With late August’s breezy days and dipping temperatures, a picnic in the park is a wonderful way to say farewell to summer and hello to fall. With that in mind, we’ve put together an ultimate guide to picnic-ing in the park to help you decide where to go, what to bring, eat and drink and how to have some fun in the late-summer sun. Happy picnicing!
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Where to Go: First things first, pick a destination! Check out our round-up of lesser known picnic locales in city parks in all five boroughs; with picturesque destinations at parks like The High Line, Brooklyn Bridge Park and Hudson River Park (each with its own scenic views, charm and plenty to do!) we’re sure you’ll find the perfect spot for your leisurely lunch.
What to Bring: While a traditional wood and wicker basket is a classic choice, we also love the stylish and very functional Collapsible Insulated Basket by Picnic At Ascot. In a cool apple green color, filled with pockets and insulated to keep your food and drinks chilled, it’s a perfect, all-purpose basket.
What To Do: Chances are your kids will be content to sit on a comfy blanket and eat, read and play. But if in the event that your serene family picnic turns into a temper tantrum, here are a few easy ideas to keep the kids happy and entertained for hours.Adults Only:
If you're thinking about packing a picnic
for your next date night with your main squeeze, we've also consulted a local
wine expert for a few inexpensive and delicious summer wines to bring along; here are his picks for some inexpensive but delicious summer wines (after the jump.)
Wine and Spirit Consultant at Astor Wines & Spirits shares his picks for the best wines for summer picnics, all of which can be purchased online or in the store (at 399 Lafayette Street in Soho.) Happy sipping!
Reds:
Brun
“This wine
is light-bodied and juicy, and this one is brimming with red
fruit."
Chermette", Vissoux: 2008; $15.99
“Brimming with bright, fresh, red raspberry
fruit, this is a thirst%u2011quenching wine of purity and finesse. It absolutely
shines!”
Rosés:
“A truly special dry rosé, with aromas of fresh
peaches and strawberries, and even a bit of pineapple flavor on the palate. “
Paumanok Rosé: 2009; $12.99
“A
spritzy acidity and aromas of cherries and strawberries.”
Whites:
“This is a beautiful example in the classic
Chablis style. Full of freshness, fruit and finesse."
Viognier, Ch. Massiac; 2009; $12.99
“A fresh and lively example of Viognier that
offers an array of both stone and tropical fruits on the nose. Perfect for
summer sipping.”
