The Perfect Park Picnic

There is nothing more romantic, intimate or familiar than an old-fashioned picnic in the park. Whether it be your neighborhood park or a state park, there are plenty of places in Austin to set out your basket and enjoy. The trend of charcuterie and cheese boards alike has spiked in popularity and with that, so has the reminder that it’s the little things in life we need to enjoy — there is no better place to do so than in the great outdoors. So grab your wicker basket and checkered blanket, and let’s hit the grass!

Photo courtesy of Honey Social Picnic Co.

When picnicking, there are several avenues you can choose from. From hiring a company to set up a picnic soiree to getting down in the dirt with your kiddos at Zilker Park, the limits are endless to the “perfect picnic.” 

Consider hosting a picnic function for your family and friends for an unforgettable moment or celebration — somewhere such as Mueller Lake Park, where companies can provide everything and you simply show up and enjoy! It’s an effortless way to kick off the summer season and scratch that itch for a solid picnic. Plus, you get to curate the exact pallet you’d like to showcase. This is a great option for a birthday surprise or sweet gift for a friend and is something everyone would enjoy, because who doesn’t love a picnic? 

Or, if you want to DIY it, you can reserve a picnic table online at local spots such as Emma Long Metropolitan Park or Pease Park Conservancy, or even at a state park! For state parks, all you have to do is make a reservation, pay the fee or donation if necessary, and bring all you desire to have the picnic of your dreams. 

You can pack homemade or store-bought sandwiches and all the best healthy snacks such as veggie chips, fresh fruit and granola! Picnics are great because you’re getting a chance to be active while enjoying company, conversation and your choice of sustenance. Whether it be brie cheese and caviar or tuna salad and grapes, the world is yours and you can pack as you please. Just be sure you follow the rules of whichever park you attend to ensure you are being respectful of the park. 

Photography credit to Katerina Cotroneo

If you are feeling less driven but don’t want to miss out on the picnic fun, you can always grab an old tablecloth, make a quick stop at Whole Foods and make your way to a local park, whether it be in your neighborhood or good ol’ reliable Zilker Park to have a “lazy man’s” picnic. Remember, it doesn’t have to be all champagne and roses to be considered a picnic; it just has to meet the minimum requirements of eating outside and enjoying the fresh air. A sushi roll, kombucha and yourself on the grass is technically a picnic, so take advantage of that 30-minute lunch break and enjoy the vitamin D and your friendly neighbors. 

Some of the best memories I have growing up are on picnic blankets, giggling with friends till our stomachs ached. Summertime means eating frozen grapes to keep cool and playing card games and truth or dare because when at a picnic, technology ceased to exist, as did the outside world. Picture this — it’s just you, your friends, the blades of grass in the wind and the sound of laughter echoing throughout the park from the surrounding picnic-goers. Where else would anyone want to spend their summer afternoon? 

About the Author

Katerina Cotroneo is a professional photographer turned lifestyle writer. Using her marketing background and her talent behind the camera, Katerina tells unique stories through her lens and captures diverse perspectives.