5 Places to Picnic (Off the Beaten Path) in Cincinnati

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5 Place to Picnic1. Fernbank Park (West Side)
I’ve talked to West Siders who haven’t even been to this amazing park nestled next to the Ohio River. Walking Paths, picturesque view of the Ohio, an awesome and shaded playground, picnic tables, what’s not to love here? 1.2 mile paved trail, 1 mile Sycamore nature trail, and access to fishing on the Ohio River. Perfect spot to work up an appetite and enjoy a lovely, scenic picnic.

2. Bellevue Park (Central)
One of the best views of the city–reminiscent of the Museum Center miniature Cincinnati display. A fun, Space Race era shaded area, a playground, and a stellar view of OTR and downtown. I’ve never seen this place crowded. Grab some food at Findley Market and head on up the hill for an easy spur of the moment picnic.

3. Woodland Mound Park (East Side)
For those of you on the East Side, this is an awesome place to pack a picnic lunch. Spray ground (Parky’s Wetland Adventure), playground, walking paths, disc golf, grassy and wooded trails, and a terrific view of the Ohio River. Also a boat launch ramp to the Ohio River–you can purchase a permit at the visitor center. Definitely worth a day. Note that this park does have a fee–you will need a park pass ($10 annually, or $3 for the day). Also a charge for the Splash Park (Ages 2-12 are $3.50 each or $8.00 for 3 children. Season wristband is $24. Open daily 11AM to 7PM until August 21st. Then only weekends until Sept. 5th).

4. Hueston Woods State Park (North)
For those of you up north, and those of you willing to drive a little bit, this park is totally worth it. A beautiful lake for swimming with a playground right next to it, miles of trails for hiking, biking, horse back riding, and not far from Oxford, so you can totally stop for ice cream on the way home. Or you can stay and camp! There’s also an archery range, boating, disc golf, a dog park, fishing, volleyball courts, and bike rentals. Nothing better than a picnic lunch after a nice long swim!

5. George Rogers Clark Park (NKY)
This quaint little park boasts one of the most spectacular views of the Cincinnati skyline. Located in DURB (Down Under the Roebling Bridge), you’ll find lots of shade, plenty of green grass, and serenity making this is a perfect place to just relax for a little picnic. Afterwards, you can walk off your lunch by crossing the Roebling Bridge and playing at Smale Park!

*BONUS*

Devou Park (NKY)
The view at Devou Park is not exactly a secret. But, the new Playscape behind the Behringer-Crawford Museum seems to still be! Head on over to the free park, tucker your kids out, and then drive up the hill for a picturesque picnic. You definitely can’t go wrong. And if you time it correctly, you may even be able to check out one of the concerts at the amphitheater–picnic dinner anyone?

Some Easy Picnic Tips

You really can bring any food items on a picnic. I’ve brought quiche, sandwiches, fruit salads, pasta dishes, cheese, crackers, and grapes, green salads, grilled veggies… So many great options! And I always pack a little something for dessert–Buckeyes are my picnic favorite!

WHAT TO pACKLet us know where you go!

 

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