Mama’s Day Al Fresco

Picnic: a pleasure excursion at which a meal is often eaten outdoors (al fresco or en plein air), ideally taking place in a beautiful spot such as a park, beside a lake or with an interesting view.

And what better way to spend Mother’s Day than on a pleasure excursion (weather permitting, fingers crossed) with beautiful surroundings—the most beautiful, of course, being your beloved family?

We asked Nathalie Prézeau, author of Toronto Fun Places and Toronto park expert, to help us choose the top five destinations for a Mother’s Day treat. She recommends asking another family to join you for a picnic so that the kids can play together, the dads can watch the kids (ahem, it’s Mother’s Day) and moms can chat as they enjoy the view, while nibbling and sipping on refreshments. 

HtO Park
For an urban picnic, this small beach is über cool with its yellow umbrellas and the huge CN Tower in the background. Kids won’t be able to swim in this section of the lake, but they can certainly get their feet wet. The Toronto Music Garden, located just west of it, is worth exploring also.
Park It: Consider nearby Marina Quay West’s parking lot, usually around $10 for the day.

Woodbine Beach
Try to do a late picnic at Woodbine Beach to catch the gorgeous light as the sun sets. This is the section of The Beaches waterfront where the beach widens and the sand becomes finer (past the volleyball nets). The best spot is by the water near the large rocks. The whole section beyond these rocks is lots of fun for the kids to explore (preferably with dad), while mom relaxes.
Park It: If the parking lot at Ashbridges Bay Park is full, you can always drop off the gang at the parking lot and try The Beach Cinemas’ lot off Eastern, just east of Woodbine.

Rosetta McClain Gardens
It’s off the cliff, which means the view over the lake is amazing at this spot, but it’s more appropriate for older kids. We like that it feels like a little oasis lost in time. Kids like it for the small paved trails and the gazebo. You can explore the waterfront by going down the closed road accessible from a small opening to the left of the gate entrance, just east of Rosetta McClain Gardens (west of Scarborough Heights Park).
Park It: There is free parking available on the site.

Cherry Beach
Cherry Beach is another great spot by the water (facing Toronto Islands) that is long enough so you can have a nice walk and there are a few large trees offering shade. You can always count on trucks selling yummy fries and soft ice-cream. And if it’s a bit windy, chances are you’ll be able to admire parasail surfers in action.
Park It: There’s plenty of free parking space but the beach can get crowded, so arrive early to find a spot.

McRae Point Provincial Park
If you’re game for a day trip, check out this park (past Mara Provincial Park). The beach is really narrow and intimate, bordered by grass, pretty trees and tables. The way the sun reflects on the water at the end of the day, with the sound of the gentle waves stroking the shore, is a small holiday in itself. On your way to this spot, stop at Mariposa Market on Mississauga Street in Orillia to buy yummy goodies for the picnic.
Park It: There’s ample parking available.

Pack your fave foods, folding chairs and some toys to keep big and little people entertained, and have a wonderful Mother’s Day. And if the weather is inclement, enjoy a casual picnic indoors if you must. But don’t do the dishes!

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