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Top picks in Missouri

Picnic spots with scenic views

Spreading out a blanket to eat while looking over a vast, open landscape turns a simple meal into an event.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Art Hill image 1
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Tourist attraction

Wide open grassy area overlooks a basin with fountains and a lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere with soothing water sounds. Visitors enjoy free concerts and plays, along with picnics and scenic views of nearby monuments and museum campus. The space offers ample photo opportunities and a serene setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Art Hill offers stunning 180-degree views of the park, fountain, and sky. The spot provides beautiful sights of Forest Park and the museum campus, making it a great place for a picnic or paddle boat ride.

Grassy areas offer plenty of space for picnic lunches and outdoor play. The spot provides a peaceful, romantic vibe with beautiful views, perfect for relaxing or flying a kite.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous views from this spot."

"It's a gorgeous place for a picnic with a beautiful view."

"The scenic views here are stunning, offering a gorgeous look at the park."

Good to know

1

Art Hill hosts outdoor movies, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

2

The summer movie series at Art Hill is a popular free event.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events, so arrive early.

02
Tower Grove Park image 1

Spacious park with old green trees and numerous pavilions featuring themed designs creates a charming and calming energy. Multiple playgrounds, a splash pad, and courts for tennis and pickleball offer varied activities. Historical features like gazebos, ponds, and World's Fair structures enrich the peaceful atmosphere.

Tall trees provide ample shade along many walking trails. Views include fields and treetops visible from paths and driving routes, with nice sights from elevated spots.

Beautiful sites and picnic areas make it easy to relax outdoors. Walking trails, creeks, and ponds add to the setting, with a kids' area for cooling off during picnics.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, spacious, and always well-maintained."

"It's a great spot for a picnic or just to relax."

"I found the scenic views of trees and fields to be beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday, featuring local produce and goods.

2

Food Truck Fridays occur monthly, offering a variety of food options and live music.

3

Safety concerns arise at night due to limited lighting in some areas of the park.

03
Chain of Rocks Park image 1

Bridge crossing offers spectacular views including historic water towers and downtown skyline. Park features gated security, picnic pavilions, and free telescopes for river and city viewing. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with well-maintained trails and a safe parking area on one side.

Views include the Mississippi River and the St Louis skyline. The bridge offers spectacular sights of two historic water intake towers in the river.

A big covered pavilion seats about 40 people and offers picnic tables and shaded benches. The area includes restrooms and gated parking nearby.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are just portable toilets."

"You'll find picnic tables and restrooms available."

"I loved the great views of the Mississippi River."

Good to know

1

The park opens at 7:00 a.m. and closes shortly after sunset.

2

Security opens the bridge gates at 8 a.m. for access.

3

Parking is available only on the Illinois side of the park.

04
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park image 1

Lake surrounded by hiking trails and kayak rentals offers a laid back and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy picnic spots, playgrounds, and varied outdoor activities in a well-maintained setting. The park attracts people for walking, biking, and quiet relaxation with easy parking access.

Beautiful lake views appear throughout the park, especially from the restaurant and disc golf course. The sunset over the lake adds a fantastic visual element to the relaxing atmosphere.

Great picnic spots offer plenty of space for outdoor dining and gatherings. Facilities support family-friendly activities like fishing, biking, and volleyball alongside picnics.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the lake view."

"It's a great place for picnics and walking."

"The lake views here are beautiful and perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available at multiple locations around the park.

2

The park is family-friendly and offers activities like picnicking, biking, and hiking.

3

Kayak rentals are affordable and available near the lake.

05
Cliff Cave County Park image 1

Park offers scenic pathways with beautiful Mississippi River views and a mix of paved and hiking trails. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, with occasional sounds from cicadas and passing trains. Picnic pavilions and benches provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy nature.

Trails lead to expansive views of the Mississippi River, with a scenic bridge and a cave adding variety. Hydration stations sit at the top, complementing the beautiful water vistas along the pathways.

A covered pavilion with picnic tables offers a solid spot for picnics. The area sits near the river and includes bathrooms, making it convenient for visitors.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, scenic place to walk your dog on nice trails."

"I enjoyed the great scenic views of the Mississippi River."

"It's a pleasant place for a picnic with awesome river views."

Good to know

1

Keep your dog on a leash while on the trails.

2

The restrooms on the lower lot need better maintenance and cleaning.

3

Parking is ample and easy to find at the park.

06
Creve Coeur Park Picnic Site 1 image 1

Park offers scenic lake views and ample walking trails that wind through wooded areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, with frequent sightings of deer along paths. Amenities include kayak and canoe rentals, supporting various outdoor activities.

Stunning lake views appear from multiple vantage points, especially at Picnic Site 1. The park offers beautiful natural scenery with water views and fireplaces enhancing the experience.

Several picnic tables sit near a big lake with views that make the spot good for gatherings. A shack-like bathroom is nearby, but tables may need cleaning before use.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and offers a great sense of relaxation."

"The picnic spot has beautiful views and a big lake."

"I enjoyed the great views of the lake."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for about 40 cars, with additional space in the lower lot.

2

Public restrooms are clean and located near the playground.

3

The park offers activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.

07
Minnie Ha Ha Park image 1

Park offers paved trails, several playgrounds, and river access with pleasant views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with plenty of benches and picnic areas. Activities include walking, biking, disk golf, and BMX track, making it suitable for kids and outdoor fun.

Several lookout points offer great views of the Meramec River. A wide paved walk provides pleasant river views along with restrooms and a playground nearby.

Covered pavilions with picnic tables can be reserved for events. Multiple picnic areas with shelters and water fountains spread throughout the park offer plenty of spots to eat outdoors.

People are saying

"The park's paved trails are amazing for walking or biking."

"You'll love the great river views from the lookout points."

"I loved the walking and biking trails, perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park has several playgrounds for children.

2

There are pavilions available for parties or gatherings.

3

Expect a significant amount of mosquitoes during warmer months.

08
Whitecliff Park image 1

Park centers on breathtaking water views and well-maintained walking trails that connect various amenities. It offers diverse recreational facilities including tennis courts, basketball court, playgrounds, and an aquatic center. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, giving a sense of being away from it all despite active areas with music and community events.

A shelter by the quarry offers a private spot for parties with a beautiful view. Views from Whitecliff Park are breathtaking and nice.

Picnic spots include a pavilion next to the kids area and tables near playgrounds. The quarry area offers space for fishing and picnicking, with plenty of shade for grandparents to relax.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be really beautiful."

"The scenic views here are breathtaking."

"It's a really nice and clean place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park and swimming pool are clean, safe, and fun.

2

The bathrooms at Whitecliff Park are clean.

3

The playground is safe and clean.

09
370 Lakeside Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful lake views and clean, well-maintained facilities offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Amenities include dog parks, walking trails, and pavilions suitable for large gatherings, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Most sites offer a lake view that is consistently beautiful. The view from the camper and at 370 Lakeside Park is especially spectacular.

Large, level sites come with picnic tables and fire rings. Several pavilions and picnic areas can be reserved for family or corporate gatherings.

People are saying

"This RV park is big rig friendly with well-cared-for sites."

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

"The lake views here are beautiful and amazing."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available on weekends with live music on Fridays.

2

The park has pavilions that can accommodate over 200 people for gatherings.

3

The campground is well-maintained and easy to navigate.

10
Castlewood State Park image 1

Meadows and forests surround winding trails along a river, creating a peaceful atmosphere with scenic river views and picturesque bluffs. Playgrounds, picnic areas, and benches with grills offer spots for rest and gathering. A railway track and elaborate stairways add unique charm and variety to the natural setting.

Trails offer breathtaking views of the river, hillsides, and cliffs. Multiple spots provide places to sit and enjoy the beautiful river and hillside scenery along clearly marked paths.

Spacious areas offer plenty of room for picnics and play. Trails and open spaces support hiking and gatherings alongside picnicking.

People are saying

"The river views from the trails are really great."

"The river views from the trails here are breathtaking."

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

Good to know

1

Swimming is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions.

2

The restrooms at the park are exceptionally clean.

3

Expect the park to be busy on weekends in good weather.

11
Creve Coeur Lake image 1

Large lake surrounded by scenic hiking trails and diverse recreational activities including boating, paddleboarding, and volleyball courts. Atmosphere combines tranquil natural beauty with active outdoor energy from bikers, joggers, and families. Crowds gather especially near lakeside areas, creating a lively environment for sports and relaxation.

Walking paths run along the lake's shoreline, offering stunning views of water and nature. The view shines especially at sunset, creating a beautiful scene to enjoy and capture.

Picnic areas sit right by the water, drawing crowds along the shoreline. People gather closely in these spots for outdoor meals and relaxation.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park for walking, riding, and fishing."

"The scenic views here are beautiful, especially at sunset."

"It's great for a picnic and a stroll."

Good to know

1

Multiple restrooms are available at Creve Coeur Lake.

2

Parking can be difficult to find on nice days.

3

You can bring your own paddleboard or rent one at Creve Coeur Lake.

12
Frontier Park image 1

Park along the river offers spectacular views and well-kept grounds with paths for walking and biking. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and serene during the week to lively and festive during concerts and events. Visitors enjoy live music, outdoor festivals, and a mix of quiet spots and social activity.

Spectacular river views dominate the park, with clean paths perfect for walking and people watching. The main stage sits near a busy exit, offering a unique view of events alongside the flowing river.

Open spaces and picnic tables under a pavilion create a nice spot for a meal outdoors. Bathrooms and a playground nearby add convenience for families and groups.

People are saying

"I loved walking along the river at this park."

"It's a great place for a picnic with open spaces and tables."

"I enjoyed the great river views here."

Good to know

1

Frontier Park hosts Oktoberfest every year with food, music, and activities.

2

Parking can become difficult quickly during events, so arrive early.

3

The park is dog-friendly and has picnic areas for visitors.

13
Lone Elk Park image 1

Vast landscape with diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and buffalo appears in a natural setting without barriers. The park maintains a peaceful and serene atmosphere with beautiful views and quiet surroundings. Facilities include picnic areas and hiking trails, supporting a relaxing outdoor experience.

Great views of elk, bison, and deer appear close to the road, making wildlife easy to spot. Trails and a lake add to the beautiful scenic views, with a picnic area offering a nice spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Peaceful spots with natural wildlife views make picnics here relaxing. Trails and open areas offer space for outdoor meals and quiet time.

People are saying

"You can drive through these parks and see wild animals up close."

"You can have a great picnic seeing elk and bison up close."

"You can see elk and bison up close on the scenic views here."

Good to know

1

Lone Elk Park is free to enter, making it accessible for everyone.

2

Pets are not allowed in Lone Elk Park, even if confined to a car.

3

Visitors should keep their distance from elk for safety.

14
The Muny image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor amphitheater offers beautiful setting with large quiet fans that keep the air comfortable even in heat. Clear sound and live orchestra enhance performances, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere with good views from many seats.

Beautiful sunset views enhance the experience while waiting for the show. Plenty of seating options offer good views from both front and free sections, keeping the atmosphere lively and welcoming.

Free seats and well-maintained grounds create a great spot for picnics before shows. Plenty of time exists to enjoy a picnic lunch while relaxing in the park or watching preshows.

People are saying

"I loved watching musicals at this amazing outdoor theater."

"I loved packing a picnic and getting those free seats."

"You get a great view from every seat here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and close to the venue.

2

The upper lot often lacks enough handicapped parking spaces.

3

Arrive early to secure free seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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