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For many tourists who want to kick back and absorb the tranquility of nature, having a picnic in Central Park is a popular choice. Considering that Central Park sprawls from 59th St to 110th St, the options for picnic spots are endless. Finding your perfect corner or the right store to buy a scrumptious meal might be challenging for tourists, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s start with the basics: food. Hotel Beacon guests have two excellent markets just around the corner: Fairway and Citarella. If you want to splurge on a one-of-a-kind picnic experience you should check out Perfect Picnic NYC. This company sells ready-made picnic packages to suit every budget.

Now that you have your food neatly packed in a basket, here’s our selection of top picnic spots.

Romantic picnic

Walk hand-in-hand with your significant other and head to the Ladies Pavilion, located on the West side at 75th St. This secluded corner overlooks The Lake and is particularly stunning in spring when cherry blossoms line the path leading up to it. Another option is to pick your favorite patch of grass in front of Bow Bridge, considered by many as the most romantic bridge in Central Park!

Active picnic

If you want to combine a meal outdoors with physical activities, the Great Lawn is the place to be. The 55-acre open area is ideal for organizing games or sports. Unlike Sheep Meadow, the Great Lawn doesn’t have “quiet zones,” so you can laugh and cheer as loud as you want. It’s located right in the middle of Central Park, between 79th and 85th St.

Relaxing in a rowboat

Try something different and rent a rowboat in Loeb Boathouse at East 72nd St. Why not pack a lunch and eat it while gliding across The Lake? This is a great idea if you don’t want to stay in just one place – you could see some of Central Park’s most beloved sights.

Gourmet picnic

When all you really want is a New York City culinary experience, go to Zabar’s, 2245 Broadway at 80th St. To feel like a New Yorker, you have to eat like one, and Zabar’s sells top-notch food baskets that could be transformed into a great picnic. Choose between their famous bagels, smoked salmon, deli meats, cheese and baked goods. The options are endless!

People-watching

Nature is beautiful, but it can also bite, itch and scratch. If you still want a picnic experience in Central Park but would rather sit on a bench, head to Bethesda Fountain at 72nd St. Movies and TV series have made this location one of the most famous spots in Central Park, so there will be plenty of opportunities to people-watch while savoring your lunch.

Luckily for Hotel Beacon guests, we are located just three blocks from Central Park. What are you waiting for? Get a basket, grab some food and enjoy!