It’s officially springtime here in NYC. Nothing can be more relaxing than sitting in the open air and enjoying some food. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite picnic spots in NYC.
Bryant Park
PC: Jean-Christophe BENOIST
Bryant Park is between 40th and 42nd Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues. You can take the B, D, F, or M train to the 42nd Street and Bryant Park stop, or take the 7 to 5th Avenue.
Spread a blanket on the lawn and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the park, or enjoy the attractions around the lawn and have fun with friends. Plan ahead and make sure to check the park’s event calendar, there’s always fun group activities organized, such as language classes, yoga sessions, and bird-watching tours.
PS: Check out the fanciest public bathroom you’ll ever see! Funded by not-for-profit Bryant Park Corp, the $300,000 bathroom boasts imported tiles, freshly delivered flowers, artwork, and classical music.
Central Park
PC: Hector Argello Canals
As you know, there are several different picnic spots in Central Park, and you might not have enough time to visit all of them in one afternoon. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
One of our favorite spots is Sheep Meadow (enter from the west side, from 66th or 69th Street), which is a great place to sunbathe or enjoy a bite to eat.
Another recommendation is the Great Hill (enter from the west side, from 103rd or 107th Street). It’s a perfect picnic spot as it offers plenty of trees for shade and a number of picnic tables.
Prospect Park
PC: Ad Meskens
Prospect Park has been one of New York’s most beloved picnic destinations for years, and barbecues are permitted in certain areas within the large park. Other than picnicking, there are a lot of fun options for you to enjoy in the park, such as horseback riding, bird watching, and playing various sports. As the largest green space in South Brooklyn, it’s a great place to take your dog to run around and meet some furry friends.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
PC: Brooke Cagle
Brooklyn Bridge Park is my personal favorite – I love the view of the bridge. Sit on the John Street Lawn and enjoy the amazing view of the Manhattan Bridge, as well as a beautiful waterfront experience.
You’ll also be able to enjoy panoramic views of lower Manhattan from Pier 1, which is the largest of the park’s piers. It features magnificent lawns that provide a great open space for enjoying a picnic with friends.
Nearby is the faithfully restored 1922 carousel, Jane’s Carousel. It’s $2 per ride and it’s open six days each week (closed Tuesdays) from 11:00 AM-7:00 PM. Getting to the park is easy, you can either take the A, C, F, R, 2, 3, 4, or 5 trains, catch the bus, or ride the Citywide Ferry or Governors Island Ferry to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
