Unpack & Unwind: Burlington’s Best Picnic Spots to Explore This Summer
June 27, 2025
Picnic season is here, and Burlington is full of scenic spots ready for you to enjoy. Think lake views, wide open green spaces, built-in barbecues, playgrounds, and plenty of room to unwind. This roundup features some of the best places to spread out a blanket, grab your favourite snacks, and make the most of a sunny day.
Spencer Smith Park
Spencer Smith Park is a staple of summer in Burlington, located right in the heart of the city. This lakefront park offers a spacious green lawn, vibrant gardens, and sweeping views of Lake Ontario. It’s packed with features like a playground, splash pad, and walking trails. Nearby restaurants make it easy to grab takeout and enjoy a picnic with a view. The open space, waterfront breeze, and central location make it a top pick for a relaxing day.
LaSalle Park
50 North Shore Boulevard, Burlington
LaSalle Park, located adjacent to Spencer Smith Park, is nestled in the Plains West community and enchants its passersby with its mix of lakeside charm and family friendly amenities. Spanning 57 acres, LaSalle features a playground, two baseball diamonds, and a large open green space perfect for spreading out a blanket. The historic pavilion, which serves as a banquet hall and rental space for large scale events anchors the beautiful green space.
The paid wading pool and splash pad (opens mid-June) offer supervised water fun for kids. The marina, home to hundreds of boats, sits steps from the picnic areas, with boardwalks that attract ducks and even Trumpeter Swans. LaSalle blends scenic views, lakeside play, and acres of space for every picnic type. The pavilion is an ideal venue for renting and hosting large scale events.
Looking to host a larger outdoor gathering? Be prepared and know the rules. Read the City of Burlington’s Picnic Area Regulations.
Burloak Waterfront Park
5420 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
Burloak Waterfront Park offers stunning lake views, open green space, and a peaceful shoreline perfect for a laid-back picnic. With paved trails, gazebos, a playground, and fitness stations, it’s ideal for visitors of all ages. With its wide layout and waterfront setting, the park offers plenty of space to unwind and take in the view. Sit down for a meal or simply enjoy the sounds of the water.
Mount Nemo Conservation Area
Mount Nemo Conservation Area rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment and several kilometres of scenic hiking trails exploring its rugged terrain. A standard day pass (around $7 for adults) grants access to over 5 km of forested paths winding through ancient cedar stands, caves, and dramatic cliff lookouts. The Brock Harris Lookout showcases sweeping landscapes stretching toward Toronto, great for a well-earned lunch break at the top. Mount Nemo offers large biodiversity including rich green ferns and ancient cedars on the ground and beautiful songbirds, and soaring turkey vultures above. Ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to combine exercise, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
Lowville Park
Lowville Park is a quiet, scenic escape with clean picnic areas and tables, open fields, and a gentle creek. Perfect for those aesthetic Instagram posts! During summer and fall, make sure to arrive early to secure parking as recommended by the City of Burlington. Lowville is a simple, relaxing spot to unwind and enjoy nature under big shady trees, making it a great choice for your next picnic.
Ready to explore Burlington? Plan your perfect weekend escape by checking out the official Burlington Visitor Guide.
