Best of 19 picnic spots in Philadelphia
Picnic spots in Philadelphia offer a range of outdoor locations to enjoy a meal amidst nature or in the city's iconic parks. From the sprawling Pennypack Park to the urban oasis of JFK Plaza (Love Park), there are options for every picnicker's preference. Here are the top 5 picnic spots in Philadelphia: Pennypack Park, FDR Park, JFK Plaza (Love Park), East Fairmount Park, and Belmont Plateau.
- 1. FDR Park
- 2. Clark Park
- 3. Belmont Plateau
- 4. East Fairmount Park
- 5. Schuylkill River Park
- 6. Belmont Grove
- 7. Fairmount Park
- 8. Pennypack Park
- 9. Pennypack Park
- 10. JFK Plaza (Love Park)
- 11. Blue Bell Park
- 12. Lardner's Point Park
- 13. North George's Hill Picnic Area
- 14. Glendinning Rock Garden
- 15. Pleasant Hill Park
- 16. Drexel Park
- 17. General Pulaski Park
- 18. Jefferson Square
- 19. Penn Park
1. FDR Park
historic site with scenic views

Previously, FDR Park was primarily known as a parking location for Eagles games. However, a recent visit on a beautiful spring Saturday revealed a different side of the park. The park was clean, spacious, and felt safe, making it an ideal location for families to have barbecues, play on the jungle gym, and enjoy various water activities on the large lakes, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
On a separate occasion, a visit to FDR Park was made using the subway on a Saturday, largely due to the weekly Asian food market held there. The park was bustling with activity, including joggers, walkers, and tennis players. The pond provided a scenic backdrop for people-watching and soaking up the sun. Overall, FDR Park proved to be a versatile and enjoyable destination for various activities and interests.
2. Clark Park
Historic Philadelphia site, Scenic walking trails

Clark Park is a popular green space in the area, drawing both locals and visitors. Its offerings include a Saturday farmers market, cultural events like Shakespeare in the Park, and spontaneous gatherings such as drum circles. The farmers market is a standout feature, with a wide selection of fresh produce and beautiful flowers that are affordably priced at $5 and up, and known to have a long lifespan.
The park's appeal is evident in the lively atmosphere and the satisfaction of its visitors. Market-goers are particularly pleased with the quality and affordability of the produce and flowers. The floral offerings, in particular, are a hit, with many visitors making it a point to buy a bouquet on each visit. The popularity of the farmers market and the park as a whole is a testament to its value in the community.
3. Belmont Plateau
Historic site with beautiful sunset views

Picture yourself in Philadelphia, looking for a great spot to enjoy a picnic and take in the city's skyline. Look no further than this hidden gem, a perfect location for a relaxing afternoon.
The area offers beautiful views, lush greenery, and plenty of space to lay out a blanket and enjoy a meal. The city skyline serves as a stunning backdrop, making this a picture-perfect setting for any occasion.
4. East Fairmount Park
City's largest park with beautiful views

Fairmount Park, spanning 650 acres, is a popular destination for various outdoor activities and relaxation. Located along the Schuylkill River, the park offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for picnics, bike rides, jogs, and walks. The park's natural scenery, including the calming water and shaded trees, provides a refreshing escape during the summer months.
East Fairmount Park, a part of Fairmount Park, is known for its historic significance and natural beauty. Visitors can engage in a variety of recreational activities, including picnicking, biking, jogging, and walking. The park's tranquil setting, with its lush trees and diverse bird population, is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts. Whether looking for a place to exercise, relax, or take in the scenery, East Fairmount Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Schuylkill River Park
Historic waterfront with community events

The park is a charming and delightful destination, ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. Its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere make it perfect for enjoying a picnic with friends and family. The park is home to a beautiful river, which offers a tranquil and refreshing walking path. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the river, soaking in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying the sounds of the flowing water.
The park's spacious lawns and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal location for a relaxing picnic. Whether visitors choose to enjoy a simple sandwich and snack or a full-course meal, the park's serene and beautiful setting is sure to enhance the dining experience. After eating, visitors can take a walk along the river, play games on the grass, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the park. Overall, the park is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with nature.
6. Belmont Grove
Historical significance as a stop on the Underground Railroad

Belmont Grove, situated in the core of Fairmount Park, is an ideal picnic spot that boasts of lush green space, grills, pavilions, and courts. It is regarded as one of the top picnic spots in Philadelphia, providing visitors with a tranquil environment and plenty of room for outdoor activities.
The picnic area includes numerous pavilions and courts, in addition to the lush greenery and grills. This makes it an excellent location for group outings, family gatherings, and sports activities. The peaceful ambiance and spacious setting of Belmont Grove make it a perfect place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy their picnics and outdoor events in Philadelphia.
7. Fairmount Park
Philadelphia's largest park

Fairmount Park is a beautiful location for a picnic, featuring an abundance of trees, flowers, and open spaces. It's an ideal setting for a family outing, where one can relax and enjoy a meal in a peaceful and scenic environment. The park is especially known for its Japanese Garden, a popular attraction for visitors.
During our visit to Fairmount Park, we had a delightful picnic by the river. The park's natural beauty was on full display, with blooming flowers and lush greenery all around. The Japanese Garden was a highlight of our trip, showcasing a tranquil and culturally rich landscape. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind or explore, Fairmount Park is a perfect destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
8. Pennypack Park
Historic structures and sites

Pennypack Park is a nice place to visit, with well-maintained walking paths that run alongside a creek, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for a quiet walk or jog. The park offers plenty of shade, making it a great place to visit during warmer months.
However, despite its natural beauty, Pennypack Park has experienced a decline in recent years. Once a popular spot for picnics and nature walks with children, the park has faced challenges that have negatively impacted its appeal. Visitors may still encounter some of the ideal natural attractions depicted in photos, but the overall experience has been diminished.
9. Pennypack Park
Historic sites and natural beauty

The trail offers multiple path options, providing a scenic and varied hike. Parking is convenient and the area is not overly crowded, making for an enjoyable experience. Additionally, the trail is dog-friendly, allowing for furry companions to join in on the fun. The majority of the trail is paved, while the remaining 25% is rugged with fallen trees and overgrown vegetation, but still passable.
Despite the overall nice trail, there are a few downsides. The trail can become muddy after a rainy day, which may make for a less enjoyable hike. Unfortunately, there was also a significant amount of trash scattered along the trail, which negatively impacted the natural beauty of the area.
10. JFK Plaza (Love Park)
Historic site, popular tourist spot

LOVE Park in Philadelphia, officially named John F. Kennedy Plaza, is a public park located in Center City. The park features a reproduction of Robert Indiana's famous LOVE sculpture as its centerpiece, giving the park its popular nickname. Visitors to the park can enjoy a meal or snack at the available tables, either by bringing a picnic or ordering from one of the many nearby restaurants.
John F. Kennedy Plaza, also known as LOVE Park, is a public park situated in Center City, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. The park's nickname, LOVE Park, is derived from the iconic LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana that overlooks the plaza. There are tables for dining or snacking, and visitors have the option to either bring their own picnic or purchase food from the nearby eateries.
11. Blue Bell Park
Scenic views of Philadelphia skyline

The pavilion at this location offers various amenities for visitors, including restrooms and a spacious grassy area for relaxation. Additionally, there are ball fields available for sports enthusiasts.
This dog park is a versatile space that provides more than just a place for dogs to play. It also features picnic spots for visitors to enjoy, as well as a baseball field and access to parking and trails. Its proximity to Wissahickon Creek makes it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
12. Lardner's Point Park
Historic riverfront location

Lardner's Point Park is a great location for family picnics with its designated spots and beautiful surroundings. The serene environment and scenic views of the park make it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a meal outside. The park offers multiple picnic areas, complete with benches and tables, providing a comfortable and peaceful setting for guests to relax while watching boats pass by on the river.
Visitors to Lardner's Point Park can take advantage of the many picnic spots available, each situated in a peaceful and scenic area of the park. With benches and tables provided, picnickers can enjoy their meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the river and park. The tranquil atmosphere of the park makes it an ideal location for a relaxing picnic with family or friends.
13. North George's Hill Picnic Area

14. Glendinning Rock Garden
Historic site with scenic views

Glendinning Rock Garden is a serene spot along Kelly Drive, situated below the Girard Avenue Bridge. The area boasts a large grassy field with scattered stones and a small pond, providing a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. At the back, a shaded area with natural rock formations and a set of stone steps can be found, making it an ideal rest stop along the Schuylkill River Trail. The rock garden hosts events during warmer months, adding to its appeal.
As an ideal getaway in the bustling city, Glendinning Rock Garden is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. It features large Magnolia trees that offer shade, and for those seeking adventure, numerous trails lead to the woods, providing hours of exploration. Overall, the rock garden is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone in a convenient urban location.
15. Pleasant Hill Park
Historic site with beautiful landscapes

The fish hatchery is a great spot to observe a variety of fish, including the spotted fish. After many years, the fish hatchery has been updated and is now better than ever. It's conveniently located near Maggie's, making it an easy walk over to check out the improvements.
Upon visiting the updated fish hatchery, you will notice many positive changes. The facility is well-maintained and features a wide range of fish. If you haven't been to the fish hatchery since the 1960s, you will be surprised by how much it has changed. The hatchery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fish or nature.
16. Drexel Park
Historic charm, accessible green space in the city

University City in Philadelphia is a beautiful area to live in, with Drexel Park being a standout feature. This park is a perfect example of urban revitalization and community engagement. It is a beloved spot for both Drexel University students and residents of the Powelton community. The park boasts over 45 trees, well-maintained walking paths, ambient lighting, and comfortable benches, providing a serene escape from the busy city life.
Drexel Park offers a range of activities for visitors. It is a great place for students to study or take a break from their hectic schedules, while residents enjoy using the park for exercise, relaxation, and socializing. The park's well-maintained facilities attract many people, making it a vibrant and lively community space. The engagement of the community in maintaining the park highlights the value they place on this urban haven.
17. General Pulaski Park
Rich history and community events

The park is a great location for a picnic with friends, offering a clean and well-maintained environment for outdoor activities. With its well-kept picnic areas, it provides an ideal setting for enjoying a sunny day.
The lovely park is a perfect spot to relax and unwind, offering plenty of space for picnics and other recreational activities. Its beautiful setting makes it an ideal place to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors, making it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
18. Jefferson Square
Birthplace of the United States Constitution

If you're in the mood for a delicious cheesesteak but can't find parking near Passyunk Ave, there are still options available to you. There's a good place to sit and enjoy your meal, even if you have to walk a bit.
Additionally, this location offers a unique community experience once a week. They set up a projector and screen, creating an outdoor cinema of sorts. All you need to bring is a chair or blanket to sit on, and you can enjoy a movie under the stars while savoring your cheesesteak.
19. Penn Park
Spacious park with diverse activities for all ages

An ideal location for an evening picnic is this place near the river, which is always cooled by a gentle breeze. During sunny afternoons, it is also a perfect spot to relax and unwind. The views of the Ben Franklin bridge from this location are truly spectacular, making it an excellent choice for activities such as painting or taking wedding photos.
This area is not just great for an evening picnic, but it is also a perfect place to unwind on a sunny afternoon. The stunning views of the Ben Franklin bridge from this location are unparalleled, making it an ideal spot for various activities, such as painting or taking unforgettable wedding photos.