Support Us Button Widget

How to plan a picture-perfect picnic in Raleigh

picnic copy

City Editors Cat + Anne enjoy a picnic planned by Southern Picnics. | Photo by RALtoday

Table of Contents

There’s nothing better than relaxing under blue skies and snacking on tasty food with friends.

Warm and sunny days have arrived in the City of Oaks, and we’re spreading out our blankets to help you plan a picture-perfect picnic.

🍇 Build your menu

Let’s talk charcuterie boards.

  • Alimentari at Left Bank, Transfer Co. Food Hall, 500 E. Davie St. | Fresh cuts of Italian meats + cheeses.
  • State Farmers Market, 1201 Agriculture St. | Local fruits, veggies, nuts, and cheeses.
  • Yellow Dog Bread Co., 219 E. Franklin St. | Pre-order bread, cookies, and other sweet and savory treats.
  • Raleigh Cheesy, 3075 Medlin Dr. | Choose from extra small to large custom cheese boards.

💐 Pick out the decor

  • Colorful blooms help set the scene for a pretty picnic — we love the bouquets at Fallon’s Flowers + Sola Coffee (from Split Acre Farm).
  • Don’t forget a blanket. Raleigh Denim Workshop has a unique quilt we’re eyeing.
  • Pick up some funky baskets + retro decorations from TrunkShow to complete your desired look
picnic 2

A Southern Picnics set up. | Photo by RALtoday

Photo by RALtoday

🌳 Choose the perfect spot

  • Flowers Field, Dix Park, 2105 Umstead Dr. | Select a shady spot on 11 acres of open rolling lawn with a downtown skyline view.
  • JC Raulston Arboretum, 4415 Beryl Rd. | Choose a serene spot among 8,000+ different types of plants. Read about the arboretum’s history here.
  • Museum Park, NCMA, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd. | Surround yourself with art and nature; cool off in the museum.
  • Raleigh Rose Garden, 301 Pogue St. | Sit among a variety of blooming roses, trees, and perennials.

🧺 Picnicking hacks

If you just want to show up, one of these planning companies will set the scene for you.

Bonus: Don’t forget to grab sunscreen, bug spray, and a camera to capture the memories (you’ll thank us later).

Remember to use #RALtoday when you post your picnic pictures for a chance to be featured on our page.

More from RALtoday
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Raleigh?
Downtown Cary Park is celebrating its first birthday with a day of family-friendly events.
Barking Dog NYC is set to make its North Carolina debut in the Park District of North Hills. Pup parents are welcome to bring their furry friends along, too.
Hit the road and head to Roanoke, Virginia — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
Dreaming of free downtown parking? Snooze no longer — the City of Raleigh is launching a pilot program Friday, Nov. 15, and we’ve got the details you need.
Looking for things to do, but keep running across the same old stuff? Check out these local-approved (not-so) hidden gems.
Poole’s Diner, a Raleigh staple has opened and expanded into its new era.
College basketball is back, and NC State’s men’s and women’s teams are still riding the high of their Final Four performances last year. Here’s what you need to know in the early days of the 2024-25 season.
Fall colors are fun, but you have to get them out of your yard at some point. Here’s how leaves are collected in Raleigh, including important dates and pro tips.
Planning seasonal and annual photos can be a hastle — let us lessen the load and check out local photographers + photo spots for your holiday portraits.