Underused Picnic Spots

The Wicker Plan

by Felicia D'Ambrosio

Stroll through the colonial kitchen and flower gardens of botanist John Bartram's West Philadelphia estate before you settle down in the riverside meadow for an afternoon picnic. After a simple lunch of crusty bread, cheese and fruit, lie down in the wildflowers and enjoy some well-deserved 21st-century leisure time.

In densely populated South Philly, this greenspace, known to locals as "The Lakes," is a natural respite from a concrete-and-chain-link world. Head to the stately 1914 gazebo overlooking the water for your outdoor meal, but prepare to be chased away by photo-seeking brides if it's a Saturday.

Blooming at the foot of Boathouse Row, this 4-acre garden features some of the most beautiful plantings in Fairmount Park. Profusions of azaleas, rhododendrons, irises and tulips will have you eating with your eyes before delving into your lunch — seasonal foods only, please.

If lush gardens and idyllic views leave you feeling unpollinated, head to the spectacularly underused Franklin Square. Take a ride on a carousel sea horse, have fun with physics on a playground spinning ride, then refuel under the shady trees of the picnic area.

Picnic plans for ambitious cyclists: Pedal the 23-mile Schuyl-kill Trail to Valley Forge's Betzwood Picnic Area and really earn that lunch. The park is 3,500 contiguous acres of wetlands, rolling hills and eastern deciduous forest. And you can always hop the nearest train back to Philly if you eat too much.