Maryland is a beautiful state. Here are some of the best places for a picnic to enjoy over the long, balmy days of summer. Picnics offer a wonderful way to bask in the region’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a serene waterfront spot, a historical backdrop, or a lush park, the DMV region offers many idyllic locations for summer picnics. There is a perfect picnic spot for every preference. So, pack your basket, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the joy of outdoor dining while savoring the warmth and splendor of a DMV summer.
Don’t forget to “leave no trace” of your picnic, taking all of your trash and personal property with you when you are done.
Here are the top 12 suggestions for great picnic spots in the DMV region. Most of these sites do not allow cooking. Try a state or county park if you want to bring your grill with you.
Great Picnic Spots in the DMV
By the Water
Crystal Beach
Earleville, Maryland
Crystal Beach is a hidden gem along the Chesapeake Bay. This peaceful beach offers picnic spots with panoramic water views, making it an excellent place for a seaside picnic. Parking is $10/car on weekends. $5 during the week.
11 Park St., Earleville, MD. 21919
visitmaryland.org
Downs Park
Pasadena, Maryland
Five miles of paved and natural trails wind through the woods at Downs Park. There’s a children’s playground, a fishing pier, and amazing views of the Chesapeake Bay. $6/car.
8311 John Downs Loop, Pasadena
aacounty.org
Lake Roland
Baltimore, Maryland
Formerly known as Robert E. Lee Park, Lake Roland offers peaceful picnic areas amidst woodlands and along the lake. It’s a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature. There are hiking trails and a dog park. Free.
1000 Lakeside Dr, Baltimore, MD
lakeroland.org
Rocky Gap Casino
Flintstone, Maryland
Located on the shores of Lake Habeeb, Rocky Gap Casino offers a peaceful setting for a picnic. You can rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely float on the lake before or after your picnic. Free.
16701 Lakeview Rd NE, Flintstone, MD 21530
wheelzupadventures.com
Solomons Island
Solomons, Maryland
Located at the confluence of the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay, Solomons Island offers waterfront picnic spots, charming shops, and restaurants. You can combine your picnic with a stroll along the town fishing pier. Free.
Town Center Park: 13300 Dowell Rd, Dowell, MD 20629
calvertcountymd.gov
Historic Sites
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Baltimore, Maryland
This historic site offers waterfront picnic areas with views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Enjoy your picnic while soaking in the rich history and scenic surroundings. Admission is $15/person ages 16 and up.
2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore
nps.gov
Concord Point Lighthouse
Havre de Grace, Maryland
Situated at the confluence of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay, Concord Point Lighthouse provides a historic backdrop for a picnic. You can enjoy the waterfront views and visit the second-oldest lighthouse in Maryland. Free.
700 Concord St, Havre De Grace
concordpointlighthouse.org
Historic Sotterley
Hollywood, Maryland
Set on a farm with 20 authentic structures and a scenic plantation, Historic Sotterley offers picnic spots overlooking the Patuxent River. You can enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful grounds and explore the historic buildings, and learn about sustainable farming practices. $10/adult. $6/youth.
44300 Sotterley Ln. Hollywood
sotterley.org
Gardens
Brookside Gardens
Wheaton, Maryland
Public Park, no alcohol, picnics welcome. There are beautiful gardens surrounding a Japanese Tea House. There are also lots of benches under shade trees or in the rose garden if you don’t want to spread a blanket on the ground. Free.
1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton
montgomeryparks.org
Cylburn Arboretum
Baltimore, Maryland
This 200-acre oasis has beautiful gardens, native flowers, and more than three miles of trails. Spread a blanket on the grass for a picnic or use one of the tables randomly placed throughout the arboretum. Dogs on a lease are allowed. Free.
4915 Greenspring Ave, Baltimore
cylburn.org
Ladew Topiary Gardens
Monkton, Maryland
This enchanting garden features whimsical topiary displays and serene picnic areas. You can explore the beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy a picnic in a unique setting. Pets are not allowed. Admission: adults $17, children $5
3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton
ladewgardens.com
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
45 ponds, a marsh, an elevated boardwalk, and short trails through the woods sit on the 8.5 acres of Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. The park is a wonderful sanctuary for bird watching. Dogs are allowed on a leash. Free
Anacostia Bike Trial connects to Kenilworth Park
1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC
nps.gov
These suggestions were made via the members of our Facebook Group: Things To Do in Maryland and provide a diverse range of picnic spots in the DMV region. Enjoy your picnicking adventures!