Kind reader, are you looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your day in Charlotte? Why not pack a basket, grab your favorite people, and head out for a picnic! Charlotte picnic season is here, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while indulging in delicious food, fun games, and wonderful company. Whether you prefer a quiet spot in the park or a bustling public square, there are plenty of fantastic picnic locations around Charlotte to suit any preference or mood. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get outside and start planning your perfect Charlotte picnic!
Why Charlotte, NC is the Perfect Place for a Picnic
Charlotte is a vibrant, bustling city that offers a wide range of activities for residents and visitors alike. One of the best ways to enjoy all that this city has to offer is by having a picnic. Here are some of the reasons why Charlotte, NC is the perfect place for a picnic.
Beautiful Parks and Scenic Locations
Charlotte is home to a variety of beautiful parks and scenic locations that are perfect for a picnic. Freedom Park is one of the most popular parks in the city and is known for its large lake, walking trails, and various picnic areas. Latta Park is another great option, with its sprawling lawns and beautiful gardens.
Great Weather
Charlotte enjoys beautiful weather throughout much of the year, with mild winters and warm summers. This makes it an ideal place to have a picnic, especially in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and comfortable.
How to Plan the Perfect Picnic in Charlotte
If you’re planning a picnic in Charlotte, NC, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your outing is a success. Here are some tips for planning the perfect picnic in Charlotte.
Choose a Location
The first step in planning the perfect picnic in Charlotte is to choose a location. As mentioned above, there are plenty of parks and scenic locations throughout the city, so take some time to browse your options and pick the one that best suits your needs.
Prepare Your Menu
The next step is to prepare your menu. Charlotte has a thriving food scene, so you have many options for creating a delicious and memorable picnic spread. Some local favorites include pimento cheese sandwiches, fried chicken, and sweet tea. Don’t forget to pack snacks, drinks, and plenty of water.
Bring Plenty of Supplies
To make sure that your picnic is a success, you’ll need to bring plenty of supplies. This includes blankets, chairs, utensils, plates, cups, and napkins. You may also want to bring a cooler to keep your food and drinks cold.
Note:
Be sure to check the park or location’s rules and regulations before planning your picnic to make sure you’re following all the guidelines. Some parks may require a reservation, and others may have specific rules about what types of food and drinks are allowed.
Where to Have a Charlotte Picnic
Charlotte has several picturesque venues for an outdoor picnic, ranging from parks and gardens to wineries and farms. Here’s a list of top picnic spots in the city:
Baxter Village Trail
The Baxter Village Trail is a 2.5-mile trail in Fort Mill, SC, that winds through the Baxter Village community’s many parks and amenities, including Orchard Park, a perfect spot for a picnic. The park has several benches, tables, and BBQ grills in a beautiful and serene setting with oak trees, walking trails, and a pond for fishing.
Freedom Park
Located in the heart of Charlotte, Freedom Park is a popular spot for picnickers, joggers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features 98 acres of green space, walking trails, athletic fields, tennis and volleyball courts, playgrounds, and a lake with paddleboats. You can reserve a picnic shelter or spread a blanket under a tree to have an intimate picnic.
The Green at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
The Green is a beautifully landscaped 1.5-acre park located at the corner of South Tryon Street and West 1st Street, next to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. The park features a great lawn, shaded seating areas, tables, and chairs, a fountain, and a green wall made of live plants. You can grab a book from the library and enjoy reading it outside while having a charming picnic.
Uptown Farmers Market
The Uptown Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from May to September at the Charlotte City Plaza in Uptown. The market features fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and live music. You can stroll around the market and pick up some gourmet snacks for your picnic.
Windy Hill Orchard and Cidery
Windy Hill Orchard and Cidery is a family-owned and operated orchard in York, SC, that offers apple and peach picking, cider tastings, and picnicking. You can bring your picnic basket and blanket and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the orchard with stunning views of the rolling hills and apple trees.
Daveste Vineyards
Daveste Vineyards is a boutique winery in Troutman, NC, that produces artisanal wines from grapes grown on the estate. The winery has a beautiful picnic area with tables, chairs, umbrellas, and breathtaking views of the vineyards and the lake. You can sip on a glass of wine and savor some cheese and crackers while enjoying the peaceful countryside.
Jetton Park
Jetton Park is a 104-acre park on the shores of Lake Norman in Cornelius, NC, that features a sandy beach, boat rentals, picnic areas, tennis courts, walking trails, and playgrounds. The park has several picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the area, as well as several shelters that can be reserved for larger groups.
| No | Picnic Spot | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baxter Village Trail (Orchard Park) | Fewell St, Fort Mill, SC 29708 | – |
| 2 | Freedom Park | 1900 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203 | +1 704-336-2884 |
| 3 | The Green at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library | 310 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202 | – |
| 4 | Uptown Farmers Market (Charlotte City Plaza) | 600 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202 | +1 704-332-6552 |
| 5 | Windy Hill Orchard and Cidery | 1860 Black Hwy, York, SC 29745 | +1 803-684-0690 |
| 6 | Daveste Vineyards | 155 Lytton Farm Rd, Troutman, NC 28166 | +1 704-528-3882 |
| 7 | Jetton Park | 19000 Jetton Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031 | +1 704-892-6031 |
| Information Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Charlotte Picnic |
| Location | Park in downtown Charlotte |
| Date | Saturday, July 24th |
| Time | 10:00am-4:00pm |
| Entry Fee | Free for All |
| Activities | Picnic, Food stalls, Music, Games, and Prizes |
Best Locations for a Charlotte Picnic
Charlotte has a number of beautiful places to set up a picnic, and most of them are in the open air. Many of the city’s parks have picnic areas, and some parks also have barbecues for grilling food. Here are some of the best locations to have a picnic in Charlotte:
1. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a 98-acre park located in the heart of Charlotte and with a large lake, which is situated in the center of the park. The park is great for picnics, with beautiful trees and enough space to spread out.
2. Romare Bearden Park
This park is located in Uptown Charlotte and is the perfect place for a picnic in the city. It has a great view of the Charlotte skyline and a spacious lawn for picnics.
3. Latta Park
Latta Park is located in the Dilworth neighborhood and has a small stream running through it. It’s the perfect place to bring a blanket and sit by the water while enjoying a snack or meal.
4. McAlpine Creek Park
McAlpine Creek Park is a 114-acre park located in South Charlotte, and it’s a great place to have a picnic. The park has several picnic shelters and tables, and there’s also a creek that runs through it.
5. Reedy Creek Park
Reedy Creek Park is another fantastic park for a picnic in Charlotte. It has several picnic shelters and tables, as well as a lake and plenty of trails for outdoor activities before or after your meal.
6. Kings Mountain State Park
If you’re willing to take a brief drive outside of Charlotte in order to find the perfect picnic spot, Kings Mountain State Park is around an hour away. This park’s rolling hills and lush forest is an ideal location for a picnic.
7. The Green
If you’re in the Uptown area and looking for a quick place to have a picnic, The Green is conveniently located and a great option. Visitors love its beautiful gardens and fountains.
The Best Picnic Spots in Charlotte
Charlotte boasts a wide variety of picnic venues that cater to different preferences. Whether you’re after a quiet spot to relax, a scenic setup, or a place that offers recreational activities, Charlotte has something for everyone. Here are some of the top picnic spots in Charlotte that you should consider:
Freedom Park
Rated among the top picnic spots in Charlotte, Freedom Park’s landscape features a lake, walking trails, tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball diamonds. With over 7,000 square miles of greenery, it is an ideal location to host a picnic with family and friends or for corporate events. You can feast on an array of snacks, sandwiches and refreshments while enjoying the surrounding serene environment.
McAlpine Creek Park
If you are looking for a place that offers a blend of natural and modern amenities, consider McAlpine Creek Park. It features a picturesque lake, walking and biking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds that kids can enjoy. The park offers plenty of picnic tables, grills and restrooms with ample parking.
Latta Park
Latta Park is located in Dilworth, and it features walking trails, a lake, and tennis courts. The park’s Victorian-style ambiance creates a unique atmosphere for picnic lovers. The lush green trees and well-manicured lawns offer perfect shade and beautiful scenery while enjoying your picnic.
| No | Picnic Spots | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freedom Park | 1900 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203 |
| 2 | McAlpine Creek Park | 8711 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212 |
| 3 | Latta Park | 601 E Park Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203 |
Charlotte is a fantastic city that boasts a considerable number of picnic spots that offer a variety of activities and leisure for visitors and residents.
Commonwealth Park
Commonwealth is another great option to consider for boisterous summer barbecues or intimate picnics. Apart from the picnic tables and grills, there is a basketball court, playground, and a lovely rose garden. Commonwealth Park offers a wide range of experiences for families and friends.
Reedy Creek Park
Reedy Creek Park offers a range of activities for a fun family day out or for corporate events. Some facilities you can enjoy include a picnic shelter, horseback riding trails, soccer fields, basketball courts, and even a fishing pond. Reedy Creek Park’s affordable picnic shelters help ensure everyone can enjoy a great picnic experience.
McMullen Creek Greenway
McMullen Creek Greenway is perfect for those who love hiking, biking or nature walks. The park is a lovely natural oasis sandwiched between Charlotte and Matthews. Visitors can enjoy lunch on the greenway or take their bikes to the multiple picnic shelters.
| No | Picnic Spots | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Commonwealth Park | 300 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 |
| 2 | Reedy Creek Park | 2900 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC 28215 |
| 3 | McMullen Creek Greenway | 6215 Sardis Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270 |
Charlotte is a perfect getaway for a picnic experience. With lush parks, stunning scenery, impressive landscapes, combined with Charlotte residents’ enthusiasm for outdoor relaxation, you can’t go wrong with choosing one of Charlotte’s many picnic spots for family activities, corporate events, or romantic escapades.
Charlotte Picnic Food Ideas
If you’re planning a picnic, one of the most important aspects to consider is the food you’ll be bringing. Charlotte has plenty of amazing options for picnic food that will satisfy your taste buds. Here are some fantastic ideas:
1. Pre-Made Sandwiches
Pick up some delicious pre-made sandwiches from local delis like Premade Paleo, Larry’s Gourmet, or Taste of Charlotte. You can also make your own sandwiches at home with your favorite ingredients.
2. Fried Chicken
No picnic is complete without some yummy fried chicken. You can grab some from popular spots like Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, or PDQ.
3. Charcuterie Board
Create a beautiful charcuterie board with local cheeses, meats, bread, nuts, and fruits. Check out the American Farmstead Cheese or Orrman’s Cheese Shop for some delicious cheese, or Smithfield Market Place for premium meat.
4. Fresh Salads
Salads are perfect for a light and refreshing picnic meal. Head to Chop’t Saladina or Clean Juice for some healthy and delicious salad options.
5. Sweet Treats
A picnic isn’t complete without some sweet treats. Grab some desserts from Suarez Bakery, Amélie’s French Bakery and Café, or Duck Donuts.
6. Local Beer and Wines
Add some bubbly to your picnic with local beer and wine. Visit popular breweries like Gibbs Hundred Brewing Co, NoDa Brewing Company, and Sycamore Brewing. For wine, check out Rocky Mountain Vineyards and Divine Wine and Cocktail.
Important Note:
“Make sure to pack a good cooler to keep your food and drinks fresh. Bring along utensils, napkins, and plates so you don’t have to eat with your hands. And don’t forget to clean up after yourself and dispose of your trash properly.”
Charlotte Picnic Places with Scenic View
Charlotte offers various picnic spots with scenic views for a perfect picnic outing. Here are some of the picnic spots that offer picturesque scenery:
1. Romare Bearden Park
Located in Third Ward, Romare Bearden Park is a 5.4-acre public park that offers a beautiful view of the Charlotte skyline. The park has open green space, a fountain that dances with light, and a play area for kids.
2. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a 98-acre park located within the city of Charlotte. The park is a perfect place for a picnic, with large open areas, two lakes, walking trails, and various gardens.
3. Jetton Park
Jetton Park is a 104-acre park located in Cornelius, a town just outside of Charlotte. The park features a large lake, a trail that encircles the lake, and several picnic areas with breathtaking views of the lake.
4. Latta Plantation Nature Preserve
Latta Plantation Nature Preserve is a 1,343-acre nature preserve located in Huntersville, just outside of Charlotte. The preserve offers various picnic areas that are perfect for a picnic outing with friends and family.
| No | Picnic Places with Scenic View in Charlotte |
|---|---|
| 1 | Romare Bearden Park |
| 2 | Freedom Park |
| 3 | Jetton Park |
| 4 | Latta Plantation Nature Preserve |
Important Note:
It’s essential to clean up after a picnic outing and take all the trash with you to maintain cleanliness in the picnic spots.
Food Ideas for a Charlotte Picnic
A picnic is incomplete without a variety of delicious food options. Here are some ideas for food items you can bring to your Charlotte picnic:
1. Sandwiches
Sandwiches are a staple for picnic food. They’re easy to make, customize, and pack. You can make different types of sandwiches like chicken, turkey, or veggie.
2. Salads
Salads are a healthy option for a picnic. You can make various salads like fruit salad, green salad, or pasta salad.
3. Cheese and Crackers
Cheese and crackers are a classic picnic food option. You can choose different types of cheese and crackers to satisfy your taste buds.
4. Fruits
Fruits are a great way to refresh yourself during a picnic. You can pack different types of fruits like grapes, watermelon, or berries.
5. Desserts
Desserts are a must for a picnic. You can make a variety of desserts like brownies, cookies, or cake.
| No | Picnic Food Ideas |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sandwiches |
| 2 | Salads |
| 3 | Cheese and Crackers |
| 4 | Fruits |
| 5 | Desserts |
Note:
Make sure to check the weather forecast before heading for the picnic. Take measures to keep the food fresh and safe to eat during the picnic outing.
Best Charlotte Picnic Spots
If you’re planning a picnic in Charlotte, you’ll want to scout out the best spot. Charlotte is home to many parks and open spaces that make for great picnic locations. Here are some of the best spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal:
1. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is undoubtedly one of the most popular places in Charlotte for picnics. This 98-acre park is located in the heart of Charlotte and is surrounded by walking trails, ponds, and gardens. There are plenty of picnic tables and shelters available, as well as playgrounds for children.
2. Romare Bearden Park
Located in Uptown Charlotte, the Romare Bearden Park is a perfect spot for a picnic in the city. The park has plenty of green space and is surrounded by stunning views of uptown Charlotte’s skyline. There are many picnic tables and areas available, as well as plenty of space to play cornhole and frisbee.
| No | Charlotte Picnic Spot | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freedom Park | Picnic Tables/Shelters, Playgrounds |
| 2 | Romare Bearden Park | Picnic Tables, Cornhole and Frisbee space |
Charlotte Picnic FAQ
Get answers to your questions about the Charlotte Picnic.
1. When is the Charlotte Picnic?
The Charlotte Picnic is on Saturday, June 20th.
2. Where is the Charlotte Picnic held?
The Charlotte Picnic is held at Freedom Park.
3. What time does the Charlotte Picnic start?
The Charlotte Picnic starts at 10am and goes until 4pm.
4. Is the Charlotte Picnic open to everyone?
Yes, everyone is welcome to attend.
5. Will there be food at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there will be a variety of food vendors at the picnic.
6. Can I bring my own food to the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food, but there are also food vendors available.
7. Can I bring my own alcohol to the Charlotte Picnic?
No, outside alcohol is not permitted. However, beer and wine will be available for purchase.
8. Will there be entertainment at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there will be live music and other forms of entertainment at the picnic.
9. Can I bring my pet to the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your pet but they must be on a leash and under your control at all times.
10. Will there be activities for children at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there will be children’s activities such as face painting and bounce houses.
11. Is there a fee to attend the Charlotte Picnic?
No, the picnic is free to attend.
12. Is parking available at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, parking is available at Freedom Park.
13. Can I bring my own chairs to the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on.
14. Is smoking allowed at the Charlotte Picnic?
Smoking is not allowed in the park.
15. Will there be restrooms at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there will be portable restrooms available.
16. Are there any special directions to follow to get to the Charlotte Picnic?
No, the picnic is easy to find and there will be signs directing you to the park.
17. Can I bring my own games to play at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own games but please be mindful of other attendees.
18. What if it rains during the Charlotte Picnic?
The picnic will go on rain or shine, but check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.
19. Is the Charlotte Picnic accessible for those with disabilities?
Yes, the park is accessible for those with disabilities.
20. Can I volunteer to help with the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there are volunteer opportunities available. Contact the picnic organizers for more information.
21. Will there be security at the Charlotte Picnic?
Yes, there will be security to maintain a safe environment.
22. Can I bring my drone to the Charlotte Picnic?
No, drones are not permitted in the park.
23. What should I wear to the Charlotte Picnic?
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for outdoor activities.
24. What is the purpose of the Charlotte Picnic?
The purpose of the picnic is to bring the community together for a fun and relaxing day in the park.
25. How can I get involved in the Charlotte Picnic for next year?
Contact the picnic organizers for information on how to get involved and help out with the event.
Looking for a perfect place to have a lovely picnic in Charlotte? Check out Charlotte Picnic for ideas and inspiration.
Until Next Time, Kind Reader…
As we bring our picnic at Charlotte to a close, I hope that you were able to imagine yourself lounging on the grass with your friends, enjoying the sun and the delicious food. Thank you for joining us on this journey and we hope that you come and visit us again soon. Whether it is for another adventure, or to simply enjoy the little things in life, we welcome you with open arms. Until then, take care and stay safe.
