Grab your picnic blanket and get to know the ‘burbs one picnic spot at a time.
Want to make your suburbs search a bit more fun for the kids? Add in a picnic. While fall is definitely here, the next few weeks are the perfect time to stock up on local snacks or lunchtime favorites, then head to a park or playground to relax and enjoy. While you’re picnicking, don’t be afraid to chat with other local families, and get a feel for the neighborhood.
Here are a few picnic spots in the Boston suburbs to check out. Which are the Best Picnic Spots in the Boston Suburbs?
#1. Hingham
This South Shore town is home to the scenic Weir River Farm. On Thursday nights from June to October, bring the family for a sunset picnic. Before settling in to listen to the live music, consider taking a walk on one of the farm’s trails or stop by the market to pick up some seasonal produce, cheese, or jam — or grab food from a local food truck or brewery pop-ups nearby.
No doubt your kids will fall in love with farm life during your visit — so why not take them back to pitch in with the chores? This unique event helps them learn about farm life and gives them some hands-on experience collecting eggs and feeding ponies.
#2. Scituate
Peggotty Beach is a favorite picnic spot among Scituate locals. This ½-mile sandy beach is perfect for short strolls — even dogs can join in during the off-season — and laid-back picnics. Grab lunch from Maria’s Pizza & Subs on your way. This casual family-run spot has been around for 50 years and tops countless must-try lists.
Maria’s is just one of the great spots in Scituate Harbor. Residents know this is the place to go for cultural events like art walks, concerts, car shows, and holiday festivals.
#3. Which are the Best Picnic Spots in Norwell?
Norwell is home to more than one amazing picnic area. At Norris Reservation, even your (leashed) pup is invited to join in on the fun. Set up at one of the picnic tables or lay down your blanket on the riverbank. Keep an eye out for beavers or waterfowl while you eat al fresco.
Jacobs Pond Conservation Area is another amazing picnic spot (and park!) in town. Here you’ll find picnic tables, hiking trails plus kayak and canoe launches. With Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Stop and Shop nearby, you won’t have any trouble finding picnic goodies. If you’d rather try a local eatery, visit Cedar Cafe for Mediterranean wraps and salads.
#4. Sharon
When you’re getting to know Sharon, make sure to check out Ward’s Berry Farm. This family-run farm has it all from kids’ play areas to picnic spots to, of course, farm animals. You can even pick your own fruit when it’s harvest season. If you need to fill out your picnic, stop by the deli counter or smoothie bar at the farm store.
Borderland State Park is another great outdoor option. As the name suggests, this park is shared with the neighboring town of North Easton. Be sure to stop by Stonebridge Cafe for a taste of the local food scene before finding your picnic spot. In addition to picnicking, you can go for a hike, tour a historic mansion or go finishing in the pond
#5. Natick
The Lookout in Natick offers more of a dining experience than your average picnic. Make a reservation online or simply visit the walk-up Snack Shack or Beer Garden. As you enjoy a farm-fresh meal or local brew you can take in the stunning views over the farmland.
After your picnic, stroll through the orchard, pick your own produce or visit the farm stand to bring some treats home. The littles will also love getting to take a ride on the Busy Bee.
#6. Concord
This historic town is just 25 miles northwest of Boston and is well known for its early American history. Not only is it heavily connected to the Revolutionary War, but it inspired Henry David Thoreau to write his famous book, Walden.
Today you can still visit Walden Pond (and see if inspiration strikes!). On your way, pick up a farm-to-table meal at Saltbox Kitchen before taking the family to the pond for a picnic and, if weather permits, a quick dip.
Another one of our favorite Concord spots? Nashoba Brook Bakery, well known for its amazing fresh bread. Swing by, grab a loaf (and some homemade soup!), then settle in at one of the cafe’s outdoor tables overlooking Nashoba Brook.
#7. Wakefield
Wakefield families know that Lake Quannapowitt is the place for outdoor fun — think sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, for starters. Bring the kids for a picnic on the shore or take a walk on the nearly four-mile paved path that circles the lake.
Visiting on a Saturday from June to October? Check out the Wakefield Farmers Market for picnic fare. Otherwise, stop by The Bread Shop for sandwiches made with artisan loaves.
#8. Marblehead
If Marblehead is on your list, you’ll want to check out some of the town’s beaches, including Devereux Beach. Bring a picnic blanket and hunker down at one of the beach’s many picnic tables — and, during warmer months, take a quick dip before digging into a spread from Neck Run Cafe. If it’s the off-season, pick up sandwiches at Shubie’s Marketplace on your way to the beach.
#9. Manchester-by-the-Sea
As you explore this North Shore ‘burb, check out Masconomo Park. It’s close to the train station and is home to tons of fun things to do including youth sports, a bandstand that hosts concerts throughout the year, and plenty of parks and picnic spots. For your picnic fare, stop by Cala’s Restaurant for everything from tacos to clam chowder.
#10. Ipswich
The Castle Hill Picnic Concerts are a huge hit with Ipswich locals during the summer. Families lay out their blankets and enjoy live music alongside eats and drinks from local vendors.
But this isn’t the only picnic option in Ipswich. There’s also Crane Beach, where you can picnic with ocean views before heading out on a kayak. Stop by the Crane Beach store to stock up for your meal. We also have to mention Woodman’s of Essex. It may be in the town over, but this is a favorite with locals for fried clams and lobster rolls. Plus, Woodman’s has picnic tables so you can enjoy your seafood in the fresh air.
No matter your family’s priorities, we’re here to help you find the suburb that checks all of your boxes. Schedule your FREE Suburb Strategy Session today to get started.