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Sculptures at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens are a must-see.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens / C HARRIS
Picturesque Picnicking
Pack your basket and head to one of these perfect picnic spots in the United States.
By Virginia Brown
Prepare your food and drink, grab a blanket and get ready to soak up the beauty of the great outdoors. From breathtaking mountain vistas to serene lakeside views, the United States absolutely brims with remarkable picnic spots that cater to every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re pausing during a hike, chasing sunshine caught in ripples on a lake or simply seeking a tranquil place to unwind, these destinations promise to make your next alfresco meal memorable.
View of Crowders Mountain State Park
GO GASTON NC
Crowders Mountain State Park
Kings Mountain, North Carolina
Roughly 30 miles west of Charlotte, Crowders Mountain State Park is a prime location for a picnic. Hiking is popular here, with trails that vary in length and difficulty and appeal to a range of ages and fitness levels. From the easy Fern Trail (marked by red hexagon blazes) to the more strenuous Pinnacle Trail (designated by orange circles) that rewards with lovely views on clear days, it’s easy to spend the day roaming the named paths. Once you’ve blasted your step goal, grab your picnic basket and head to the Sparrow Springs entrance, where sheltered picnic pavilions can accommodate big groups, and uncovered metal tables can be found throughout the wooded area near the lake.
Double waterfall in Tonti Canyon, Starved Rock State Park
ADOBE STOCK
Starved Rock State Park
Oglesby, Illinois
Whether you’re day-tripping or planning a longer stay in the Land of Lincoln, Starved Rock State Park is worth a stop. Paralleling the south bank of the Illinois River, the park is packed with tree-topped bluffs, canyons and waterfalls. Work up an appetite seeing what you can from any of the many hiking trails or from the back of horse (guided horseback rides are available in the park), then choose from eight picnic shelters to unpack your picnic. Larger groups may want to seek out the historic riverfront Civilian Conservation Corps shelter. After refueling, learn about some of the indigenous history and geology of the area at the visitor center.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Sumter, South Carolina
Picnic in a serene spot where swans glide along a shimmering lake and gorgeous gardens bloom: Swan Lake Iris Gardens. In Sumter, South Carolina, about an hour east of Columbia, this stunning setting—complete with a boardwalk, a gazebo and picnic tables—is the only public park in the nation where you can find every type of swan. For a glimpse at the delicate Japanese irises in bloom, visit mid-May through June. There’s even a festival each year in May dedicated to the flowers.
Kamma Can, by artist Thomas Dambo, at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens/
Weatherly Photography
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Nashville, Tennessee
Just outside of Nashville, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers a twofer—a botanical garden and an historic estate, all in one visit. Once the private residence of the prominent Cheek family, the 55-acre site today features 13 meticulously manicured gardens and gorgeous vista views. Combine nature and art along the Carell Trail, where you can admire a variety of sculptures by national and international artists, or let your little ones explore the Children’s Garden. Guests are free to bring in their own food, and benches and tables are available. You also can bring a blanket and find the perfect, peaceful nook for a romantic afternoon or family day out.
Zorn Park City Beach Harbor
Zorn Park City Beach
Harbor Springs, Michigan
If you’re looking for a picnic destination along the northern shores of the Lower Peninsula with waterfront views, Zorn Park City Beach is a popular pick. Several metal tables are located along the beach in a grassy area or bring a blanket and claim your spot on the lawn. Grab sandwiches and other to-go fare at Gurney’s. Lifeguards are on duty if you fancy a swim in Lake Michigan, or go mountain biking nearby on nationally recognized mountain biking trails at The Highlands. Downtown Harbor Springs’ quaint shops and art galleries make for a full day in town.
Thanks to AAA's partnership with the Fuel Rewards® program, you can receive discounts at the pump when you fill up at Shell. Sign up before you head to your picnic destination and start saving.
How to Plan a Fun Picnic
Pick a theme.
Whether you’re looking to elevate the experience with baguettes and brie or keeping it low-key by noshing on your favorite tailgate bites, committing to a theme can kick your picnic up a notch and make it fun for everyone to participate.
Plan ahead.
Food, check. Drinks, check. Did anyone bring the forks? Before you head out, create a checklist of all the things you might need, and be sure to pack them. From napkins or wet wipes (depending on the food choices), to cups and ice, to a trash bag for easy clean up, showing up prepared is a fast track to a stellar picnic experience.
Pack for comfort.
Different picnic locations and various times of year call for different planning. If you’re picnicking on a chilly day, be sure to wear layers, and pack a cozy blanket or two, plus an umbrella, just in case. Unsure of the state of the facilities? Bring a wipeable tablecloth and cleaning wipes. For on-the-ground picnics, pack a few cushions, a plastic sheet to serve as a barrier to keep your blanket dry or totable chairs for ultimate comfort.
Need more inspiration for your next outdoor adventure? Visit AAA.com/TripCanvas.
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