Best of 18 picnic spots in Los Angeles
Picnic spots in Los Angeles offer a delightful way to enjoy the city's beautiful weather and scenic beauty. From the lush greenery of Griffith Park to the picturesque shores of Santa Monica Beach, there's no shortage of idyllic settings for a relaxing al fresco meal. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat or a family-friendly outing, these picnic spots in Los Angeles are sure to inspire. So pack a basket, grab a blanket, and get ready to savor the charm of LA's picnic-perfect locales.
- 1. Crystal Springs Picnic Area
- 2. Vista Hermosa Natural Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority
- 3. Griffith Park
- 4. Holmby Park
- 5. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
- 6. Mineral Wells Picnic Area
- 7. Gloria Molina Grand Park
- 8. Barnsdall Art Park
- 9. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
- 10. Elysian Park Picnic Site #4
- 11. Kenneth Hahn Park - Picnic Area
- 12. Dockweiler Picnic Area
- 13. Crystal Springs Picnic Area Pad A, B, C BY RESERVATION ONLY
- 14. Silver Lake Meadows
- 15. Palisades Park
- 16. Star Track Tours
- 17. Laurel and Hardy Park
- 18. Bond Area
1. Crystal Springs Picnic Area
Part of the larger Griffith Park

Crystal Springs is a common destination for various group gatherings, such as family reunions, company picnics, and church events. The area offers a spacious reserved section as well as expansive grassy spaces suitable for birthday parties, barbecues, and children's play.
It's recommended to bring alcohol, as it's allowed in the venue. Near the reserved area, there are large grassy expanses where families and other groups gather for activities like barbecues and children's play. This makes Crystal Springs an ideal location for family birthdays and other celebrations.
2. Vista Hermosa Natural Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority
connects to Griffith Park

Grace Leo Memorial Park is an excellent location for a picnic, offering expansive grassy fields and a breathtaking view of the Los Angeles skyline. This well-maintained park is a hidden gem situated on the outskirts of Downtown LA, providing a serene atmosphere that is typically not overcrowded, giving visitors a good chance to enjoy the scenery in solitude.
The park boasts several amenities, including walking trails, streams, meadows, oak savannahs, and picnic grounds, making it an ideal spot for various outdoor activities. Moreover, it features a nature-themed playground with native Mediterranean vegetation, offering a unique and educational experience for children.
3. Griffith Park
largest municipal park in the US

Griffith Park is an excellent choice for picnics, offering a variety of options for visitors. Not only is it a great place for a hike, but it also has numerous picnic areas and even spots for barbecuing with the family. This urban park, located in the heart of LA, is a perfect spot to enjoy summer picnics and relax in the grass while taking in the beauty of nature.
Visitors to Griffith Park can take advantage of the park's many trails, picnic areas, and scenic spots. With so many options available, it's an ideal location for those looking to spend time outdoors and enjoy a meal in a natural setting. The park provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a popular destination for people seeking relaxation, recreation, and a chance to connect with nature.
4. Holmby Park
Historic landmark in Los Angeles

The local park offers free lawn bowling lessons every Saturday, and its scenic setting makes it a popular spot for various activities. There are plenty of shade and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, making it an ideal place for relaxing, having meals, or hosting birthday gatherings. The park also features a well-fenced kids' playground area, ensuring young children's safety and preventing them from wandering off into traffic.
In addition, the park has BBQ pits and a water feature that adds to its attractiveness. However, the water feature sometimes isn't running, which can be frustrating for some visitors. Nevertheless, the park's shady sidewalk offers a welcome relief from the heat, making it a great place to visit year-round. The park's picturesque setting and amenities make it a popular destination for people looking to spend time outdoors and enjoy the community's natural beauty.
5. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Stunning city views

Kenneth Hahn State Park is a vast and well-maintained oasis, a perfect spot for various activities. It is located in the city, making it easily accessible for a quick visit with children or a whole day of hiking and sightseeing. The park features a lake inhabited by swans, multiple hiking trails with stunning views of the city, and several playgrounds for kids.
This sprawling park offers a variety of mapped trails, both natural and paved, and features a small serene lake with a babbling brook. Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy the peaceful Japanese garden. Despite its urban location, the park provides a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation. It is a perfect spot to take a break from the city and enjoy some tranquility.
6. Mineral Wells Picnic Area
Natural mineral waters

Mineral Wells Picnic Area is an ideal location for a peaceful and spacious gathering with family and friends. This outdoor setting provides a perfect escape from the crowded and noisy city life.
The picnic area is serene and has plenty of space for various outdoor activities. It is a great place to enjoy a picnic, relax, and unwind. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban living.
7. Gloria Molina Grand Park
Recognized urban park with unique design

This park is a great location for picnics with ample green space and beautiful scenery, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. The park offers a spacious and well-maintained setting, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
The writer had a wonderful picnic at this park with friends, taking advantage of its expansive layout and meticulous maintenance. Its pleasant atmosphere provides a great opportunity to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature.
8. Barnsdall Art Park
Historic landmark with city views

Barnsdall Art Park provides visitors with picturesque landscapes including sunny lawns and shaded groves, perfect for picnics and relaxation. The park offers a variety of activities such as walking and reading, making it a great destination for individuals and groups. In addition to the outdoor attractions, Barnsdall Art Park is also home to the Frank Lloyd Wright house. Obtaining a pass to tour the interior of this architectural masterpiece is highly recommended for visitors.
Barnsdall Art Park is a perfect spot for picnics, walks, or simply relaxing with a good book. The park's beautiful landscapes include sunny lawns and shaded groves, providing a variety of settings to suit every visitor's preference. One of the park's main highlights is the Frank Lloyd Wright house, which is open for interior tours with a pass. Taking the time to explore the interior of this iconic house is well worth the effort, adding to the overall enjoyable experience of visiting Barnsdall Art Park.
9. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
Historic Landscape Architecture

This picturesque spot, surprisingly close to home, offers a perfect location for a quick getaway and a chance to unwind. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes on scenic trails, picnicking in one of the many available areas, and taking in the breathtaking view of the city from the hilltops. A quaint pond, home to fish, adds to the location's charm.
The site is a regular destination for the speaker, who enjoys spending time here watching the sunrise. With ample restrooms available, despite the occasional dirtiness, the location proves to be a suitable place to spend a few hours exploring the trails (DTLA). All in all, this destination is highly recommended for those seeking a peaceful retreat with stunning views.
10. Elysian Park Picnic Site #4

11. Kenneth Hahn Park - Picnic Area

12. Dockweiler Picnic Area
Three-mile beach with scenic views

This location is perfect for a picnic with family and friends, featuring a clean beach and numerous picnic tables. It is wheelchair friendly and offers a wonderful view for watching the sunset.
The beach is not only great for swimming and sunbathing, but also accessible to people with mobility issues. There are tables set up for visitors to enjoy picnics, making it an ideal spot for a group outing. The sunset views are a standout feature, making this beach a wonderful place to wind down the day.
13. Crystal Springs Picnic Area Pad A, B, C BY RESERVATION ONLY

14. Silver Lake Meadows
Off-leash dog area

Silver Lake Meadow is an ideal location for a picnic due to its stunning lake view and spacious grassy area. It provides enough room to lay out blankets and enjoy the sunshine, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation with friends.
The beauty of the lake and the open grassy area are the main attractions of Silver Lake Meadow. Its scenic view and expansive space make it a popular destination for people looking to enjoy a picnic. The area's natural beauty and openness create a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere, making it an ideal location to unwind and connect with nature.
15. Palisades Park
oceanfront views, historic park

This park is a great destination for various outdoor activities, offering numerous benches and spacious areas that are perfect for practicing yoga or having a picnic with loved ones. It is a welcoming place for all, whether you choose to bring your dog, children, bicycle, or even a delicious picnic lunch.
The park's versatile environment suits a range of interests, ensuring a delightful experience for every visitor. From active pursuits like walking your dog or cycling, to more relaxing activities such as practicing yoga or enjoying a picnic, this park has something for everyone. Its inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal location to unwind and connect with nature.
16. Star Track Tours
Historic Hollywood tours

Our tour of Hollywood and Beverley Hills offered several stop-offs for photo opportunities, although they were limited and it was challenging to capture pictures while the vehicle was in motion. The tour guide was friendly, making the experience enjoyable for everyone. This was my second tour of LA/Hollywood, and it exceeded my previous experience.
The driver was informative, answering all our questions and even making an unscheduled stop for water. The route was well-planned, and the driver ensured that we made the most of our time. Overall, the tour was a great way to explore Hollywood and Beverley Hills, and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the area.
17. Laurel and Hardy Park
Historic site dedicated to comedy duo

The review is for a small park with a significant film history, specifically the stairs across the street where a famous piano scene from a Laurel and Hardy film was shot. The park is recommended with a rating of 5 stars based on this historical aspect. To get the most out of the app, users are encouraged to create an account, follow friends and experts, and see their recommended places.
Laurel and Hardy Park is a small outdoor space with a notable film history, as it is home to the stairs where the iconic piano scene from a Laurel and Hardy film was shot. The park itself may not be exceptional, but the film history associated with it makes it a worthwhile destination. To enhance the user experience, the app encourages creating an account and following trusted friends and experts to see their recommended places, including this one.
18. Bond Area
Featuring the iconic Greek Theatre

Griffith Park is a remarkable natural attraction in the midst of Los Angeles, offering a range of outdoor activities such as picnics, hiking, dog-walking, running, and star gazing at the observatory. The city lights at night are particularly stunning when viewed from the park.
This urban oasis is an ideal location for various activities including picnics, hiking, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Furthermore, it provides a perfect spot for visitors to marvel at the city's lights during the night, with the observatory being a popular destination for stargazing.