Soak Up the Sun at Chicagoland’s Best Family Picnic Sites

Nothing quite says a simple sunny day like a picnic with your littles. Whether spread out in the backyard over a plaid blanket with throw pillows for comfy seats, set up at a park on a picnic table or in beach chairs with your toes digging in the sand, there are so many places to enjoy a good summer picnic. 

Plan your menu and fill your picnic basket, then head to one of these gorgeous spots to savor a glorious summer day. We listed some of our favorite family picnic spots in Chicago and the suburbs, as well as our top tips for picnicking with kids. Happy picnicking!

This article was recently updated on March 5, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her checking the latest information on picnic locations and adding more tips when planning a picnic with kids, aligning with Chicago Parent’s mission to provide the top parenting resources for local families. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.

Best family picnic spots in Chicago

Adler Planetarium

• Address: 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

It’s no surprise that the planetarium’s spectacular grounds constantly attract wedding parties as it’s considered one of the most magnificent city backdrops. You’ll find plenty of other picnic-goers watching the boats go by and taking in the view of Lake Michigan.

Margaret Donahue Park

• Address: 1230 W. School St., Chicago

This popular Lakeview park features a Chicago skyline-themed playground, expansive Cubs-emblazoned turf field, splash pad with all the bells and whistles, shaded picnic tables and grassy areas.

Ping Tom Memorial Park

• Address: 1700 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago

Amidst Chinese design elements and a lovely view of the river, this 17-acre outdoor haven is a popular locale for concerts and movies. Plus, there are ample areas to picnic with friends and a playground for kids.

Best family picnic spots in North/Northwest Suburbs

Ravinia Festival

• Address: 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park

Shake your groove thing with a dance party on the grass. Ravinia’s summer concerts for kids are the best place to picnic while listening to your favorite tunes. 

Ned Brown Preserve

• Address: North Arlington Heights Road, Elk Grove Village

More commonly known as Busse Woods, this 3,558-acre offers so much land to explore for the perfect picnic spot. You might be lucky enough to see a few model airplanes flying around! Boating and lake centers are open select days and masks are required in indoor spaces.

Independence Grove

Address: 16400 W. Buckley Road, Libertyville

The trip to Libertyville will be worth the drive once you see this spot’s breathtaking nature views. Set up your picnic near the Children’s Grove, an accessible playground where the kiddos can run around.

Best family picnic spots in South Suburbs

Harvester Park

• Address: 15W400 Harvester Drive, Burr Ridge

This multi-age playground has a large tree house and a mini ravine for sand play. Set up lunch at one of the picnic tables or on the grassy fields. Located right off I-55, it’s a convenient spot for friends venturing from the city or ‘burbs. 

Wampum Lake Woods

• Address: 598 Thornton Lansing Road, Thornton

This location has always been a popular fishing lake. Get your family hooked on fishing or simply take advantage of the four large groves available for picnicking.

Centennial Park

• Address: 7800 W. 171st St., Tinley Park

The largest park in Tinley Park gives you many options for your next picnic outing. After eating, take a scenic walking path or check out the Extreme Skate Park. Verify building closures before you go and maintain social distancing while in the park.

Best family picnic spots in Western Suburbs

The Morton Arboretum

• Address: 4100 IL-53, Lisle

Yes, you have to pay for admission to get in, but we promise that a visit to The Morton Arboretum is always a great idea on a beautiful sunny day. The arboretum has plenty of space to find a picnic spot and while you’re there, make sure to explore the Children’s Garden for some fun interactive activities.

Batavia Riverwalk

• Address: 100 N. Island Ave., Batavia

Located in downtown Batavia, take a stroll along a boardwalk leading to the North Point Pavilion with some great views of the Fox River. The Riverwalk is open for strolling, though patrons are encouraged to avoid congregating in groups.

Pottawatomie Park

• Address: 8 North Ave., St. Charles

Here’s another picnic spot located along the Fox River. Pottawatomie Park provides some great family-friendly fun including mini golf and a swimming pool. Note that some buildings and bathroom areas may be closed while reservations for putt-putt are recommended in advance.

Quick tips for family picnics

Picnics can be a relaxing way to enjoy a day outside with the family. But be warned: it only takes one simple mistake or leaving a few crucial items at home before your little one has a meltdown. Here are some tips and ideas for making picnicking a breeze with kids: 

• Check your selected location’s hours. Even parks that are open to the public generally close at sunset, and if you plan on having a picnic dinner, you don’t want to overstay your welcome and get caught in the dark. 
• Pack simple foods. Ideally ones that don’t require too many utensils or dishes to create. Look at our photo above to get some inspiration such as how we packed carrots and dip, and pre-layered our salads in Mason jars. If you still want to get creative, scoop marshmallows and chocolate chips in a banana, or create bite-sized Jell-o treats, poured into lemon peels.  
• Not a home chef? Skip the cooking altogether and pick up prepared foods like pasta salad, snack boxes, sandwiches, beverages and even desserts at your favorite grocer. 
• Don’t forget the plates and utensils. Use disposable ones for quick, mess-free clean up, or bring a separate bag you can use to store dirty dishes until you get home. Extra garbage bags never hurt, either. 
• Keep clean. Hand sanitizer, wet wipes and paper towels or napkins are essential, unless you want your kids wiping their messy hands (and mouths) on the grass. 
• Pack water — more than you think you’ll need. Enjoy a juice box, sweet drink or adult beverage with your picnic meal, but be sure to hydrate if you’re planning to spend the day outside. 
• Check the weather, dress accordingly and plan to spend some time in the sunshine. Wear hats and sunglasses, and apply plenty of sunscreen. It’s always best to stay out of the direct exposure to the sun to protect skin even with sunscreen.
• Bring a stroller or wagon. This will make it easy to load your picnic equipment, as well as make it simple to transport tired out kiddos back to the car. Speaking of equipment, having access to a picnic table is ideal, but not always an option. If you need a comfy seat, pack a camping chair or stroller. 
• Plan for fun! A picnic isn’t just about the yummy summer food. Bring some outside games, especially a ball or bubbles, or pick a location that’s near a playground, walking trails or other kid-friendly activities. 

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