Shannon Scott 21 July 2021

Where to Picnic in Mississauga

by Shannon Scott

Get ready to bust out those picnic baskets! July is #NationalPicnicMonth, and with COVID restrictions allowing more people to come together outside, picnics are a safe and fun way to socialize while enjoying some delicious eats in the sun. With over 500 parks across the city, below are just a few picnic spots you should visit in Mississauga this summer.

Streetsville Memorial Park (355 Church Street)

Tucked behind the Vic Johnston Community Centre and over a charming bridge lies Streetsville Memorial Park. This large, grassy space is perfect for playing lawn games like bocce ball or cornhole, and with a playground and baseball diamond just over the river, there are endless activities for families to enjoy together. Visitors can also use the park’s grills or stop by the Streetsville Village Square’s summer market on Saturdays from 8am-1pm for some fresh produce and sweet desserts. And with all the local grub that Streetsville has to offer just down the street, grabbing something from one of its many unique restaurants couldn’t be easier! Visit the Streetsville BIA’s website for a complete list of bakeries, pubs, and restaurants in the area.

Parking: Lots of parking available in the Vic Johnston Community Centre lot.

Celebration Square (300 City Centre Drive)

At Celebration Square, picnics aren’t just for weekends! The food trucks are back seven days a week from 11am-9pm, and with activities going on almost every night, it’s always a perfect time for a picnic. Don’t miss Art on the Screens, a public art series presenting screen-based works from local, national, and international artists. The Lion’s Farmer’s Market is also open every Wednesday from 9am-5pm, and the Fountain (the biggest splash pad in the city) is open all week for the rest of the summer! Check out Celebration Square’s event list for a full list of activities.

Parking: Paid underground parking is available. 

Lake Aquitaine Park (2750 Aquitaine Avenue)

Lake Aquitaine Park is the perfect spot to picnic on a hot day. The splash pad will keep the little ones cool and entertained for hours, and the hiking and cycling trails along the lake make for a fun way to burn off lunch while enjoying the breeze. Looking for a spot to fish? The pier provides a great place to catch some Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass while taking in the beauty of the lake. If you’re not interested in catching your own lunch, check out www.MississaugaMade.ca to see all the nearby eats in Meadowvale (some personal favourites include focaccia from Cobs Bread Bakery and brunch from Cora’s).

Parking: Limited street parking is available. Meadowvale Town Centre also offers parking by the path entrance.

J.C. Saddington Park (53 Lake Street)

Port Credit’s waterfront park is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The picnic area is conveniently located near the parking lot and the lake shore, making it a short walk from your car to a beautiful view of the water. Shop local and stop by Captain Robin’s Family Restaurant for some hot sandwiches or Chelsea Restaurant for a bruschetta pizza and fresh garden salad. J.D. Saddington also boasts a jungle gym and multi-use paths, not to mention the area is a haven for birdwatchers.

Parking: Two parking lots are available just off Mississauga Road.

Jack Darling Memorial Park (1180 Lakeshore Road)

Jack Darling is one of the larger parks on the list. This spot has two picnic areas (each seating 75 people), and beautiful trees provide ample shade during these hot summer months. Grab some grub from the Clarkson Pump & Patio or Wanda’s Caribbean Kitchen, or just stop by the hot dog stand within the park itself. If you’re looking to bring the pups with you, the park offers a large leash-free zone, and even if you don’t have a dog of your own, this area is still a great place to gush over some adorable furry faces. The beach also offers a stunning view of the Toronto skyline and is a great place to launch canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks.

Parking: Five parking lots are available around the park’s perimeter.  

Finding great spots to support local has never been easier with www.MississaugaMade.ca. Remember to use the hashtag #MississaugaMade to share and promote your favourite local businesses, and if you use the hashtag #MySaugaSummer when you visit Mississauga’s top picnic spots and destinations, you’ll have a chance to be featured on our channels!