Discover the best picnic spots around Atlanta and the metro area, from shaded urban oases to hidden gems with playgrounds and trails. Regardless of the location you visit, each one is perfect for family outings. We’ve got you covered with details on hours, rentals, and admission fees.
Piedmont Park
This 200-acre park has multiple picnic areas with scattered tables under oak trees near playgrounds. Group picnic spots feature reservable pavilions that include tables, grills, and electricity. Costs start around $75–$150 per rental, depending on size and duration. Pavilions accommodate 50–150 people and can be booked through their website.
Website: piedmontpark.org
Hours: Daily 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Admission: Free
Chastain Park
This Buckhead park features grassy areas near playgrounds, tennis courts, trails, and a golf course, ideal for active picnics. Picnic areas near playgrounds and trails have tables, while reservable shelters and pavilions are available for events. However, we suggest the park’s open lawns, which are ideal for blankets.
Website: buckhead.com/neighborhoods/chastain-park
Hours: Dawn to dusk (park); Arts Center varies, e.g., Mon/Fri 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Historic Fourth Ward Park
The BeltLine-adjacent park features a pond, splash pad, skate park, and climbing walls, alongside Ponce City Market eateries. Solar-powered shade sails provide cover over open meadows suitable for picnics, all free of charge. The nearby amphitheater hosts gatherings, enhancing the family picnic vibe.
Website: atlantabeltline.org
Hours: Daily 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Admission: Free
Brook Run Park
Dunwoody’s 110-acre haven includes playgrounds, a dog park, disc golf, a skate park, and pavilions amid fields and trails. The park has four reservable pavilions with picnic tables; sizes vary (small for 25–50 people, large for 100+), and each includes grills and electricity. Rental costs range from $50–$150 for a half-day to $75–$250 for a full-day, plus a deposit. The community garden views from the picnic areas add charm.
Website: https://www.dunwoodyga.gov/government/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks-facilities/brook-run-park
Hours: Dawn to dusk (no official close; skate park 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri/Sat)
Admission: Free (pavilion rentals extra)
Riverside Park
Riverside open spaces along the Chattahoochee offer picnic tables and shelters. Some areas feature covered shelters for groups near the playground and trails, which are free and can be reserved. Trails and river views make it ideal for picnics.
Website: https://www.visitroswellga.com/directory/riverside-park/
Hours: Daily 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (may vary seasonally)
Admission: Free
Stone Mountain Park
Studdard picnic area offers shaded tables and pavilions near trails. Multiple group shelters are available, but counts vary by season. Rentals cost $50–$200, depending on size, and require a $20–$35 vehicle parking pass for entry. However, tables in open areas are first-come, first-served. The pine-shaded spots accommodate large groups with access to the laser show in the evenings.
Website: stonemountainpark.com
Hours: Varies; generally 10 a.m.–dusk
Admission: $20–$35/vehicle parking pass
Candler Park
East Atlanta’s walkable neighborhood park has quiet lawns, tennis courts, fields, and movie nights. The family-friendly neighborhood vibe supports blanket picnics. The movie nights add evening picnic appeal.
Website: atlantaga.gov
Hours: Dawn to 11 p.m.
Admission: Free
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Shaded picnic areas at Sweetwater Creek have tables and grills, along with multiple shelters and group pavilions. Rentals range from $30–$100, plus a $5 vehicle entry fee. With tables scattered along trails, the park is ideal for canoe-adjacent lunches. Be on the lookout for Hunger Games filming spots while hiking to enhance the adventure!
Website: gastateparks.org/SweetwaterCreek
Hours: 7 a.m.–sunset
Admission: $5/vehicle
Peachtree Hills Park
The park boasts cozy areas with picnic tables near the playground and the garden. Even though the park has limited shelters, all are free. Tennis courts are nearby for active families, and views of seasonal produce enhance family picnics.
Website: atlantaga.gov
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Admission: Free
Whether you’re chasing skyline views at Piedmont Park or hidden trails at Sweetwater Creek, these Atlanta picnic spots deliver shaded bliss, kid-friendly play, and easy access for busy moms. Grab your cooler, check the weather, and create those sunny memories. Your family’s next favorite outing awaits right here in our backyard.
