Summer as here and it's time to plan for your next family picnic! Here are the 16 best picnic spots in the Chicago area for you to visit. Choose a location based on the view, the availability of grills, or the nearby activities. Try one or try them all!

---

Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N. Stockton Dr., Chicago
The Lincoln Park Conservatory is another unique spot for a picnic. The lush indoor gardens provide a tranquil backdrop for your meal, and you can explore the conservatory's many exhibits and galleries after you eat. Learn more...

---

Montrose Beach
4400 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Montrose Beach offers a fun beachy vibe for your family picnic. With sandy shores and stunning lake views, it's a popular spot for both picnics and beach parties. Plenty of picnic tables and grills make it a great place to stage your own cookout. Learn more...

---

Maggie Daley Park
337 E Randolph St., Chicago
Maggie Daley Park is a a playground paradise for kids and families. Bring your picnic and choose from one of several picnic areas, and afterwards the kids can explore the climbing wall and miniature golf course. Learn more...

---

Promontory Point
5491 S Shore Dr., Chicago
Promontory Point is a hidden gem located in the heart of Hyde Park. It's a secluded spot with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline where you can bring your picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Learn more...

---

Chicago Riverwalk
105 W to 485 East Riverwalk S., Chicago
The Chicago Riverwalk is an amazing setting for an urban, providing scenic views of the Chicago River and the skyline. You'll find several seating areas and benches along the riverwalk, making it an ideal spot for a midday break or an evening picnic. Learn more...

---

Oz Park
2021 N Burling St., Chicago
Oz park offers not only plenty of picnic tables, but a playground and splash pad for pre-picnic play. Featuring statues of characters from The Wizard of Oz, it's a unique spot in Lincoln Park to enjoy a picnic. Learn more...

---

Ping Tom Memorial Park
1700 S Wentworth Ave., Chicago
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Ping Tom Memorial Park provides beautiful views of the Chicago River from among its Asian-inspired gardens and offers a tranquil spot for your family picnic. Learn more...

---

Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago
Jackson Park is located on the South Side with views of Lake Michigan and of the Museum of Science and Industry. Find a picnic table, and BBQ on site using one of the available grills. Learn more...

---

Humboldt Park
1400 N Sacramento Ave., Chicago
Humboldt Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city's Puerto Rican community. With its lush greenery, lagoon and historic boathouse, it offers a beautiful setting for a picnic, and there are numerous picnic table and grills available. Learn more...

---

The 606
1805 N Ridgeway Ave, Chicago (with other entry points)
This 2.7-mile-long elevated trail runs through several Chicago neighborhoods and is a perfect stretch for a jog, bike ride, or stroller walk. Along the trail you'll fin plenty of benches and seating areas where you can stop and picnic, plus check out a variety of neighborhoods. Learn more...

---

Washington Square Park
901 N Clark St., Chicago
Washington Square Park - Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, this park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Learn more...

---

Navy Pier
600 E Grand Ave., Chicago
While you may only think of Navy Pier as a popular tourist destination, there is a great picnic area that provides stunning views of the lakefront. Bring your own picnic or pick up food from one of the many on-site options. After your picnic, take a ride on the Ferris wheel and check out the other attractions at the pier. Learn more...

---

North Avenue Beach
North Ave. at Lake Michigan, Chicago
North Avenue Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, but it’s also a great location for a beach picnic. The beach has several picnic tables and grills, as well as volleyball courts and a bike path. Learn more...

---

The Lakefront Trail
Along Lake Michigan, Chicago
For a picnic with a view, head to the Lakefront Trail. This 18-mile trail runs along the shore of Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of the city skyline and the lake. You'll find plenty of benches and seating areas along the trail. Learn more...

---

Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
Located in nearby Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a beautiful spot for a picnic. With over 385 acres of gardens and natural areas to explore, you can have a picnic in a variety of locations, including the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, or the Waterfall Garden. Learn more...

---

Gompers Park
4222 W Foster Ave., Chicago
This North Side park features a nature preserve and plenty of space for a picnic. Take a walk along the North Branch Trail or play a game of frisbee. Learn more...

---