Lucas CloutierVancouver is home to several picnic spots, where the beauty of the surroundings harmonizes with a tranquil ambiance. From serene parks to stunning waterfronts, these locations promise a perfect backdrop for your picnic escapade.
Whether you crave nature’s serenity or prefer an urban vibe, we’ve curated the ideal spots to elevate your alfresco dining experience. So, grab your essentials and explore these picturesque destinations for an unforgettable picnic in Vancouver.
- 1. Harbour Green Park
- 2. Stanley Park
- 3. Creekside Park
- 4. English Bay Beach Park
- 5. Queen Elizabeth Park
- 6. Kitsilano Beach Park
- 7. George Wainborn Park
- 8. Jericho Beach Park
- 9. Vanier Park
- 10. CRAB Park at Portside
- 11. Dr. Sun-Yat Sen Park
- 12. Dude Chilling Park
- 13. John Hendry Park
- 14. Charleson Park
- 15. David Lam Park
- 16. Maple Grove Park
- 17. Habitat Island
- 18. Riverfront Park
- 19. Whytecliff Park
- 20. Panorama Park
1. Harbour Green Park
– Media: miho.nto
Location: 1199 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6C 3P9
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=21
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 10 AM–9 PM
Harbour Green Park is an idyllic picnic destination, distinguished by its expansive lawns and captivating views. Seamlessly accessible from the seawall or its grand Bute Street entrance, the park unfolds with an inviting water feature.
This thoughtfully designed urban retreat provides a serene ambiance to relish the sea air, accompanied by the comings and goings of floatplanes. Boating enthusiasts can also take advantage of the free short-term moorage at the Harbour Green dock.
| Pro tip: You can take your picnic up a notch by grabbing some treats from the nearby Art Deco-inspired Mill Marine Bistro Restaurant within the park. It adds a touch of fancy to your laid-back picnic, making it feel like a gourmet experience. |
2. Stanley Park
– Media: Pchu
Location: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx
Contact Details: +1 604-681-6728
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM–5 PM
Stanley Park is a cherished 1,000-acre green haven offering expansive lawns, sandy beaches, and even an outdoor pool. The park caters to diverse interests and age groups, featuring Canada’s largest aquarium for an enriching experience.
It’s an ideal canvas for a laid-back outdoor picnic where you can enjoy recreational activities like tennis, pitch and putt, or a refreshing dip in Second Beach Pool. You can also wander along its kilometers of scenic trails and encounter local wildlife.
| Pro tip: When planning a picnic at Stanley Park, opt for one of the more secluded spots like Beaver Lake or the Third Beach Picnic Area. It offers a quieter setting away from the bustling crowds, allowing for a more intimate picnic experience. |
3. Creekside Park
– Media: Playgrounds of Vancouver
Location: 1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=15
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6:30 AM–11 PM
Creekside Park, serving as a gateway to Science World and a hub for summer events, is a great spot for a relaxing picnic. With plenty of benches and grassy spaces, it’s an ideal setting to soak up the sun and enjoy views of False Creek and the downtown core.
The park isn’t just a calm retreat; it’s also bustling with activity. You’ll find a skateboard/scooter park, basketball courts, and a playground, adding an active flair to your picnic experience.
| Pro tip: For families with kids, explore the large playground before settling down for your picnic. It’s a great way for the little ones to burn off some energy. |
4. English Bay Beach Park
– Media: Natasha Kosyakovskaya
Location: Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/english-bay-beach.aspx/
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Situated at Beach Avenue and Bidwell Street, English Bay Beach Park, also known as First Beach, beckons picnickers with its sandy shores and swaying palm trees. Be forewarned, though; this coveted spot is a bustling hub on sunny days.
If your picnic supplies run low, the array of restaurants along nearby Denman Street becomes an irresistible temptation. English Bay Beach offers various amenities, from beach umbrella and chair rentals to lifeguards during the summer months.
With features like kayak rentals, sand volleyball courts, and a swimming raft with a large slide, there’s no shortage of activities to complement your picnic. Additionally, Mobi-Mat accessibility and water wheelchairs provide inclusive options for visitors.
| Pro tip: While at English Bay Beach Park, remember that fishing or harvesting crabs and bivalve mollusks (clams, oysters, and mussels) is not permitted. Always respect the park’s guidelines to preserve its ecological balance. |
5. Queen Elizabeth Park
– Media: Elan Lee
Location: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Situated at one of the highest points in the city, Queen Elizabeth Park boasts 130 acres of scenic beauty. Here, you can revel in the expansive views of the city, mountains, and lush greenery as you explore the diverse landscapes and flowering paths.
Beyond the dreamy picnic setting, the park offers various activities to fill your day. These include exploring the Bloedel Conservatory, engaging in pitch and putt, and even concluding the evening with dinner at Seasons in the Park.
| Pro tip: Find your perfect picnic spot by exploring the park’s various landscapes. You may consider a secluded corner in the Rose Garden, a quiet bench by the Quarry Gardens, or an open area near The Duck Pond. |
6. Kitsilano Beach Park
– Media: Monica Parker
Location: 1499 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC V6J 5N2
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=112
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Nestled along the shores of English Bay, Kitsilano Beach Park has pristine sandy beaches and captivating views of the city skyline. The expansive lawns provide ample space for activities like tossing a Frisbee or simply basking in the warmth of the sun.
Adding to its allure, the renowned Boathouse restaurant beckons with fantastic dining options. Kitsilano Beach Park is also home to Canada’s longest heated outdoor pool, spanning an impressive 137 meters.
Furthermore, the park features the city’s largest fully accessible playground, a legacy of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This inclusive playground is equipped with amenities like a sand play table, rotating climber, and saucer swings.
| Pro tip: Kitsilano Beach Park can get warm, and there’s nothing better than sipping on a cool drink while enjoying the beach vibes. So, bring a cooler with ice packs for your beverages and perishables. |
7. George Wainborn Park
– Media: Shawn Lambert
Location: 450 Beach Crescent, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3G1
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=225
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
George Wainborn Park spans 2.5 hectares and offers a harmonious blend of formal and informal spaces. This park features expansive lawns and a captivating water feature, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor gatherings.
It was named in honor of George Wainborn, Vancouver’s longest-serving Park Board Commissioner. The park pays tribute to his dedicated contributions to the city’s parks and recreation system.
A notable addition to the park is the ‘Khenko’ wind sculpture, a 40-foot-tall creation by artist Doug Taylor. ‘Khenko’ celebrates the resurgence of herons to the once industrialized False Creek, embodying the Coast Salish word for ‘heron.’
| Pro tip: Snag one of the bright yellow Adirondack-style metal chairs early in your visit. These comfy seats not only provide a prime vantage point for the views but also make for a relaxed and enjoyable picnic experience. |
8. Jericho Beach Park
– Media: Michael Alexander
Location: 3941 Point Grey Rd, Vancouver, BC V6R 1B5
Website: http://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=218
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 7 AM–10 PM
With an area of 46 hectares, Jericho Beach Park has an abundance of prime picnic spots scattered throughout. In 2013, it underwent a significant restoration effort which has revitalized the park’s natural beauty and enhanced the overall picnic experience.
In the summertime, the park comes alive with the vibrant energy of beachgoers and sailing enthusiasts drawn to Jericho’s renowned beaches and sailing club. The allure of sparkling waters along English Bay attracts visitors from all corners of Vancouver.
Beyond the summer buzz, Jericho Beach Park remains a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Other activities include tennis, field sports, bird-watching, or exploring the network of trails and paths meandering along the water and through the forested areas.
| Pro tip: If you’re a bike enthusiast, you can explore the park’s trails before settling down for your picnic. Biking not only adds an element of adventure but also builds up an appetite for your outdoor feast. |
9. Vanier Park
– Media: Adam Handford
Location: 1000 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=120
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Vanier Park is an ideal picnic destination that invites you to savor your lunch with the added joy of flying a kite. With the winds off English Bay embracing the area, it becomes one of Vancouver’s premier spots for kite enthusiasts.
Overlooking the city’s skyline and Stanley Park, this park offers a tranquil setting with serene ponds, open fields, and a sprawling pathway. A launching ramp for small watercraft and a nearby public marina cater to maritime enthusiasts.
Civic gems within the park include the Vancouver Museum and Planetarium, along with the City of Vancouver Archives. For those seeking more adventurous pursuits, a BMX bike park just south of Burrard Civic Marina provides a dynamic experience.
| Pro tip: Tailor your picnic to the season. In warmer months, bring refreshing drinks and light snacks, while in cooler times, opt for heartier fare and warm beverages to stay cozy during your outdoor meal. |
10. CRAB Park at Portside
– Media: Wade Comer
Location: 101 E Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=28
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Perched on a grassy knoll or the pier extending into Burrard Inlet, CRAB Park at Portside offers a prime view of Vancouver’s bustling port. The views encompass a lively maritime scene, featuring cruise ships, container vessels, and SeaBuses.
Approaching from the Main Street overpass, the park welcomes visitors with two imposing Chinese lion statues framing glimpses of the majestic peaks of the Lions. The park itself is adorned with several poignant monuments and sculptures.
This park has two playgrounds that offer recreational fun and keep the young ones engaged. With its dynamic blend of scenic marvels and playful spaces, CRAB Park at Portside makes an ideal destination for a memorable picnic experience in Vancouver.
| Pro tip: You can bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the maritime details. Spotting seagulls, sea lions, or even identifying specific ships becomes an engaging activity during your picnic. |
11. Dr. Sun-Yat Sen Park
– Media: Anwer Kotob
Location: 578 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K2
Website: https://vancouverchinesegarden.com/
Contact Details: +1 604-662-3207
Operating Hours: Wednesday-Sunday: 9:30 AM–4 PM
Located beside the renowned Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, this adjacent public park offers a delightful picnic experience. The tranquil ambiance and the charm of a Chinese garden at no cost make this park an inviting haven for picnicking.
Here, you can opt for a serene picnic beneath the sheltering branches of a weeping willow tree or along the winding path adorned with rocks. For a post-lunch stroll, you can explore the neighboring garden with a complimentary tour.
| Pro tip: Be environmentally conscious by bringing reusable containers and disposing of waste responsibly. Keeping the park clean ensures a pleasant experience for everyone. |
12. Dude Chilling Park
– Media: GLORY DAYS
Location: 2390 Brunswick St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3L8
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=136
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Dude Chilling Park, known officially as Guelph Park, is a beloved spot for leisurely picnics in Vancouver. Despite its unconventional name, it offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment.
Guelph Park provides ample space for various activities, from morning workouts to evening strolls. A central pathway connects a tree-lined field to a recreation area featuring playgrounds and tennis courts, catering to different preferences.
The quirky moniker “Dude Chilling Park” originated as a prank art installation in 2012 by local artist Viktor Briestensky. Embraced by the locals, this playful name has stuck around, adding a touch of whimsy to the park’s welcoming ambiance.
| Pro tip: Dude Chilling Park is known for its friendly community vibe. Strike up a conversation with fellow picnickers – you might discover some hidden gems or make new friends. |
13. John Hendry Park
– Media: Dimex Group
Location: 3300 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=85
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
John Hendry Park, fondly referred to as Trout Lake Park, is not just about picnics – it’s a hub of recreational possibilities. The centerpiece, Trout Lake, adds a serene touch to your outing.
Lifeguards on duty from late May to early September ensure a safe and refreshing dip if you fancy a swim. You’ll embrace the inviting ambiance by firing up the BBQs, adding a touch of sizzle to your picnic experience.
Spanning 27 hectares, you can engage in various activities at this park such as baseball, basketball, or tennis, and explore the two well-equipped playgrounds. Dog lovers will appreciate the off-leash area.
| Pro tip: You can plan your visit during the lantern festival. The twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere which is perfect for a romantic evening. |
14. Charleson Park
– Media: Caro Klassen
Location: 999 Charleson Street, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4A2
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=43
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
Charleson Park offers a peaceful escape with a skyline backdrop. Nestled near False Creek, you’ll find a prime spot for a leisurely picnic by the pond, where the serenity of the surroundings enhances your outdoor experience.
Meandering through peaceful pathways amidst lush greenery, you’ll have a peaceful escape with the soothing sounds of a waterfall. Additionally, if tennis is on your agenda, the courts are located just outside the park on the rooftop at 600 Moberly Road.
| Pro tip: You can spice up your picnic with a DIY scavenger hunt to add an element of fun and exploration to your day. Simply create a list of things to find in the park – from unique flowers to specific tree types. |
15. David Lam Park
– Media: samuna_thakuri9
Location: 1300 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y1
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=16
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
David Lam Park is a harmonious blend of dynamic and laid-back recreational offerings, all framed by breathtaking views of False Creek and Yaletown. Lush greenery envelops sports courts and playgrounds, creating shaded retreats for various activities.
The expansive open lawn invites leisurely pursuits like kite flying, sun-soaked relaxation, or even hosting outdoor festivals. This park boasts captivating sculptures thoughtfully placed along the waterfront, adding an artistic touch to this urban oasis.
Meanwhile, David Lam Park is often hailed as Yaletown’s go-to outdoor rendezvous. It buzzes with life during the warmer months, drawing crowds to its vast ocean-facing lawn, tennis courts, and a play area.
| Pro tip: If you plan a picnic during a festival or event, bring along festival essentials like portable chairs, blankets, and perhaps even a small pop-up canopy for shade. |
16. Maple Grove Park
– Media: aki_thelabradoodle
Location: 6875 Yew St, Vancouver, BC V6P 5W2
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=96
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 6 AM–10 PM
With its sprawling greenery and the gentle shade from cascading trees, Maple Grove Park makes an ideal space to unwind while savoring delightful picnic fare. Adjacent to the park, Maple Grove Pool adds to the allure, providing a refreshing wading pool.
Characterized by towering, graceful trees, Maple Grove Park invites leisurely strolls and laid-back picnics, away from the urban bustle. Remnants of massive tree stumps scattered throughout the park recall Vancouver’s past temperate rainforest dominance.
| Pro tip: Bring a picnic blanket with extra padding. Some areas have more gravel than grass, and you don’t want any surprise discomfort. |
17. Habitat Island
– Media: bishnu_16
Location: 1616 Columbia Street, Vancouver
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=241
Habitat Island, affectionately known as “beer island,” is a hidden gem in Vancouver. Despite its proximity to the sea and condos, it offers a sense of privacy and exclusivity, making it a perfect spot to relish glorious sunsets with your favorite snacks.
This urban sanctuary features layers of soil to nurture new trees, and the boulders and logs along the coastline provide habitats for various creatures. With more than 200 native trees, flowers, and grasses, it’s a vibrant display of the region’s natural flora.
Surrounded by water at high tide, the island serves as a haven for birds. While it can get a bit crowded on weekends, opting for a weekday visit during golden hour ensures a tranquil setting to enjoy a sunset picnic.
| Pro tip: Respect the natural beauty of the island by refraining from cycling, littering, or bringing dogs. When visiting the island, help maintain its urban oasis charm. |
18. Riverfront Park
– Media: Veronica
Location: 2390 W 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 4K9
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=108
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Connaught Park, adorned with beautiful trees and vibrant flowers during spring and summer, creates a picturesque setting for outdoor gatherings. It features amenities such as sports fields, a playground, and a playful splash park tailored for the little ones.
The park’s landscape is dominated by magnificent oak and catalpa trees, the latter adding a touch of exotic beauty with their blossoms in early summer. Shaded benches are strategically placed throughout the park, providing an ideal spot to relax.
Connaught Park is not only a haven for picnickers but also a hub for sports enthusiasts. It offers facilities for cricket, rugby, and access to the Kitsilano Community Centre, where skating and swimming provide additional recreational options.
| Pro tip: While dogs aren’t allowed on the main field, there’s a designated off-leash area. If you have a furry friend, bring them along and let them play in the designated spaces. |
19. Whytecliff Park
– Media: VancityWild
Location: 7102 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2T3
Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/whytecliff-park
Contact Details: +1 604-925-7275
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
Nestled at the edge of Howe Sound, Whytecliff Park is a picturesque haven with its rugged coastline and panoramic vistas of vibrant mountains and passing boats. The park, sprawling over 15 hectares, is a perfect canvas for an idyllic picnic.
Beyond the picnic allure, the park caters to various interests. For water enthusiasts, the renowned diving waters showcase an underwater spectacle with rockfish, lingcod, crab, sculpin, anemones, seals, and occasional marine marvels like wolf eels.
Sports aficionados can engage in a game of tennis on the public courts, available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Meanwhile, the protected bay provides a refreshing spot for a summer swim, complemented by a designated swimming beach.
| Pro tip: If you’re not into diving but enjoy snorkeling, bring your gear. The clear waters near the swimming beach provide an excellent opportunity to observe marine life from the surface. |
20. Panorama Park
– Media: Bua Bella Pitcha
Location: 2200 Panorama Dr, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L2
Website: https://www.dnv.org/
Contact Details: +1 604-990-2311
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Panorama Park has more than 2.5 hectares of sprawling greenery, providing ample room for leisurely picnics or spontaneous games. The pebbled beach offers a spot to launch kayaks or secure boats to the dock, enhancing the park’s waterfront allure.
Located along the picturesque Deep Cove, you can revel in the unobstructed views of the marine scenery at Panorama Park. It’s also a favored locale for various events, including summer concerts.
With designated picnic areas, a shelter for shade, a playground for the little ones, and strategically placed sightseeing benches, the park caters to diverse preferences. This park blends leisure and nature, providing a quintessential Vancouver picnic experience.
| Pro tip: For a hassle-free picnic, grab some takeout from one of the nearby eateries in Deep Cove. It saves time and ensures you have a delicious spread without the prep work. |
