After a tiring week at work, going on a picnic is just the type of happy break a doctor would prescribe for you.
Fortunately, Edmonton features the largest urban parkland in North America and has 22 major parks. These are the best Edmonton spots for picnics and sightseeing.
Ready your picnic basket and blanket because we’ll take you through them today! Check out this simple guide to the best picnic spots around Edmonton.
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is set along the northern bank of the North Saskatchewan River. It’s part of the famous urban park – River Valley.
If your kids are not fond of indoor playgrounds, they can explore the park’s two natural playgrounds with a timber tower, log jam climbers, rope challenge course, and other kinetic play pieces.
It’s a prime picnic site, especially during the long weekend, because it features nine picnic sites with benches and tables.
Since Laurier Park is also home to wildlife, you may be lucky to spot some deers, beavers, porcupines, and various species of birds, fish, and amphibians.
Alternatively, you can bring your bike to explore the cycling trails in the area.
Emily Murphy Park
Emily Murphy Park is nestled between Kinsmen Park and Hawrelak Park. It’s named after a well-respected women’s rights activist – Emily Murphy.
Since Emily Murphy Park has a reasonably large parking space, it won’t be too crowded even on weekends.
With picnic spots that offer scenic views of the North Saskatchewan River, you can spend a relaxing time with your family in this park.
Aside from picnic tables, Emily Murphy Park also has barbeque bars that you can use for grilling your favorite cuts of meat.
Nonetheless, if you don’t want to deal with the smoke, you can also bring take-out from the best BBQ restaurants in Edmonton.
Whitemud Park
Whitemud Park is a nature reserve next to John Janzen Nature Center and Fort Edmonton Park.
If you’re searching for a picnic spot to appreciate nature and wildlife, it is a good go-to destination.
Since the forests in this park are left in a natural state, it’s an excellent spot for wildlife sightings. You can spot some deers and rabbits as well as birds and fishes on the ponds around the area.
Borden Park
Borden Park is a recreation destination set in the community of Virginia Park. The picnic sites in this park are equipped with picnic tables and barbeque pits.
It’s one of the favorite picnic spots in Edmonton because it offers various recreation features such as basketball and tennis courts, an arboretum, disc golf, and playgrounds. Besides that, it also has an outdoor swimming pool for families.
Just note that the picnic sites can be a bit busy during summer. That’s why if you plan to throw an outdoor party or birthday bash, book the facilities in advance.
Rundle Park
Rundle Park is a recreation and green space in River Valley’s northeast part.
With large open fields and man-made lakes, this park is a good place to unwind. Don’t forget to pack your go-to pizza and brunch!
It has two nature-inspired playgrounds with themed areas, slides, climbers, and leaf-canopied treehouses. These sites can be enjoyed by kids (and kids at heart), so don’t be shy and try the rope-sided merry-go-round and swings.
