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Where to Have a Picnic—From Philly to the ‘Burbs

Photo credit: iStock/fotostorm

Photo credit: iStock/fotostorm

A prime picnic spot can be tough to come by. But with warmer weather well on its way, there’s no better time to gather friends and hunker down with a picnic basket full of healthy, seasonal eats. Read on for pro tips on the best places to picnic in Philly and the suburbs this season. 

FDR Park // Thanks to an Instagram-worthy lake, gazebo and boathouse (with a boardwalk on the water!), FDR Park is an ideal locale to have a picnic or a cookout. It’s also home to 20 tennis courts, eight ball fields, a rugby field, golf course and even a renowned skate park. 1500 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia.

Because FDR Park is such a standout site for little ones, you might be tasked with an epic carpool. Luckily, the Honda CR-V seats five and is equipped with USB audio interface and Pandora, so you can listen to your favorite tunes en route.

Fairmount Park // With historic houses, biking and running trails along Kelly Drive, and beautiful views of the Schuylkill River, Fairmount Park is a great spot for a picnic or to get some exercise. Fairmount Park is also a huge urban park system with much to offer including the Japanese Tea House, the Horticulture Center, and the mansion at Lemon Hill to name a few. 4321 North Concourse Drive, Philadelphia.

Ridley Creek State Park // This hidden gem in Newton Square is a welcomed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. In addition to 14 different picnic areas (plus over 100 picnic tables!), the 2,600-acre park is dog friendly and boasts 13 miles of marked hiking trails. Have your hiking buddy tag along to canvas the terrain pre-picnic. 351 Gradyville Road, Newton Square, PA

Bringing along a cooler? Don’t fret about having too little space. The Honda CR-V has a generously sized cargo area: 37.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row, and if you fold down the last row, it expands to 70.9 cubic feet.

Penn Treaty Park // Even the most active among us can use a leisurely weekend picnic. For that, head to Penn Treaty, located right on the Delaware River, where you’ll have a stellar view of the Ben Franklin Bridge and all the boats that pass. Penn Treaty is also home to arts festivals and events in the warmer months. 1199 North Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia.

Valley Forge National Historic Park // Not only is this park a charming place for a picnic or a stroll, it’s the historically significant site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army under George Washington. Visitors enjoy picnicking in a grove where they are surrounded by beautiful wildlife and a piece of history. 1400 North Outerline Drive, King of Prussia.

Rittenhouse Square // Its Center City location makes Rittenhouse an unmatched pick for people watching. If you work nearby, tote along your lunch to catch some midday rays, or head there on the weekend to patronize farmers markets (pick up some eats to enjoy in the park!) and other events. 18th and Walnut streets, Philadelphia.

If you’re visiting from the suburbs, there’s no reason to stress about driving into the city. The Honda CR-V makes this simple with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning for when you’re navigating cramped city streets.

Laurel Hill Cemetery // As one of the most picturesque locations in Philadelphia, Laurel Hill Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark, is dreamy not creepy. Learn about the cemetery’s rich history during one of their many roving lecture-like programs, or swing by the gardens that overlook the Schuylkill River. Tip: consult their calendar ahead of your visit for yoga classes and group dog walks. 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia.

Wissahickon Valley Park // With extensive biking and hiking trails encircled by trees, Wissahickon Valley Park can make you feel like you’re way out in the woods while you’re still in Philadelphia. Animal enthusiasts — especially kids! — will adore the animals (think: deer, raccoons, groundhogs and red foxes) who frequent the park. Valley Green Road, Philadelphia.

All of this park hopping will require a vehicle to take you there. Bring your friends or the whole family with the Honda CR-V. And when you’re all picnicked out (yes, it’s possible), click here to enter to win a sweet adventure prize package and keep exploring your city with Delaware Valley Honda Dealers.