10 Perfect Places for a Picnic

By Daniel Shalinsky

It's finally summer in Vancouver and we know everyone and their mom is trying to enjoy the beautiful weather. Enjoy it at one of these picnic hot spots or hidden gems.

  • Hot Spot: Stanley Park (duh!)

    Known by tourists & locals alike, this spot could be THE picnic destination. Fun fact: you can't go wrong with a picnic in Stanley Park (except maybe on the bike & rollerblade lanes on the seawall).

  • Hidden Gem: Deer Lake Park

    Located in Burnaby, this spot is definitely worth the trip! Its natural beauty, many trails & isolation from the city makes it a great picnic destination! Fun fact: it's home to many music festivals.

  • Hidden Gem: Charleson Park

    Off of West 6th & Oak you'll find Charleson Park. This beautiful False Creek spot is great for picnics that involve bringing your pets! Fun fact: Charleson Park is a off-leash dog area before 10 pm.

  • Hot Spot: Spanish Banks

    Located along Northwest Marine Drive, Spanish Banks is made up of 3 sections: east, west, & extension (all connected to the seawall) & is great for picnics. Fun fact: Spanish Banks has free parking.

  • Hidden Gem: Crab Park

    Another great place to picnic with pets is Crab Park, take your dogs off leash while you enjoy the views with less of a crowd than other places. Fun fact: it opened in 1987 under a different name.

  • Hot Spot: White Rock Beach

    This picnic spot might be a long haul but you'll be glad you made it. It has a great waterfront with lots to explore. Fun fact: it really is named after a big White Rock.

  • Hidden Gem: Coopers Park

    Off of Marinaside Crescent in Yaletown, this place is another pet friendly area to let your dogs off leash while you enjoy a picnic. Fun fact: it has a basketball court if you're into shooting hoops!

  • Hot Spot: Granville Island

    Whether it's your 1st time on Granville Island (likely not) or your 100th (closer to the truth), there is always so much to do. Fun fact: watch the buskers and birds for some lunchtime entertainment.

  • Hidden Gem (for picnics): Vancouver Art Gallery

    Not the most common picnic spot out there as it lacks flowers & fields. However, you get a view of the city people don't often pay attention to. Fun fact: you often get free, live picnic music.

  • Hot Spot: Queen Elizabeth Park

    This gorgeous park is extremely popular for both locals and tourists. It has seasonal gardens that overlook the city & is worth a visit all year long! Fun fact: Queen Elizabeth Park spans 52 acres.