Four More LA Picnic Gems: From Hilltop Gardens to Seaside Serenity

Central Garden and Pacific Ocean at the Getty Center

Los Angeles is a city of endless sunshine and infinite picnic possibilities. While the iconic beaches and major parks often take center stage, there are plenty of hidden or lesser-known spots that offer peaceful escapes and picturesque picnic potential. Here are four more unique places across the city where you can roll out a blanket, unpack your basket, and enjoy a perfect Los Angeles afternoon.

Art, Architecture and Ambience at the Getty Center

Perched high in the Brentwood hills, the Getty Center is a world-class art institution that doubles as an extraordinary picnic destination. The meticulously designed Central Garden, created by artist Robert Irwin, is a living artwork featuring flowing water, blooming gardens, and winding paths that make every visit feel like a fresh discovery.

Picnic-goers can enjoy their lunch on the lawn adjacent to the Central Garden or at seating areas throughout the grounds. There are also picnic tables available at the Lower Tram Station before you take the tram ride up to the museum. A visit to the Getty is as much about beauty and tranquility as it is about fine art.

Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: 310-440-7300
Website: www.getty.edu

Polliwog Park – A Pondside Picnic in Manhattan Beach

Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach is a local favorite, and for good reason. The 18-acre park centers around a serene pond and features expansive green space, a botanical garden, and a disc golf course.

Ideal for families, the park includes a large playground, a dog run, and plenty of shady picnic areas with tables and gazebos available for reservation. On weekends, the amphitheater often hosts community events, making it a lively backdrop for a casual lunch or celebratory gathering.

Location: 1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone: 310-802-5408
Website: www.manhattanbeach.gov

Bespoke Moments at South Coast Botanic Garden

South Coast Botanic Garden

For a truly curated outdoor experience, head to South Coast Botanic Garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The 87-acre garden, home to over 200,000 plants, invites guests to picnic in designated lawn areas, where casual setups are welcomed.

For something extra special, consider the Bespoke Picnic Program. With styled themes like The Farmhouse, The Parisian, and The Bohemian, it’s an elevated way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or simply the joy of being outdoors. Guests may bring their own food and wine to create a custom, scenic gathering unlike any other in the city.

Location: 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Phone: 424-452-0920
Website: www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org

Family Fun and Sports at Brookside Park in Pasadena

Located just south of the Rose Bowl Stadium, Brookside Park is Pasadena’s largest and most activity-packed park. With 61 acres of lawns, sports fields, and shaded picnic spots, it’s perfect for both relaxed afternoons and energetic family outings.

The park is home to lighted fields, tennis and handball courts, playgrounds, and even the Kidspace Museum, which adds an educational twist to your picnic day. If you're in the mood for a post-picnic stroll, don’t miss the scenic walking paths that loop around the Rose Bowl.

Location: 360 North Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103
Phone: 626-744-4000
Website: www.cityofpasadena.net

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Whether you’re looking for artistic inspiration, botanical beauty, or simple pondside peace, Los Angeles continues to deliver unforgettable places to picnic. These four fresh picks highlight the diversity of LA’s outdoor spaces, where every blanket unfurled is the start of a new adventure.