Alexander Muir Memorial Gardens
These gardens are perfect for those who crave sunshine and want to enjoy the surrounding colorful flowers. So, get your friends ready for a big batch of new Instagram photos.
Address: 2901 Yonge St.
Ashbridges Bay Park
Ashbridges Bay Park is a good choice for relaxation by the water, where you can not only grab a bite to eat outdoors but also go for a swim! If you venture beyond the main picnic areas, you will find a lovely little peninsula with numerous tables and cozy shaded spots. A romantic picnic by the lake is a perfect option for couples.
Address: 1561 Lake Shore Blvd. E.
Bluffer's Park
You can enjoy one of the best landscapes in Toronto at Bluffer's Park. The winding and steep path styled like Mulholland Drive offers a breathtaking view of the shimmering lake. The unique scenery of this park wonderfully creates an atmosphere of seclusion and romance. On warm days, time spent in this park becomes a true escape from reality.
Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S.
Cedarvale Park
This park features one of the most picturesque and peaceful trails that run along a beautiful valley, so we recommend heading out for a leisurely stroll in that direction.
Address: 443 Arlington Ave., York.
Cherry Beach
Water sports enthusiasts have surely been to Cherry Beach more than once. Originally, this area was called Clarke Beach Park, named after Harry Clarke, who created this park. However, in 2003, the name was changed to Cherry Beach.
Despite its proximity to the formerly industrial area of Port Lands, Cherry Beach remains popular among outdoor leisure lovers. The highlight of the park is the beach, which has been ranked among the cleanest in the city for several years. This is why people flock here to swim and enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing, especially since the water temperature in summer is a bit warmer than at other beaches in Toronto.
The park also has separate areas for those who wish to enjoy fresh and juicy barbecues. Dog owners are not forgotten either—Cherry Beach has a designated area where you can walk your four-legged companions without a leash.
Address: 275 Unwin Ave.
Christie Pits Park
One of the beautiful parks in Toronto, combining everything necessary for a perfect family outing, is, of course, Christie Pits. It was previously known as Willowvale Park, but that name never caught on.
The park covers almost 9 hectares, which is quite enough for a cozy picnic in nature. If you enjoy quiet moments with delicious homemade snacks and steaming tea or cold lemonade from your thermos, you will definitely find a secluded spot here. Half of the park is green space designated for such picnics.
But don’t rule out this park if you prefer active recreation! You will be pleasantly surprised by the number of various sports areas available. For example, Christie Pits boasts three baseball fields. Fans of other sports will also find basketball courts, soccer/rugby fields, and even a swimming pool in the park.
A great bonus for visitors in summer is the "sprinkler" attraction. Overall, this park successfully combines a wealth of options for the long-awaited recreation, and the ample parking spaces nearby add to the comfort.
Address: 750 Bloor St. W.
Colonel Samuel Smith Park
Interestingly, not all sunset viewing spots in Toronto are located in the heart of the city. For example, this park in Etobicoke also delights with its beautiful views.
Address: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd. W., Etobicoke.
Craigleigh Gardens
Antique gates and numerous trees with dense canopies create an atmosphere of a secret garden that can help you immerse yourself in true magic for at least a couple of hours.
Address: 160 South Dr.
Downsview Park
This park will please lovers of leisurely walks with its incredibly beautiful trails, of which there are quite a few. Additionally, you can set up a little photoshoot with excellent landscapes along the way.
Address: 70 Canuck Ave., North York.
Dufferin Grove Park
In the case of Dufferin Grove Park, a new wave of residents and local farmers has benefited the park. This place has been completely revitalized. Now in the park's center, you can find a constantly working farmers' market, buy delicious treats, and immediately set up a picnic. Additionally, the park provides a great opportunity to bake your own bread in a communal oven. It’s no wonder that family and children's events are often held at Dufferin Grove Park.
Address: 875 Dufferin St.
Earl Bales Park
Another place successfully free of large crowds is Earl Bales Park. It is also located not far from the center—near Toronto's main thoroughfare, Bathurst Street. The park's highlight is its stunning landscapes and views that will greet you right from your table. Wait for a clear night sky, bring a blanket, a thermos of hot tea, and watch the stars sparkle away from civilization, traffic, and other mundane aspects of life.
Address: 4169 Bathurst St, North York.
Etiénne Brûle Park
If you want to combine a picnic with active recreation, head here. In this wonderful park, you can test yourself on one of the hiking or biking trails and then find the best spot for your picnic.
Address: 13 Crosby Ave.
Evergreen Brick Works
Evergreen Brick Works is a site of an abandoned brick factory, but don't let that scare you. The place has long been infused with a pleasant atmosphere full of picturesque paths, bike trails, regular cultural events, and an off-leash dog area.
Address: 550 Bayview Ave.
High Park
This is the largest park in Toronto, with many walking trails, various sports areas, and beautiful waterfront along the lake. Regardless of your outdoor leisure preferences, High Park is an excellent choice.
If you are planning a day out with children, you’ll be pleased to find plenty of playgrounds for little visitors, as well as a separate zoo where kids can see numerous animals. Because of the local fluffy squirrels, your child will also be able to meet our smaller brothers beyond the zoo itself. The park also includes an area for dog walking where your pets can frolic freely.
A large picnic area, several small snack bars, and much more—everything you need for a wonderful picnic is here. Additionally, year-round entertainment events on various themes take place. A pleasant bonus is the convenient access to the park via public transportation and nearby parking spots.
Address: 1873 Bloor St W.
Humber Bay Park
In this park, you can start with a small bike ride and then find a picnic spot with a great view and just enjoy the magical beauty of nature.
Address: 100 Humber Bay Park Rd. W.
Ireland Park
This park, located along the waterfront, is not only known for its greenery but also its bronze statues representing the tens of thousands of Irish immigrants who came to Canada during the Great Famine.
Address: Queens Quay West.
Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, covering an area of 6.5 hectares, begins on Queen Street East and extends down to Lakeshore. The park's history dates back to the 1850s when it was still a private farm of Joseph Williams. Noticing that his property attracted more and more city dwellers, Williams transformed the area into a tourist destination. In 1907, the lands were purchased by the city and officially became a municipal park.
Today, Kew Gardens is one of the main recreational spots in the area, and it’s no surprise, as it offers a whole range of sports areas and, of course, plenty of space for family picnics.
From Queen Street, you will see some sculptures, blooming flower beds, and a library. Inside the park, a small wading pool for young visitors, a children’s playground, numerous trails for leisurely strolls in good weather, and much more await you.
If you feel like stretching after a peaceful time outdoors, you can move to one of the tennis courts or the baseball field. There is also a separate sports area used for soccer in the summer and an ice rink in the winter. Additionally, you will find a separate stage where talented performers often showcase their skills. This is also where the popular Beaches International Jazz Festival takes place every year.
Address: 2075 Queen Street E.
King's Mill Park
Don’t want to bring a blanket to sit on the ground? Head to this park and choose a cozy bench along the banks of the Humber River, from which you can enjoy the picturesque views.
Address: 105 Riverwood Pkwy.
Morningside Park
If you don’t have a cottage for nature getaways but still want to relax outdoors, don’t despair—come spend a full day at Morningside Park. Set up a small tent near one of the park’s barbecue zones, change into something comfortable, and enjoy time with loved ones in nature. You can also go mushroom hunting here if that interests you.
Address: 390 Morningside Ave, Scarborough.
Oriole Park
This renovated 2.9-hectare park boasts dense trees and spacious picnic areas. It features a tennis court, basketball court, and a pool—everything you need for a great mood.
Address: 201 Oriole Pkwy.
Riverdale Park
The small hills of this park simply invite you to lay a blanket on them and enjoy a stunning sunset view. Agree, it’s hard to resist that offer.
Address: 550 Broadview Ave.
Rouge National Urban Park
For those seeking outdoor recreation options for the whole family, Rouge National Urban Park is the answer. It includes the city’s easternmost beach, where you can spend an entire day. You can also observe numerous bird species here. If you're looking for more activity, enjoy canoeing in the largest wetland area in Toronto.
Address: 195 Rouge Hills Dr.
Sherbourne Common
Sherbourne Common is located on the Toronto waterfront near Queens Quay. This park is perfect for outdoor relaxation any time of the year. In summer, you can lie on the grass and sunbathe; in winter, you can skate on the rink at Dockside Drive.
Address: 61 Dockside Dr.
Sir Casimir Gzowski Park
In this park, you can find a lovely green area for complete relaxation and enjoy the view, as well as admire local sculptures.
Address: 1751 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Sunnybrook Park
Sunnybrook Park is well known for its amazing weeping willows, old pines, and sunlit ravines—truly a place of incredible beauty! Located between Leslie and Bayview streets, this park stands out in the city with its atmosphere. Here, you'll want to turn your picnic into a full dinner. Hundreds of picnic areas, many equipped with grills, are arranged throughout the park to ensure everyone can enjoy their desired seclusion.
Address: 1132 Leslie St.
Sunnyside Park
From 1992 to 1950, this area was home to an amusement park. Now, it serves as a recreational oasis for Toronto residents. Although this area is typically called Sunnyside Park, it actually includes two other parks: Sir Casimir Gzowski Park and Budapest Park.
Sunnyside features three beach areas, all protected by breakwaters, which help maintain warm water temperatures in summer. The park has numerous picnic tables, an outdoor pool, and several cafes, including some with patios. Families often come here, as there are playgrounds for children on the premises. Pet owners will also appreciate this location, as dogs are welcome. Moreover, there is a designated area for them to roam off-leash.
Address: 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Tommy Thompson Park
Just a couple of minutes from the bustling city center lies this wonderful park, ready to grant you those much-needed moments of true tranquility. And you don’t even have to leave the city.
Address: 1 Leslie St.
Toronto Islands
Most people head to the islands in summer, wanting to bask in the sun at one of the many popular beaches. However, it’s also incredibly beautiful here in the fall, and you will definitely encounter fewer people than in the hot season.
Address: Toronto Islands.
Toronto Music Garden
This garden consists of six zones, each dedicated to one of the dances from Bach's suite. The garden regularly hosts open-air classical music concerts. You can enjoy them while taking in views of Lake Ontario.
Address: 475 Queen's Quay West.
Trillium Park
Previously, this park was the site of a parking lot for Ontario Place. Now, people come here for a moment of peace amid a stroll along William Davis Trail and the romantic garden.
Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd.
Trinity Bellwoods
Even though Trinity Bellwoods has experienced an influx of new residents in recent years, this park still deserves your attention. Amazing landscapes, large natural spaces—all these will beautifully complement your blanket, snack bag, and a group of friends eager to have fun without leaving the city. One piece of advice: if you'd rather avoid a crowd of tourists, try to plan your picnic so that it doesn't coincide with large holiday events in the park.
Address: 790 Queen St. W.
Wilket Creek Park
If you prefer more “wild” conditions for leisure, Wilket Creek Park on Leslie St. is perfect for you. This sprawling 44-hectare green park is your escape from the urban hustle and bustle!
Here, you’ll find over two kilometers of winding trails for walking or biking, as well as a huge area of untouched forest just calling for you to embark on a little adventure in these peaceful and quiet expanses.
The park is equipped with drinking water fountains, a large picnic area, and designated fire pit zones.
The history of the park dates back to 1812, and it has seen some changes over the years. However, the main feature of the park remains intact—large forest areas of coniferous and broadleaf trees. Furthermore, during seasonal migration, you might see some rare bird species here.
Address: 1121 Leslie St.
Withrow Park
Withrow Park is considered the eastern counterpart of Trinity Bellwoods—only without the huge number of cyclists and dogs. Due to its convenient location, the park appears much larger than it actually is. There are plenty of picnic spots for all visitors, whether it’s a small outing with a blanket and a couple of friends or a festive barbecue with a large group. You’ll also definitely appreciate the nearby establishments with tasty takeout treats.
Address: 725 Logan Ave, Toronto.
