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Best of Saint Paul

Picnic spots

A picnic spot where you can actually spread out a blanket without feeling like you are encroaching on someone else's space.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01

Large trees offer ample shade over a spacious playground with varied equipment for all ages. Shaded picnic areas with several tables sit near flower beds, perfect for outdoor meals. Well-kept tennis courts add to the quiet, peaceful vibe in a clean neighborhood.

Shaded picnic areas and several picnic tables sit among flower beds. A playground nearby adds to the space, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors with kids around.

People are saying

"This park's playground is amazing for kids of all ages."

"The playground here is awesome and shady."

"It's a great place with a shaded picnic area."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available at Mattocks Park.

2

The playground features shaded areas, making it comfortable for visits at any time.

3

The tennis courts at Mattocks Park are well maintained and available for use.

02
Como Regional Park image 1

Spacious park features a beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden for peaceful strolls. Picnic areas include large fire pits and charcoal grills perfect for cookouts. Free access and live music create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

Ample green space offers plenty of room for picnics and cookouts. Large fire pits with nearby charcoal grills support bonfires, while picnic tables, grills, and bathrooms are available for convenience.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"The zoo is free, so I highly recommend donating to support it."

"The picnic areas here are beautiful and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

03
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor pavilion by the lake offers orchestra-quality music and a cool breeze. Open spaces invite picnics and sports with plenty of room. Friendly crowd enjoys walking trails and paddle boats in a cozy, welcoming vibe.

Open spaces support outdoor entertainment and picnics. Plenty of room for sports alongside picnic areas for groups.

People are saying

"It's a great outdoor space with a nice walking path around the lake."

"I enjoyed the fun live music while sitting by the water."

"I enjoyed a lovely picnic by the beautiful lake."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held regularly at Como Lakeside Pavilion during the summer.

2

Parking is free but can be difficult to find on weekends.

3

The pavilion hosts live music events, often at no cost to attendees.

04
Karol Coffee Co. image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop blends quiet atmosphere with a fenced-in play area perfect for kids. Large outdoor yard features picnic tables in sun and shade, ideal for family outings. Vintage design and comfy seating create a friendly vibe loved by locals.

A large outdoor yard offers picnic tables in both sun and shade, surrounded by a fenced-in area with a sandbox and kid-friendly entertainment. Indoor seating is also available alongside some comfy chairs outside.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"I loved their honey chai latte; it was so tasty."

"The outdoor picnic tables are great for families with kids."

Good to know

1

The shop frequently hosts pop-up events with local businesses.

2

Seating can be limited, especially during busy hours.

3

Breakfast sandwiches are around $10, which may seem pricey.

05
Newell Park image 1

Large pavilions with covered picnic tables and grills make group meals easy. Shady oak trees create a quiet, relaxing atmosphere perfect for breaks. Nearby playground and basketball courts add fun activities for all ages.

Covered picnic area offers many tables for groups. A pavilion and grills support larger gatherings. Playground and basketball area sit nearby for activities.

People are saying

"It's a good place for a picnic gathering with a nice shelter."

"The playground here is great for outdoor fun."

"I found ample parking available for us."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance to use the rotunda.

2

The park has a pavilion, picnic tables, and grills available for gatherings.

3

There is only one garbage can located near the main building.

06
Phalen Regional Park image 1

Spacious park offers lakeside views and a traditional pavilion for a calm, family-friendly vibe. Trails with sculptures invite walking and biking, while picnic tables and grills support easy outdoor BBQs. Shelters make family gatherings simple and fun.

Lots of picnic tables and grills sit along the trails and open spaces. Shelters and areas fit for family gatherings make it easy to enjoy a picnic or BBQ outdoors.

People are saying

"I loved walking and biking the scenic paths around the lake at this park."

"I loved walking my dog on the varied paths here."

"It's a great place for a picnic with lots of tables and grills."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the lake, especially on the western shore.

2

The beach area is great for families and swimming.

3

Dogs are welcome at the park, but be mindful of leash laws.

07
Cherokee Regional Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking river views and spacious green areas with modern playgrounds. Shelters with electricity and BBQ grills make it perfect for picnics. Well-maintained trails and sports courts keep families and nature lovers engaged in a peaceful atmosphere.

Two shelters seat 60 and 100 people and have electricity. Large pavilion offers BBQ grills and picnic tables with plenty of green space nearby.

People are saying

"These parks offer serene, secluded trails with gorgeous river views."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with serene atmosphere and great views."

"The bathrooms here were very well kept."

Good to know

1

The park has picnic areas, pavilions, and a basketball court for recreational activities.

2

Restroom facilities are available and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

Free parking is available along the streets adjacent to the park.

08
Como Park image 1

Zoo offers free admission and peaceful lake views perfect for relaxing walks. Families enjoy picnic tables and open parkland ideal for barbecues. Lush gardens blend natural beauty with animal exhibits, creating a quiet, family-friendly spot.

Plenty of picnic tables and open parkland create ideal spots for barbecues and family gatherings. Picnic grounds near the zoo and rides for children add to the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved this little zoo; it's a family favorite."

"It's a great place for picnics with plenty of open parkland."

"This meditation spot is so peaceful with lush gardens and koi ponds."

Good to know

1

Admission to Como Park Zoo is free or available through a donation of your choice.

2

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The Bonsai festival attracts large crowds, especially on Mother's Day.

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