldhouse, so whether you’re looking for an afternoon escape from city life or want to take your kids outside for some fun playtime without having to worry about them getting lost, Grange Park is sure to be enjoyable!

Business Information:

Telephone: +14163928188
Address: Beverley St & McCaul Street, Toronto, ON M5T 2W7

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Nice park and never knew it existed. Took a walk around the park and area today. Nice fall colors and great place for kids to play with some very interesting play ground houses and futuristic playground equipment. Great view through the falls colors to the CN Tower. Very quiet and peaceful area. “

Pros

Cons

13. Ramsden Park

Ramsden Park is a great place to go for a day of fun with your canine friend. The off-leash area has plenty of room for all kinds of dogs, and there are also two playgrounds and a wading pool available for them to enjoy.

In addition, the baseball diamond is perfect for playing some ball together (or against each other). There is also a large outdoor rink, which doubles as a tennis court in the summer.

This facility is perfect for enjoying some quality time with friends or family members during warm weather months. The park has a parking lot, which provides convenient and easy access to the site for visitors.

In addition, the park also includes a picnic site that is perfect for enjoying a peaceful picnic lunch or dinner. So if you’re looking to get out and have some fun, Ramsden Park is definitely the spot for you!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Address: 1020 Yonge St & Ramsden Park Rd, Toronto, ON M4W 1P7

Customer Review Highlight:

“ It's a beautiful park. I'm showing there at the Rosedale Art Fair this weekend. It's a very well maintained urban park. Perfect for a stroll and surrounded by restaurants “

Pros

Cons

14. Withrow Park

Google/Kamrul Hasan

Withrow Park and Clubhouse is an 8-hectare park on Logan Avenue just south of Danforth Avenue that features two ball diamonds, a multipurpose sports field, two outdoor tennis courts, a volleyball court, and a dog off-leash area, a wading pool and a children’s playground.

This spacious park offers residents of the Toronto neighbourhood plenty to enjoy year-round. In addition to its main attractions, the site also includes an off-leash area for dogs as well as ample space for kids to play without worrying about cars or other distractions.

The park also has a picnic site. You can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner outdoors while taking in the stunning views of the city. In addition, the site is perfect for children who want to explore nature and have fun without having to worry about getting lost.

With plenty of space available, there’s no need to be cramped up when enjoying a meal at the park. So whether you’re looking for some peace & quiet or want to take in all the action from one spot, Withrow Park is perfect for your needs!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163922489
Address: 725 Logan Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 3B9

Customer Review Highlight:

“ A good place to enjoy with family and friends. With ample space for the dogs to run freely. Good play area for children “

Pros

Cons

15. Colonel Sam Smith Park

Google/Raymond Wong

Colonel Samuel Smith Park provides an excellent location for those who want to enjoy peaceful walks or workouts in nature. The park is located in the Kipling and Lakeshore area, which makes it an ideal spot for those looking for some recreation.

The park features a wide range of recreational options, such as fishing, hiking and cycling. In addition to the network of paths, the park features plants, trees, birds and other wildlife.

The park also offers a picnic shelter. This is an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings with friends or family, as it features plenty of space to spread out and relax. In addition, the shelter provides protection from poor weather conditions, so you can enjoy your picnic without worry.

It’s also perfect for taking photos or enjoying a peaceful view of the surrounding landscape!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163922489
Address: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Beautiful place to go for a walk, skate or just sit beside the lake. The trail is full with trees and very scenic. It has a magical view and unwinding calming energy, especially during winter. The vibe is very similar to Tommy Thompson Park, but has its own charm.“

Pros

Cons

16. Colonel Sam Smith Skating Trail

Google/Katarina Galic

Colonel Sam Smith Skating Trail is the perfect place to spend some quality time with your friends and family. The trails are well maintained and provide a fun, safe environment for everyone who visits them. It’s a great way to get some exercise, have fun and make new friends.

Colonel Sam Smith Skating Trail is one of the most relaxing places to go in Toronto. The trail meanders through a natural area, providing visitors with an opportunity to skate and explore nature at the same time.

Not only does this provide hours of enjoyment for those who visit, but it also helps improve mental health by promoting physical activity. No matter what you`re looking for, Colonel Sam Smith Skating Trail has something for everyone in the family!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163929715
Address: 65 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Dr, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Great spot..awsome view of city and cn tower and a nice little beach area. Nice trails thru nature “

Pros

Cons

17. Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens

Google/Eduardo A.

Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens is a beautiful garden that features walking trails which are open year-round. The multi-level gardens act as a gateway into the peaceful ravine system, and feature numerous benches and picnic tables for visitors to enjoy their time in nature.

The gardens are located along the Northern Ravines and Gardens Discovery Walk Route, which makes it an ideal destination for both hikers and sightseers. Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens are a beautiful spot to spend a quiet summer afternoon.

The gardens are also the western gateway to a long trail that eventually leads to Sunnybrook Park. Walking trails are open all year, making it the perfect place for an outdoor exercise session in any weather condition.

So whether you’re looking to relax after a long day of exploring or take in some fresh air, Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens is a perfect place for your needs!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163384386
Address: 2901 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4N 3N8

Customer Review Highlight:

“ Very nice small park. Perfectly organized with different levels and lots of flowers and exotic trees. Looks like a Palace park in Europe. Kids love it. Also it's a good location on Yonge street. There are many restaurants nearby. “

Pros

Cons

18. Thomson Memorial Park

Google/Bonnie Elena

Thomson Memorial Park is a large and peaceful park that follows the West Highland Creek. The park has many paths through the large wooded ravine, which lets visitors experience nature in the city.

The park has a lit ball diamond, a lit multipurpose sports field, three lit tennis courts, permitted picnic/social gathering areas, outdoor fitness equipment, a wading pool and a children’s playground.

This makes it the perfect place to enjoy some recreational activities with family or friends. In addition to this wide range of facilities and amenities available at the park, it is also well-maintained and secure. The park also has a picnic shelter, as well as a picnic site. This allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to all of the park’s amenities.

So whether you’re looking for an evening out with your friends or want to take advantage of all that the park has to offer in terms of recreation opportunities, you’ll be sure to have fun!

Business Information:

Website: toronto.ca
Telephone: +14163922489
Address: 1005 Brimley Rd, Scarborough, ON M1P 3E9

Customer Review Highlight:

“ One of the largest and well-maintained parks I have visited in Toronto. Has large parking spots, but is usually fully filled up by noon time. There are some large picnic tables, play area for kids, a large splash pad and some trails around. Glad to discover this quite at the centre of Scarborough. “

Pros

Cons

FAQs About Picnics

When is the best time to have a picnic?

The best time of year to have a picnic is during the spring and summer. When the weather is cool, a bit warm, but not too hot. Late morning and early afternoon picnics are ideal to avoid severer weather.

How do I keep food cool for a picnic?

Keep your picnic foods cool by refrigerating your food before, and by using ice packs, ice coolers, and insulated containers. If you’re driving, store your cold food in the coolest part of the car and keep it out of the sun.

How do I prepare hot food for a picnic?

To keep hot foods hot for a picnic, cook your food as late as possible and keep it in the oven, use heat packs and aluminum foil. Try filling your basket with things like newspapers, paper shopping bags, and picnic blankets to keep the heat in.

How can I make my picnic more comfortable?

Make your picnic more comfortable by using a thick, nice-feeling blanket. Add throw pillows to make lounging more comfortable. If you want, you can pack floor chairs and lawn chairs.

Final Thoughts

Having a great picnic is easy when the location is perfect! Plan your next picnic at these amazing picnic spots. Enjoy the stunning scenery and atmosphere of Toronto parks all while enjoying your picnic basket goods. A trip to any of these wonderful Toronto picnic spots is a guaranteed great time!

You’re sure to have a wonderful time with your friends and family, at the best picnic spots in Toronto!