Picnic Perfect: The 5 Best Picnic Spots in Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park

Los Angeles may be best known for its movie stars, palm-lined streets, and iconic beaches—but it also boasts some of the best picnic spots in the country. With its year-round sunshine and diverse natural and cultural landscapes, L.A. offers scenic corners for everyone from city explorers to nature lovers. Whether you're planning a casual afternoon with friends or a quiet escape with a book, here are five top places to roll out your picnic blanket.

1) Gloria Molina Grand Park – A Cultural Green Space in the Heart of the City

Downtown Los Angeles may be buzzing with traffic and skyscrapers, but at its center lies a 12-acre sanctuary of calm—Gloria Molina Grand Park. This urban retreat features lush lawns, a splash-friendly fountain, and terraced gardens perfect for lounging. It's a popular spot for Sunday Sessions and other public events, some with food trucks and live music. Whether you're coming for a planned event or a quiet afternoon, there’s always space to enjoy your own picnic, surrounded by the energy of the city and the elegance of civic architecture.

Location: 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Hours: 5:30am – 10pm daily

2) Los Angeles State Historic Park – Nature and Nostalgia Near Chinatown

Nicknamed “The Cornfield” by locals, this sprawling 32-acre park sits just outside Chinatown and is known for its wide open spaces and views of the downtown skyline. It’s a favorite among cyclists, dog walkers, and families looking for an easy-to-access picnic destination. With art installations, trails, and native plant landscaping, Los Angeles State Historic Park combines nature with history, all within reach of a Metro stop. Bring a blanket, a basket, and your curiosity.

Location: 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: 323-441-8819

3) Echo Park Lake – Paddle, Picnic, and Lotus Blooms

Swan Pedal Boat at Echo Park Lake Photo: Dept. of Recreation & Parks

This iconic lake just west of Downtown has been a local favorite for over a century. The 2013 restoration gave new life to its walkways, lotus beds, fountains, and the beloved Queen of the Angels statue. Rent a swan pedal boat or enjoy a picnic lakeside under the shade of palm trees. With barbecue pits, sports courts, and a community vibe, Echo Park Lake is one of the city’s most charming urban escapes.

Location: 751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Phone: 213-847-0929

4) Barnsdall Art Park – Art, Architecture and Alfresco Views

For a picnic with a cultural twist, head to Barnsdall Art Park in East Hollywood. Home to the Hollyhock House, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, this hilltop park also offers sweeping views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. While alcohol is reserved for special events like the popular Friday Night Wine Tastings, the green spaces are open daily for visitors who want to relax, explore the galleries, or just enjoy a snack with a view.

Location: 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027
Phone: 323-660-4254

5) Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens – A Wild Spot for a Family Picnic

L.A. Zoo 

Located inside Griffith Park, the L.A. Zoo is more than just an animal encounter—it’s a surprisingly lovely place for a picnic. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food, and there are shaded areas scattered throughout the grounds for a relaxed meal between wildlife exhibits. Keep in mind the zoo’s eco-conscious picnic policy, which encourages reusable containers and discourages plastic waste to protect the animals.

Location: 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027
Phone: 323-644-4200

Whether you're looking for skyline views, lush lawns, or a lively setting with entertainment and culture, Los Angeles has a picnic spot to match your mood. So pack your basket, grab a friend, and discover a greener side of the City of Angels.

For more information on each location, visit:
Gloria Molina Grand Park: grandparkla.org
Los Angeles State Historic Park: parks.ca.gov/losangelesstatehistoricpark
Echo Park Lake: laparks.org
Barnsdall Art Park: barnsdall.org
Los Angeles Zoo: lazoo.org