20 Best Picnic Spots in Massachusetts 2025
New England is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities that draw visitors. One way to experience this natural beauty is to visit picnic spots in Massachusetts. There are various stunning picnic spots with rolling hills, sandy beaches, and lakes, where you can enjoy a relaxing day with family and friends.
The picnic spots cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you’re looking for a romantic place for two or a fun-filled family outing. From the historic sites of Boston to the scenic beauty of the Berkshires, Massachusetts consistently delivers an unforgettable experience.
20 Top Picnic Spots in Massachusetts
1. Boston Public Garden – Boston, Massachusetts
The Boston Public Garden is a beautiful picnic spot featuring diverse flora and fauna. Established in 1837, it was the first public botanical garden in America. The place includes over 80 species of trees, numerous flowering plants, and a pond.
This garden features a variety of beautiful spots to enjoy your picnic, including the famous Swan Boats. Strolling along the tree-lined pathways of this garden is perfect for visitors to enjoy the colorful plants. The place also features an activity area, including a playground for children.
Visiting this park will teach you a great deal about plants and other species. Visitors can also host private events, such as weddings and birthdays, here.
- Activities: Lagoon boat ride, Fountain show.
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Contact: (617) 635-4505
- Nearby Attractions: Boston Children’s Museum, Charles River Esplanade.
Address: 4 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02116
2. New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill – Boylston, MA
The New England Botanic Garden is home to over 3,000 plant species from around the world. The garden has been a popular tourist attraction since 1986. It’s been established by the Horticultural Society. It is excellent for picnics, enjoying the plants’ wonders, and learning about the natural world.
The current garden covers 171 acres and offers a pleasing view of formal and naturalistic gardens. It also showcases Farmer and the Fork café, a Garden Shop, strolling trails, and accessible pathways.
The Orangerie inside displays citrus trees, including lemons, limes, and grapefruits. Apart from its impressive plant collection, the garden hosts various events throughout the year, including exhibits, workshops, and concerts. People can book the venue for various corporate events and weddings.
- Activities: Plant shows, Musical bloom shows, Mystic-Magic-Monster show, September & October Grow With Us.
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.
- Contact: (508) 869-6111
- Nearby Attractions: EcoTarium, Live Action Escapes.
- Address: 11 French Dr, Boylston, MA 01505, United States
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3. Cochituate State Park – Natick, MA
Cochituate State Park is a transit-friendly, popular spot for picnics, outdoor recreation, and family fun. The park covers 625 acres and surrounds Lake Cochituate, a combination of 3 smaller ponds. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, and fishing. Grills, picnic tables, and several spots near the beach are also available. The park is pet-friendly.
The hiking and biking trails in the park offer stunning views of the three lakes and surrounding forests from different points. A 15-mile trail path covers farmlands, lakes, and woodland. The picnic ground has playgrounds, a horseshoe pit, and volleyball courts. Restrooms are present for further convenience. The park opens its gates to the public year-round, but dogs are allowed only in summer.
- Activities: Boating, Hiking, Canoeing and kayaking, Cross-country skiing.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: Sunrise till Sunset.
- Contact: (508) 653-9641
- Nearby Attractions: Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, Concord Museum
- Address: 43 Commonwealth Rd, Natick, MA 01760, United States
4. Halibut Point State Park – Rockport, MA
Halibut Point State Park is a transit-friendly, popular spot for picnics, outdoor recreation, and family fun. The park covers acres on the rugged coastline of Cape Ann, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. If the weather is clear, the Isles of Shoals are visible from the coast of New Hampshire and Mount Agamenticus.
This park has the world’s largest granite quarries. Visitors can learn about the quarrying industry’s history. Hikers can walk through the park’s rocky grounds. Facilities such as restrooms, visitor centers, and wheelchair accessibility provide further convenience. It’s a dog-allowed park.
- Activities: Fishing, Bird Watching, Educational Programmes.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 08:00 a.m. – Sunset.
- Contact: (978) 546-2997
- Nearby Attractions: Hammond Castle Museum, Cape Ann Museum.
- Address: Gott Ave, Rockport, MA 01966, United States
5. Heritage Museums & Gardens – Sandwich, MA
Heritage Museums & Gardens is renowned for its exceptional horticulture, rich history, and diverse art collections. It features several stunning gardens, exhibits, and collections. The gardens showcase a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. Visitors can choose where to have a picnic.
Charles Dexter bought this land more than a century ago. Now, the space gives a stunning display of blooms from mid-May to mid-June. The museum offers several exhibits, including “American Art & Carousel Gallery,” “Automobile Gallery,” and “Military Gallery.” Visitors can book the place to host private parties and events. Facilities such as food, drinks, and restrooms are there for extra comfort.
- Activities: Artworks exhibition, Burning of Wampanoag.
- Hours: Monday- Friday, Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. -02:00 p.m.
- Contact: (508) 888-3300
- Nearby Attractions: Sandwich Glass Museum, Plimoth Patuxet Museums.
- Address: 67 Grove Street, Sandwich, MA 02563
6. Hopkinton State Park – Massachusetts
Hopkinton is a large and stunning park spanning over 1,500 acres. It’s transit-friendly. Some popular recreational activities in this park are fishing, swimming, horseback riding, and hiking. The large garden has at least 300 picnic spots and one reservable picnic site with 100 grills.
Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats to explore the tranquil waters of the reservoir. Visitors enjoy fun activities year-round, such as snowmobiling and mountain biking. This park has wheelchair access, boat ramps, pavilions, and restrooms. Dogs and other pets are welcome.
- Activities: Sailing, Cross-country skiing, Horseback riding, Swimming, Kayaking, Fishing, Canoeing, Hiking, Snowmobiling.
- Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 08:00 a.m. – 07:00 p.m.
- Contact: (508) 435-4303
- Nearby Attractions: Concord Museum, Ashland State Park.
- Address: 164 Cedar St., Hopkinton, MA 01748
7. World’s End – Hingham, Massachusetts
World’s End is a 251-acre coastal nature preserve on a picturesque peninsula. Its stunning beauty is a perfect blend of nature, historical events, and entertaining activities. Visitors are captured by the serenity of rocky shores and a fantastic view of the Boston skyline.
The place works wonderfully as a picnic spot, where you can spread a sheet and enjoy the park’s breathtaking views. Its walking trails provide encounters with colorful wildflowers and shady woodlands with birdlife. Various activities are provided, including walking, hiking, and nature photography.
Special music performances by Peter Mulvey and Abbie Gardner are available to enjoy here. Additional services, such as benches and restrooms, are available for visitors here. Entry charges apply to non-trustee members: $8 on weekends/holidays, and $6 on weekdays.
- Activities: Hiking, Bird walks, Biking, Music Performance.
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 08:00 a.m. – Sunset.
- Contact: (617) 542-7696
- Nearby Attractions: Paragon Carousel, Boston Children’s Museum.
- Address: Martins Ln, Hingham, MA 02043, United States
8. Larz Anderson Park – Brookline, Massachusetts
Larz Anderson is Brookline’s biggest park, consisting of sports fields, sweeping hills, and broad lawns. From the park’s hilltop, visitors can get a stunning view of Boston. People go there for activities like stargazing, kite flying, and watching the sunset.
The park features rolling hills, manicured lawns, outdoor skating rinks, and neat pathways. It is perfect for picnics and strolls, and picnic tables and shelters are also available for a more sophisticated gathering. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy many park offerings, such as BBQ grills, Auto museums, restrooms, and an outdoor skating rink.
- Activities: Skating, Baseball, Softball, Dog walking, BBQ Grilling, Hiking.
- Hours: Monday- Saturday from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, Sunday from 7:00 am to 10:30 pm.
- Contact: (617) 730-2000
- Nearby Attractions: Metropolitan Waterworks Museum, Fenway Park.
- Address: 333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
9. Singing Beach – Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts
Singing Beach is a destination gem known for its natural beauty and half-mile-long sandy shores. The name Singing Beach is directly related to the sound the sand makes when it is dry. Apart from its enchanting audio production and scenery, it is also an excellent picnic spot for visitors.
The beach offers ample space to spread out a cozy picnic blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal. It is well-maintained and offers a variety of amenities to enhance the picnic experience.
Singing Beach provides clean restrooms, a bathhouse, outdoor showers, and a snack bar. It also has 120 parking spaces, a summertime boathouse, and a baby changing station. Dogs are allowed on the beach.
- Activities: Boating, Swimming.
- Hours: Memorial Day – Mid-June: 09:00 a.m.-05:00 p.m. (Saturday, Sunday Only; Weekdays: closed), Mid-June – Labor Day: 09:00 a.m.- 07:00 p.m. (daily)
- Contact: (978) 526-2019
- Nearby Attractions: Hammond Castle Museum, Salem Willows Park.
- Address: 119 Beach St, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944, United States
10. Minute Man National Historical Park – Lincoln, MA
Minute Man National Historical Park played an essential part in the American Revolution. This expansive park commemorates the events of the American Revolution, including the battles of Lexington. Apart from its historical importance, the park offers visitors beautiful landscapes, scenic trails, and three picnic areas. People can visit the structures of the first battle on April 19, 1775, here.
Minute Man National Historical Park is a historical location in the American Revolutionary War. You can eat a meal in the peaceful settings of the picnic spots. The park hosts numerous events year-round, including Patriots Day. The War Road trail connects Fiske Hill in Lexington to Meriam’s Corner in Concord by providing a hiking route. Other services, such as parking, restrooms, and water stations, are available at the site.
- Activities: Historical exhibitions and ranger activities.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.
- Contact: 978 369-6993
- Nearby Attractions: deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Concord Museum.
- Address: 210 North Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773
11. Ashland State Park – Massachusetts
Ashland State Park is the perfect recreation park to escape the daily hustle of city life and relax. It’s situated around the shores of 157 acres of Ashland Reservoir. This 470-acre park offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. The park provides different activities throughout the year. There are designated picnic areas with proper benches and chairs for comfort.
It further features several miles of trails that wind through forests, open fields, and the reservoir’s shoreline. The picnic zones offer ample space for families and friends to gather and enjoy together. Restroom facilities, transit-friendly amenities, wheelchair accessibility, a boat ramp, and grilling areas are also available. It’s a dog-friendly park.
- Activities: Hiking, Boating, Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing, Swimming, Mountain Biking.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, Dawn to Dusk.
- Contact: (508) 881-4092
- Nearby Attractions: Hopkinton State Park, Discovery Museum.
- Address: 156 W Union St, Ashland, MA 01721, United States
12. Maudslay State Park – Newburyport, MA
Maudslay State Park showcases 19th-century gardens, diverse plant life, grasslands, towering pines, and other natural features. It is an ideal location for a stroll, a bike trip, or a picnic. The Rose Garden is a popular spot among the gardens. It is filled with various fragrant roses in full bloom.
This historic site features an extensive network of trails that wind through the forest and open meadows, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The designated picnic sites are decorated with many picnic tables. Maudslay State Park extensively provides educational programs during the summer. Pets are allowed here.
- Activities: Mountain biking, cross-country skiing, Horseback riding, Educational Programs, Biking.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: Sunrise – Sunset.
- Contact: (978) 465-7223
- Nearby Attractions: Plum Island Lighthouse, Waterfront Park.
Address: 74 Curzon Mill Rd, Newburyport, MA 01950, United States
13. Dunn State Park – Gardner, MA
Dunn State Park offers a delectable destination with a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. This hidden gem offers a range of activities and landscapes spanning over 132 acres. From fishing to hiking to cross-country skiing, Dunn State Park offers activities that are accessible to everyone. The park centers around ponds, including Dunn Pond and Long Pond, which are attraction points during activities. Picnic areas here have tables and fireplace grills, providing convenient spots for everyone.
Basic amenities, including wheelchairs, restroom facilities, and parking, are also available here. In addition to the extended activities, the park strictly prohibits the use of alcohol and motorized boats. Dogs are allowed here.
- Activities: Fishing, Cross Country Skiing, Hiking, Boating.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: Sunrise – Sunset.
- Contact: (978) 632-7897
- Nearby Attractions: Fitchburg Art Museum, Coggshall Park.
- Address: 289 Pearl St., Gardner, MA 01440
14. Pope John Paul II Park – Boston, MA
Pope John Paul II Park is a dynamic and captivating urban retreat. This park offers a variety of engaging activities, stunning scenic views, and a vibrant atmosphere. The park’s waterfront area is a definite highlight. You can grab a fishing rod by the Neponset River, where various fish await the bait.
This dog-friendly park offers picnic areas with tables and open views. Visitors can bring their sheets and food and enjoy the spread with family while birdwatching. The place is easily accessible, with amenities such as washrooms, transit-friendly access, wheelchair accessibility, playgrounds, and free parking.
- Activities: Fishing, Hiking, Birdwatching.
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: Dawn to Dusk.
- Contact: (617) 727-6034
- Nearby Attractions: Adams National Historical Park, Castle Island.
- Address: Hallet Street, Boston, MA 02124
15. Bradley Palmer State Park – Topsfield, MA
Bradley Palmer State Park was a former estate with 721 acres of sunlit rolling meadows, walkways, and riding areas. Locals enjoy picnics under the tall trees here, which is a perfect holiday experience. The park has many historic sites, like elegant Tudor-style mansions from the 20th century. It is pet-friendly.
Families may enjoy the picnic spots, which are furnished with grills, tables, and chairs. The park offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors of all ages. Some are designed for picnics in secluded areas of the woods, while others are suited for grassy fields.
The park offers numerous amenities for locals, including pavilions, restrooms, wading pools, and wheelchair accessibility. Visitors can book the Willowdale Estate for weddings and events.
- Activities: Mountain biking, Horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, hiking.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: Sunrise – Sunset.
- Contact: (978) 887-5931
- Nearby Attractions: Wenham Museum, Salem Witch Museum.
- Address: 40 Asbury St, Topsfield, MA 01983
16. Auburndale Park – Auburndale, Massachusetts
Auburndale Park is a charming green space in Newton. It is situated along the banks of the Charles River, offering a peaceful environment. The multi-use recreation facility features tennis courts, basketball courts, and a baseball diamond. Picnic areas are available here, with grills, tables, and a lavatory. Two large picnic areas can accommodate up to 100 visitors at once.
The park offers stunning views of the Charles River and tree-lined shores, providing a picturesque backdrop for picnics. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are among the most exciting water sports for visitors.
Children can have fun in the park’s spacious playground area, which features swings, slides, and climbing frames. Restrooms and changing areas are conveniently accessible. This area is the only spot for skating on the Charles River. Schools can book picnic spots for different events.
- Activities: Fishing, Canoeing, Hiking, Tennis, Softball, Pickleball, Basketball, Skating.
- Hours: Monday- Friday: 08:30 a.m.- 05:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: closed.
- Contact: (617) 796-1500
- Nearby Attractions: Museum of Science, Boston Children’s Museum.
- Address: 104 W Pine St, Auburndale, MA 02466, United States
17. Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park – Uxbridge, MA
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park is a historical and picturesque park that provides a glimpse into the area’s industrial past and natural beauty. This 1,000-acre undeveloped land, bordering the Blackstone River, offers canoe access, fishing, hunting, biking, and equestrian riding. Its serene waters also provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
The park’s picnic areas are highly soothing, with benches and shade for a peaceful gathering. The park’s visitor center serves as an educational hub, offering exhibits and information about the river’s history. A network of scenic trails is visible and suitable for cycling or a challenging hike. Dogs are allowed, and wheelchair facilities are available. Car Parking is free in the park.
- Activities: Cross-country skiing, Horseback riding, Fishing, Hunting, Kayaking, Mountain Biking.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 06:00 a.m. – 07:00 p.m.
- Contact: (508) 278-7604
- Nearby Attractions: Southwick’s Zoo, Museum of Work & Culture.
- Address: 287 Oak St, Uxbridge, MA 01569, United States
18. Look Memorial Park – Florence, Massachusetts
Look Memorial Park is a private and nonprofit park with many recreational activities and beautiful landscapes. The park has lush green spaces, vibrant flower gardens, and peaceful walking paths. This 150-acre memorial park was a gift from Mrs. Fannie Burrfor to her late husband.
The park is ideal for picnics and family gatherings. Charcoal grilling and propane grilling are available for visitors to use during picnics. First, you must acquire a picnic permit from the authorities to enjoy a peaceful day. Visitors are permitted to bring tents, folding tables, and hammocks into the park.
There is a small zoo, playground, pedal boats, mini golf, a water park, and a steam train for kids to enjoy. The park also takes reservations for private parties, events, and weddings.
- Activities: Outings, Boating, trail riding, mini-golf, water activities.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 07:00 a.m.- Dusk.
- Contact: (413) 584-5457
- Nearby Attractions: Smith College Museum of Art, Holyoke Heritage State Park.
- Address: 300 North Main Street, Florence, MA 01062
19. Lake Onota – Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Lake Onota is a natural gem nestled in the heart of the Berkshires. This vast freshwater lake, spanning approximately 617 acres, is home to various activities and a well-liked vacation spot for both residents and tourists. Dense forests and beautiful hills encircle it.
The place offers a variety of activities, including boating, swimming, water skiing, and fishing. Picnic tables and picnic areas are also available, where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the view of the water. Boating enthusiasts can sail across in motorized boats, kayaks, canoes, or sailboats. The region’s unique flora and animals are displayed throughout the nature trails.
The famous “Live On The Lake” event in Pittsfield is held on the banks of this lake. Local Bands perform in this concert. Famous rowing clubs like The Williams Ephs Men’s and Women’s Crew row on this lake. Camp Winadu is also located here.
- Activities: Boating, Fishing.
- Hours: Monday -Friday: 08:30 a.m. – 04:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: closed
- Contact: 413-449-5600
- Nearby Attractions: Berkshire Museum, Hancock Shaker Village.
- Address: 70 Allen St., Pittsfield, MA. 01201
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20. Goodwill Park – Falmouth, Massachusetts
Goodwill Park is a well-known community park on Falmouth’s beautiful sandy beach. It has many recreational opportunities. It’s 86 acres of scenic landscapes, well-maintained amenities, and engaging activities have made Goodwill Park a cherished destination since 1892. This park features Grews Pond’s sole freshwater beach, which is terrific for swimming and fishing.
Moreover, the park includes a playground, picnic pavilion, grill, and access to Falmouth’s largest trail system. You can launch a kayak or canoe from the shore to explore the pond’s deeper waters. Fish, including trout, sunfish, yellow perch, and smallmouth bass, can be found in the pond. Restrooms are also available, and you can walk your dog here.
- Activities: Swimming, Freshwater Fishing, Hiking, Dog Walking, Geocaching, Birdwatching, Paddling, Trail Running.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 08:00 a.m. – Dusk
- Contact: 508-457-2543
- Nearby Attractions: The Knob, Spohr Gardens.
- Address: Goodwill Park Rd.., Falmouth, MA 02540
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Conclusion
The best picnic spots in Massachusetts offer scenic beauty, such as coastal beaches, serene lakeside parks, picturesque forests, and historic sites. These provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor gatherings and leisurely meals. For picnic lovers, Massachusetts offers peaceful retreats surrounded by nature, vibrant community atmospheres, or a combination of both.