The sun is shining (sometimes), and the weather is warming up (mostly), which has us ready to pack a picnic and head outside for the afternoon! You don’t need to plan much for a perfect picnic, but there are a couple things you should consider…
What you’ll eat
Obviously, the most important question: what are you going to eat? We love grabbing some picnic takeout on our way. Sandwiches and salads are classic choices, but get creative! How about a pre-made charcuterie board from locals like Modern Charcuterie or Ali Marie Charcuterie? Or pick a theme and then decide on food accordingly – like a breakfast picnic or a dessert picnic. Or the Care Packages from Allegheny Wine Mixer are basically like pre-made picnic boxes, AND they come with wine. Which leads us to…
What you’ll drink
The second most important question! Here are a few of our favorite local wineries. And you can’t really walk through a Pittsburgh neighborhood without finding a brewery anymore – so there is always somewhere new to try. Cocktails-to-go are perfect for a picnic, too! Here’s a list we made almost a year ago, so double check menus to make sure they’re still being offered. We also love any kind of refreshing drink for a picnic, so we’re excited to try Personal Day Hard Seltzer soon. Not into alcohol, or picnicking somewhere that doesn’t allow it? Our go-to is an Arnold Palmer – half iced tea, half lemonade.
Where you’ll go
There are so many parks in and around Pittsburgh, and pretty much all of them are great for picnics. As long as you have a patch of grass for a blanket and some shade or sun, you’re good to go! Or hop on your bike, pick up some takeout as you ride, and eat on a green patch along the trail – the Point is great for a break – or just in your tailgate after you’re done. If you want to travel outside the city to make an afternoon of it, we love visiting Ohiopyle.
Tell us your picnic favorites! Food, drinks, spots – we want to hear it all in the comments!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
