Just because Baltimore is rife with city bustle doesn't mean there aren't several places to kick back and relax. As the winter gloom is replaced by the warmth of a new season, residents of the land of pleasant living can take advantage of springtime with the perfect picnic. Several areas on the outskirts of Baltimore and within the heart of the city feature picturesque areas to enjoy your favorite snacks, beverage and company. Picnicking areas in Baltimore are also rich with history that are worthy of a few photos.
Patterson Park
27 S. Patterson Park Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 276-3676
Patterson Park has been a popular Charm City fixture since the 1800s, known for being an ideal picnic spot. The grounds are generously peppered with tables and benches, making this spot perfect for picnicking with family or friends. A focal point of Patterson Park is the enchanting Pagoda, a historical tower which was first designed in 1890 by Superintendent of Parks, Charles H. Latrobe. Visitors can walk up the winding stairwell of the Pagoda and enjoy a panoramic view of the park and surrounding city on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. from mid-April through mid-October.
Oregon Ridge Park
13555 Beaver Dam Road
Cockeysville, MD 21030
(410) 887-1818
This sprawling 1,043-acre park plays host to various activities and events that can turn a typical picnic into a day of Instagram-worthy mementos. Peppered amongst the beautiful landscape is a playground, fitness center, various hiking trails and, of course, numerous places for the perfect picnic. Oregon Ridge Park serves as a venue for the
Great Grapes Wine and Food Festival, which features over 250 wines from 30 Maryland wineries, live music, cooking demonstrations, and a free kids area. This event is perfect for packing up a picnic basket, blankets and chairs to lounge about in between wine and food sampling.
Federal Hill Park
300 Warren Road
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 396-7900
The Baltimore Inner Harbor is the heart of Charm City, and no spot offers a greater view than Federal Hill Park. The hilltop was originally utilized as a military outpost during the War of 1812, and wasn't established as a park until 1880. Today, Federal Hill Park offers several amenities alongside its panoramic view, including a playground, basketball courts, and park bench seating for perfect picnicking. The park is also adjacent to some of downtown's favorite restaurants and pubs, offering patrons the chance to turn their picnic into a day on the town.
Sherwood Gardens
4100 Saint Paul St.
Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 889-1717
Sherwood Gardens is a picturesque site for a picnic regardless of the time of year, however, visitors will get an extra treat if they choose to picnic during peak tulip season, which usually occurs during the last week of April into the first week of May. During this time, a rainbow of tulips blanket the grounds in awe-striking beauty. Approximately 80,000 tulip bulbs are planted during the year, and this practice has garnered Sherwood Gardens the title of most famous tulip garden in North America.
Rocks State Park
3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Road
Jarrettsville, MD 21084
Rocks State Park lives up to its name with its intricate rock formations and mountainous crag. A naturalist's dream come true, the scenic park is a favorite spot for hike enthusiasts as well as joggers and dog walkers. Picnicking can take place at Hills Grove, Wilson's or Rock Ridge areas, which feature seating, grills, playgrounds and (very clean) restrooms. Before heading home, visitors would be wise to stop by the "King and Queen's Seat," which is a famous rock formation that has been privy to many photo ops during its long lifespan.
Tracy Dye currently resides in Baltimore city, where she enjoys writing prolifically on topics ranging from food to dating advice and everything in between. Writing is Tracy's happy place, particularly when it is accompanied by a large cup of coffee. Read more on Examiner.com.
