The sun is out, the grass is green and the perfect shady tree is out there waiting for you. So grab your blanket and basket, and soak up the sun at one of these seven picnic spots!
1. For date night. Got a hot date to impress? Ault Park is one of the most charming parks in the city with beautiful overlook views, Weeping Cherry Trees and plenty of space for a picnic spread. Skip the flowers – there are gardens nearby with plenty of fragrant flowers to help set the mood. Afterwards, stroll around the 224-acre park and explore public art works and the historic pavilion.
2. For the whole family. Take the whole family downtown to Smale Riverfront Park (aka The Banks, which is also mentioned below). There’s ample green space to sit and enjoy a meal together and plenty to do too! Enjoy views of the skyline and river, while being surrounded by beautiful gardens. While you relax, the kids can burn some energy at the playground, splash park and Carol Ann’s Carousel. After, take a walk around the Reds stadium and Hall of Fame Museum.
3. Picnics with pets. Now, we can’t forget our favorite four-legged friends! Treat your pup to a picnic in Washington Park where they can take a nap under a shady tree, meet new friends at the dog park or cool off by the splash park. Thirsty? Grab a beer at The Porch, an outdoor bar located right next to the dog park.
4. For a good read. Venturing out for a solo-picnic with a good read? Look no further than Eden Park. There’s a reason this park is one of Cincinnati’s most popular. With beautiful views overlooking Mirror Lake, Twin Lakes and the historic, picturesque gazebo – it may be tempting to sit and enjoy the view instead of your book. The park is also home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, the photo-worthy art climb, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory, making it the perfect spot to have some much deserved you-time to hit the reset button.
5. Picnic with a walk after. Located a few minutes from downtown, is Cincinnati’s largest park, Mt. Airy Forest, with miles long trails and a wheelchair-accessible treehouse, making it a destination for everyone.
6. Picnic with views. You can’t beat the view of the Cincinnati skyline from Devou Park (located across the bridge in Northern Kentucky). Soak up stunning panoramic views from the tallest hill in town – just don’t forget to pack the camera!
7. Where to enjoy a drink too. Stay close to downtown and enjoy a boozy picnic at The Banks, an 84-acre neighborhood along the riverfront, which recently became the city’s first designated outdoor open container district. Click here to see map.
Featured image courtesy of Cincinnati USA.