North Bay is home to both delicious worldly cuisine and beautiful outdoor space. The only thing better than both individually, is both together! So, grab your blanket, your basket and your picnic. Put on your swimsuit, your sunscreen, and your hat. Pick out a book or your favourite game. Get ready to relax in the sun (or the shade) while you fill up on some tasty treats and eats. Not sure where to go? Worry not! Here are six of the best picnics spots the Gateway City has to offer.
Pop Up Picnic
During summer, as part of Taste The Bay, six local restaurants have curated a special picnic for you to enjoy the outdoors in North Bay. So, whether you choose one of the six great picnic spots detailed below or select one of your own, make sure you to check out these Pop up Picnic special to your day and enjoy beautiful North Bay outdoors.
Kiwanis Bandshell
Picnicking at the Kiwanis Bandshell is is a perfect way to soak up the vibrant summer atmosphere. Nestled along the city’s scenic waterfront—located just next to Shabogesic Beach, the kids’ playground and the Kings Landing Pier—the bandshell comes alive with the free Summer Concert Series and Arts and Culture Nights that showcase local talent and touring performers. Bring a blanket, pack your favourite snacks, or grab some takeout from one of the nearby downtown eateries, and settle in for an evening of live music under the open sky. With children happily playing at the playground, the sun setting over Lake Nipissing, and the sound of music drifting across the lawn, it’s a quintessential North Bay summer experience that’s both relaxing and community‑driven. There’s plenty of free parking available along Memorial Drive, providing easy and direct access to this area.
Goulet’s Golden Mile
Just next door to the Kiwanis Bandshell is the Goulet Golden Mile named after former North Bay Mayor Bruce Goulet and often listed as the “Best place to view a sunset in the city”. The Goulet Golden Mile is a beautiful stretch of beach and green space that is meant to be enjoyed by all. The catalyst for lakefront development, Goulet Mile is derived from Mayor Goulet’s vision and has turned into one of the most aesthetic parts of North Bay, thus making it the one of the best spots in the city for your next picnic. The Goulet Mile is a perfect combination of beaches, green space and gardens as far as the eye can see. You can stroll around and sprawl out in the sun or the shade with your picnic blanket as the lake breeze blows over you. There are picnic tables scattered throughout the area as well as park benches to sit, relax and catch a glimpse of a breathtaking sunset over Lake Nipissing. Several free parking lots line Memorial Drive and connect directly to this area, multi-use pathways and interlock walkways.
Champlain Park
It’s hard to beat Champlain Park as the best picnic spot in North Bay when it comes to comfort and views. Bring your basket, but don’t forget your swimming stuff too! One of the best locations to enter Lake Nipissing, Champlain Park is a perfect place to picnic. Go in the day and you can take advantage of a playground, swimming access, and plenty of room to roam all while admiring the beautiful view. There is space in the sun or space in the shade depending on which you prefer. Got a furry friend? Champlain Park also has a dog park where your pup can run and play while you lounge the day away. You may even want to stick around into the evening and witness a classic Lake Nipissing sunset with one of the prettiest views you will ever see. Located at the mouth of the historic LaVase River, this picnic spot blends comfort, aesthetics, and history. Check out this notable picnic spot at the south end of Premier Road.
Sunset Park
Aptly named, Sunset Park is a perfect place to settle in for your picnic. This beautiful and more secluded area offers lots of trees for shade, access to Lake Nipissing for swimming, free parking, and place for a post-meal stroll. Sunset Park is full of green space, paved pathways, benches, and tables to suit your picnic needs. Whether you prefer sun, shade, or a little of both, we’re confident you can find it all at Sunset Park. You can also find a water refill station in addition to bath/change rooms, so be sure to pack your swim gear and beach toys. You can also bring the kids and they can play on the nearby playground for more endless, summer fun. To access Sunset Park, make your way down Sunset Blvd. and start searching for the perfect spot to set up.
Airport Lookout
Picnic with a view at the Airport Lookout. Perfectly located at the top of Airport Hill Road, you will find a few benches with a terrific view looking out over the Laurentien Escarpment, beyond the city and straight towards the vast body of water that is Lake Nipissing. This spot is beautiful to enjoy year-round, whether you want green, summer foliage and shade, or beautiful and vibrant fall colours.
“The Cove”
Listed last but not least, the Birchaven Cove is a cozy, quiet spot to take your next picnic. Nature lovers will appreciate the serene beauty of this beach area as it is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and scenic backdrop for a leisurely afternoon or evening. Restrooms and changing facilities are conveniently located nearby, making it easy to freshen up after a day of fun in the sun. “The Cove” as the locals call it is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Follow Lakeside Drive to the free on-site parking then proceed a few steps down to the beach to find your perfect picnic spot.
With so many great outdoor spots in North Bay to choose from, there is no bad location, especially when it is paired with one of the tasty downtown restaurants! Whether you choose one of the 6 listed above or explore and find your new favorite spot, pack your basket and have fun and enjoy the outdoors!
