Ah, autumn in Niagara! The kids are back in school, the summer crowds have waved goodbye, and it’s just you, some fabulous fall colours, and that sweet spot in the weather—cool enough for cozy, yet warm enough to bask in the sunshine. Sounds like the perfect picnic time, right?
Why Autumn Is Perfect for Picnics
Fall is the perfect time for Niagara locals to soak up everything that tourists come to see during the busy summer season. It's easy to overlook the beauty in your own backyard, but Niagara is full of so many natural treasures just waiting to be enjoyed.
As the weather hits that Goldilocks zone—not too hot, not too cold—it’s the perfect time to get outside, breathe in the crisp air, and find your new favourite picnic spot. The sun still smiles down, the humidity is easing, and the leaves are slowly showing off their fiery colours while summer’s lush greens linger. So, before the chill of winter arrives, take advantage of the season and capture some Instagram-worthy fall moments.
Best Spots in Niagara to Have Your Picnic
Now that you’ve decided to pack a basket for a beautiful autumn picnic, where will you go? We gathered a few of our favourite spots across the region—here’s what we recommend:
Lakeside Park: Kick off your shoes and dig your toes into the sand at Port Dalhousie. Let the kids go wild on the playground, take a nostalgic ride on the historic carousel, or dip your toes into the water (but it might be a bit chilly!)
The Niagara Gorge: Got a flair for the dramatic? The gorge offers epic views and cool breezes from the river—perfect for nature lovers who want a side of adventure with their Antipastos favourites.
Niagara Parkway: The Parkway may not be the most creative option on our list, but it’s a classic for a reason. There are countless spots along the parkway that boast gorgeous views, not to mention plenty of wineries if you fancy stopping for a quick tasting after your picnic.
Queenston Heights: Queenston Heights Park is the perfect spot for a fall picnic, offering stunning views from atop the Niagara Escarpment along with scenic hiking trails and spacious picnic areas. With its mix of leisure activities like tennis and pavilions for gathering, it's a peaceful, historic setting to enjoy autumn's beauty.
Short Hills Provincial Park and Balls Falls: The Short Hills and Balls Falls areas offer the perfect backdrop for a fall picnic, with vibrant autumn colours, serene trails, and stunning waterfalls. As the leaves turn, these natural spaces become even more breathtaking, providing peaceful, uncrowded spots to enjoy a crisp afternoon.
Dufferin Islands: Seeking some tranquility? These quaint little islands offer secluded spots and peaceful water views, making them a hidden gem for a quiet family picnic. Just remember — don’t share your lunch with the ducks!
What To Pack in Your Basket
You’ve decided where you’re planning to spread out that blanket, but what are you going to pack in your basket? Antipastos has everything you need to create the ultimate picnic spread. Here are some staples that will help you create the perfect picnic experience:
Get Dipping: Our infused olive oils are your baguette’s new best friend. Trust us, they make everything taste better. Grab a fresh baguette and pair it with one of our infused olive oils. We’ve got lots to choose from, like garlic, lemon, chili pepper and basil.
Spread the Love: Our spreads are just the ticket for jazzing up your crackers or bread. They pack a flavour punch! Check out our calabrese chili pepper, black olive tapenade, basil pesto and more!
Pasta Salad with a Twist: Shake up your pasta salad game with our funky pasta shapes like Cascatelli or Radiatori. Drizzle them with our balsamic dressing for a quick, yummy pasta salad that’s easy to serve up on a blanket.
Cheers to Mocktails: Cheers to those last few summer memories with an Aperol-inspired mocktail. Mix up some Rieme’s French Sparkling Orange Refresher with Martelli Bitter Oro for a spritz so zesty you’ll have to refill that glass.
Charcuterie Dream: Create your dream board with our selection of fine meats, diverse cheeses, and some pickled surprises like our grilled marinated asparagus. Oh, and don’t forget a loaf of focaccia to round it all out!
Sweet Ending: No meal is complete without a treat. Swing by our dessert counter and let the sweet aromas guide you to the perfect finish for your picnic.
It’s Time To Picnic!
So grab your blanket, pack that basket, and head out to one of Niagara’s stunning locales for a picnic to remember. Antipastos has all you need to turn a simple outdoor meal into a feast. Happy picnicking, everyone!