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Picnic spots in Ann Arbor

A proper picnic requires a patch of grass that feels like an escape rather than an afterthought.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Island Park image 1
Island Park image 2
Island Park image 3
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Park offers a quiet atmosphere with a flowing river adding natural sound. Plenty of picnic tables and a Greek-style pavilion create perfect spots for meals and gatherings. Walking trails and playgrounds suit all ages, making it ideal for family outings.

Plenty of picnic tables and pavilions offer spots to eat and relax. A Greek-style pavilion stands out as a venue for weddings or small gatherings. The river view adds to the picnic experience.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of tables and river views."

"It's really Kid Friendly with playgrounds and play structures."

"I loved the beautiful river views and moving water here."

Good to know

1

There are plenty of activities for children, including a play structure and swings.

2

Restrooms are available at the park for visitor convenience.

3

There is ample parking, including handicapped spots.

02
County Farm Park image 1

Park features spacious greenery and well-maintained trails perfect for picnics and walks. Multiple playgrounds keep children entertained while quiet garden corners offer calm spots for reflection. Reservable pavilions make group gatherings easy and comfortable.

Spacious areas with many picnic tables and reservable pavilions make it easy to find a spot. Trails and gardens add a nice backdrop for a picnic or stroll.

People are saying

"I enjoyed walking on the many nice trails at this park."

"The playground here is awesome and great for kids."

"It's a great spot with plenty of picnic tables and places to sit."

Good to know

1

Parking is available near the playground, but it can fill up quickly on busy days.

2

The park features well-maintained trails suitable for walking and biking.

3

There are clean bathrooms available throughout the park.

03
Gallup Park image 1

Scenic walkways and pedestrian bridges create a peaceful loop perfect for a picnic at the butterfly garden table. Quiet trails through trees offer frequent wildlife sightings. Playgrounds and canoe rentals add fun for families and outdoor lovers.

Plenty of picnic tables and nice shade make it easy to relax. The butterfly garden picnic table adds a unique spot to eat outdoors.

People are saying

"I thought this was one of the best parks."

"It's a great dog friendly place for long walks."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with lovely trails."

Good to know

1

PokΓ©mon GO Raid Hour occurs every Wednesday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

2

The Halloween on the River event is a seasonal attraction.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially during busy times.

04
Buhr Park image 1

Park offers heated pool and outdoor ice rink for fun all year. Families enjoy picnic tables and new gazebos for meals. Open space with community gardens creates a calm, friendly vibe.

Plenty of space and picnic tables make it easy to spread out and eat. New gazebos and concessions add comfort and convenience for picnics.

People are saying

"This park has a pool and skating facilities for year-round fun."

"I saw new picnic tables and gazebos added to the park."

"The pool is great for kids with a separate splash pad."

Good to know

1

The park has new gazebos, concessions, and picnic tables for visitors.

2

The pool opens in May and is heated for early swimming.

3

Summer camp runs from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm and is affordable.

05
Bicentennial Park (Southeast Area Park) image 1

Two playgrounds and multiple sports fields offer active fun for all ages. Spacious shelters with ample seating and many picnic tables make group meals easy. Clean, well-kept grounds include charcoal grills and courts for basketball, baseball, and soccer.

A spacious shed with ample seating covers the picnic area. Many picnic tables and charcoal grills are spread throughout the park.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a picnic with spacious tables and grills."

"I found two great playgrounds at the park."

"I found two great playgrounds here."

Good to know

1

The park has two playgrounds suitable for different age groups.

2

A shelter with picnic tables is available for reservations.

3

The park features a baseball diamond and a soccer field.

06
Domino’s Farms Petting Farm image 1
Non-profit organization

Spacious barn and playground with family-friendly atmosphere invite kids to meet goats, sheep, and alpacas. Covered pavilion and picnic tables offer ample picnic spots for meals outdoors. Hay rides and a train car add fun for all ages.

Plenty of picnic tables and a covered pavilion make it easy to enjoy snacks or a meal outdoors. Open spaces and a small playground add room for running and relaxing during a picnic.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place for birthday parties."

"It's a cute little playground perfect for young children."

"I found the petting farm to be affordable family fun."

Good to know

1

Admission is $8 for ages 2 to 59; kids under 2 enter free.

2

Animal feed costs $3 for a bag of sliced carrots.

3

The farm offers a hands-on experience to feed and interact with animals.

07
University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum image 1

Wooded trails and lush greenery invite peaceful walks. Wide-open valleys with blooming peonies offer perfect picnic spots. Quiet river views add a serene ambiance for relaxing with a mat or hammock.

Wide-open, grassy valleys and hills above blooming peonies create perfect picnic spots. Quiet river views and peaceful nature settings make it easy to relax with a mat or hammock.

People are saying

"It's a lovely spot for a picnic with friends or family."

"I loved the nice view of the river and the lush greenery."

"Parking is limited and a bit of a hike."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; lot M28 is free on weekends.

2

The peony garden flowers for a few weeks during mid-spring.

3

Shakespeare in the Park is a walking theater show during summer.

08
Lillie Park South image 1

Park features peaceful trails around ponds and a nature preserve with wildlife. Open fields and covered pavilions offer great spots for picnics with clean tables and grills. Dog-friendly paths and soccer fields add to the quiet, welcoming atmosphere.

Open fields and covered picnic pavilions provide plenty of space for groups. Clean picnic tables and barbecue grills make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, dog-friendly park with awesome trails."

"It's a perfect spot for picnics with cover pavilions and picnic tables."

"The soccer fields are great and have plenty of flat green space."

Good to know

1

Lillie Park South has hiking trails, a fishing pond, soccer fields, and playgrounds.

2

Dogs are welcome on the hiking trails, and bags are provided for clean-up.

3

Public bathrooms are available, but their cleanliness can vary.

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Ann Arbor, Michigan

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