Six Local Parks for Your Next Summer Picnic
As the weather warms and native trees reach their peak vibrancy, few other areas match Arlington’s natural beauty. And with a host of idyllic parks and picturesque gardens located just around the corner from Westmont Apartments, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a picnic in one of these inviting locales. Whether you’re searching for the perfect spot beneath the shade of towering oaks, or seek a more vibrant location along the Potomac’s riverfront, the Arlington area offers a wide array of inspired park settings for your next summer picnic.
Virginia Highlands Park
A nearly 20-acre park packed with recreational opportunities, this location presents lighted tennis courts and basketball courts, a natural grass community field, synthetic field, sprayground, pétanque courts, and a dog run. Located a short distance from Westmont Apartments, Virginia Hgihlands Park is the go-to summer spot for outdoor enjoyment and celebratory picnics with friends. Don’t forget to bring the dog!
What to Pack: A picnic to be enjoyed on a blanket in the grass with friends.
601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203
Bluemont Park
This green retreat is perfect for those looking to mix some recreation into their picnic experience. Abound with picturesque streams, trails, sports courts, and much more, this beautiful 51-acre park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy the area’s inspired scenery. With access to the W&OD Trail, Westmont residents can easily hit the trail and explore all of Arlington.
What to Pack: A feast fit for a day full of exhilarating outdoor activities.
601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203
Bon Air Park
Come for the flowers but stay for the charcoal grills at this stunning park and garden. Perfect for those who prefer to picnic at a more leisurely pace, this park’s ornamental trees and flowering bushes provide a romantic setting for enjoying a meal in the shade. At 24-acres, this location presents a plethora of walking paths, picnic areas, and grills, so you can find the perfect spot.
What to Pack: A romantic meal to be enjoyed amongst the flowers.
850 N Lexington St, Arlington, VA 22205
Image by Elman Studio
Alcova Heights Park
Located right around the corner from Westmont Apartments, this 13-acre park features a picnic shelter with grills and restrooms, a playground, sports courts, and a diamond field. An ideal local spot for dog owners, this scenic spot provides plenty of shade along the stream, plus plentiful open grass area for running around. Meet up with friends and neighbors to enjoy the picnic shelter’s grills and tables, easily accessed by bike from Westmont.
What to Pack: A picnic that’s great for grilling and ideally dog-friendly.
901 South George Mason Drive, Arlington, VA 22204
Gravelly Point
One of Northern Virginia’s most iconic picnic spots, Gravelly Points sits between the Potomac River and George Washington Parkway, just north of Reagan International Airport. This unique location offers unparalleled views of planes as they take off and land at the neighboring airport, with plenty of space to lounge in the grass or eat at the picnic tables.
What to Pack: A daytime picnic that lives up to this location’s drama.
Gravelly Point, Arlington, VA 22202
Theodore Roosevelt Island
While there may be a lack of picnic tables or open fields in this historic location, the plaza provides several benches perfect for enjoying the picturesque and peaceful surroundings. With towering trees and memorial stone surrounds, this idyllic spot offers a unique respite from the bustle of downtown DC.
What to Pack: A modest picnic that’s easy to enjoy on the go.
Theodore Roosevelt Island, Washington, DC
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Weaving along the banks of the Potomac River, Georgetown Waterfront Park stretches from 31st Street to the Key Bridge and links 225 miles of parkland. Beloved for its notable design elements, including a labyrinth, fountain, river steps, pergola, rain gardens, and flowering pollinator gardens, this park provides a lovely riverside setting on the edge of the city.
What to Pack: A hardy meal that will get you through a day full of excitement.
Wisconsin and K St, NW Washington, DC