The First Picnic of the Season
Canned Cocktails, Classy Flasks & Boozy Strawberries
Spring in New York has a way of sneaking up on you. One minute you’re dodging puddles on Broadway, the next you’re looking for an open patch of grass and texting friends to meet you with snacks.
That first picnic of the season isn’t just a casual afternoon—it’s a marker of the city shaking off winter’s weight. The layers come off, the sunglasses come out, and New Yorkers collectively remember what it feels like to spend hours in the open air.
Here’s how to make the most of your first picnic of spring, whether it’s in Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, or that hidden patch of green only locals seem to know about. We’ll cover where to go, what to pack, and how to spike your strawberries without raising any eyebrows.
Where to Picnic in NYC This Spring
Sheep Meadow – Central Park
The quintessential NYC picnic spot. With 15 acres of open space and skyline views, it’s perfect for groups, people-watching, or lying on your back while the city hums around you.
Brooklyn Bridge Park – Pier 5
If waterfront breezes and skyline views are more your speed, Pier 5 offers picnic tables and plenty of grassy space. Pack light—you’ll want to walk the piers before or after you settle in.
Fort Tryon Park – Upper Manhattan
For something a little quieter, head uptown to Fort Tryon Park. Home to the city’s largest public garden, it’s perfect for a picnic that feels miles away from the usual crowds.
Governors Island – Just a Ferry Ride Away
Make a day of it with a quick ferry trip to Governors Island. Sprawl out on the lawns with views of the Statue of Liberty and lower Manhattan. Bonus: plenty of food vendors if you forget to pack snacks.
What to Pack: Drinks That Travel Well
Forget the mess of mixing cocktails on a blanket. This is the season of effortless, portable sipping.
Canned Cocktails That Don’t Taste Like Regret
Today’s canned cocktails have come a long way. Look for craft options that deliver real flavor and balance:
Dogfish Head Vodka Lemonade
Bacardi Mojito
Cutwater Tequila Paloma
Toss them in your cooler bag and you’re ready to go—no bottle openers or bartending skills required.
Classy Flasks for Proper Cocktails
Want something a little stronger? Bring a flask filled with a pre-batched cocktail like a Negroni, Manhattan, or Old Fashioned.
Bonus points if you bring a small bottle of bitters or a citrus peel tucked in a sealed bag—presentation matters, even on the grass.
Boozy Strawberries: The Only Picnic Dessert You Need
One of the simplest ways to bring a little something extra to your spread? Boozy strawberries.
Here’s how to make them:
Rinse and dry a pint of fresh strawberries.
Place them in a container and cover with your choice of vodka, prosecco, or rosé.
Let them soak for at least an hour (overnight if you can).
Just before serving, roll them in granulated sugar.
They’re sweet, refreshing, and just a little bit scandalous—but perfectly picnic-approved.
Want a Fully Curated Picnic Experience?
At Art of the Cocktail, we offer bespoke picnic experiences that go beyond the basic blanket and basket.
Whether it’s a romantic date, a corporate team outing, or a birthday gathering, our team of professional mixologists can design a menu of portable, seasonal cocktails that feel polished, intentional, and easy to enjoy outdoors.
We can provide:
Custom batched cocktail kits or canned selections
Classy glassware or picnic-friendly cups
Boozy fruit stations and gourmet pairings
Full setup and cleanup services
Need the Perfect Picnic Venue?
If you’re looking for something more elevated than your local park, partner with Morgan at NYC Event Venues. From rooftop terraces to private gardens, Morgan curates some of the city’s most exclusive outdoor spaces, perfect for private picnics, corporate events, and social gatherings.
With Morgan sourcing the space and Art of the Cocktail crafting the drinks, you’ll have everything you need for a spring gathering your guests will actually remember.
Book Your Custom Picnic Experience
Bespoke cocktail activations and venue sourcing available across New York City.
Because the first picnic of spring should never feel like an afterthought.
