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Picnic spots with live shows in California

An outdoor picnic where the live music adds to the atmosphere instead of making it impossible to hold a conversation.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Moonlight Amphitheatre image 1
Moonlight Amphitheatre image 2
Moonlight Amphitheatre image 3
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Performing arts theater

Outdoor amphitheater offers spacious seating with excellent sound and lighting under the stars. Atmosphere feels energetic and fun, welcoming families and music lovers alike. Views remain great from any seat, enhancing live theater and musical performances.

Bringing your own food is allowed, making it easy to enjoy a picnic dinner on the grassy knoll or in reserved lawn seating. You can also bring a lawn chair and sit close to the stage if that suits your vibe.

Outdoor setting offers a beautiful backdrop for concerts and plays. The venue hosts a variety of live shows including musical events and theatrical performances.

People are saying

"This outdoor theater has the perfect atmosphere for a fun date night."

"I loved watching the amazing outdoor theater productions here."

"It's a beautiful place for live shows like concerts and plays."

Good to know

1

The event is free to attend nightly through December 23rd, 2023.

2

Free parking is available at the venue.

3

You can bring your own food and drink to enjoy during events.

02
Starlight Bowl image 1
Concert hall

Open-air concert venue with picnic areas and family-friendly atmosphere offers a warm, old town feel and relaxed crowd. Seating consists of numbered benches with decent space, though comfort varies. Shuttle and bus services assist access, while parking is often stacked and challenging.

A grassy area above the stands offers space to spread out blankets and enjoy a picnic. Bringing your own food and drinks is allowed, making it easy to relax and eat at your own pace.

Outdoor concerts take place in a beautiful open venue with a grass seating area. Performances include acts like Hollywood U2 and The Rising.

People are saying

"The crowd here makes for such fun activities and great company."

"I loved the outdoor live shows in this beautiful open place."

"I loved picnicking and listening to live music here."

Good to know

1

Parking is stacked and first-come, first-served, so arrive early.

2

Bringing your own food and drinks is allowed and recommended.

3

Parking costs $10 and can be a hassle during busy events.

03
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park image 1

Outdoor music venue offers 360-degree views of water and cityscape with excellent sound quality. Atmosphere feels open and lively, especially during general admission shows without assigned seating. Comfortable seating and stunning sunsets create a memorable live music experience.

A large grass field in the back offers plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic. Events like the Symphony's Picnic at the Park happen here, and food can be brought or bought on site.

Beautiful venue by the water hosts a variety of concerts including collaborations with the orchestra. It offers a perfect setting for live music and special events like summer concerts featuring movies.

People are saying

"Watching the Symphony here felt magical with ocean breezes and open skies."

"You'll love the amazing views of the bay and downtown."

"I found this place to be a nice spot for a picnic."

Good to know

1

They add a mandatory 22.5% service charge for each drink.

2

Parking through ParkWhiz is easy, but arrive early due to limited spaces.

3

There are multiple food options available for various dietary needs.

04
Red Hill Park image 1

Spacious park with lush green grass, mountain views, and a large pond featuring ducks and turtles. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, ideal for unwinding or meditating. Amenities include playgrounds for all ages, sports fields, picnic areas with grills, and newly renovated pickleball courts.

Picnic tables and plenty of grassy spots make it easy to spread out. Trees, a small lake with ducks and turtles, and nearby play areas add to the relaxed vibe for family gatherings and parties.

Summer concerts happen regularly in the park, creating a lively atmosphere. Concerts in the park offer a great way to enjoy music outdoors.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful with gorgeous views."

"It's a beautiful park with a pond and picnic areas."

"I enjoyed the great summer live shows here."

Good to know

1

Red Hill Park hosts summer concerts every year, perfect for family gatherings.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially during events, so arrive early.

3

The lake in the park lacks safety barriers, so supervise children closely.

05
Spreckels Park image 1

Park features a historic gazebo stage surrounded by lush greenery and spacious grassy areas. Atmosphere shifts from calm and relaxing to lively during free outdoor concerts. Families frequent the playground, making it a popular spot for children and community gatherings.

Plenty of room for kids to run and have picnics with large trees providing shade. Picnic tables and open grassy spots make it easy to lay out a blanket and enjoy music or reading.

Free concerts happen every Sunday evening on the green grass of the park during summer. These events are family-friendly and bring the community together for wholesome fun.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful and clean."

"This place is really kid friendly, with a great playground for them."

"It's a perfect picnic spot with lots of shade from big trees."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur on Sunday evenings, featuring various genres.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

3

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained, with warm water available.

06
Old Trolley Barn Park image 1

Small neighborhood park offers peaceful atmosphere with great views over a canyon and Mission Valley. Families and dog owners enjoy the shaded playground and grassy areas, creating a friendly, relaxed vibe. Benches and picnic tables provide spots to sit amid the quiet, tucked-away setting.

Large grassy areas offer plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket. Several picnic tables and benches sit nearby, along with trash cans and temporary bathrooms for convenience.

Summer concerts happen on Friday evenings and attract a good crowd. Many families attend these events at the park.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for kids, they loved the playground."

"It's a cool place for a chill afternoon picnic."

"I enjoyed the summer concerts; they always attracted a good crowd."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms at the park.

2

Parking is often difficult, especially during events.

3

Nearby facilities are for customers only, so plan accordingly.

07
Montalvo Arts Center image 1

Expansive grounds combine grand Mediterranean architecture, lush gardens, and outdoor art sculptures with wooded hiking trails. The atmosphere stays peaceful and elegant, offering quiet spaces alongside intimate outdoor theaters. Visitors find a calming refuge with scenic views and well-maintained lawns ideal for picnics and photography.

Beautiful grounds offer plenty of space for a peaceful picnic under large trees or on the lawn. The area provides amazing views and a relaxed setting for family outings or romantic dates.

East meets west concerts stand out here. The Carriage House offers comfortable seats and a good sound system for indoor shows, while outdoor concerts and plays add variety.

People are saying

"It's a quiet escape surrounded by beautiful nature and art."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic surrounded by nature."

"The intimate setting makes live shows feel like a personal experience."

Good to know

1

It is free to wander the property, and no tickets are required.

2

Parking at the Montalvo Arts Center can fill quickly, especially during events.

3

Tickets are only required for special events at Montalvo Arts Center.

08
Pearson Park image 1

Park offers spacious greenery with paved and lawn walking areas and a small lake with lotus flowers. Atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil despite nearby freeway noise. Features include sports courts with a Kobe Bryant tribute mural, picnic areas, playground, and an amphitheatre.

Large grassy areas come with picnic tables, BBQ pits, and access to water and electricity. Spaces rent out for parties and offer plenty of room to play.

Concerts happen regularly in the park, featuring a summer schedule of free shows. Family-friendly events and plays create a lively community center vibe throughout the year.

People are saying

"I loved seeing the ducks and turtles in the beautiful parks."

"I loved picnicking here with the picnic tables and grills."

"I loved the family concerts here."

Good to know

1

The amphitheater hosts free performances every summer, perfect for family outings.

2

Expect a variety of local artists and movies at the amphitheater during summer.

3

Pearson Park has a posted summer schedule of free concerts and activities.

09
Point Fermin Park image 1

Park offers great ocean views and an iconic lighthouse with free tours. It features spacious grassy areas, a large shaded playground, and picnic tables by the water. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, though occasional events can bring noise.

Ample space offers room for picnic areas, playground fun, and ocean views. Squirrels roam freely, adding to the natural vibe. Nearby lighthouse and free concerts enhance the picnic experience.

Concerts take place by the sea on some weekends, creating a great outdoor music experience. The park regularly hosts live shows that draw a crowd.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views here."

"The picnic spot has breathtaking ocean views of Catalina."

"I enjoyed the great live shows held at the park."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available along the roadside at the park.

2

The park has a lighthouse, playground, restrooms, and picnic benches.

3

Expect steep hills when walking to different areas of the park.

10
Alhambra Park image 1

Oval-shaped park offers shaded walking paths, sports courts, and a family-friendly playground with a themed design. Atmosphere stays mostly peaceful and relaxing, with occasional lively moments during events. Open spaces and greenery create a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

Lots of open areas and covered tables make it easy to spread out for picnics or birthday parties. The park stays clean and welcomes dogs, making it a solid spot for family gatherings.

Shady trees and an amphitheater create a relaxed setting for concerts. Summer shows take place outdoors in the park, offering a casual live music experience.

People are saying

"I found the park to be really nice and clean."

"I found lots of picnic areas and it was very clean."

"I thought the concerts in the park were great."

Good to know

1

The summer concert series happens every Saturday evening at the amphitheater.

2

Home baked goods are sold by a family every Saturday at the park.

3

BBQ pits and reserved seating areas are often booked for events on weekends.

11
Polliwog Park image 1

Spacious green areas with scenic walking paths and a lovely pond create a peaceful setting. Playgrounds include both progressive equipment and traditional swings, catering to different age groups. The park balances quiet serenity with community energy, hosting live music and social gatherings.

Plenty of shaded spots and picnic tables surround the main area, with green hillsides offering space to lay out a blanket. The pond and nearby playground add to a relaxed picnic vibe.

Free summer concerts happen regularly on a central stage. Bands play on Sundays, drawing locals for live music outdoors.

People are saying

"The playgrounds here are fantastic and feel super safe."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of space."

"I enjoyed the free Sunday live shows in the summer."

Good to know

1

Polliwog Park hosts free summer concerts every Sunday at 5pm.

2

The park features a playground, botanical garden, and picnic areas.

3

Parking is available across the street from Polliwog Park.

12
Fairmount Park image 1

Large open space with rose gardens, playgrounds, and a lake offers a peaceful and scenic setting. Amenities include sports courts, an amphitheater, and paddle boat rentals, attracting families and groups. The atmosphere stays calm and friendly, with natural beauty and recreational options.

Wide green spaces and many trees for shade create a relaxing setting for picnics. Lakes and a playground add to the options for family and friends to gather and enjoy food and fresh air.

Summer concerts happen every Wednesday night at 6pm in the park. These are free live shows that run through the summer.

People are saying

"This park is really beautiful and large."

"It's a beautiful, spacious place perfect for a picnic."

"I loved the summer live free concerts in the park."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur every Wednesday night at 6pm.

2

Parking can be difficult to find at Fairmount Park.

3

Kids Playland offers great activities for children.

13
Glen Helen Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful scenery and well-kept grounds offers a relaxing atmosphere with shade trees and picnic areas. Features include a large clean pool, splash pads, jungle gyms, and disc golf, attracting families and outdoor enthusiasts. Live music events bring energy with DJs, laser shows, and fireworks, creating a lively vibe during concerts.

Huge, well-kept picnic areas include grills, picnic tables, and plenty of bathrooms. The park offers a nice setting for picnics alongside walking paths and a water area for family activities.

Concerts take place at an amphitheater that hosts a variety of festivals and events. The setting supports camping alongside live shows, creating a combined experience.

People are saying

"The parks here are beautiful and well-maintained."

"It's a really kid-friendly place with a great splash pad and pool."

"It's a beautiful place, perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Glen Helen Regional Park charges $15 per car for parking.

2

Parking can be extremely congested during events, leading to long wait times.

3

The park has a water playground that is great for kids.

14
Shoreline Amphitheatre image 1

Outdoor amphitheater combines spacious layout with a unique sunken stage design and excellent sound quality. Lawn seating offers a comfortable, festival-like atmosphere with good views from nearly every seat. Bike-friendly grounds and numerous food options add to the lively, fun vibe.

Large grass lawns and picnic tables provide plenty of space for spreading out a blanket or sitting down. Areas overlooking the water and near the house offer scenic spots for picnics and relaxing.

Outdoor concerts feature a spacious lawn area that keeps the vibe chill. The venue offers a great setting for live shows without high costs, making it a popular spot for many concerts.

People are saying

"I had a wonderful time at this amphitheater for concerts."

"I loved attending concerts here; it's a great venue."

"You can have a picnic on the grass area overlooking the water."

Good to know

1

Parking is often a nightmare, with long wait times to enter and exit.

2

Expect over an hour to leave the parking area after events.

3

Handicapped parking is often inadequate and poorly managed.

15
Los Angeles State Historic Park image 1

Large, green park offers open spaces and spectacular downtown skyline views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and laid-back despite occasional train and helicopter noise. Visitors include artists, families, and entrepreneurs enjoying trails, shaded areas, and room for dogs.

Open green spaces offer a great spot for picnic lunches and casual dates. The park supports activities like kite flying alongside relaxing meals outdoors.

Outdoor concerts happen during the summer with a fun atmosphere. The park hosts in-town concerts and festivals along with other special programs like Art in the Park and Reading by Moonrise.

People are saying

"The park offers great views of the city skyline."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of room."

"I found the outdoor concerts here to be fun and spectacular."

Good to know

1

Parking costs about $2.50 per hour, or just under $9 per day.

2

Parking for events can be challenging, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

The park often hosts community events and art installations.

16
Hurless Barton Park image 1

Expansive green space features mature trees and well-maintained trails for peaceful walks. Family-friendly atmosphere includes playground, water park with slides and splash pad, and picnic areas. The park hosts concerts with a friendly, relaxed vibe and ample room for gatherings.

Open space and picnic tables create a good spot for meals outdoors. The park includes BBQs, playground, and a splash pad, making it easy to enjoy food while kids play.

Concerts bring good vibes and attract many seniors. Security is minimal, and some attendees urinate in bushes during shows.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are amazingly clean."

"It's a clean, safe, and well-maintained green space that's family friendly."

"I enjoyed having picnics at the park with picnic benches."

Good to know

1

Access to the adventure playground requires reservations, sometimes 48 hours in advance.

2

Non-residents need to reserve an entrance time before visiting.

3

The park is dog friendly and has plenty of space for kids to play.

17
Gloria Molina Grand Park image 1

Large open lawns and illuminated fountains create a modern, family-friendly atmosphere with pink chairs and shaded seating areas. The park offers play spaces and splash zones for children alongside well-maintained walking paths. It provides a quiet, relaxing environment amid the city with views of nearby landmarks.

Spacious picnic areas feature clean tables and plenty of green space for relaxing or walking. Restrooms are available, making it easy to enjoy a day with friends or family.

Concerts and festivals bring a lively atmosphere to the park, especially at night when it is beautifully lit up. Versatile rental spaces support community gatherings and live shows.

People are saying

"I loved the lively mix of cultural events and DJs at this park."

"It's a spacious park, perfect for a relaxing picnic."

"I've been to so many great live shows and festivals here."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free for all visitors.

2

Parking can be difficult to find near the park.

3

There is a metro stop right next to the park for easy access.

18
Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden image 1

Hundreds of free-roaming peacocks wander spacious grounds filled with diverse themed gardens and historic structures. Quiet paths lead past waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and desert landscapes, creating a peaceful botanical retreat. Benches and picnic areas invite slow enjoyment amid abundant wildlife.

Arboretum setting offers a calm spot for a family picnic or solo recharge. It suits families and kids well for outdoor meals.

Outdoor evening concerts fill the lawn with live music where picnics happen. Various concerts occur throughout the year, including the Pasadena Pops Summer Concerts and events like Goat Yoga with Hello Critter.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful escape from the noise and rush of everyday life."

"The peacocks here are majestic and have zero concept of personal space."

"I had so much fun at the outdoor summer concerts."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but finding a spot can be challenging on busy days.

2

Admission is $15, but free for EBT cardholders.

3

Bring water, sunblock, and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.

19
Hart Park image 1

Large park with spacious playgrounds, multiple sports courts, and ample picnic areas under mature trees. Atmosphere varies from peaceful and quiet to lively with competing live music during events. Popular for family gatherings, pet owners, and outdoor activities.

Lots of picnic tables with charcoal barbecues sit under large mature trees that provide ample shade. Plenty of parking keeps cars away from the clean picnic and leisure areas.

Concerts on Wednesdays bring a lively vibe with a cool stage area to hang out. The park hosts movies, concerts, and baseball games, making it a versatile spot for live shows.

People are saying

"This park has great amenities and multiple sport fields."

"It's got so many picnic tables and charcoal barbecues."

"It's a great place for kids to have fun during live shows."

Good to know

1

Hart Park has a large parking lot, but it can be missed easily.

2

There are only two handicap parking spots available at Hart Park.

3

The park has a playground, sand volleyball courts, public pool, and baseball fields.

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