Few things bring Northwesterners outside like a sunny day. Go to any park, waterfront or outdoor space when the temperature rises above 65, and you’ll find half the population (at least) out enjoying it with you, walking, running or simply kicking back and getting their annual dose of vitamin D. But the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful day may be a picnic. Kick back on a blanket with some snacks, a beverage, or a ready-made meal and enjoy the day as well as some of what the Northwest does best —scenery. No matter whether your picnic of choice features a waterfront view, a forest or a lake, Pierce County has got the perfect picnic place for you.
A picnic at Owen Beach in Point Defiance Park is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best Northwest views out there. Photo credit: Kristin Kendle.
2. Ruston Way Waterfront
A picturesque view of boats sailing by with Mount Rainier in the background are regular sights to take in while picnicking along this scenic waterfront. Photo credit: Steve Dunkelberger.
3. Wright Park
In addition to the splash park, playfield, walking trails and more, Wright Park is also home to the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory. Photo credit: Kristin Kendle.
4. Skansie Brothers Park
Skansie Brothers Park in Gig Harbor is a small-yet-mighty picnic spot. Photo credit: Kristin Kendle.
5. Bradley Lake Park
Sunny days at Bradley Lake Park provide a gorgeous view of the lake and wildlife.
6. Lakewold Gardens
Picnics at Lakewold Gardens have a little extra edge of solitude as it’s not a well-known picnic spot. Photo credit: Kristin Kendle.
7. Places to Grab Ready-Made Picnic Foods
Bahn mi (or Vietnamese sandwiches) make excellent picnic food and are available at just about every pho place in town. Photo credit: Kristin Kendle.