Date Idea: Bike Ride & Picnic at The Forks

 

Hands down, one of my favourite things about summer is a leisurely bike ride and a picnic. One of the best Winnipeg destinations on bike is The Forks. My husband Bob and I recently rode to The Forks on a sunny Friday night and had a lovely picnic date.

With all the bike paths, it’s a quick and easy ride over to The Forks. No parking, no traffic. And? Exercise and fresh air! Watching the world go by while cruising on my bike makes me so happy. You can see so much more on a bike! The city comes alive. To plan your bike route to The Forks check out the trail listings. On super busy days The Forks offers bike valet service, the valets will usher your bike away and lock it up, so fancy!

A picnic at The Forks is the best because you don’t need to pack a thing! The market is loaded with options. When I think picnic, I think France. So, I immediately gravitate toward the cheese and baguette at Tall Grass Bakery. But, you could get ANYTHING from the food vendors and take it outside. With the new Food Hall opening soon, there’s even more exciting options around the corner!

On the way out, we popped into Johnston Terminal and grabbed an Italian soda from Espresso Junction and a frisbee from Kite and Caboodle.

There is no shortage of picnic spots at The Forks. Shade, sun, river view, people view, whatever you need The Forks has it! Strolling around looking for the perfect spot is half the fun.

My favourite picnic spot is smack dab in the middle of it all! Sitting here you get the ultimate Winnipeg skyline view. CMHR, the Esplanade bridge, Portage and Main, The Hotel Fort Garry. It really is the best downtown view.

We think of The Forks as our own backyard. It’s where we come to play, relax and spend time outside. When is the last time you went outside and just played?

I love kicking back here. I turn off my phone. Read, nap, play some more frisbee, eat some more cheese…it doesn’t get much better. I wonder if I can convince someone to put up a large hammock installation?

I just love a picnic date, it’s a simple forgotten way to spend time together. Whether it’s a date with your sweetie pie, pal or kids, I highly recommend adding it to your Winnipeg summer to do list!

Lindsay Somers is a Lifestyle Health Coach. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram. Photos by Janine Kropla.