We’ve forgotten how simple picnics can be and the local spots that are right near us in the Hudson Valley. Picnics bring all ages together from family members to friends and even romantic dates.

Over the years, picnics have upgraded from cold sandwiches and a thermos of iced tea to fancy cheeses and our favorite wines. It’s safe to say that we prefer the finer things in 2019, ha-ha.

I can’t think of anything better to do on a warm summer day than hang out under a shade tree with the perfect lunch. If you have a grill nearby, don’t forget that not only can you grill the traditional hot dogs and hamburgers but also fruit! I’ve been meaning to try my pineapple on the grill this entire summer. There are also other fruits and veggies that taste delicious grilled. I’ve recently read that fruits such as bananas, coconut, watermelon and peaches can be successful grilled. In addition to fruits, there are plenty of veggies that are grill-friendly such as zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes and peppers. If you’re planning this fun filled grill fest, be sure to bring a table cloth.

On another note, if you’re keeping your picnic alcohol free (props to you), I recommend trying fruit infused water simply by adding your favor fruit into some h20!

It’s also easy to turn the average picnic into a romantic date but don’t forget candles and pillows for the ultimate cuddle sesh. Along with picnicking during the day, some folks could even do so after an adventurous hike. If you enjoy hiking you can always find a spot with super cool views and a nice ending, be sure to pack light!

Just a reminder of what to pack, don’t forget the obvious sunglasses, sunscreen, blankets, bug spray and portable chargers to take our Instagram worthy pics, duh!

Lucky for us, there are plenty of spots in the Hudson Valley that can bring the picture perfect, picnic to life! Check out the following places that would make your summer day dream come true. Some of these sites I’ve personally visited and others are on my to-do list.

Dutchess County

  • Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, Val-Kill
  • Innifree Garden
  • Upper Landing Park
  • Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
  • Wilcox Park

Greene County

  • Kaaterskill Falls

Orange County

  • Beach at Greenwood Lake
  • Circleville Park
  • Newburgh-Algonquin Park
  • Storm King Art Center
  • Thomas Bull Memorial Park
  • Winding Hills County Park

Rockland County

  • Bear Mountain State Park
  • Harriman State Park

Sullivan County

  • Lake Superior State Park
  • Walnut Mountain Park

Ulster County

  • Ashokan Reservoir
  • Bellayre Beach at Pine Hill Lake
  • Franny Reese State Park
  • Minnewaska State Park Preserve
  • Mohonk Preserve
  • Opus 40
  • Saugerties Lighthouse

Be sure to leave a comment with your picnic adventures and where you have been along the way! :)

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