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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New Jersey

Picnic spots

Made for those who prefer the open air and a packed blanket to the confines of a traditional restaurant booth.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Forest Lodge NJ image 1
Forest Lodge NJ image 2
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Event venue

Spacious event venue with woodsy setting and modern chic decor offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for celebrations. Atmosphere feels peaceful and beautiful, with areas like Maple Grove and Sherwood Chalet providing cozy and elegant spots. Multiple party areas and amenities like pools and golf carts support diverse groups and activities.

Spaces offer beautiful decor and careful attention to detail. Staff handle timelines and guest needs with spectacular hospitality.

Many trees and beautiful gardens create a gorgeous picnic spot. The venue supports boardwalk themed picnics with carnival rides, games, and treats. It works well for company picnics and functions.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with a perfect blend of flavor and creativity."

"They made our celebration so special with amazing attention to detail."

"They anticipated my every want and need for the picnic."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking available for all guests.

2

The staff makes the event planning process easy from start to finish.

3

The venue offers a beautiful outdoor space for events.

02
Burnt Mills Cider image 1

Huge outdoor space with fire pits, string lights, and picnic tables creates a laid-back, fun atmosphere. The place is dog friendly and offers peaceful views with yard games and shade trees. It draws groups looking for a relaxed spot with creative cider flavors and food trucks.

Cozy atmosphere suits date nights and catching sunsets. Works well for couples after hikes or dinners, offering a relaxed spot to spend time together.

Huge outdoor area offers picnic tables and plenty of space. String lights create a nice atmosphere for sitting outside. Bringing a blanket or chairs helps when tables fill up.

People are saying

"The cider here is delicious and there's a great variety."

"I loved trying a flight of their creative and flavorful ciders."

"It's a great place to relax for an afternoon."

Good to know

1

There are no reservations and open seating, so arrive early for a good spot.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially on nice days.

3

Burnt Mills Cider is highly dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

03
Hamilton Park image 1

Park offers panoramic skyline views and expansive open spaces for jogging, yoga, and picnics. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and relaxing to crowded and lively with families and live entertainment. Facilities include a playground and dog park, making it family-friendly and versatile.

Popular for couples, this spot offers a relaxed setting for hanging out with a partner. It works well for both casual dates and spending quality time together with close friends.

Hamilton Park offers a picnic area with a beautiful view and a family space. You can sit or lie on the grass or ledge while enjoying your food.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline."

"I enjoyed a picnic with a beautiful view of the city."

"The views here are stunning, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Hamilton Park is free to visit.

2

Hamilton Park closes at midnight.

3

There are no public bathrooms at Hamilton Park.

04
Lake Lenape Park East image 1

Park offers beautiful lake and river views with a quiet, serene atmosphere. Facilities include pickleball courts, playgrounds, and picnic pavilions suitable for family gatherings and events. Renovated grounds feature a lighthouse and beach area, creating a modern and well-kept setting.

Walking paths and peaceful spots create a relaxed setting for couples. The park hosts memorable ceremonies and serves as a place to celebrate anniversaries.

Numerous covered picnic tables and shaded picnic areas make it easy to find a comfortable spot. A picnic pavilion adds extra shelter, and a nearby beach offers a nice view without swimming access.

People are saying

"This park is beautifully redone and very clean."

"It's a perfect place for a picnic with shaded picnic tables."

"It's so clean here, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

No alcohol is allowed at Lake Lenape Park East.

2

Dogs are allowed in the park.

3

The restrooms and showers are accommodating for persons with disabilities.

05
Cape May Lighthouse image 1
Historical landmark

Tall lighthouse offers 360-degree panoramic views of the sea and surrounding beach. The area maintains a peaceful, quiet atmosphere with fresh air and beautiful natural scenery. Facilities include birdwatching platforms, picnic tables, and a visitor center with a museum and gift shop.

Climbing to the top offers a shared challenge that can bring couples closer. The spot also holds romantic significance with proposals happening there. Guides share historical stories that add depth to the visit.

Well-maintained grounds offer picnic spots with nearby nature trails and ample free parking. The lighthouse area provides restrooms and a family-friendly setting for beach picnics.

People are saying

"The views from the top are beautiful, especially of the ocean and coastline."

"The views from the lighthouse are spectacular and picturesque."

"Climbing the lighthouse for the view is a great Date Spot experience."

Good to know

1

Admission to the lighthouse is $12 for adults.

2

The lighthouse hosts special events like night climbs and interpretive programs.

3

Expect a unique view of the ocean and coastline from the top.

06
Ocean City Campground & Beach Cabins image 1

Cabins and campsites sit among shade trees with spacious, well-maintained grounds that feel secluded and private. Families gather around heated pools, splash pads, and playgrounds, while dogs enjoy a fenced park. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, with background sounds of laughter and music creating a happy, welcoming vibe.

Sites include a picnic table and fire ring at each spot. Cabins have a picnic table, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs for making s'mores.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly with a great pool and splash pad."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful for Date Spots."

"Each site has a picnic table and fire pit."

Good to know

1

The campground offers various seasonal activities, including crafts and food trucks on weekends.

2

Bingo nights feature candy bingo with multiple rounds for family fun.

3

The campground is less than 15 minutes from Sea Isle City beaches.

07
Verona Park image 1

Park offers picturesque lake views and spacious grounds with state-of-the-art playgrounds. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, ideal for walking, running, or relaxing. Families find it welcoming with amenities like paddle boats and exercise equipment.

Paddle boats offer a fun activity for couples. The park provides a relaxed atmosphere suitable for dates.

Many picnic areas spread throughout the park offer plenty of spots to sit and eat. Open spaces also allow for a game of catch or walking dogs nearby.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful and a great place to unwind."

"It's a beautiful, family-friendly spot perfect for a casual stroll."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with a lovely lake."

Good to know

1

There are very few parking spots in Verona Park.

2

Boats are available for rent on the lake.

3

In late spring, Verona Park hosts an annual art show.

08
Johnny Rippas image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating with picnic tables spreads across front and back, creating a cozy atmosphere despite nearby busy roads. Music sets a chill vibe but can be loud near windows. Known for authentic birria tacos and flavorful Tex Mex dishes, it offers a unique dining experience tucked in a car dealership lot.

An hour trip leads to top notch quality and insane flavors that make the visit worth it. The hot dog with kraut stands out as a solid choice for a casual date.

Seating includes picnic tables spread apart in the back near tall pine trees providing shade. No garbage cans are available close to the tables.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The pulled pork sandwich for our picnic was superb."

"I tried the birria tacos; they were life changing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as food is made fresh to order.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for specials during peak lunch hours.

3

Outdoor seating is available but may be uncomfortable in bad weather.

09
Rick's Seafood House image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood takeout spot with a quaint, old feel and spartan indoor space. Outdoor seating includes picnic tables and benches overlooking a boating body, creating a relaxed beach town vibe. Busy atmosphere with long waits, especially during peak times.

Small restaurant offers a cozy vibe with huge portions like the butterfly shrimp. Dishes such as the soft shelled crab sandwich and scallops and shrimp stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here is really fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful, it's incredible."

"The seafood here is top quality, especially the scallops."

Good to know

1

Expect a two and a half hour wait for takeout during peak times.

2

Call ahead on weekends and holidays to avoid long wait times.

3

Order crabs at least 2-3 days in advance for pickup.

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