Top 5 best picnic spots for families in Cochrane

Looking for the best picnic spots for a family-friendly outing in Cochrane? With its stunning natural scenery and extensive park system, there’s no better place to enjoy the sunshine with your little ones. Delight your kids with a fun-filled day of food, games, and exploration.

We’ve got creative picnic ideas for kids to help you make the most of your summer. Pack up the snacks and sunscreen, grab your picnic basket and blanket, and have a memorable family adventure at these local hotspots.

Here are our top 5 places to settle in for a family picnic that pair well with your favourite outdoor activities in Cochrane.

1. Watch the ducks at the pond

The best picnic spots have plenty of activities, and Sunset Pond has everything you need to have your perfect picnic. Take a leisurely stroll around the pond and watch for ducks and other interesting birds. 

Then, settle down under one of the pergolas for a shady retreat, or spread your blanket in the picnic area to catch some rays. After a bite to eat, let the kids have a blast at the nearby playground while you soak up the serene surroundings. 

2. Play games at the Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza

Located on Railway Street next to The Station is the ideal place to put your kids’ picnic ideas into action. The lush greenspace provides plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages.  Picnics tables are available to enjoy our picnic, with the backdrop of the newest mural in town, Cochrane Together.  

Picnic ideas for kids don’t have to be all about the food. After a satisfying meal, daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm you will find family-friendly lawn games, including a Giant Connect 4 and Cornhole, along with balls, frisbees, hopscotch and spike ball.

3. Test your disc golf abilities

Discover a local gem and spend a glorious day at Riverfront Park! With its stunning location next to the picturesque Bow River, it’s the ideal spot to bask in the sun and unwind. 

Once you’ve had your fill of delicious snacks, let the kids run wild on the exciting playground, or challenge the family to a game of disc golf. It’s the perfect way to get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. 

4. Play catch or soccer after you snack

Experience outdoor fun at Matt Krol Park. Enjoy vast stretches of lush greenery as you relax in this serene location that’s just a stone’s throw away from the river pathways.

Once you’ve indulged in your favourite picnic treats, let the kids stretch their legs. There are two baseball diamonds where they can play catch or score some goals on the soccer field. Don’t worry if you left your sports equipment at home, the park has a variety of play equipment for kids picnic ideas that keep them entertained.  

5. Fly a kite or hit up the skate park

Get ready for a fun-filled day with your family at Zero Gravity Skatepark! Find a quiet spot close to the fence to relax and enjoy the open green space while the kids run around and play.  Let the kids test out the many features of the skatepark on their bike, scooter or skateboard.  Across the street, let your furry friend run free (this location is also an off-leash dog park).

This area offers plenty of space to fly a kite or toss a frisbee. With all the open space for activities, you’ll have the best time connecting with your family. Then, gather ‘round a  Coulee Outdoor smokeless fire pit to cook up hassle-free picnic favourites.

Pack a picnic and play

What better way to maximize your outdoor time than by picnicking in your favourite parks. Discover the best picnic spots for family fun in the sun with us today!