What Are The Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is known for its endless sunshine, stunning landscapes, and vibrant outdoor spaces, making it the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, a scenic lakeside lunch, or a beachside gathering with ocean views, the best picnic spots in LA will fit your purpose best. LA Iconic parks with sweeping cityscapes,  hidden green oases, and sandy shores – Los Angeles has incredible locations to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal outdoors.

No matter what setting you prefer, Los Angeles offers an incredible mix of picnic spots – some with tables and BBQ areas, others with panoramic views, hiking trails, or even cultural attractions nearby. Let’s explore the best picnic spots in LA, each with its unique charm and atmosphere, so that you can find the ideal setting for your next outdoor escape.

Griffith Park: A Quintessential Picnic Destination in Los Angeles

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America – it’s an iconic picnic destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and recreational activities.

Spanning over 4,300 acres, the park provides a variety of scenic spots perfect for picnicking, whether you’re planning a casual afternoon lunch or a festive gathering with family and friends.

With its lush greenery, panoramic city views, and a wide range of amenities, Griffith Park is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find wide-open fields for large groups and cozy hideaways ideal for intimate picnics.

The park also offers numerous picnic tables, BBQ pits, hiking trails, and historic sites, ensuring a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Beat Picnic Areas in Griffith Park

Each section of Griffith Park offers something unique, from historic landmarks to shaded retreats. Here are some of the most popular picnic areas:

The Old Zoo

If you’re looking for a picnic with a side of history, the Old Zoo is a must-visit. This former zoo, with its preserved animal enclosures, makes for an intriguing and unique picnic backdrop. The area is equipped with picnic tables, BBQ pits, and plenty of open space, making it a great option for families and history lovers alike.

Crystal Springs

For those planning large group gatherings, Crystal Springs is one of the best areas in Griffith Park. It features ample picnic tables, BBQ pits, and spacious green lawns, providing the perfect setting for celebrations, birthday parties, or corporate picnics. Plus, the easy access to parking makes it a hassle-free choice for big groups.

Fern Dell

If you prefer a quiet, nature-filled retreat, Fern Dell is the spot for you. Nestled among towering ferns, winding trails, and a small stream, this area feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. It’s ideal for couples looking for a serene, intimate picnic or for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of LA.

Details for Your Griffith Park Picnic

📍 Address: Griffith Park, 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
⏰ Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM daily
💰 Admission: Free
🚗 Parking: Available throughout the park, with designated lots near picnic areas
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket or folding chairs, sunscreen, and a cooler for picnic food and drinks

Griffith Park is an entire outdoor experience – after enjoying your meal, you can explore the park’s hiking trails, visit the Griffith Observatory, take a scenic ride on the historic Merry-Go-Round, or catch a live performance at the Greek Theatre. This park remains one of the most beloved picnic destinations in LA.

Photo by Gustavo Tiffer

Elysian Park – A Tranquil Escape Among the Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles

Tucked away near Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park is one of Los Angeles’ best-kept secrets for picnicking. As the city’s oldest park, this 600-acre green space offers breathtaking views of downtown LA, lush rolling hills, and peaceful picnic areas, making it a favorite among locals who prefer a quiet, scenic retreat away from the city’s hustle.

With plenty of shaded areas, well-maintained picnic tables, and sweeping panoramas, Elysian Park provides the perfect setting for a relaxed outdoor meal. Whether you’re planning a solo picnic, a romantic date, or a casual lunch with friends, the park’s serene ambiance and natural beauty make every visit feel like a hidden escape within the city.

Top Picnic Area in Elysian Park

Chavez Ridge

One of the most scenic picnic areas in Elysian Park, Chavez Ridge offers spectacular views of the downtown LA skyline. Nestled among towering eucalyptus trees, this spot provides ample shade and picnic tables, creating an ideal space to unwind and enjoy a meal with a view. The peaceful surroundings make it especially great for those looking to escape the city noise and relax in nature.

Details for Your Elysian Park Picnic

📍 Address: 929 Academy Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90012
⏰ Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
💰 Admission: Free
🚗 Parking: Available throughout the park, including near Chavez Ridge
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket or folding chairs, sunscreen, and plenty of water

Unlike some of the more crowded parks in LA, Elysian Park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning skyline views and lush landscapes. After your picnic, take a leisurely walk along one of the park’s scenic trails, enjoy a sunset view over the city, or simply relax beneath the shaded groves.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema

Echo Park Lake: A Scenic Urban Retreat Among the Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles

Located just northwest of downtown LA, Echo Park Lake is an urban oasis that blends lush greenery, tranquil waters, and vibrant city life. With its picturesque lake adorned with blooming lotus flowers and charming pedal boats, this park provides an idyllic setting for a relaxing lakeside picnic.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a lively afternoon with friends, Echo Park Lake is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

The park offers grassy areas and picnic tables, allowing visitors to find the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking in the serene lake views. The reflections of swaying palm trees on the water, combined with the occasional sight of ducks and swans gliding by, create a postcard-worthy atmosphere.

Top Picnic Spots at Echo Park Lake

Lakeside Lawns

If you love the idea of spreading a blanket under the shade of towering trees, the open grassy areas surrounding the lake are perfect for an informal, laid-back picnic. These spots offer expansive views of the water, making them a great choice for couples, solo visitors, or small groups looking for a quiet moment away from the city’s noise.

Picnic Tables Near the Water

For those who prefer a structured setup, several picnic tables are available around the lake. These are ideal for families, small gatherings, or anyone wanting a convenient place to enjoy a meal while overlooking the peaceful waters.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Echo Park Lake isn’t just about enjoying a meal outdoors – it’s also a place to explore and unwind. After your picnic, you can:
🚣 Rent a pedal boat to cruise across the lake and get a closer look at the famous lotus beds and fountains.
🌸 Visit the lotus garden, especially in summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
🦆 Watch the local wildlife, including ducks, turtles, and swans.
🏃 Take a lakeside stroll along the paved path circling the lake.

Details for Your Echo Park Lake Picnic

📍 Address: Echo Park Lake, 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
⏰ Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM
💰 Admission: Free (Pedal boat rentals available for a fee)
🚗 Parking: Street parking is available, but it can be limited on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, and extra cash for boat rentals.

Few picnic locations in LA offer the perfect blend of nature and city vibes like Echo Park Lake. With its stunning lake views, lush greenery, and recreational activities, this park is a fantastic choice for a memorable and picturesque picnic experience.

Runyon Canyon Park: A Scenic Picnic Spot with Panoramic Views

For those who love an active adventure before their meal, Runyon Canyon Park offers a perfect blend of hiking and picnicking. Located in Hollywood Hills, this breathtaking outdoor space is known for its stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and even the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

If you are looking for a morning workout followed by a rewarding picnic or simply a picturesque place to relax outdoors, Runyon Canyon Park stands out as one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles.

Unlike traditional parks with designated picnic tables, Runyon Canyon invites visitors to enjoy a more rustic experience. After hiking along one of the scenic trails, you can settle down at a shaded resting area, an open plateau, or a grassy hillside with an unforgettable view of the LA skyline.

Best Picnic Spots in Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon Lookout Points

The park’s high-elevation spots provide jaw-dropping views of the city, making them fantastic places to pause, take in the scenery, and enjoy a picnic with a view. Bring a light picnic setup – sandwiches, fruit, and snacks – to comfortably relax while admiring the Hollywood Sign and sprawling urban landscape below.

The Open Grass Area Near the Fuller Avenue Entrance

The grassy space near the Fuller Avenue entrance is an excellent option if you’re looking for a more traditional picnic setting. This dog-friendly area offers enough room to spread a blanket before or after your hike. It’s also one of the few shaded spots in the park, providing a cool retreat after a sun-filled trek.

Why Runyon Canyon is Perfect for Outdoor Lovers

🏞 Breathtaking scenery – Enjoy unparalleled views of LA from multiple vantage points.
🐕 Dog-friendly – One of LA’s best off-leash hiking spots, making it ideal for pet owners.
🥾 Great for fitness enthusiasts – Combine your picnic with a refreshing hike along well-maintained trails.
🌅 Perfect for sunrise or sunset picnics – Arrive early to catch a sunrise over the city or enjoy the golden-hour glow as the sun sets.

Details for Your Runyon Canyon Park Picnic

📍 Address: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
⏰ Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
💰 Admission: Free
🚗 Parking: Limited street parking near Fuller Ave; arrive early for a spot.
🎒 What to Bring: A light picnic setup, water, comfortable shoes for hiking, sunscreen, and dog treats if you’re bringing a pet.

Runyon Canyon Park is a unique location where you can combine adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a relaxing meal outdoors.

Will Rogers State Historic Park: A Picnic Spot with History and Scenic Views

Once the private ranch of Hollywood legend Will Rogers, this park is now one of Los Angeles’ most scenic and historically rich picnic destinations. Nestled in the Pacific Palisades, the park combines lush green landscapes, historic charm, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely meal outdoors.

The park offers a large lawn area perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and picnic tables for those who prefer a structured setup. Whether looking for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature or an educational outing with a guided tour of Rogers’ former ranch house, this park delivers a relaxing yet enriching experience.

Top Picnic Areas in Will Rogers State Historic Park

The Grand Lawn

The expansive open lawn in front of the historic ranch house is the most popular picnic spot in the park. With plenty of space, soft grass, and a backdrop of towering eucalyptus trees, it provides a perfect setting for family picnics, romantic dates, or a quiet afternoon with a book.

Picnic Tables Near the Ranch House

Seated picnic spots are available near the Will Rogers Ranch House for those who prefer seating and tables. This area offers a shaded retreat with easy access to the historic home, allowing visitors to explore the estate and its equestrian facilities before or after their meal.

What to Do After Your Picnic

Will Rogers State Historic Park is more than just a picnic destination—it’s a place to explore and immerse yourself in history and nature.

• Tour the Ranch House: Learn about Will Rogers’ life and legacy through a guided tour of his beautifully preserved home.
• Hike the Inspiration Point Trail: A moderate 2-mile loop offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Mountains, and even downtown LA on clear days.
• Watch a Polo Match: On weekends, you might catch an exciting game at the park’s historic polo field, a nod to Rogers’ love for the sport.

Details for Your Will Rogers Picnic

📍 Address: 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset
💰 Admission is free, but parking is $12 per vehicle
🚗 Parking: On-site parking available near the main picnic area
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera for the scenic views

This park offers a rare mix of history, stunning scenery, and outdoor recreation. It is perfect for relaxing on the lawn, exploring the ranch, or taking ocean views from a nearby trail. The combination of peaceful green spaces, fascinating history, and unforgettable vistas makes Will Rogers State Historic Park one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles.

Pan Pacific Park – A Relaxing Picnic Spot in the Heart of LA

Situated near The Grove shopping center, Pan Pacific Park offers a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. This centrally located park is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles, providing a mix of convenience and relaxation. Whether looking for a quick nature escape after shopping or planning a weekend gathering with family and friends, this park is an excellent choice.

Pan Pacific Park features plenty of picnic tables, open grassy areas, and shaded spots, making it easy to find a comfortable place to enjoy a meal. The park is also family-friendly, with a playground and wide-open spaces for kids to run around.

Top Picnic Areas in Pan Pacific Park

Picnic Tables Near the Playground

Families with children will appreciate the picnic tables located near the playground area, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their kids. This spacious park section is shaded, making it an excellent spot for casual lunches and weekend outings.

Open Grass Areas for a Laid-Back Picnic

If you prefer a more traditional picnic experience, the large grassy fields provide plenty of space to spread a blanket. This area is perfect for relaxing under the sun, reading a book, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon with friends.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Pan Pacific Park is more than just a picnic spot—it’s a place where visitors can enjoy both leisure and activity.

• Take a walk along the scenic pathways for a refreshing post-picnic stroll.
• Visit The Grove and Farmers Market, just a short walk away, to extend your day with shopping and entertainment.
• Stop by the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust in the park to explore an important part of history.

Details for Your Pan Pacific Park Picnic

📍 Address: 7600 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
⏰ Hours: Sunrise – Sunset
💰 Admission: Free
🚗 Parking: Street parking and a small on-site parking lot are available
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking

This park’s central location, relaxing atmosphere, and variety of amenities make it a top choice for a casual yet enjoyable picnic. Pan Pacific Park perfectly balances nature and city convenience, whether you’re planning to spend time with family, enjoying a quiet solo outing, or meeting friends after shopping.

Barnsdall Art Park: A Scenic and Cultural Picnic Spot in Los Angeles

Perched on a hill in East Hollywood, Barnsdall Art Park offers a unique blend of nature, history, and art, making it one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles. With stunning panoramic views of the city, open grassy areas, and a rich artistic atmosphere, this park provides the perfect setting for a laid-back picnic with a cultural twist.

One of the highlights of Barnsdall Art Park is the Hollyhock House, a masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The park’s grassy knoll near the art galleries is a favorite picnic spot, offering visitors a chance to relax while surrounded by creativity and architecture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque place to unwind, this park is an ideal choice.

Best Picnic Spot in Barnsdall Art Park

The Grassy Knoll Near the Art Galleries

This open green space is the most popular picnic area in the park, offering sweeping views of downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign. The artistic ambiance, combined with the serene setting, makes it a perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the creative energy of the park.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Barnsdall Art Park isn’t just a picnic destination – it’s a cultural landmark with plenty to explore.

• Visit the Hollyhock House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to experience one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces.
• Stroll through the art galleries to discover local and contemporary exhibitions.
• Enjoy a sunset view over the city from one of the park’s scenic overlooks.

Details for Your Barnsdall Art Park Picnic

📍 Address: 4800 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
⏰ Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
💰 Admission: Free (Hollyhock House tours may have an entrance fee)
🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking available, but spaces are limited
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket, a camera for the views, and comfortable shoes for walking around the park

Barnsdall Art Park offers a picnic experience unlike any other in LA with its artistic charm, breathtaking views, and peaceful green spaces. Whether you are admiring world-class architecture, exploring art exhibits, or simply relaxing under the open sky, this park delivers a perfect mix of culture and relaxation.

Point Dume State Beach – A Stunning Beachside Picnic Spot in Malibu

For those who love the sound of crashing waves and salty ocean breezes, Point Dume State Beach is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles. Nestled along the Malibu coastline, this breathtaking seaside destination offers picnic tables, BBQ grills, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, creating an unforgettable outdoor dining experience.

The golden sands, rugged cliffs, and sweeping ocean vistas make this spot perfect for a laid-back picnic or a romantic seaside escape. Whether you’re watching surfers ride the waves, spotting dolphins in the distance, or simply enjoying a quiet meal by the shore, Point Dume provides the ultimate beachside picnic setting.

Best Picnic Areas at Point Dume State Beach

Picnic Tables Near the Beach Access

Several picnic tables and BBQ grills are conveniently located near the beach access points, offering comfortable and scenic spots for visitors. These areas provide easy access to the sand and water, making them ideal for a family-friendly picnic with stunning ocean views.

Secluded Coves Along the Trails

For those looking for a more private setting, the nearby Point Dume Natural Preserve offers hidden coves and rocky outcrops that provide a serene and picturesque backdrop for a more intimate picnic. A short hike along the coastal trails leads to secluded spots with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and even occasional whale sightings during migration season.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Point Dume is more than just a beach – it’s an adventure waiting to happen.

• Hike up to the Point Dume Bluff for stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
• Explore the tide pools during low tide to discover sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
• Go for a swim or surf in the clear blue waters of Malibu.
• Spot wildlife, including sea lions, dolphins, and even gray whales, during their migration season.

Details for Your Point Dume Picnic

📍 Address: Cliffside Dr & Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265
⏰ Hours: Sunrise – Sunset
💰 Admission: Free (Parking fees may apply)
🚗 Parking: Paid parking lot available; limited free street parking nearby
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic blanket, sunscreen, extra layers for the breeze, and binoculars for wildlife spotting

With its breathtaking ocean views, sandy shores, and coastal hiking trails, Point Dume State Beach is a dream picnic destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Whether you’re lounging by the water, grilling by the picnic tables, or hiking up to scenic overlooks, this Malibu gem offers a picture-perfect escape from city life.

Descanso Gardens: A Peaceful Botanical Retreat for a Picnic

For those who love lush gardens, tranquil landscapes, and the beauty of nature, Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles. This botanical paradise offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle, where visitors can enjoy a picnic surrounded by vibrant flowers, towering oak trees, and beautifully curated themed gardens.

The gardens span 150 acres, featuring a stunning Japanese garden, a fragrant rose garden, and a peaceful oak forest, making every picnic feel like a scenic retreat into nature. While picnicking is only allowed in designated areas, the breathtaking surroundings create a picturesque and relaxing atmosphere for a quiet meal outdoors.

Best Picnic Spots in Descanso Gardens

Designated Picnic Area Near the Entrance

Descanso Gardens offers a dedicated picnic area just outside the main entrance, providing a comfortable and convenient spot to enjoy a meal before or after exploring the gardens. This area includes tables and shaded seating, making it an excellent option for families and couples looking for a peaceful place to eat.

Benches and Resting Areas Throughout the Gardens

While traditional picnicking isn’t allowed inside the gardens, visitors can still enjoy snack breaks on benches scattered throughout the property. Whether beneath a canopy of ancient oak trees or near a blooming rose garden, there are plenty of serene spots to pause and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Descanso Gardens is more than just a picnic destination—it’s a botanical wonderland with plenty to explore.

• Stroll through the Japanese Garden, which features a koi pond, arched bridges, and elegant plant life.
• Visit the Rose Garden, home to thousands of roses in full bloom during spring and summer.
• Walk beneath the majestic oak trees in the Oak Woodland, one of the most peaceful areas of the gardens.
• Explore the Camellia Collection, one of the largest in North America, showcasing vibrant blossoms in winter and early spring.

Details for Your Descanso Gardens Visit

📍 Address: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
💰 Admission: Adults $15, Seniors & Students $11, Children (5-12) $5, Members & Kids under 5 free
🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking available
🎒 What to Bring: A picnic basket (for the designated area), comfortable walking shoes, a camera for scenic shots, and water for your garden stroll

With its stunning gardens, peaceful walking paths, and immersive natural beauty, Descanso Gardens offers a unique picnic experience for those who appreciate nature and tranquility. This is the perfect location for admiring the seasonal blooms, enjoying a quiet moment in the oak forest, or relaxing in the picnic area before a scenic walk.

Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park: A Family-Friendly Picnic Spot

Located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, Lake Balboa – also known as Anthony C. Beilenson Park – is a popular destination with an ideal setting for family picnics. With its expansive lake, ample grassy areas, and various recreational facilities, it stands out as one of the best spots in LA for a picnic.

The park features a large lake where you can enjoy pedal boat rides, which are especially fun for kids and families. Its vast lawns, adorned with cherry blossom trees that burst into color during spring, create a picturesque backdrop perfect for laying out a picnic blanket or enjoying a leisurely meal outdoors. Families will appreciate the numerous picnic pavilions, BBQ pits, and well-equipped playgrounds available throughout the park.

Best Picnic Areas at Lake Balboa

Picnic Pavilions and Grassy Areas

For families seeking a comfortable picnic spot, the designated pavilions provide shaded seating and ample space for gatherings. The open grassy areas are ideal for a relaxed picnic where you can spread out, play games, or enjoy the pleasant surroundings.

Lakeside Enjoyment

The serene lake offers pedal boat rentals for a fun water adventure and a beautiful backdrop for your picnic. During spring, the blooming cherry blossom trees around the lake enhance the park’s charm, making your outdoor meal even more memorable.

Things to Do After Your Picnic

Lake Balboa is more than just a picnic destination; it offers a variety of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

• Take a pedal boat ride on the lake to enjoy its calm waters and scenic views.
• Visit the playgrounds scattered around the park, which are perfect for letting children run and play.
• Enjoy a stroll along the walking paths that circle the lake, providing a great way to work off your meal.
• Spend time relaxing in the picnic pavilions, a popular spot for family gatherings and celebrations.

Details for Your Lake Balboa Picnic

• Address: 6300 Balboa Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91406
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Admission: Free (Note: Pedal boat rentals may incur a fee)
• Parking: Ample parking is available on-site
• What to Bring: A picnic blanket or chairs, sunscreen, snacks or a meal, and extra cash if you plan to rent a pedal boat

This park offers a delightful combination of recreational amenities and natural beauty that caters to family outings. If you want to engage in water activities, relax under blooming cherry trees, or simply enjoy a meal in a spacious setting, Lake Balboa provides a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Its family-friendly facilities, scenic lake views, and vibrant natural surroundings make it a top choice for picnicking in Los Angeles.

The Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles for a Perfect Day Outdoors

Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse picnic spots, and each offers something special for your unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a lively group gathering, or a romantic escape, LA has the perfect picnic spot.

If you want a scenic family picnic, Lake Balboa and Pan Pacific Park provide spacious grassy areas, playgrounds, and picnic tables with BBQ pits. Point Dume State Beach offers stunning ocean views and secluded coves for a romantic afternoon, while Barnsdall Art Park combines a cultural atmosphere with breathtaking cityscapes. If you’re planning a picnic with a group, Griffith Park and Elysian Park offer large open spaces, historic sites, and hiking trails that make for a fun and active outing.

Each of these locations has unique features, from botanical gardens to panoramic city views, so you can choose the perfect spot to match your mood and occasion. These places are popular for a reason, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy your best picnic in LA at any of them. 

So pack your basket, grab a blanket, and make the most of Los Angeles’s incredible outdoor spaces.

FAQs

What should I pack for a picnic in Los Angeles parks?

When preparing for a picnic in Los Angeles parks, pack essentials like a blanket, picnic basket, reusable utensils, plates, cups, napkins, and a cooler with ice packs. Bring sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent for comfort, and consider packing games or books for entertainment. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.

Are there any parks in Los Angeles that allow BBQs?

Yes, several parks in Los Angeles allow BBQs. Griffith Park, Elysian Park, and Lake Balboa all have designated BBQ pits available for public use. Always check the specific park’s regulations and guidelines regarding BBQ use and fire safety.

Are pets allowed at picnic spots in Los Angeles?

Many picnic spots in Los Angeles are pet-friendly. Parks like Runyon Canyon Park and Griffith Park welcome pets, but it’s essential to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Always check the park’s specific rules regarding pets before your visit.

How can I find parking at popular picnic spots in LA?

Parking availability varies by location. Parks like Griffith Park and Elysian Park have ample parking spaces, but they can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. Some parks, like Pan Pacific Park, are located near public transit options, making it convenient to visit without a car.

Are there accessible facilities at these picnic spots for people with disabilities?

Yes, many picnic spots in Los Angeles offer accessible facilities for people with disabilities. Parks like Griffith Park and Echo Park Lake have accessible restrooms, parking, and picnic areas. It’s recommended to check the specific park’s website or contact them directly for detailed accessibility information.

What are the best times to visit these picnic spots to avoid crowds?

To avoid crowds, the best times to visit popular picnic spots in Los Angeles are weekdays and early mornings on weekends. Spring and fall are ideal seasons for pleasant weather and fewer visitors. Avoiding major holidays can also help ensure a more peaceful picnic experience.

Can I reserve picnic areas at these parks?

Some parks in Los Angeles offer the option to reserve picnic areas for groups or special events. For example, Griffith Park and Lake Balboa have designated areas that can be reserved in advance. Check the specific park’s website or contact their administration office for reservation details and availability.