Spring has sprung, RVA. Picnicking is a delightful way to spend a shady afternoon afternoon or a breezy evening in Richmond. We’ve put on our excursion-expert hats and found some ideal spots matched with nearby eats.
Forest Hill Park
If you want a bit of outdoor adventure with your meal, head to Forest Hill Park. The park has picnic shelters close to several trails perfect for walking, running, and biking. Swing by Gold Lion Community Cafe or Crossroads before you arrive to pick up a refreshing coffee and lunch — add ice cream if the weather insists.
Libby Hill Park
Eat and enjoy “The View That Named the City” in Church Hill. Ideal for watching the sunset, the park also has picnic table seating, several fountains, and space to spread out a blanket and relax. If you want to grab something to eat, Proper Pie, Cobra Burger, and The Hill Café are only a few blocks away. If you’re lucky, you might catch some live music or a local artist capturing the view.
Maymont
There are plenty of scenic spots at Maymont to picnic, whether you’re in the mood to sit in the Japanese Garden, on a shady hill, or near the Children’s Farm. Pack a lunch or grab a hearty bagel + coffee at Lamplighter before you get to the park. Pro tip: Don’t forget a blanket.
Scuffletown Park
Nestled between Strawberry Street and Stafford Avenue, Scuffletown Park is perfect for a picnic with a few friends. If you’re headed out in the early afternoon, you can snag a treat from Idle Hands. Looking for a full meal? Grab a pizza from 8½, but don’t forget to add a few cannolis to your order.
Bryan Park
Located in Northside, Bryan Park is a sprawling area with a playground, picnic shelters, and 17 acres of Azalea gardens. Get a fresh local lunch at the RVA BIG Market, open year-round on Saturday mornings. Feel free to walk to a more secluded area if you prefer to be away from the market’s hustle and bustle.
Oregon Hill Overlook
Bring a blanket, spread out in the shade, and settle in to watch the river flow. There are also several benches — plus one rope swing — if sitting on the ground isn’t your style. Grab a pizza from Pupatella or some donuts from Oh! Mochi and enjoy one of the best views in the River City.
Belle Isle
If you’re looking for a closer view of the James, trek across the pedestrian bridge with your basket and settle in at one of the several riverfront spots Belle Isle has to offer. Approach from the east to grab some takeout at Casa Del Barco or Soul Taco and enjoy your tacos on the rocks.
VMFA Sculpture Garden
Surround yourself with art and soak up some sun at the VMFA. Pick up sandwiches from Garnett’s, grab coffee from Black Hand or Paix, or snag a bite from the Best Café inside the museum, then set up shop on the grassy lawn.
Byrd Park
The lakes of Byrd Park provide a perfect opportunity for a waterside snack. If you’re really feeling ambitious, Fountain Lake has public grills on site. Grab a steak from Belmont Butchery and get in touch with your inner grillmaster — just watch out for hungry geese.
Pony Pasture
Pony Pasture and the Huguenot Flatwater has rocky riverside spots similar to Belle Isle. Head out in the morning, stop by Eat 66 on the way over, and meditate on the placid waters over a breakfast sandwich or two.
There are so many places to picnic in Richmond — we know they’re not all here on this list. Tell us where you go to get some fresh air and enjoy a snack.
