It's Picnic Time

The Apartments at Charlestown Crossing Blog, North East, MD Plan a picnic this month! Head out to your favorite picnic spot and enjoy a meal alfresco with these recipe ideas.

Picnics are as much a part of summer as ball games, swimming pools, and summer camp. Today for The Apartments at Charlestown Crossing Blog post, we’re sharing a few picnic ideas as well as local parks to check out this month. Picnics can be very simple or they can feature multiple courses. The main thing to remember about having a picnic is that dining is best experienced al fresco (in the open air). We’ve rounded up some picnic meal ideas ranging from easy-peasy to a full-on feast including dessert. Happy picnic planning!

Picnic-Friendly Ideas

Bohemian Flair

A loaf of French bread, cheese slices, and grapes can make a meal. However, for something a little more substantial, add some cold cuts from your local deli. Don’t forget a bottle of your favorite wine to complete the experience.

Southwest Twist

Spicy with a variety of textures, southwestern fare makes for a great picnic. Pull together tortilla chips (pack them in a rigid container), salsa, and this fresh summer salad featuring tomato, avocado, and cucumber for a refreshing outdoor meal.

Old Fashioned Fun

Go all out and do an old-fashioned picnic complete with fried chicken, potato salad, rolls, and chocolate cake for dessert. If you don’t have time to do it all from scratch, make the potato salad and cake the night before and pick up the fried chicken and rolls from the grocery store deli.

Local Parks

North East Community Park (10 minutes away)

Located at the end of Walnut Street, North East, MD — This park features a large grassy area, a gazebo, playground, tables, benches, and grills.

“Great place for kids and adults alike. Fly kites, fish, playgrounds and romantic walks. And feed the ducks.” — Mark Gilbert, Google Review

Elk Neck State Park (20 minutes away)

4395 Turkey Point Rd, North East, MD 21901 — Clean and accessible have been used to describe the amenities at this park. Beautiful views and opportunities for hiking. It’s the perfect place for a picnic.

“Beautiful park! The lighthouse is a nice hike that's pretty easy with an awesome view along the way and at the end. It's now an annual visit for us!” — Jordan Stone, Google Review

Calvert Regional Park (20 minutes away)

304 Brick Meetinghouse Rd, North East, MD 21901 — Featuring a paved walking path, turf field, playground, basketball courts, and a zip line! You’ll be able to play and picnic here for sure.

“The park is beautifully maintained and clean. Excellent parking and bathroom facilities available.” — Jennifer Owens, Google Review

What’s your favorite food to take on a picnic? Where do you like to eat outside? Please share in the comments so we can all enjoy new foods and places to visit.