Jones Beach is a popular destination for families all summer. Why not cap off a fun day at the beach with a picnic or barbeque? Visitors have the option of using the picnic areas at Field 6, or you can head over to the approved barbeque area at Fields 5 or 10 to grill up some burgers and hot dogs with the whole gang.
Heckscher State Park is a whopping 1,600-acres and is filled with so much history. The park dates back to the 19th-century, boasting so much space for outdoor activity with open fields for sports and four miles of trails. Enjoy a picnic at one of the many picnic tables and keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife that call the property home.
Have the ultimate picnic at the former estate of John Shaffer Phipps. There’s a designated picnic area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You will be surrounded by a total of 200 beautiful acres of formal gardens, landscaped grounds, woodlands, ponds, lakes and beautiful wildlife. An impromptu picnic is also possible as its Cafe in the Woods, which serves sandwiches, salads and drinks. Old Westbury Gardens opens for the season on April 20.
Head out East to enjoy a day outdoors at this 275-acre park, which boasts several amenities, including fishing, boating and hiking. Picnicking is also on the list with picnic tables and grills near the beautiful Flanders Bay. Make sure to arrive early to secure the best spot.
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
This stunning park is over 400 acres filled with lush blooming gardens in the spring, beautiful fountains and the Tudor revival mansion known as Coe Hall Historic House Museum. Pack a chair or blanket to enjoy an outdoor picnic in the designated area where you can relax back and enjoy a beautiful day outdoors. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through November.
Sunken Meadow State Park has been a popular spot for gatherings with millions of people heading there each year. That’s thanks in part to its gorgeous views of the Long Island Sound and Connecticut, an almost mile-long boardwalk and its beautiful picnic area. Aside from picnic tables situated under trees, the park also offers charcoal barbecues allowing groups to enjoy more than just a packed sandwich. Set up shop with a blanket, hammock or even some volleyball nets for a day of fun.
Located in North Babylon, Belmont Lake State Park is another spot where Long Islanders love to visit for picnics. It’s probably due to the fact that there are plenty of picnic tables to choose from, charcoal grills to get some hamburgers cooking and even picnic pavilions to rent. Of course the scenic lake views are also a plus. The park is open every day from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.