Pack your charcuterie and sips—these local picnic spots take picturesque picnicing to a whole new level..jpg)
Appleford Park (Main Line)
This draping fieldstone home has been a popular venue choice for some of Philadelphia’s most picturesque weddings. More informally, the property is carefully maintained as an arboretum and bird sanctuary along the Main Line. From blossoming trees and extravagant gardens to stone walls and flowing streams, Appleford’s seasonal serenity makes it an idyllic retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. 770 Mt. Moro Rd., Villanova, 610.527.4280, applefordestate.com
Cira Green
Open year round, Cira Green is a destination unlike any other in Philadelphia. Located in University City, this massive elevated park in the sky is a year-round destination for city-goers to escape the ordinary. Whether you’re grabbing a burger and an ice-cold cocktail at the Sunset Social or catching a movie on the big screen with family and friends, the people-watching is just as good as the incredible views of Center City. 129 S. 30th St., ciragreen.com
Fitler Square
Located in the heart of Fitler Square’s neighborhood, this half-acre historic park is just a few blocks away from some of the city’s most lively downtown areas. Here, guests can enjoy colorful gardens and shaded park benches, making it the prime spot to relax and even crack open your favorite book. 2301 Pine St, #23, fitlersquare.org
Race Street Pier
Race Street Pier features two levels that are the ultimate in riverside recreation: the upper grand sky promenade invites visitors to take a stroll along the waterfront or relax on one of the pier’s many benches, while the lower terrace lined with multi-tiered seating areas is the best perch to watch the tide roll in. Race St. & N Columbus Blvd., 215.922.2386
Spruce Harbor Street Park
The seasonal hammock-lined sanctuary serves as the Delaware River Waterfront’s fan-favorite oasis. Visitors can recline in colorful hammocks, enjoy Philly-inspired eats, sip on craft brews in the park’s beer garden or play games along the waterfront boardwalk. And as if this wasn’t enough to get you here, Spruce Harbor Street Park offers a variety of happenings each year, including pop-up art markets, outdoor movie screenings and live music. 301 S. Columbus Blvd. 215.922.2386
Valley Green Inn (Wissahickon Park)
Wissahickon Park is not just miles of tranquil wilderness along the Wissahickon Creek—it’s home to the historic Valley Green Inn. Visitors can roam along the waterfront or ride horses through this serene 1,800-acre gorge. Wander through the park’s lush forests or meadows, and once you’ve worked up an appetite, indulge in a beautiful picnic from the Valley Green Inn. Valley Green Rd. at Wissahickon, 215.247.1730, valleygreeninn.com
Washington Square Park
This leafy retreat is a quiet spot for picnickers, sunbathers or history buffs who are looking for a hiatus from the city action. Visitors can stroll down the park’s tree-lined pathways or wander to nearby Independence Hall. And if all that adventuring makes you hungry, grab farm-fresh, picnic-worthy favorites from Talula’s Daily across the street. 216 W Washington Sq., 215.965.2305
Photography by: Courtesy of Svetlana Kuznetsova/Unsplash
