30 Best Picnic Spots in Toronto (Parks, Gardens, Beaches & More!)

If you’re looking for a great spot for your next picnic, this guide to the best picnic spots in Toronto is for you!

One of the best activities to do in the summer in Toronto is to pack up a picnic and spend the day in the sun with family and friends.

Looking for an incredible place to enjoy your next picnic in Toronto? This guide features some of the best picnic spots in Toronto from a local's perspective. Whether you're looking to picnic in a park, to spend your day sunning and snacking on a beach, prefer a garden hang, or want to check out a more unique destination, this guide has all of the best picnic spots for you to choose from.

Toronto has so many incredible places to enjoy a picnic out in the sun.

From the many beautiful parks throughout the city, to gardens, beaches, and more.

There are just so many places to choose from!

(Speaking of beaches, I’ve got a guide to the best beaches in Toronto here!)

I put together this guide on the best picnic spots in Toronto to help make planning your next picnic that much easier for you.

I hope that it’ll help you discover some new picnic spots to try out in Toronto this summer!

By the way, if you’re looking for more Toronto guides you might also want to check out these posts:

And for other Ontario destinations check out these posts:

And be sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. I share a lot of travel content on those that never make it to the blog!

Now, onto the guide of the best picnic spots in Toronto!

1. High Park

Address: 1873 Bloor St W

High Park is a beautiful (and very large) park in Toronto that is a very popular picnic spot.

Locals and tourists alike visit High Park regularly in the warmer months to relax, picnic, hike, and play in the sun.

Beyond its beautiful grounds, High Park has sporting facilities, cultural facilities, educational facilities, gardens, playgrounds and even a zoo!

During spring, High Park also has a ton of beautiful blooming cherry blossoms.

It’s actually the most popular spot to see the cherry blossoms in the spring in Toronto.

Stretching across 161 hectares, all the way from Bloor Street to the Queensway, High Park is the biggest park in all of Toronto and easily the most popular.

Although it is not quite as big as Central Park, it is definitely considered Toronto’s equivalent.

You better believe that there are lots of great picnic spots in High Park!

2. Trinity Bellwoods

Address: 790 Queen St W

Trinity Bellwoods Park is a classic and very popular picnic spot in Toronto that’s always busy.

Located in the Queen West area of Toronto, here you’ll find crowds and crowds of locals relaxing in the sun, having picnics, drinking, listening to music, playing frisbee, and just hanging out.

Although it is insanely busy on weekends, if you’re looking to enjoy your time outside with lively crowds Trinity Bellwoods is definitely for you.

If you’d prefer to enjoy Trinity Bellwoods while it is less busy, I highly recommend planning your picnic for a weekday.

Trinity Bellwoods is also a beautiful place to spot cherry blossoms, making it a great springtime picnic destination!

3. Woodbine Beach

Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E

Woodbine beach is a beautiful beach that’s the perfect place to spend the day sunning and snacking your cares away.

I love Woodbine Beach because it makes you feel like you’re getting an escape from the city, without leaving Toronto at all!

Woodbine Beach is the largest of four beaches located in ‘The Beaches’ neighborhood of Toronto.

If you want all the vacation vibes without leaving Toronto, Woodbine beach is for you.

During the weekends in the summer, expect Woodbine Beach to be very busy.

It’s one of the most popular beaches in Toronto!

If you’re able to, I recommend planning your picnic for a weekday.

You’ll have a much more peaceful picnic experience.

4. Allan Gardens

Address: 19 Horticultural Ave

Allan Gardens Conservatory is an indoor botanical garden that features six greenhouses in Toronto.

Here you can expect to find all sorts of plant species in different climates.

But it’s really the outside of Allan Gardens Conservatory that makes for a beautiful picnic spot.

Beyond the Allan Gardens Conservatory, Allan Gardens’ urban park includes a playground, and off-leash dog park.

Here you can set yourself up by the greenhouse and enjoy a picnic amongst the flowers!

I love the look of the glass greenhouses which make for a perfect backdrop for your summer picnic.

Allan Gardens is a great place to enjoy the sun and picnic your day away.

5. Queen’s Park

Address: 110 Wellesley St W

Queen’s Park is an urban park located in downtown Toronto, right in front of the Ontario Legislative building.

This beautifully manicured park is definitely a favourite of mine, because it’s surrounded by so much beautiful architecture.

Queen’s Park is a great place to come for a more quiet picnic surrounded by beautiful buildings and even more beautiful gardens.

6. Riverdale Park East

Address: 550 Broadview Ave

One of the most popular parks to enjoy views of the Toronto skyline in, is definitely Riverdale Park East.

Riverdale Park is a sprawling green space that spreads out from one side of the Don River to the other.

Riverdale Park itself is split into Riverdale Park East and Riverdale Park West by the river and the Don Valley Parkway.

However, it’s definitely Riverdale East that is the most popular.

This is where you’ll see incredible views of the Toronto skyline looming over you, and it is particularly spectacular to see at sunrise.

This is definitely one of the most beautiful picnic spots in Toronto!

7. Humber Bay Park

Address: 15 Marine Parade Dr

Located in Toronto’s west end, Humber Bay Park is the perfect place to enjoy an outdoor picnic with an incredible view of the Toronto skyline.

It’s also a very popular spot for birdwatching!

Head here for a stroll along the trails, spot some birds, and take in the views of the Toronto skyline before settling down for an incredible picnic in the sun.

Just look at those views!

8. Sugar Beach

Address: 11 Dockside Dr

With its pink umbrellas and soft white sand, there’s no surprise why Sugar Beach is an extremely popular Toronto picnic spot in the summer.

Especially on weekends, Sugar Beach is a very lively beach that’s full of people relaxing in the sun, catching up with friends, and of course having drinks and snacks.

There is often a DJ set up here on weekends which makes it a really unique picnic spot that is definitely more geared towards young adults.

I just love the pink umbrellas at Sugar Beach!

9. Corktown Common

Address: 155 Bayview Ave

Corktown Common is one park on this section on the best parks for picnics in Toronto that I spent a lot of time in over the last year.

Located in the West Don Lands Community, Corktown Common is not only a great picnic spot but a great all around destination!

Corktown Common offers lots of space for gatherings and picnics, including barbecues and lots of picnic tables.

They also have a children’s playground and splash pad making it a great picnic spot for families.

Corktown Common also has drinking fountains and washrooms making it a great public space to enjoy the outdoors comfortably.

10. Christie Pits

Address: 750 Bloor St W

Christie Pits Park is an 8.9 hectare park in Toronto located near Christie subway station.

Beyond being a great place to have a picnic in the summer with friends, there is lots to do at Christie Pits Park.

The park has a memorial pool, three baseball diamonds, a large field, basketball and volleyball courts, an artificial ice rink, play ground, splash pool, wading pool and community garden!

You can see why Christie Pits is such a popular park in Toronto.

This is an especially great spot to head for a picnic with family because there’s just so much to do at Christie Pits!

11. Osgoode Hall Grounds

Address: 130 Queen St W

Osgoode Hall is actually the headquarters for the Law Society of Upper Canada.

But it also happens to be a very pretty picnic spot in Toronto too!

I love the grounds at Osgoode Hall because they are much less busy than some of the other popular picnic spots on this list.

The grounds at Osgoode Hall are so beautiful, and during the springtime the front yard is full of blooming cherry blossoms which makes it a dreamy spot for a picnic.

The architecture here is also stunning!

12. Berczy Park

Address: 35 Wellington St E

Berczy Park is a small (3606 m square) park in downtown Toronto that is most famous for its dog fountain.

Seriously! There is a large fountain right smack dab in the middle of Berczy Park that is surrounded by dog statues which spit water into the fountain.

I used to walk by Berczy Park all the time on my way to work, and it has always been a bustling place.

People love to walk their dogs here so you can expect to run into lots of adorable pups.

During the weekdays you can often find people enjoying their lunch breaks outside on the park benches overlooking the fountain.

13. Centre Island

Address: Centre Island (Toronto Islands)

Did you know the Toronto Islands are a chain of 15 small islands in Lake Ontario?

They are a favourite of locals and tourists alike, with all sorts of things to see and do on the islands.

You can take the ferry or a water taxi to the islands, and then find a picnic spot to enjoy!

Centre island is the most visited of the Toronto Islands, and is sandwiched between Ward’s Island and Hanlan’s Point.

At Centre Island you will find all sorts of incredible picnic spots with amazing views of the Toronto skyline.

You will also find fountains, gardens, an amusement park, a pier, sandy beaches, picnic areas, and plenty more!

Because you do have to take a boat, ferry, or water taxi to the island, it definitely makes for more of a day trip type picnic spot.

But as you can see there’s so much to do here, you really wouldn’t want to spend less time here anyway!

14. Hanlan’s Point Beach

Address: Hanlan’s Point (Toronto Islands)

Although Hanlan’s Point Beach could technically go under the beach section of this guide to the best places to have a picnic in Toronto, considering it’s on the Toronto Islands I figured it’s a better fit under this section!

Hanlan’s Point Beach is a public beach located on Hanlan’s Point, just west of Centre Island.

Hanlan’s Point Beach is a very popular destination during the summer months, and is a great place to bring a picnic to and spend all day sunning and playing in the water.

It’s important to note that part of Hanlan’s Point Beach is clothing optional.

However not all of Hanlan’s Point Beach is, so if you’re not comfortable with that there’s definitely a beach spot for you to enjoy too.

15. Ward’s Island Park

Address: Ward’s Island (Toronto Islands)

Our last stop with great picnic spots in the Toronto islands is Ward’s Island Park.

Ward’s Island Park is located on Ward’s Island and is much quieter than Centre Island and Hanlan’s.

This is because Ward’s Island is mainly the residential part of the Toronto Islands.

Although this area is residential, there are lots of quieter places to enjoy a nice picnic.

16. Ashbridges Bay Park

Address: Ashbridges Bay Park Road.

Ashbridges Bay Park is an absolutely beautiful waterfront park on the east end of Toronto.

Here you will find all sorts of beautiful winding trails and lots of great picnic spots.

You can also take a walk along the marina, or head to Ashbridges Bay Beach if you’re feeling the beach vibes.

Although Ashbridges Bay Park is a bit of a trek, it is 100% worth the visit and makes for a beautiful spot to enjoy a summer picnic and a walk along the trails.

17. Harbourfront Centre

Address: 235 Queens Quay W

Harbourfront Centre is one of the busiest places along the harbourfront in Toronto, and there’s lots to see and do here.

The Toronto Harbourfront has so many great spots to not only stop and take in some pretty incredible views, but enjoy an incredible picnic in the sun.

Take a walk along the boardwalk to admire the boats and ships before settling down and setting up your picnic at one of the many parks and beaches along the lake.

You’ll find all sorts of little places to stop for a picnic near harbourfront centre.

There is something special about picnicking on the edge of the lake and taking in the spectacular views and passing boats.

My favourite is this little spot tucked away behind the condo buildings to the left of the BeaverTails building.

But honestly, there are just so many great picnic spots to discover near Harbourfront Centre, so pack your bag and head out exploring!

18. HTO Park West

Address: 375 Queens Quay West

Another great little picnic spot along the Toronto harbourfront is HTO Park West.

HTO Park West is another beach spot similar to Sugar Beach with muskoka chairs and colorful umbrellas.

But there are also lots of grassy patches and park spaces for picnicking at HTO Park west if you don’t like the sand!

HTO Park West is a very lively spot, especially during the weekend.

But it’s a lot of fun and a great spot for a picnic!

19. Toronto Music Garden

Address: 479 Queens Quay West

Located along the harbourfront in Toronto’s inner harbour, the Toronto Music Garden is such a beautiful garden, park, and event space.

Here you’ll find a scenic garden with an outdoor theatre and summer concerts and tours.

Grab a seat on one of the grassy steps and enjoy a picnic outside while taking in live entertainment.

If however you would prefer to avoid the crowds, there are lots of quieter corners in Toronto Music Garden as well that make it a great Toronto picnic spot.

20. Trillium Park

Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W

This newer park in Toronto is near Ontario place and has such incredible views of the city.

Last summer I spent so much time walking around Trillium Park, and it was always one of my favourite parks to visit!

At Trillium Park you’ll find lots of lakeside spots to sit and enjoy the views.

You’ll also find grassy areas that make for great picnic spots and public washrooms that are kept fairly clean.

Trillium Park also has some covered picnic areas and bonfire spots you can rent.

It makes for the perfect place to spend a long summer day in the sun!

Also check out that sunset above.

Trillium Park is a great place for a sunset picnic, the views are incredible!

21. Ontario Place

Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd W

Located just a little further west from Trillium Park is the stunning Ontario Place grounds.

Although Ontario Place is mainly meant as a monumental, luxurious waterfront entertainment and event venue, it also has some pretty picnic spots!

I love walking along the waterfront through Ontario Place, and whenever I do I always discover new places.

There are all sorts of grassy areas, plus a beach and rocky areas that are great for watching the sunset.

Ontario Place is definitely a unique spot to explore, but also a great picnic destination!

22. Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens

Address: 2901 Yonge Street.

The Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens is a stunning garden and park in Toronto that’s a popular spot for wedding photos.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CR_ohVTrAwM/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

One step into the Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens and you’ll quickly see why that is!

It truly is a beautiful spot to spend a quiet summer afternoon.

If you are looking for a great Toronto picnic spot that is not too busy, the Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens is for you.

23. Withrow Park

Address: 725 Logan Ave

Withrow Park is an 8 hectare multi-purpose park in the Riverdale Neighborhood of Toronto.

Located on Logan Avenue, just south of the Danforth, you’ll find lots to do here!

Beyond being a great place for a picnic in the sun, Withrow Park also has two baseball diamonds, a big field, a volleyball court, tennis courts, an off-leash area and a playground and wading pool for children.

Withrow is a great spot to head with the family to enjoy a picnic before spending the afternoon playing in the sun.

24. Colonel Samuel Smith Park

Address: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke

Although Colonel Samuel Smith Park is particularly beautiful to visit during autumn, it also makes for a great spot for a summer picnic.

Located in Etobicoke, Colonel Samuel Smith Park has a variety of attractions that make it a great family destination.

It has a picnic shelter, playground, field, outdoor track, bike trail, pond, and even a dog off-leash area.

I think the most appealing part of Colonel Samuel Smith Park though is definitely its beautiful lakeside views.

25. University of Toronto Grounds

Address: 27 King’s College Cir

There is no way I could write a guide on the best picnic spots in Toronto without including the incredible University of Toronto grounds!

The old buildings at the University of Toronto will make you feel like you’re picnicking outside of a castle.

There are so many great grassy spots to enjoy at the University of Toronto.

Whether you’re looking for a more private corner, or you’d like to be in a busier spot, there is definitely a great picnic spot at the U of T grounds for you.

26. Ramsden Park

Address: 1020 Yonge St & Ramsden Park Rd

Stretching over 13.7 acres, Ramsden Park is one of the biggest parks in downtown Toronto.

Because of its size, Ramsden Park has all sorts of wonderful corners to explore.

Here you’ll find everything you need for a long summer day in the sun.

Ramsden Park has 12 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, a ball diamond, dressing rooms, drinking fountains, picnic sites, a playground, wading pool, and two washrooms.

Oh, they also have a parking lot which is super convenient if you’re lugging a lot of picnic supplies!

27. Grange Park

Address: Beverley St & McCaul Street

Located behind the Art Gallery of Ontario, Grange Park is another great park you need to check out on this list of the best picnic spots in Toronto.

If you’re looking for a park with an artsy feel, this one is definitely for you.

Thanks to the Art Gallery of Ontario and OCAD University’s Sharp Centre for Design this area is not short on all things artsy and unique.

Beyond a lot of incredible green spaces for your picnic, you’ll also find a playground, interactive water feature, and a fenced dog off-leash area.

The children’s playground and water feature here are very unique and really show off the creative artsy vibe of the neighborhood.

28. Scarborough Bluffs Beach (Bluffers Park)

Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S, Bluffers Park, Scarborough

Although technically not in Toronto, if you’re willing to make the drive this beach will have you feeling like you’re on vacation!

The Scarborough Bluffs are a geological feature that resulted from the accumulation of sedimentary deposits over 12,000 years ago.

To this day they make up a highly visited attraction for both locals and tourists alike.

Scarborough Bluffs itself actually has 9 parks along the bluffs, but Bluffers Park is the only one with a beach.

Head here to check out the unique bluffs before enjoying a picnic on the beach!

You will definitely feel like you’re no longer in Toronto.

29. Sunnyside Beach & Pavilion

Address: 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W

Sunnyside Beach is another great beach to have a picnic at in Toronto.

What I really love about Sunnyside Beach though is that there is also a waterfront pavilion!

Not only is the architecture of the pavilion beautiful, but it has an observation deck and eatery with washrooms.

Sunnyside Beach is definitely a great beach for picnics.

30. R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant

Address: 2701 Queen St E, Scarborough

Another great spot on this guide to best picnic spots in Toronto that gives you all the European vibes is the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant.

Although not technically in Toronto (the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant is just outside of Toronto in Scarborough), this historic building is definitely worth a visit and makes for a beautiful picnic spot!

Here you can enjoy a picnic in the sun on grass overlooking the lake, while the beautiful and architecturally acclaimed R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant towers behind you.

You will honestly feel like you are having a picnic somewhere in Europe!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are a lot of incredible picnic spots for you to check out this summer in Toronto.

Whether you’re looking to picnic in a park, spend your day sunning and snacking on a beach, prefer a garden hang, or want to check out a more unique picnic spot, there are tons of places for you to choose from!

I hope this guide to the best picnic spots in Toronto was useful for you, and that it will help you narrow down which picnic spots you’d like to check out.

By the way, if you’re looking for more Toronto guides you might also want to check out these posts:

And for other Ontario destinations check out these posts”

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