Looking for the best picnic spots in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.? I’ve planned at least 5 picnics this year and I have more on my schedule. There are so many places to enjoy a picnic while romanticizing your ife. No matter the season, a picnic is always a good idea. My favorite picnic spot is between Gravelly Point and Theodore Roosevelt Island.
There’s nothing quite like a picnic to enjoy nature, relax, and spend time with loved ones. Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia offer some incredible spots perfect for a laid-back day outdoors. Whether you’re after gorgeous views, secluded riverfront spaces, or more social locations, these destinations are ideal for a fun weekend picnic with friends and family.
If you’re in a rush, here are my favorite picnic areas in or near DC:
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Washington DC Picnic Spots
1. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal
Technically, at least part of this location is in Maryland. Nevertheless, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal is a great place for a more relaxing picnic. The canal makes a romantic backdrop perfect for Selkie dresses and picnic baskets. Bring a picnic blanket and strawberry shortcake, and enjoy the natural beauty of this park.
2. Rock Creek Park
Spanning over 1,700 acres, Rock Creek Park is a DC classic for outdoor lovers. Plenty of shaded spots are perfect for spreading out a picnic. My favorite areas are near Picnic Grove 1 and Beach Drive. After your meal, enjoy a hike, explore the old spy station, or ride the bike trails. It’s also an excellent place for horseback riding at Rock Creek Horse Center.
3. National Monument
The National Mall was one of the most popular picnic spots for students during my college years. Imagine relaxing with your friends and enjoying tea sandwiches with the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in the background. There is plenty of green space, but if you visit during the Cherry Blossom season or the summer, there may be some crowds. Fall is one of my favorite times to have picnics there, as there are fewer tourists, and the fall foliage is absolutely gorgeous.
4. Theodore Roosevelt Island
For a more secluded picnic experience, Roosevelt Island is a hidden gem. It’s located on the Potomac River and accessible via a footbridge from Arlington. The island is filled with wooded trails and scenic river views, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers. You’ll find quiet areas for picnics, perfect for small celebrations or solo escapes.
5. Olmsted Woods at the National Cathedral
The Olmsted Woods is an urban sanctuary behind the majestic Washington National Cathedral. This quiet, wooded area offers benches and grassy spots to enjoy a peaceful picnic. Don’t forget to explore the cathedral grounds while you’re there. It’s one of the best-hidden gems in DC.
Northern Virginia Picnic Spots
1. Gravelly Point
Gravelly Point is another hidden gem. It’s less than twenty minutes from Washington, D.C., and located right next to the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The best time to visit is right before sunset. Adults and kids alike love watching the planes land. They go very low, and it feels like an aerial show.
There are also lovely biking and walking trails along the Potomac. From the area, you can even see some Washington, D.C. monuments. During warmer seasons, a few food trucks offer ice cream and snacks.
2. Belle Haven Picnic Area
Located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway and Old Town Alexandria, Belle Haven offers scenic views of the Potomac River and a great spot for birdwatching. Sometimes you may even see turtles or beavers.
There are a few picnic tables, but most people bring their own stuff. There’s also lots of green space, perfect for children to run around in. Bring your bike so that you can explore the Mount Vernon Trail.
3. Great Falls Park
Great Falls is one of the places I take all my out-of-town visitors. The waterfalls at Great Falls Park are a fantastic oasis for those who love the outdoors. Plenty of picnic tables, public restrooms, and a decent visitor center are also available there. The visitor center also has a concession stand with a decent menu.
Charcoal grills are allowed, but they are first come, first served, so get there early. You can’t drive directly to the picnic site so I recommend bringing a trolly to get items from your car to the picnic table.
4. Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden
If you love rose and gardens, you’ll adore the Bon Air Memorial Rose Garden in Arlington. There are over 100 varieties of roses, and plenty of this garden offers a fragrant and colorful backdrop for a picnic. The park also features a playground, tennis courts, and walking paths, making it a lovely place for a family outing.
Recap on the Best Picnic Spots in DC and Northern Virginia
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