Five scenic spots to enjoy an outdoor lunch.
As the sun shines brighter and the days get warmer, so does the anticipation for outdoor dining and picnicking season. Who can resist setting up a gingham blanket and wicker basket for a quintessential picnic vibe in the park, or grabbing some deli sandwiches to put in a cooler and relax on the beach, sticking toes in the sand and watching the sun set over the horizon? Nothing beats good food and clear skies with your pals, and luckily the North Fork has plenty of venues to choose from for your next picnic.
Mitchell Park Front St., Greenport
Enjoy the spectacular waterfront views of Mitchell Park in Greenport while grazing on some snacks, either on the spacious greenery or the observation deck and boardwalk. Didn’t pack a basket? Swing by one of my many village shops on your stroll, like Sterlington Deli for a classic BEC or lunch platter. Not only is Mitchell Park the perfect spot to set up to set up shop for a chill picnic overlooking the
marina, but the ideal setting for the avid people watcher. The reopening of the iconic antique carousel is still TBD, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as the Village Blacksmith on First Street, which offers live demonstrations on weekends, or check out the panoramic camera obscura.
Hallock State Park Preserve 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead
At Hallock State Park Preserve, picnickers have the option to hike first, building up an appetite on one of three trails. The 225 acres of the preserve include one mile of pristine beachfront on the Long Island Sound that winds along the shore, creating plenty of spots that can feel like you have a secluded beach all to yourself for a private picnic on a blanket. Park naturalist MaryLaura Lamont regularly leads nature walks open to the public.
Orient Beach State Park 40000 Main Road, Orient
Those looking for a more tranquil vibe for their picnic can find solace at Orient Beach State Park. With amenities like public showers, public restrooms, BBQs, a children’s playground and a shady picnic area, this rare maritime forest provides a relaxing escape for residents and tourists alike. Imagine grilling hot dogs and burgers while listening to the peaceful sounds of the waves of Gardiner’s Bay trickling over the beach’s pebbly shoreline. If you don’t feel like doing your own cooking, pop over to the Sunshine Shack for some grub, from pre-packaged meats and cheeses to Dos Ositos Paletas’ Mexican-inspired popsicles.
Peconic Riverfront Park 40 Peconic Ave., Riverhead
Even the bustling downtown of Riverhead has its own pocket of peace that’s perfect for picnicking, right on the Peconic River. Stroll down the River Walk to find a plethora of benches, picnic tables and a gazebo, all within close proximity to dining options and various cuisines to grab to-go, from Polish sampler platters from Polka Deli to Latin street food from Antigua Café. As the sun sets, meander down to Milton Burns Park, where you can appreciate outdoor art installations and statues from local artists.
Veterans Memorial Park 11280 Great Peconic Bay Blvd., Mattituck
This family friendly venue is an ideal spot for a picnic with the kiddos. The large picnic area at Veterans Memorial Park overlooks the Great Peconic Bay and is equipped with water, electricity, barbecue grills and restrooms. The park boasts an impressive playground and other recreational activities, such as a bocce court, shuffleboard, and horseshoe pitch. Grab some fresh burger patties to grill from Center Cuts in Mattituck, or keep it light with charcuterie goodies from The Village Cheese Shop.
