Putting to work our 75 years of eating around this city to list some of the best Philly places to spread a blanket.
1. The Azalea Garden
Kelly Drive & Fairmount Ave.
Photo credit: alicegipsonphotographs.smugmug.com
After you run up the Art Museum steps Rocky-style, catch your breath and explore the beautiful four acres of pretty fields and flowers behind the building. Also check out Boathouse Row and The Fairmount Waterworks. Discuss the flavor profile of dense and velvety Camembert Normandie like you would discuss the nuances of any work of art.
2. Liberty Lands Park
913 - 961 North 3rd Street
Photo Credit: M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia
Once an urban eyesore, this reclaimed space is now home to a community garden, a children’s playground, and more. The park was created and is maintained by residents in the surrounding neighborhood. Make your picnic ultra-hip by throwing in the best American cheese around, Pleasant Ridge Reserve. It’s this season’s hottest picnic accessory.
3. Japanese Gardens
Lansdowne Dr. & Horticultural Dr.
Photo Credit: GardenVisit.com
Fairmount Park is freaking huge so, to avoid getting lost, set out for one of the park’s more exact destinations — the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden. Achieve ultimate zen by nibbling the buttery Comté Melodie, a young cheese with an old soul.
4. Race Street Pier
Race Street & N. Columbus Blvd.
Photo Credit: lovesphotoalbum.com
Perfect for when you tire of wandering around Old City. Sit on the lawn and watch boats cruise the Delaware River. Or lounge upon a park bench, stare at New Jersey, and contemplate the meaning of life. Snack old school in the old city — grab a hunk of Montgomery’s Farmhouse Cheddar from England, green apples, and pepper jelly. The British are coming... to your picnic!
5. Rittenhouse Square
18th Street & Walnut Street
Photo Credit: Garala.typepad.com
The best place to devour the goods you got from our 18th and Chestnut location! A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, this historic park is great for picnicking and people watching. Plus, it’s crazy close to pretty much everything else you want to see in Center City. A classy park deserves a classy cheese. We recommend Marin Triple Crème Brie with Truffles and a loaf of rustic bread.
6. Washington Square
7th Street & Walnut Street
A few blocks from our Franklin location on 9th and Sansom, this pretty park has plenty of grass on which to spread your blanket. Plus a fountain, trees, a couple of historical markers, and lots of cute dogs playing with frisbees! What more could you want? Let freedom ring with an American-made cheese. We suggest the tart and savory Evalon Select, topped with a blob of our Fig and Acacia Honey Jam.
