Huntsville Picnics

By Zenovia Stephens

It’s officially picnic season; here are some of our favorite places to lay a blanket and enjoy a meal!

Washington Park

This micro park is a hidden gem and the perfect place to sit out and enjoy a quick meal or coffee downtown. Its cozy and petite vibe invites those passing by to stop, breathe and take a load off before jumping back into the grind of the day.

120 Holmes Ave NW, Huntsville, AL 35801


Council High Memorial Park

Council High Memorial Park is near the Downtown Huntsville Public Library; this is an excellent pick for book lovers and history buffs. Stroll through the memorial to learn about Dr. William Hooper Council, founder of Alabama A&M University, and his legacy before snuggling up with a sandwich and book in the grass. 

620 St Clair Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35801


Travelers II exhibit at Big Spring Park

This public art piece makes a beautiful backdrop for a picnic. The combination of cool silver metal and ground lights creates a magical scene for an evening under the stars.

200 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801


Ditto Landing

Ditto Landing is a prime picnic location due to the variety of options. Choose a spot near the playground so littles can enjoy swinging and sliding after their meal, or lay your blanket near the pavilion to admire the bridge while boats float by. You can also set up on the grassy field and add a game of frisbee or volleyball to your outing.  

293 Ditto Landing Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35803

Ditto Landing


Jones Farm Park

Jones Farm Park is next to the Jones Valley Shopping center. Order takeout from one of the many restaurants in the center and head to the covered pavilion overlooking the pond to enjoy your meal.

Four Mile Post Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35802


Dallas Fanning Nature Preserve

Dallas Fanning Nature Preserve is one of the area’s newer preserves and has an expansive green space for setting up a picnic. This preserve is a good option for those looking to incorporate some exploring into the day. The preserve offers over 1.5 miles of trails and great wildlife encounters. (*pro tip: bring bug spray if visiting during summer) 

258 Old Jim Williams Rd SW, Huntsville, AL 35824


Huntsville Botanical Garden

The Garden has many picture-perfect picnic spots and is a must-visit location for spring and summer lawn meals. Explore the grounds and find a secluded area for you and yours, or plant yourself at one of the many tables throughout the garden. Still, trying to decide what to pack? Let the garden cafe take care of your meal for the day. 

They offer freshly made sandwiches and soup as well as Sunday brunch.

*Pro-tip: If picnicking with kids, set up base in the middle of the children’s garden. This location keeps your family where all the kid-sized action is and provides easy access to restrooms and a water fountain. 

4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805


John Hunt Park

John Hunt Park is a massive park with greenery as far as the eye can see and rounds out our picnic list. We like this park’s stillness and access to sand volleyball courts, mountain bike trails, and large grassy areas. It’s a beautiful place to relax with friends and family or after a workout at the nearby fitness court.

2151 Airport Rd SW, Huntsville, AL 35801

Zenovia Stephens

Zenovia is a two time graduate of Alabama A&M University where she earned a B.S. and M.S. in Biology. A former Regulatory Affairs Specialist in the Pharmaceutical Industry, She currently works from home as a Regional Project Coordinator and is the mom to 3 extraordinary boys. Originally from Chicago, IL, Zenovia and her husband have been residing in Huntsville, AL since 2008. They love exploring AL with their boys as well as finding creative ways to be adventurous at home! Zenovia serves as a board member for CES PTA and the SE YMCA where she has been involved with various volunteer efforts. In her free time she enjoys reading, working on her photography skills and drinking a good cup of coffee or glass of wine.