5 Perfect Picnic Spots in Dallas
Sunny skies and green space awaits - just bring your own basket!
While Dallas has certainly earned the title of Best International Skyline – thanks, USA Today! – there's so much more to Dallas than skyscrapers and tall buildings. Step into some fresh air and get to know the spacious green spaces around the city. From Downtown spots like Klyde Warren Park and Main Street Garden to neighborhood finds like Bachman Lake Park, there's plenty to choose from for an afternoon picnic.
1. Flagpole Hill Park is a staple of East Dallas with plenty of space to spread out, designated picnic areas and an amazing view of Downtown from the top of the hill.
Pick up lunch at: Havana Café
This Cuban restaurant owned by Ernesto Velez of Holquin, Cuba has been a Dallas favorite for many years thanks to their generous offerings of café Cubanos and a diverse range of Cuban cuisine.
2. It's easy to see why Bachman Lake Park is so popular on weekend: built-in grills for a cookout, picnic tables to fit the whole family, a children's playground and beautiful views of the lake. Get there early to get a good spot.
Pick up breakfast from: Zaguan
Who doesn't love sweets for breakfast? Pick up half a dozen of the chocolate croissants and your favorite flavored coffee. Leave room for a cachapa, a sweet corn turnover stuffed with your choice of veggies and/or meats.
3. Kiest Park in the heart of Oak Cliff offers a 2.8-mile walking trail, playgrounds, a formal garden and a picnic area. There's also fields for a variety of sports, so come ready to play softball, sand volleyball, baseball, basketball, soccer or tennis.
Pick up an afternoon snack at: Panaderia Vera
Make a stop at this traditional bakery in Oak Cliff and try a piece (or two) of pan dulce. The conchas or gingerbread marranitos go perfectly with an afternoon latte.
4. The Dallas Arboretum is the queen of city parks. There is an admission charge, but the price is worth the perfect idyllic spot for a romantic picnic overlooking the lake, surrounded by beautiful flowers. Did we mention it's BYOB?
Pick up picnic treats at: Torchy's Tacos
From breakfast tacos to that can't-have-enough queso, this laid-back spot will hit the spot. Finish off with an order of Lil' Nookies, deep friend chocolate chip cookies dusted with powdered sugar, to satisfy your sweet tooth.
5. If the Arboretum is the queen, White Rock Lake Park is the duchess. With access to picnic areas with stone tables, children's playground, walking and bike paths, and water sports like kayaking, this park is the perfect sport for people who like to spend time outside and get to know Dallas like a local.
Pick up lunch at: Latin Deli
Start the day strong with a breakfast sandwich or a sweet or savory crepe. Locals rave about their homemade fries and the entire selection of pastries, so indulge.
