17 of the best picnic spots in New York City
Picnic spots in NYC offer a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. From the scenic beauty of Central Park to the peaceful atmosphere of Prospect Park, there are numerous spots to enjoy a picnic with friends and family. Additionally, the waterfront parks along the Hudson River and the East River provide breathtaking views of the city skyline, making them ideal picnic locations. So pack a basket, grab a blanket, and discover the best picnic spots in NYC.
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- 1. Madison Square Park
- 2. Belvedere Castle
- 3. Clove Lakes Park
- 4. Van Cortlandt Park
- 5. Astoria Park
- 6. Sheep Meadow
- 7. Marsha P. Johnson State Park
- 8. Fort Tryon Park
- 9. Bow Bridge
- 10. The Great Lawn
- 11. Heather Garden
- 12. Bryant Park
- 13. Randall's Island Park
- 14. Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park
- 15. Long Meadow
- 16. Socrates Sculpture Park
- 17. Isham Park
1. Madison Square Park
Urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan
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Madison Square Park is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the charm of New York City's Flatiron District. This small midtown park is situated across three city blocks, nestled between Madison and Fifth Avenues from 23rd to 26th streets, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. One of the main draws of the park is its stunning views of the iconic Flatiron Building, which can be admired from various lawns, benches, and temporary art installations throughout the space.
The park spans 6.2 acres and is home to a beautiful lawn, perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a picnic. The park's location on Madison Avenue adds to its appeal, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely afternoon outdoors. Visitors can take advantage of the park's benches and greenery to relax and unwind while taking in the city's energy and vibrancy. The park's temporary art installations, which are frequently updated, provide an added layer of interest and cultural significance, making Madison Square Park a must-visit destination for art lovers and casual travelers alike.
Madison Square Park is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the charm of New York City's Flatiron District. This small midtown park is situated across three city blocks, nestled between Madison and Fifth Avenues from 23rd to 26th streets, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. One of the main draws of the park is its stunning views of the iconic Flatiron Building, which can be admired from various lawns, benches, and temporary art installations throughout the space.
The park spans 6.2 acres and is home to a beautiful lawn, perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a picnic. The park's location on Madison Avenue adds to its appeal, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely afternoon outdoors. Visitors can take advantage of the park's benches and greenery to relax and unwind while taking in the city's energy and vibrancy. The park's temporary art installations, which are frequently updated, provide an added layer of interest and cultural significance, making Madison Square Park a must-visit destination for art lovers and casual travelers alike.
2. Belvedere Castle
Iconic Central Park castle with stunning city views
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Picnicking near Belvedere Castle in Central Park is a delightful experience, reminiscent of being in a fairy tale. The castle's presence and the surrounding greenery create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and basking in the beauty of nature. The tranquility and picturesque setting have the power to transport visitors to a different world, offering a restorative escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Belvedere Castle's stunning views and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal location for a picnic in Central Park. The historic castle and the lush, verdant surroundings create a beautiful backdrop for any outdoor gathering. Guests can lay out a blanket, unpack a basket, and enjoy their meal while taking in the serene vistas, making the experience both visually and culinarily satisfying. These qualities make Belvedere Castle a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable picnic spot in New York City's beloved urban oasis.
Picnicking near Belvedere Castle in Central Park is a delightful experience, reminiscent of being in a fairy tale. The castle's presence and the surrounding greenery create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and basking in the beauty of nature. The tranquility and picturesque setting have the power to transport visitors to a different world, offering a restorative escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Belvedere Castle's stunning views and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal location for a picnic in Central Park. The historic castle and the lush, verdant surroundings create a beautiful backdrop for any outdoor gathering. Guests can lay out a blanket, unpack a basket, and enjoy their meal while taking in the serene vistas, making the experience both visually and culinarily satisfying. These qualities make Belvedere Castle a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable picnic spot in New York City's beloved urban oasis.
3. Clove Lakes Park
A serene escape with rich natural history
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Clove Lakes Park is a wonderful destination for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to go ice skating, take a peaceful walk, or even run or hike, this park has something for everyone. One added convenience is the availability of free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected even while enjoying the great outdoors.
Clove Lakes Park is a wonderful destination for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to go ice skating, take a peaceful walk, or even run or hike, this park has something for everyone. One added convenience is the availability of free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected even while enjoying the great outdoors.
4. Van Cortlandt Park
Third largest park in NYC with rich history
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Van Cortlandt Park, located in the Bronx, spans an expansive 1,146 acres and is the third-largest park in New York City. Its historical significance is evident in the nation's first public golf course, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. The park's vast open space and picturesque scenery also make it an ideal location for picnickers, who can enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the great outdoors.
In addition to its open space, Van Cortlandt Park provides two designated picnic areas with barbecue grills. The first is situated near the West 242nd Street entrance, close to the pool area. Visitors seeking a more secluded picnicking experience can try the Shandler Barbecue Area, which is located on the eastern side of the park near Jerome Avenue. Equipped with all the necessary amenities, Van Cortlandt Park is an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a day in nature with family and friends.
Van Cortlandt Park, located in the Bronx, spans an expansive 1,146 acres and is the third-largest park in New York City. Its historical significance is evident in the nation's first public golf course, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. The park's vast open space and picturesque scenery also make it an ideal location for picnickers, who can enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the great outdoors.
In addition to its open space, Van Cortlandt Park provides two designated picnic areas with barbecue grills. The first is situated near the West 242nd Street entrance, close to the pool area. Visitors seeking a more secluded picnicking experience can try the Shandler Barbecue Area, which is located on the eastern side of the park near Jerome Avenue. Equipped with all the necessary amenities, Van Cortlandt Park is an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a day in nature with family and friends.
5. Astoria Park
NYC's oldest and largest swimming pool
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Many people passing over it may not realize the hidden gem that lies in Astoria Park. The park boasts the largest public pool in the five boroughs, complete with stunning art deco details. Apart from the pool, there is a public track with exercise circuits and instructions, as well as tennis courts available for use. The park's location provides sweeping views of Manhattan, making it an ideal spot for picnics, playing frisbee, or simply enjoying a book while taking in the scenery.
Astoria Park offers more than just its famous pool. The park features outdoor tennis courts, a track, a bandstand, multiple trails, basketball courts, and playgrounds that attract visitors from all over the city and beyond. One of the highlights of the park is the stunning shoreline views it offers, situated between the Triborough Bridge and Hell Gate Bridge along the East River. The benches along the perimeter are popular year-round, providing a peaceful spot to take in the sights and sounds of the river.
Many people passing over it may not realize the hidden gem that lies in Astoria Park. The park boasts the largest public pool in the five boroughs, complete with stunning art deco details. Apart from the pool, there is a public track with exercise circuits and instructions, as well as tennis courts available for use. The park's location provides sweeping views of Manhattan, making it an ideal spot for picnics, playing frisbee, or simply enjoying a book while taking in the scenery.
Astoria Park offers more than just its famous pool. The park features outdoor tennis courts, a track, a bandstand, multiple trails, basketball courts, and playgrounds that attract visitors from all over the city and beyond. One of the highlights of the park is the stunning shoreline views it offers, situated between the Triborough Bridge and Hell Gate Bridge along the East River. The benches along the perimeter are popular year-round, providing a peaceful spot to take in the sights and sounds of the river.
6. Sheep Meadow
A serene escape in bustling New York City
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Sheep Meadow in Central Park, New York City, is a spacious and serene outdoor expanse that offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The meadow's lush green lawns and picturesque views make it an ideal location for various recreational activities, such as picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely walks.
Compared to other picnic spots in Central Park, Sheep Meadow stands out for its ample green space, superior quality grass, convenient bathroom access, and optimal locations for taxi or subway pick-up and drop-off. These features make it the perfect destination for tourists and locals alike seeking a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience in the heart of New York City.
Sheep Meadow in Central Park, New York City, is a spacious and serene outdoor expanse that offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The meadow's lush green lawns and picturesque views make it an ideal location for various recreational activities, such as picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely walks.
Compared to other picnic spots in Central Park, Sheep Meadow stands out for its ample green space, superior quality grass, convenient bathroom access, and optimal locations for taxi or subway pick-up and drop-off. These features make it the perfect destination for tourists and locals alike seeking a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience in the heart of New York City.
7. Marsha P. Johnson State Park
First NY state park named after an LGBTQ person
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Marsha P. Johnson Park offers a spacious lawn area and numerous picnic tables, making it an ideal location for a daytime picnic. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery while savoring their meals in the open air.
The park boasts a stunning view of Manhattan, providing a scenic backdrop for any outing. With ample space to relax and unwind, Marsha P. Johnson Park is a perfect place for a picnic, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
Marsha P. Johnson Park offers a spacious lawn area and numerous picnic tables, making it an ideal location for a daytime picnic. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery while savoring their meals in the open air.
The park boasts a stunning view of Manhattan, providing a scenic backdrop for any outing. With ample space to relax and unwind, Marsha P. Johnson Park is a perfect place for a picnic, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
8. Fort Tryon Park
A serene escape with stunning Hudson River views
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A lovely view of the Hudson River can be seen from the park, providing a serene backdrop for various activities. In the spring, flowers bloom and add a splash of color to the landscape, while in the fall, the changing colors of the leaves create a breathtaking sight.
The pristine views of the Hudson River make the park an ideal location for leisurely walks, taking in the scenery, or enjoying a picnic with family and friends. The beauty of the park's natural surroundings is sure to delight visitors and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A lovely view of the Hudson River can be seen from the park, providing a serene backdrop for various activities. In the spring, flowers bloom and add a splash of color to the landscape, while in the fall, the changing colors of the leaves create a breathtaking sight.
The pristine views of the Hudson River make the park an ideal location for leisurely walks, taking in the scenery, or enjoying a picnic with family and friends. The beauty of the park's natural surroundings is sure to delight visitors and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
9. Bow Bridge
A romantic bridge with breathtaking park views
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Bow Bridge is a stunning architectural structure in the heart of Central Park, resembling the curve of an archer's bow as it spans across the lake. This picturesque setting makes it a perfect location for a peaceful picnic or a romantic rendezvous.
For photography enthusiasts, Bow Bridge presents some of the most picturesque views in Central Park. With its elegant design and tranquil surroundings, it offers a chance to capture breathtaking images. It's also an ideal place to enjoy a meal while enjoying the natural beauty of the park. Whether you're looking for a scenic backdrop or a serene spot to relax, Bow Bridge is an excellent choice.
Bow Bridge is a stunning architectural structure in the heart of Central Park, resembling the curve of an archer's bow as it spans across the lake. This picturesque setting makes it a perfect location for a peaceful picnic or a romantic rendezvous.
For photography enthusiasts, Bow Bridge presents some of the most picturesque views in Central Park. With its elegant design and tranquil surroundings, it offers a chance to capture breathtaking images. It's also an ideal place to enjoy a meal while enjoying the natural beauty of the park. Whether you're looking for a scenic backdrop or a serene spot to relax, Bow Bridge is an excellent choice.
10. The Great Lawn
Iconic green space in the heart of New York City
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Central Park's Great Lawn spans 55 acres of lush, green grass, providing ample space for various outdoor activities. The lawn is home to several baseball fields and basketball courts, making it an ideal location for sports enthusiasts. Its vast openness also invites visitors to engage in leisurely pursuits such as sunbathing, picnics, and flying kites. Additionally, the Great Lawn often hosts concerts and other special events, making it a cultural hub within the park.
The expansive Great Lawn in Central Park is a popular spot for visitors seeking a respite from the bustling city. The lush grassy area is perfect for spreading out a blanket and soaking up the sun, playing Frisbee, or enjoying a peaceful picnic. During the summer months, the lawn transforms into an outdoor concert venue, offering a diverse lineup of musical acts. With its scenic beauty and versatile offerings, the Great Lawn is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Central Park.
Central Park's Great Lawn spans 55 acres of lush, green grass, providing ample space for various outdoor activities. The lawn is home to several baseball fields and basketball courts, making it an ideal location for sports enthusiasts. Its vast openness also invites visitors to engage in leisurely pursuits such as sunbathing, picnics, and flying kites. Additionally, the Great Lawn often hosts concerts and other special events, making it a cultural hub within the park.
The expansive Great Lawn in Central Park is a popular spot for visitors seeking a respite from the bustling city. The lush grassy area is perfect for spreading out a blanket and soaking up the sun, playing Frisbee, or enjoying a peaceful picnic. During the summer months, the lawn transforms into an outdoor concert venue, offering a diverse lineup of musical acts. With its scenic beauty and versatile offerings, the Great Lawn is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Central Park.
11. Heather Garden
Almost 10 minutes from the fascinating Cloisters, The Heather Garden has incredible flowers that create the perfect atmosphere for a beautiful picnic, including jasmines and daffodils. Due to its beautiful perennial plants, you will also find a wide variety of butterflies, bees and other wildlife.
12. Bryant Park
Midtown Manhattan's town square with free ice skating rink
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Bryant Park, situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, is a beloved urban retreat known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery. Measuring 9.6 acres, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The park's seasonal gardens are a visual delight, providing a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light meal at the park's open-air café.
The park's offerings extend beyond its natural beauty, as it regularly hosts a variety of free activities for the public. Movie nights under the stars, morning yoga sessions, and winter ice-skating are just a few of the popular events held at Bryant Park. With plenty of seating options, a lush lawn, and beautiful gardens, Bryant Park is a perfect spot to enjoy some downtime in the midst of the city's busyness.
Bryant Park, situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, is a beloved urban retreat known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery. Measuring 9.6 acres, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. The park's seasonal gardens are a visual delight, providing a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light meal at the park's open-air café.
The park's offerings extend beyond its natural beauty, as it regularly hosts a variety of free activities for the public. Movie nights under the stars, morning yoga sessions, and winter ice-skating are just a few of the popular events held at Bryant Park. With plenty of seating options, a lush lawn, and beautiful gardens, Bryant Park is a perfect spot to enjoy some downtime in the midst of the city's busyness.
13. Randall's Island Park
A vibrant oasis for sports and nature lovers
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Randall's Island Park boasts an impressive network of pathways, providing options for both leisurely strolls and more intense runs or bike rides. Visitors can enjoy the park's picturesque scenery while engaging in physical activity. Moreover, the park offers designated picnic areas, such as the lawns near the Scylla Playground and along the waterfront at the south end, providing ideal locations for a peaceful lunch or a family picnic with a stunning view of the Hell Gate.
As a superb urban green space in New York City, Randall'a Island Park offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and captivating views of Hell Gate. The expansive lawns and designated picnic areas are perfect for unwinding and enjoying a meal while surrounded by nature. The park's commitment to providing well-maintained spaces and magnificent views ensures that every visitor has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Randall's Island Park boasts an impressive network of pathways, providing options for both leisurely strolls and more intense runs or bike rides. Visitors can enjoy the park's picturesque scenery while engaging in physical activity. Moreover, the park offers designated picnic areas, such as the lawns near the Scylla Playground and along the waterfront at the south end, providing ideal locations for a peaceful lunch or a family picnic with a stunning view of the Hell Gate.
As a superb urban green space in New York City, Randall'a Island Park offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and captivating views of Hell Gate. The expansive lawns and designated picnic areas are perfect for unwinding and enjoying a meal while surrounded by nature. The park's commitment to providing well-maintained spaces and magnificent views ensures that every visitor has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
14. Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park
Celebrates Four Freedoms: speech, worship, want, fear
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A picnic in this park provides a refreshing perspective of the iconic NYC skyline, making it an ideal location for a relaxing afternoon. The serene atmosphere is complemented by the beautiful scenery of Manhattan and the East River, offering a peaceful oasis amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
As a perfect spot for a picnic, this park boasts stunning views of Manhattan and the East River, providing a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor gathering. The park is kept in pristine condition, with plenty of space to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or a scenic location for a picnic, this park is an excellent choice.
A picnic in this park provides a refreshing perspective of the iconic NYC skyline, making it an ideal location for a relaxing afternoon. The serene atmosphere is complemented by the beautiful scenery of Manhattan and the East River, offering a peaceful oasis amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
As a perfect spot for a picnic, this park boasts stunning views of Manhattan and the East River, providing a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor gathering. The park is kept in pristine condition, with plenty of space to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or a scenic location for a picnic, this park is an excellent choice.
15. Long Meadow
With nearly a mile of open green space, Long Meadow is a favorite spot for many Prospect Park visitors. Spread out and enjoy the west side of the park that stretches from Grand Army Plaza to Prospect Park Southwest.
16. Socrates Sculpture Park
Where art meets nature on the East River
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Picnicking is a popular activity at this outdoor space, however, larger social gatherings such as parties are not allowed. Additionally, alcohol and smoking are prohibited, as is barbecuing. These rules help to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
The location of this outdoor space offers stunning views of the East River, making it an ideal setting for a peaceful picnic. While there are benches available, they were all occupied during the reviewer's visit, so bringing a blanket is recommended. The presence of public art installations adds to the space's appeal, creating a unique and dynamic atmosphere. This space is an excellent resource for those looking to enjoy the outdoors while taking in some culture.
Picnicking is a popular activity at this outdoor space, however, larger social gatherings such as parties are not allowed. Additionally, alcohol and smoking are prohibited, as is barbecuing. These rules help to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
The location of this outdoor space offers stunning views of the East River, making it an ideal setting for a peaceful picnic. While there are benches available, they were all occupied during the reviewer's visit, so bringing a blanket is recommended. The presence of public art installations adds to the space's appeal, creating a unique and dynamic atmosphere. This space is an excellent resource for those looking to enjoy the outdoors while taking in some culture.
17. Isham Park
Historic park with Revolutionary War significance
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Isham Park is a wonderful destination for those seeking a tranquil and green respite in the heart of Manhattan. Spanning 20 acres, the park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. One of the most popular activities is having a picnic, where families and friends can gather to enjoy a meal while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The park also has plenty of trees to climb, providing a perfect opportunity for kids and the young at heart to indulge in some innocent fun.
In addition, Isham Park offers numerous benches scattered throughout the grounds, allowing visitors to relax and unwind while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Whether it’s a sunny day with clear blue skies or a cooler day with a gentle breeze, the park is an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its well-manicured lawns, serene ponds, and stunning landscapes, Isham Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to reconnect with nature while in Manhattan.
Isham Park is a wonderful destination for those seeking a tranquil and green respite in the heart of Manhattan. Spanning 20 acres, the park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. One of the most popular activities is having a picnic, where families and friends can gather to enjoy a meal while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The park also has plenty of trees to climb, providing a perfect opportunity for kids and the young at heart to indulge in some innocent fun.
In addition, Isham Park offers numerous benches scattered throughout the grounds, allowing visitors to relax and unwind while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Whether it’s a sunny day with clear blue skies or a cooler day with a gentle breeze, the park is an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its well-manicured lawns, serene ponds, and stunning landscapes, Isham Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to reconnect with nature while in Manhattan.