23 Picnic Spots in NEW YORK (Scenic, Peaceful & Relaxing)
Fill up your basket, pack a soft blanket, and prepare for a picnic
If you are looking for something to do as a New Yorker or tourist, a picnic is a must!
Luckily, New York has many parks, beaches, playgrounds, and other outdoor spots to enjoy a picnic.
With so many spectacular views and green spaces, you can never go wrong with a picnic in fine weather.
All you need to do is lay out your blanket, relax on it, nibble on some fruits or crackers, take in the beautiful scenery of New York, and maybe catch a quick nap.
Nothing sounds more peaceful and relaxing!
So pack everything you need and check out the list of top picnic spots in New York.
Head over there alone or with friends and family when you are done.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Vacation Spots in New York.
Picnic Spots in Manhattan, New York
1. Cedar Hill
You can’t go wrong with a classical landscape inside the famous Central Park landmark.
Its sloping lawns, rocks, green valley, and evergreen trees make it an ideal spot for many outdoor activities like sunbathing, reading, and picnicking.
The park’s name is from the red cedars you can find on the crest of the hill.
During spring, you will find varieties of crops, plants, and flowers on either side of the pathways and slopes.
It creates a beautiful and natural ambiance for anyone that visits the park.
On snowy days, the hill is a perfect place for sledding.
Just be gentle and let gravity do the rest.
The combination of shady trees, lush greens, and shining sun makes this place a classic picnic destination for locals and tourists in New York.
If you want to have the whole hill to yourself, get there early in the morning and soak it all in.
Address: East side between 76th and 79th Street, Fifth Avenue Entrance, Central Park, New York, NY 10021
2. East Meadow
Many magnificent trees and lush greens dot this meadow in Central Park, New York.
It is one of the three Meadows inside Central Park, providing an open space for play and relaxation.
There are clay surface areas where kids can play and have fun.
You can do many things here to have fun and be a child again.
Take advantage of a breezy day and fly your kite as high as possible.
What makes this place a great picnic spot?
Well, there are lots of things!
You can find a perfect spot for a picnic with neatly trimmed lawns, picnic tables, and lounges.
Spread a blanket on the lawns and have a quiet time to yourself, or reserve a picnic table and have fun with family and friends.
Whichever way you choose, you will surely love the experience.
If you are tired of picnicking, find a perfect spot on the open meadow and enjoy this place’s spectacular views and serenity.
A time away here would be worth your while.
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029, United States
3. Sherman Creek
You need to visit this park extending from West 202nd to West 206nd Street, connecting with the Harlem River waterfront in Manhattan.
With steep hills, thick forests, and waterfront views, it provides a place where tranquillity flows.
The beautiful 15-acre along Harlem River includes the Swindler Cove, Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse, and a children’s garden.
Swindler Cove used to be an illegal dumping site, but today is an open green space with a children’s garden.
It is an oasis of nature with wetlands, woodlands, a pathway, and a freshwater pond.
At the park, you can find a cluster of picnic tables with sun umbrellas, and all you need to do is bring a packed lunch box to share with friends.
The picnic table and chairs are between the plants and offer a quiet, peaceful retreat away from bustling New York.
Give the spot a try!
Address: 10th Ave, New York, NY 10034, United States
4. Great Hill
At the north end of Central Park, you will find one of Manhattan’s natural gems on the west side between 103rd and 107th Street.
The name is Great Hill because it is at the top of a hill 135 feet above sea level, surrounded by trees, woods, and outcrops.
It provides a perfect spot for a picnic, lawn games, running, walking, and relaxation.
This spot used to be a site of British encampment during the Revolutionary War for troops from nearby high points like Nutter’s Battery and Fort Clinton.
Now, the urban park is a favorite spot for picnics and relaxation.
On sunny days, Great Hill is the spot for concerts, festivals, live music, and dance.
So what do you say about a picnic on the hills with a cool breeze and stellar views?
Address: Great Hill, West side between 103rd and 107th Street, New York, NY 10025, USA
5. Creative Little Garden
Everyone is welcome at this garden on the East Street side of New York
Upon entering the yellow gates, you can see and enjoy the lovely outdoor decor like chair swings, art pieces, benches, hanging plants, and bird feeders.
It provides an oasis of tranquillity ad peace away from busy life and responsibilities.
Different volunteers and members of the community collaborate to maintain the beautiful garden.
You can sit, relax and enjoy the breathtaking sight of the garden, its smell, and its sound.
If you can’t take your mind off work, you can come with your laptop and work surrounded by a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Pack a lunch box to nibble on fresh fruits like berries, strawberries, or whatever you choose.
You can also pack proper meals like sandwiches, fries, burgers, etc.
This zen and peaceful garden is a place to be.
So what are you waiting for?
Address: 530 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009, United States
Also see our article on Trampoline Parks in New York.
Picnic Spots in Brooklyn, New York
1. Governor’s Island Picnic Point
You will find this cool picnic spot at the tip of Governor’s Island in Brooklyn, New York.
The picnic point is a nice place to enjoy a quiet time, relax, and enjoy the scenery and atmosphere.
It is perfect for lovers, families, friends, or a solo time.
You can bring your food and beverages and find a picnic spot anywhere on the island.
However, if you don’t want to pack anything, Ligget Terrace provides plenty of food sellers, including those who sell alcoholic drinks.
There are plenty of options for a picnic day at Governor’s Island.
You can spread a blanket on the grass or find a picnic table and chair anywhere on the island.
Nolan Park on the northern side has a lot of spread-out tables and grilling areas.
Although grilling is not allowed, you can always make reservations.
Stop by the island, sit with a meal, and enjoy the scenery.
Address: 910 Gresham Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Gather with friends and family and choose five picnic areas at this park.
Yes, you heard that right!
The park offers no expense in providing picnic areas that suit your preference, mood, or occasion.
Head over to Pier 6 side of the park to watch the sunset and get a stunning view of New York Harbour.
Pier 3 is an ideal spot if you want a quiet and calm kind of picnic.
The tables and chairs with sun umbrellas are comfortable for a relaxing picnic.
After playing basketball, roller skating, or playing around Pier 2, take a break at the Pier 2 picnic tables.
Pier 5 Picnic Peninsula is perfect if you visit with friends, colleagues, or family.
Cook up a storm at the BBQ area or relax under the umbrellas.
The lawns and Picnic Grove are good spots to enjoy a picnic and relax.
Relish in the afternoon sun and take in the views at any picnic spots in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Address: Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
3. The Picnic Peninsula Barbeque Area
This picnic spot also doubles as a barbeque area at Brooklyn Bridge Park.
It is one of the five picnic spots around the park.
The area is free for anyone who wants a nice time away from home.
What makes this spot a bustling one for both locals and tourists is the barbeque area.
Nothing is better than a picnic spot with an area to cook your meal.
However, the picnic tables and grill is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive on time.
Make sure to barbecue at least 3 feet above the ground and keep a safe distance from kids, trees, and buildings.
You must limit your time to an hour when the grills are in high demand.
A picnic spot where you can relax, grill up a meal and enjoy with loved ones sounds like a great idea.
Why not check it out?
Address: Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
4. Marsha P. Johnson State Park
Sitting right in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, this park is named after a woman of color who was an LGBTQ activist.
The 11-acre park offers views of Midtown Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridge and stretches along the East River.
It is a place for all ages to enjoy the many outdoor facilities in the store.
The park has a playground, a volleyball and basketball court, access to nearby beaches, picnic tables, and chairs.
Trees, gardens, pathways, and event spaces combine to make the space a welcoming and soothing spot.
The park has lots of green spaces perfect for a picnic day.
Additionally, a sandy area around the water has a fantastic view of the East River.
Enjoy the views, watch the sunset, and relax at this historic landmark in New York.
Address: 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States
5. Fort Greene Park
This park has played a big part in the city’s history with important names like Frederick Law Olmstead, William Howard, Walt Whitman, and many more.
It served as a fort during the revolutionary war and 1812.
Since then, it has been in a public space where people can come, chill and have fun.
It has a basketball and tennis court and playgrounds for kids and adults.
The 30-acre park is a magnet for all kinds of visitors for its sloping hills, magnificent trees, and stunning architecture.
There are many picnic tables and benches all over the park and many lush grasses where you can spread a blanket and have a nice picnic.
You can also grill up your meal at the barbeque area and step it down with a chilled drink.
Visit this park and enjoy a solo time of reflection away from New York’s busy life.
Address: De Kalb Avenue & S Portland Ave, 11205, United States
Also see our article on Water Parks in New York.
Picnic Spots in Queens, New York
1. Ralph Demarco Park
Have you visited this lovely park at Shore Boulevard in Queens, New York?
If you haven’t, here is all you need to know!
With neat and well-maintained walking, biking, and running paths, it is an excellent spot to visit with loved ones.
You can barbeque or grab some yummy food at Niko’s, lay a blanket on the grass, and make a picnic out of your visit.
The park also has such an outstanding cinematic view of Hell’s Gate and Triborough Bridges that you might be tempted to take pictures.
However, you should be taking in the views and releasing the pent-up stress in your body.
You can also bring a lover here and watch the sunset or the bright lights from Manhattan Skyscrapers.
This park is not the biggest, but it does a fantastic job providing visitors with a haven.
Ralph Demarco Park is a peaceful place to connect with nature along the water!
Address: Shore Blvd, Queens, NY 11105, United States
2. Cunningham Park Picnic Area
People from all over Queens come to this park to taste the facilities and fun experience it offers.
Visitors can stroll through the beautiful walkway lined with sweet gum trees and joy, play basketball and soccer games, watch a tennis match, and many more.
Some of the facilities include two cricket and soccer fields, 20 tennis courts, two bocce courts, and 24 baseball diamonds.
Now, you see why everyone wants to experience the park!
However, that’s not the best part.
If you are looking for a special picnic spot, the park has a unique picnic area where you can camp with the kids or enjoy lunch.
Wooden tables and chairs around the trees provide fresh air and a park view.
You can also cook up a storm at the barbecue area and share with family.
Visiting the park is a must if you ever find yourself in Queens, New York.
Address: Unnamed Rd, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366, United States
3. Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Spend your day in a park that offers it all!
The park is in the northern part of Queens, New York.
With a total area of 897 acres, it is one of the biggest in New York.
Flushing Meadows is an iconic park and home to the twentieth-century World’s Fair.
When you think the park can’t improve, it keeps drawing and delighting visitors.
It has many bicycle paths, a carousel, a wildlife conservation center, an indoor skating rink, and freshwater for fishing.
Get together with friends for an afternoon picnic with food, snacks, and beverages.
The park has an open space full of grass to lay a blanket and picnic.
You can also chef up chicken and steaks at the barbecue area.
If you are in Queens, New York, consider visiting the park.
Address: Between Grand Central Pkwy and Van Wyck Expressway, Queens, 11354, United States
4. Alley Pond Park
Enjoy a natural setting here without having to leave the city.
Remember to take your hiking boots if you love to walk or run because you will find a lot of hiking trails and walk pathways here.
The park has abundant natural features like meadows, shady trees, tidal flats, and freshwater and saltwater wetlands.
You will find almost all kinds of birds and a diverse ecosystem in the forest.
With all its natural beauty, the park is surely a good place to click photos of the scenery and creatures like swans, geese, and crickets.
There are lots of spots with tables and chairs perfect for a picnic.
If you want a more relaxed and chill vibe, find a spot on the grass and pitch your picnic tent there.
Take advantage of the shady trees and lush greens and picnic at the park.
Address: Union Tpke, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364, United States
5. Gantry Plaza State Park
This little gem offers A+ views of the Manhattan Skyline at any time of the day.
Once an abandoned industrial waterfront, the park is now a stunning waterfront park.
The park is on the edge of the East River in the Long Island City of Queens, New York.
You can also get easy access from a water ferry or train from Manhattan.
There is something for everyone.
The park serves families, groups of friends, lovers, or anyone that wants a peaceful and quiet alone time.
Concerts and festivities are held here regularly.
The park also has plenty of picnic benches and tables for a picnic time while overlooking the spectacular views of Manhattan Skyline.
Although every part of the park offers amazing views, the rooftop picnic area offers the best views.
Pick up a book, relax, or listen to soothing music and enjoy a nice time here.
Address: 4-44 47th Rd, Queens, NY 11101, United States
Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in New York.
Picnic Spots in Buffalo, New York
1. Delaware Park
This park offers everything you need, whether a romantic time with a lover or a quiet time alone without worrying about dining out expenses.
The park has plenty of quiet space for an intimate picnic date or family day out.
It has many meadows, forests, lakes, rose gardens, and fantastic skyline views.
The park is a good spot to place your blanket and enjoy the lake views.
It has many green spaces to picnic and enjoy the weather.
The park permits picnic baskets filled with snacks and coolers with beverages for your enjoyment.
However, alcoholic drinks are not allowed.
Although grills are not provided, you can bring charcoal for a barbecue day with friends and family.
So what do you say about a quiet, calm, and peaceful picnic at the park?
Address: 84 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
2. Broderick Park
Enjoy some time away at this Buffalo’s jewel.
The park is on the southern end of Unity Island between the Black Rock Canal and Niagara River.
It overlooks the border between the United States and Canada and is within view of Peace Bridge.
You can also access the park from the foot of West Ferry Street.
The park has a rich local, national, and international history associated with Underground Railway and other significant events.
It offers various recreational and leisure activities, making it a popular attraction for locals and visitors in Buffalo City.
The park has many green spaces for picnicking while overlooking the peaceful Niagara River.
There is no better way to unwind, unplug and ease tension than that!
Visit the park and take a break from work.
Address: 1170 Niagara St, Buffalo, NY 14213, United States
3. Buffalo Harbour State Park
With a day in Buffalo, you can make the most of your time with a picnic at one of Buffalo’s newer parks.
Great park with beautiful views and good vibes!
The park is a great spot to walk your dogs, have fun with your kids, or enjoy quiet time.
It also boasts a beach where you can take a stroll or sit and sunbathe.
The park has a walk or bike ride trail with waterfront views.
You will find boat and watercraft lunches, a fish cleaning station, and restrooms.
The park also has plenty of picnic pavilions to sit and have a nice time while overlooking the beautiful Lake Erie.
Stop by the park once, and you will want to come over and over again.
Address: 1111 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States
4. MLK Jr Park
Enjoy a picnic and family gathering at this park in East Buffalo.
The park is one of the Olmstead parks and pathways in the National Register of Historic Places.
This 56 acres L-shaped park has everything you need for a peaceful and relaxing time.
It has sloped lawns, an open wading pool, an aquatic garden, an oval promenade, and many other water features.
The splash pad in the summer doubles as an outdoor ice rink in the winter.
There are many picnic shelter spots and green grasses where you can lay your picnic blanket, set your basket on it, lay down, read a book or munch on your snacks.
Remember to take a moment to admire the park’s beauty and surrounding nature.
What are you waiting for?
Come picnic and enjoy the fresh air at the park.
Address: Luther King Park, Buffalo, NY 14211, United States
Also see our article on State Parks in New York.
Picnic Spots in Rochester, New York
1. Star Alley Park
Looking for a cozy spot to make your little heaven away from New York’s stressful lifestyle?
You have it right here at Star Alley Park!
A visit to this park on South Avenue is a must!
There are many open spaces to run around, fun play structures, and picnic tables and chairs.
The park also has many art paintings all over its structures that bring a lot of color and vibe to the park.
Festivities such as “It’s a Wonderful Life in South Wedge” are regularly held here.
So, after a day of festivities and fun, you can enjoy a relaxing and peaceful picnic.
You can come with friends, relatives, colleagues or in groups.
Visit this slice of serenity in Rochester and enjoy all it offers.
Address: 662 South Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States
2. Highland Park
If you want to spend your day appreciating nature or a date with a loved one, look no further than Highland Park.
Highland Park is a beautiful site of hills, valleys, gardens, and natural scenes.
This park is where you can have fun, games, craft, and good food all in one package.
It offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and as far as Conesus Lake and Bristol Hills.
Although the park is famous for its Lilac Festivals and the Lamberton Conservatory, there is more!
The 150-acre site of natural beauty has many beautiful spots where you can experience an amazing picnic.
A playground around the park has structures like bridges and balance streams.
You will find a small pavilion with picnic tables to take a break and relax.
A few hours here would be worth your time!
Address: 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States
Also see our article on Amusement Parks in New York.
Picnic Spots in Syracuse, New York.
1. Elmwood Park
Describing this park in words would be beautiful, enchanting, and natural.
The park is an ideal spot to enjoy a nice time out of your home.
There are many natural attractions and flowers, such as bluffs, streams, lakes, wildflowers, shady trees, bridges, curbs, and natural stones.
Your kids can have fun at the playground with slides, swings, climbing bars, and seesaws.
There are also athletic fields and courts if you love to play sports.
However, what makes this park special is that you can retire after a day of fun with a much-needed picnic.
If you want, you can enjoy a picnic alone, with friends or family.
Either way, you are sure to enjoy yourself.
In addition to green spaces, the park has covered pavilions with picnic tables and benches for you to make a little hang out from a picnic.
The beauty and peace you get to experience are unmatched!
Address: 919 Glenwood Ave, Syracuse, NY 13207, United States
2. Thornden Park
You should not miss out on this hidden treasure on the east side of Syracuse, New York.
It is the second biggest park in the city, after Burnet Park.
The park is a place for all ages to gather and enjoy the space and its impressive facilities.
In addition to open ground for a picnic, the 76-acre park also has a playground, a rose garden, ball fields, and an outdoor performing stage.
You will also find a lily pond, athletic courts, and an outdoor pool.
There is plenty of space to enjoy a quiet picnic and move without having to come in contact with other families and groups.
The park is a good place to relax and take your mind off work and responsibilities.
Spend a day at the park and enjoy a picnic on a fine day with fresh air!
Address: Thornden Park Dr, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best National Parks, Abandoned Places, and Birthday Places in New York.
Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best Picnic Spots in Illinois and Texas.