by Megan Jones
What could be better than cooking a delicious meal outdoors during the summer months? For the many Vancouverites without backyards (hello, densification!) local parks have designated picnic areas for grilling, whether you bring your own tabletop grill or use one provided on site. Read on for top picks for cooking outside this summer! [Photo credit: iStock/alvarez]
Vancouver’s highest geographical point – and home to the famous Bloedel Conservatory – Queen Elizabeth Park is known for its stunning panoramic views and sprawling botanical gardens. The picnic area is equipped with tables, barbecues and bathrooms, and is within walking distance from tennis, pitch ’n’ putt, lawn bowling and Frisbee golf – once you’ve had your fill, of course!
Ideal for those looking for an energetic picnic experience, Jericho’s picnic and grilling area is perfect for those who want to cook – and then hit the surf, sand or grass. Located at the end of Point Grey Road, the park’s many features include skimboarding, tennis, a swimming raft, beach volleyball courts, lifeguard stations and much, much more.
This riverside park is more serene than others due to its remote location in Marpole – known as Vancouver’s last stop before the Granville and Oak Street Bridges. It’s also an off-leash park, which means you can share your leftovers with your canine pal before hitting the boardwalk. The boardwalk stretches from one end of the park to the other, with views of the busy waterway to your left and pristine grass with picnic tables to your right.
Beloved among east side residents, Trout Lake’s easy access to Commercial Drive attracts Italian family reunions and hipster hangouts alike. Grill your food in the designated area before hunkering down on a beach, wharf, lawns or table, where there’s always room, even on busy weekends. On the way, consider grabbing your goods from the Trout Lake Farmers’ Market located next to the community centre (on Saturdays only).
At the foot of Victoria Drive in the up-and-coming River District, Riverfront Park is famous for its pathways lined with roses and poplars, which are ideal for gawking at on your way to the picnic site (where grilling options abound). Tables on a raised and covered platform ensure you can dine here even in a rainstorm. Informative plaques teach about the river’s rich industrial history and thriving ecosystems.
Popular among beach volleyball players, families and UBC students alike, Spanish Banks is the spot for an epic summer barbecue. Plus, it’s a beautiful and active beach: during low tide, this vast, flat sandbar is an excellent location for skimboarding over tidal pools and shallow sections of the water. The view of downtown and the mountains is breathtaking.
The above six parks should provide ample options for summertime grilling. But be sure to cook only in designated areas – once the surf and turf is off the grill, the park is your oyster!
