Top Picnic Areas

Dreaming of summer picnics filled with family and fun? Or maybe you're looking for romantic getaways where you can picnic under the stars with your special someone. Either way, picnicking in special places throughout the US has become an activity of choice for many. Picnicking has quickly become an activity that encompasses tailgating and barbecuing to wine picnics in California's wine country. They can be as deluxe or simple as you like. We've come up with 5 of the top picnicking areas across the US. So, whether your idea of a picnic is a family fun day at a local park or a day filled with fireworks and festivities, you can add these five places to your list of top picnicking venues.

Cumberland Islands, Georgia

Just a few hours south of Savannah, this national seashore is a picnicking paradise. It's an unspoiled place in the Deep South with over 50 miles of hiking trails, beaches and camping. The trails are lined with trees covered in Spanish moss and since it's still a rural area the stars line up for a spectacular show each night and creates the perfect evening star-lit romantic picnic opportunity.

Grant Park, Chicago

If you are looking for gourmet treats in Chicago and love a good picnic, Go for Taste of (a 10-day, lake-front, foodie festival that happens each year). Grab a spot near the fountain to enjoy your picnic and revel in the city and lake views to people watch and relax with family and friends. If you are there for July 4th, be sure to plan the day to include the spectacular fireworks display at the Navy Pier.

Cranberry Islands, Maine

Here, you'll find natural picnicking with rugged island views. The Cranberry Islands are a delightful group of islands about 20 minutes offshore from Acadia National Park whose name comes from the wild low-bush cranberries that grow throughout the islands in the fall. You can visit the islands by private boat or ferry service. Bring a picnic basket along for the ride as it's a ruggedly romantic picnic area to take your special someone or go for a family outing to visit the islands.

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

If you happen to be in Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon and the nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park offer a welcome respite from the buzz of the 24 hour Vegas happenings. Situated just 19 miles west of Vegas, it's a trip worth taking. There are plenty of picnic areas along the drive and in nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park which also outdoor theater and concerts in summer months.

Big Sur, California

The Point Lobos State Reserve is a small gem, and in fact has often been called "the crown jewel of the State Park System." In addition to the coastal wildlife there are rare plant communities, interesting archaeological sites, and unique geological formations. We recommend bringing binoculars, because much of the wildlife can be seen only at a distance. It's best to arrive early because only a certain number of vehicles are allowed in the Reserve at any time during the day.

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