Written by Kirstin Hawthorne
Whether you grab that quintessential red-and-white-checkered tablecloth or an old blanket from your trunk, nothing says summer like a good old-fashioned picnic. Here are five picturesque places to have a picnic in Northern Virginia:
- Sky Meadows State Park: This state park in Delaplane offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are several picnic areas throughout the park, including the scenic Mount Bleak picnic area. It also is designated as an International Dark Sky Park with monthly astronomy programs, should you decide to make a full day and evening of it!
- Bluemont Vineyard: This vineyard in Bluemont offers stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the lawn while taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying a glass of wine.
- River Farm: This historic property in Alexandria is owned by the American Horticultural Society and offers beautiful gardens and views of the Potomac River. There are several picnic areas throughout the property. Leashed dogs are allowed too!
- Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden: This public park located in Arlington boasts the historic rose gardens created by Nellie Broyhill to honor local war veterans. The breathtaking blooms, from more than 120 different varieties of roses, are expected mid-May through mid-October.
- Occoquan Regional Park: This park offers more than 350 acres of outdoor fun. Featuring a waterfront plaza, a beautiful monument to the Women’s Suffrage Movement, a 5K loop trail, and on onsite Café for those who prefer to purchase rather than pack their picnic. After lunch, try your hand at the on-site batting cages.
If you’re looking for a fun and unique picnic experience, consider combining your picnic with a paddle boat ride. Here are some of the best places to picnic with paddle boats in Northern Virginia:
- Lake Anne Plaza (Reston)
- Lake Accotink Park (Springfield)
- Burke Lake Park (Burke/Fairfax Station)
- Lake Ridge Park (Woodbridge)
- Pohick Bay Regional Park (Lorton)
