Where to go

Thanks to the Big Dig, green space is becoming more and more common in Boston.  But there have long been great parks throughout the city – all with great water views – that are perfect spots to throw down a blanket and enjoy an outdoor meal.

BU beach

“BU Beach” is essentially a strip of grass located behind the College of Arts and Sciences building at Boston University.  Overlooking Storrow Drive and the Charles River, the Beach is packed during the warm days of the school year with sun-hungry students.  The summer is a perfect time to enjoy a quieter scene a bit off the beaten path. 

Castle Island

Take a long, brisk stroll on the causway along Pleasure Bay and you’ll end up on Castle Island.  The walk alone is a great one, and it brings you to a pretty great part of the city: a huge lawn of green grass, great views of boats whizzing on the water, and, probably the coolest part, the five-point granite structure that is Fort Independence. 

Lewis Wharf

Head over to the North End and, for once, bring your own food.  The garden at Lewis Wharf is a charming gem where you can hear the gentle clanking of boat lines and enjoy a picturesque view of sailboats.  Grab free binoculars (and coffee at Starbucks) on the ground floor of the historic Pilot House.

India Wharf

Historic India Wharf is no longer a wharf, but when it was built in 1807 it was the departure point for ships headed to India.  Today, luxury high-rise condominiums surround this once-bustling area of commerce, and the large metal sculptures have been landmarks on the harbor for years.

Charlestown Navy Yard

Under the shadow of the USS Constitution, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more spine-tingling-inducing spot than the Charlestown Navy Yard.  There are plenty of benches and grassy areas for having a seat and enjoying lunch in this amazing, historical park.

City Square Park

At one acre, City Square Park is a rather big chunk of green nestled among the cement of the city – and a true place to escape.  Stroll through the paths surrounded by tons of well-maintained trees and flowers, and enjoy a spot at the fountain in the middle of the park. 

Pier 4

Watch the sailboats as you relax on one of the benches along Pier 4, and don’t you worry about where you’ll put your post-picnic trash: a solar-powered trash compactor is there for your disposing pleasure!

Condor Street Urban Wild

This former marine industrial site has been redeveloped and restored as an “urban wild”, which essentially means that amongst the urban sprawl of Boston, this site’s natural elements have been preserved: salt marshes, native grasses, and other such characteristics.   In addition, there are plenty of walking paths and spots to sit and enjoy a great water view.

Belle Isle Marsh

This huge salt marsh is among the largest in the Boston area, and will instantly transport you to visions of sandy beaches and fried clams and make you forget all about the fact that you’re in Eastie.  Seat yourself at one of the benches and enjoy a get-away-from-it-all picnic, and check out the view from atop the observation tower.

Constitution Beach

If you’re looking for a more energetic atmosphere, Constitution Beach is a fun, bustling spot.  With its large picnic area and good amenities, it’s the perfect place to set up camp for an afternoon of lunch and people (and plane) watching.

Piers Park

When a city spends $17 million on a park, it better be good.  And it is.  Awesome skyline views, perfect landscaping, and tons of other features make this spot a must-visit for a really one-of-a-kind picnic setting.

John F. Kennedy Library and Museum

The grounds of this beautiful library and museum are almost 10 acres of Cape Cod-inspired landscape, with incredible views of the city.  And if you’re lucky enough to be there during the summer when President Kennedy’s sailboat, Victura, is on display, it makes for a picnic spot that’s quite incredible.

What to bring

Ah, what to bring.  You’re excited about the oh-so-romantic notion of a picnic, and may be tempted to go all-out with the cooking.  Or, maybe the very thought of tons of prep time may deter you from even considering a fun afternoon out. 

Forget it - it doesn’t have to be that hard.  Remember – this isn’t a cookout!  You’re looking for simple, portable food, and you can make your picnic as basic or as gourmet as you’d like.  Whether it’s peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or take-out sushi, the simple act of eating outside is so glorious, it will elevate whatever it is you’re noshing on.

How to bring it

When packing a picnic, you need to consider where you’re lugging your food to.  Will you be taking public transportation?  Will you be walking very far with your stuff?  Are you going right back home afterwards?  So, think ahead, and plan accordingly.  Here are some picks to get you started.