Flowers have awoken from slumber, a variety of birds are being sighted, and the kids are frolicking. This list of places to picnic in Detroit focuses primarily on beloved urban parks that have been around. Detroit has gorgeous views and natural sounds that inspire more green along with community cleaning. Places to picnic in Detroit include several you’ve probably heard of before because they continue to be areas people want to return to! Let’s keep making them as pleasing as can be. Bring out your adventurous spirit and enjoy these hidden and not-so hidden gems around the city of Detroit for the summer season.
New renovations on parks in Detroit are always good to hear. Several of these park areas bring more physical connectivity between each other. Some of these Detroit parks are more quiet than others, but they should all give visitors somewhat of a grounding experience that isn’t always felt in the concrete areas of the city. Pack up your favorite snacks, drinks, and more to make the experience cozy. Remember to bring utensils and proper cleanup readiness! Bring your dog too if you know you can.
Detroitsit rounded up a list of ideal destination places to picnic in Detroit. History lies in the names of these parks and other outdoor spots. Keep up with current park projects too.
BELLE ISLE PARK
If you’ve been in Detroit consistently over the last few years, then you’ve gotten to experience the bliss of Belle Isle Park’s several evolutions. If you’re looking for plenty of acres to unwind at, then the natural & cultural beauty of Belle Isle Park is the place for you. This 985-acre island park is located in the Detroit River near downtown Detroit. Peer out into the views of Detroit to the North and Canada to the south. Visitors can swim at the designated swim beach, ride bicycles, fish, paddle and more. Check out the many sites to see all within the vicinity: James Scott Memorial Fountain, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Ralph Wilson Gateway, and a golf course. Click HERE to view the website for more details.
Location: Pleasure Drive, Detroit (Detroit River near downtown Detroit)
PHOTO DETROIT RIVERFRONT CONSERVANCY
DETROIT RIVERWALK
The Detroit Riverwalk is an ideal place for people to picnic in Detroit as it offers beautiful views as you stroll along this scenic route. Not to mention, it was voted best in the country three years in a row by USA Today 10Best, connecting parks, greenways, and communities along the Detroit River. Pack whatever your heart desires and bring a blanket or portable chairs. Pick a day when you know it’s going to be nice enough to stay out long. Bike, walk, rollerblade, or skateboard! It’s best to arrive early, so you can secure a good location and get the most out of your environment. Click HERE for more information.
Location: Currently stretches almost five miles from Gabriel Richard Park on the east to Ralph Wilson Park west of downtown
RALPH C. WILSON JR. CENTENNIAL PARK, PHOTO KIM KISNER/DETROITISIT
RALPH C. WILSON JR. CENTENNIAL PARK
Places to picnic in Detroit include the latest Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park. More than just a place to chill, this new hotspot encompasses four distinct zones on the city’s Riverwalk: a play garden, water garden, summit, and sport pavilion with basketball courts. This park opened on October 25 of last year. Spend time exploring the 22-acres as you’ll notice the link between the major segment of the Riverwalk, to other greenways and city neighborhoods. Click HERE for more information.
Location: 1801 Jefferson Ave W., Detroit
GABRIEL RICHARD PARK
Places to picnic in Detroit highlight some of the best parts of the city without all of the buildings. Plan a day to head over to Gabriel Richard Park, which has transformed drastically since it’s opening in 2007. Located at the easternmost point of the Riverwalk, wander through the park’s best views of the Detroit Riverfront. Check out the beautiful fountain, lush landscaping, butterfly gardens, fishing outlooks, Labyrinth, and more. Lovingly supported by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, this spot continues to be cherished by all. Click HERE for more information.
Location: East of the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle (7650 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit)
BIKING ALONG THE DEQUINDRE CUT GREENWAY, PHOTO @DETROITRIVERFRONT ON INSTAGRAM
DEQUINDRE CUT GREENWAY
Dequindre Cut Greenway is known to be family and kid-friendly, including the trails. Take your snacks and free spirit along this urban pathway as you wind through residential neighborhoods as well as the Eastern Market and Riverfront area. The greenway features a 20-foot-wide paved pathway, which includes separate lanes for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. This is a prime location to be and move freely during the summer months. Enjoy the astounding urban artwork and graffiti. Click HERE to view the website for more information.
Location: Entrance ramps down to the pathway can be found at Gratiot Avenue, Woodbridge Street and Lafayette Street. Benches, stretches of grass and even street performers can be found along the way
ELLIOTT PARK
Places to picnic in Detroit include the completely renovated Mt. Elliott Park & Pavilion. Bring the children and their friends to this park on a sunny summer day where water-themed activities sound best. Hear laughter through the Great Lakes schooner-themed water feature with water cascades. This includes the “kid activated” water cannons, wind chimes, and many other fun things to tinker with. Experience the riverfront along with the stunning views of the Detroit River and Belle Isle. Click HERE to view the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy website for more information.
Location: 110 Mt Elliott St., Detroit
PALMER PARK
This list of places to picnic in Detroit features Palmer Park, which is one of the largest parks in Detroit and has evolved greatly over the past years through several community initiatives & investments. Palmer Park is the place to roam with 281-acres of woodlands, meadows, recreational areas and athletic fields. You’ll find a stunning historic log cabin, dog park, disc golf course, lake, and more. Check out the new full-sized and junior tennis courts, walkways, a playground, fitness zone, pavilion and plaza area, and park lighting. Click HERE to view the website for more information.
Location: 910 Merrill Plaissance in District 2-Detroit
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