Boston Picnic park

How to Plan the Perfect Picnic in Boston

Getting outside is number one on so many Bostonians’ to-do lists in the summer. One of our favorite ways to do that is by planning a picnic in one of Boston’s many scenic outdoor spots. Planning a picnic doesn’t have to be hard. Here are some of our favorite ways to grab a bite outside.

Best Picnic Food Options in Boston

While there are some impressive pre-made picnic baskets from local restaurants, you can also head straight to the prepared foods section at Whole Foods and grab a few favorites, along with some cold drinks. Don’t forget to grab plasticware and napkins on your way out.

Top Picnic Spots in Boston

  • Rose Kennedy Greenway: This is a favorite spot in the summer and year-round. The Greenway extends throughout many parts of the city.
  • DCR Hatch Shell: Bring a picnic during a weeknight concert or Friday night family movies. It’s a great way to enjoy live entertainment with your meal.
  • Boston Public Garden: Plan a lunchtime picnic here on the water. It’s perfect for people-watching and seeing the swan boats swim by. (Also, a great outdoor spot for small celebrations and even spring baby showers!)
  • Charles River: This is the best spot on warm sunny days to watch the boats on the water. The serene views make for a relaxing picnic experience and create a perfect family-friendly day.

Picnic Decor and Special Touches

  • Comfortable Seating: Bring a cozy blanket or portable chairs to ensure comfortable seating. Consider a waterproof picnic blanket to protect against damp ground.
  • Decorative Touches: These are always the fun surprises for your guest(s).  Add some flair to your picnic with decorative touches such as:
    • Colorful cushions or throw pillows
    • Mason jars for drinks
    • A stylish picnic basket
    • Fresh flowers in a small vase
  • Lighting: If you plan to stay until dusk, bring along some battery-operated fairy lights or lanterns to create a magical ambiance.
  • Entertainment: Whether you are picnicking with kids or not, pack some fun activities like:
    • A frisbee or a ball for games
    • A portable speaker for music
    • A good book or magazine
  • Weather Preparation: Always check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. Bring sunscreen, hats, and an umbrella for shade. If there’s a chance of rain, pack a lightweight tarp to cover your picnic area.

Let Simplified Help with Your Boston Picnic

Planning the perfect picnic can be a breeze with Simplified Events. Whether you need assistance with picking up gourmet food, finding the best to-go BBQ in the city, setting up a picturesque picnic spot, or adding those special decorative touches, our team is here to help. Our event planning services ensure that every detail is taken care of, so you can relax and enjoy your time outdoors.

We help clients with day-of wedding coordination, date nights, engagement surprises,  graduation party planning, and everything in between. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your next Boston picnic an unforgettable experience!