Looking for the best picnic spots in Montreal? The city offers an array of beautiful parks ideal for picnics, each boasting its own unique vibe and scenic views.
Whether you prefer lush downtown parks or serene locations just outside the city, these picnic spots are perfect for a relaxing day out.
So, here's your ultimate guide to Montreal's top picnic spots, perfect for enjoying breathtaking views while snacking.
Lachine Canal
Address: Lachine Canal National Historic Site, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: The Lachine Canal stretches from Old Port to LaSalle, offering numerous scenic areas perfect for picnics.
One of the best spots is just east of Atwater Market, where benches and picnic tables are scattered along the walking path, shaded by overhanging trees. This location is ideal because you can easily pick up delicious food from the market vendors and then stroll along the canal to find the perfect munching spot.
Enjoy the sight of brightly coloured paddle boats and kayaks drifting by, and you might even spot a charming swan boat!
Parc Mont-Royal
Address: 1260, ch. Remembrance, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Of course, the iconic park on top of the mountain had to make the list of the best picnic spots in downtown Montreal.
Parc Mont-Royal offers a beautiful setting with a large fish pond, surrounded by trails and paths to explore. The rolling hill with a sprawling lawn in the middle of the park is perfect for setting up a picnic blanket.
On weekends, many groups share meals and relax in the open space. It's an ideal spot to unwind after a long week and a fantastic place to bring visitors to Montreal.
Plage de l'Est
Address: 16240, rue Bureau, Pointe-aux-Trembles, QC
Why You Need To Go: On the northeast most point of the island of Montreal, Plage de l’Est is a sandy waterfront park offering stunning sunset views and the ultimate summer vibes.
If sand isn’t your thing, there’s also a lawn a bit further back. This park is perfect for a quiet picnic with friends and family, providing a serene waterfront setting to enjoy your meal.
Parc Arthur-Therrien
Address: 3750, boul. Gaétan-Laberge, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Parc Arthur-Therrien is one of the best places to spread out and enjoy Montreal's ample green space.
The first time you visit, you'll be amazed by how secluded parts of the park feel and how close you can get to the water. Finding a quiet spot and watching boats go by on the Saint Lawrence River is easy.
The park is also easily accessible by bike and metro, so getting there won't take long.
Parc de la Promenade-Bellerive
Address: 8300, rue Bellerive, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Parc de la Promenade-Bellerive is a popular spot for summer walks and picnics, so you've probably spotted in on social media. Located in Montreal East, this park overlooks the river and features long stretches of waterfront paths.
Well-maintained and offering some sandy beach shorelines, it's an ideal spot to set up for a meal. While it can be tricky to reach by transit, requiring both a bus and metro ride, driving is a convenient alternative.
Parc Angrinon
Address: 3400, boul. des Trinitaires, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Parc Angrignon is a fantastic destination for those seeking solace from the bustling city. The park features serene lakeside paths, quiet forests, and abundant wildlife.
Visitors can also enjoy activities like fishing, picnicking, and lawn games, creating a perfect summer atmosphere.
Parc Angrignon is easily accessible due to its vast size and well-connected transit network. If you're looking for a peaceful spot for a summer picnic, it's definitely worth a visit.
Parc Outremont
Address: 1172 Avenue Saint-Viateur, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for a community park with a city feel, Parc Outremont is the place to be.
This well-loved green space features picnic tables, seating areas, and a large fountain and pond at its center.
The community vibe at Parc Outremont is unmatched and feels like a scene straight out of a movie. It's the perfect spot for a delightful summer picnic.
Parc La Fontaine
Address: 3819, avenue Calixa-Lavallée, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Another iconic park in the city is Parc La Fontaine. This beautiful park surrounds a picturesque pond and is located in the heart of the Plateau neighbourhood.
It's a must-see spot in Montreal and is conveniently close to two popular restaurants, La Banquise and Ma Poulet Mouillée. These eateries often have long lineups but are perfect for grabbing takeout and heading to the park for a picnic.
Enjoying your meal in such a scenic setting makes Parc La Fontaine an essential addition to this list.
Parc Renee Levesque
Address: 398, chemin du Canal, Lachine, QC
Why You Need To Go: Parc René-Lévesque is a must-visit picnic spot in Montreal.
Located at the point that juts out into the St. Lawrence River at the west end of the Lachine Canal, this park is surrounded by water on all sides, offering stunning sunset views and a serene atmosphere.
Many visitors bring Bixi bikes to the park, as it’s a long walk to the lookout point. It’s an ideal destination for a city bike ride, where you can set up a blanket and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Parc Jarry
Address: 285, rue Gary-Carter, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: For those living in the Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension borough, Parc Jarry offers an excellent setting for a summer picnic. The park features well-maintained paths for walking, cycling, and running, and its convenient transit-accessible location makes it easy to reach.
Additionally, its proximity to the Jean-Talon Market, one of Montreal’s largest markets, allows you to grab a delicious meal from one of the many vendors and enjoy it with friends in the beautiful surroundings of Parc Jarry.
Parc de Dieppe
Address: 2600, av. Pierre-Dupuy, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Parc de Dieppe is a hidden gem, offering beautiful views of Old Port without the crowds. If you prefer cityscapes over sunsets or want to mix things up, this park is perfect.
Accessible by bike (or a bit of a long walk), Parc de Dieppe extends into the Saint Lawrence River and is surrounded by water.
With a large pavilion at the tip and plenty of trees providing shade, you can find a cozy grassy spot to enjoy a relaxing picnic with stunning city views.
So, that's it. Grab your picnic blanket, pack your favourite snacks, and get ready to enjoy the best of Montreal's outdoor beauty!
A crowd picnicking at the Montreal Botanical Garden's Japanese Garden.
The food menu changes weekly at Dinette Triple Crown.
Picnic basket from Dinette Triple Crown.
Two people sit on a picnic blanket by a lake.
Food spread out on a blanket.