Oak Park and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of idyllic picnic spots perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat in a scenic park or an adventurous day in the vast, lush forest preserves, this region has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best picnic locations that cater to all types and provide tips on where to get the freshest provisions to elevate your picnic experience. From gourmet sandwiches to artisanal cheeses and delightful desserts, discover how to plan the perfect picnic in Oak Park and beyond.
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Step 1: Grab Your Picnic Provisions
Oak Park and the western suburbs have plenty of places to grab delicious treats for your picnic.
Alpine | Westchester
The tagline “It’s not just a sub it’s an Alpine” lets you know this is no ordinary sandwich shop. Family owned for over 50 years, Alpine Food Shop is the premier destination for mouth-watering Italian delicacies and sub sandwiches. All subs are served on fresh bread and come with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, and homemade oil and vinegar—and you can customize your meat options! Their salads offer an obvious addition, ranging from primavera pasta to classic potato salad. Round out your spread with some traditional Italian snacks from their grocery section. Don’t forget to check the refrigerator aisle for a piece of tiramisu.
Click here to learn more.
Anfora | Oak Park
Anfora Wine Shop is located in Oak Park’s historic Pleasant district. This Italian-centric, boutique wine shop offers an impressive selection of fine wines, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet snacks, perfect to level up your outdoor picnic. Whether you're looking for a crisp white to pair with a creamy brie or a robust red to complement cured meats, Anfora's knowledgeable staff can guide you to the perfect pairing. Anfora focuses on small and/or iconic wine producers who practice low- to no-intervention and ecological winemaking practices.
Click here to learn more.
Babygold Barbecue | Berwyn
Soak in the dog days of summer with the BBQ classics. Babygold Barbecue in Berwyn offers a mouthwatering array of smoked meats, cajun-style sandwiches, and Southern-inspired sides like creamy pimento mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, and Grannie’s cajun honey butter cornbread. Be sure to check their menu for rotating specials like beef ribs off the outdoor “stick burner.” Don’t forget to cap off your picnic order with drinks-to-go like bottled margaritas and old fashioneds to six packs of local craft beer.
Click here to learn more.
Beach Ave BBQ | Brookfield
Where better to grab your picnic provisions than a BBQ joint that began with two neighbors cooking for family and friends? Beach Ave BBQ has community at its core. With a focus on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients their quality is second to none. The BBQ meat sampler is the perfect picnic platter that will ensure you can try a little bit of everything. It includes their famous Wagyu brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, ribs, and hot links. They even offer a kid’s menu of their classic sandwiches complete with chips and a juice box.
Click here to learn more.
Blackberry | La Grange
If you’re looking to make your picnic both health focused and delicious, look no further than Blackberry Market. It’s a fast-casual cafe, bakery, and coffeehouse with plenty of quick-take meal options to suit your picnic needs. The owner and chef, Anna, believes in food that is non-processed, handmade, and fresh. Her menu is chock full of fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and a variety of baked goods like muffins, scones, and cookies. Anna began her culinary journey picking blackberries near her grandparents’ home in Northwest Arkansas. Don’t miss out on her Blackberry Brownie for dessert!
Click here to learn more.
Carnivore | Oak Park
Carnivore offers some of the best farm-to-table—or shall we say farm-to-picnic blanket—products in the area. This quaint takeaway market located in the historic Pleasant District of Oak Park offers the perfect gourmet sandwiches and lunch plates for your picnic. Don’t miss their Carnivore Bacon Burger which was featured on the Chicago Tribune’s Best Burgers list. Their fresh salmon sandwich is another crowd favorite. All their sandwiches are capped off with a side of Cajun-seasoned fries, and if you’re bringing your pup as a picnic companion, you can even pick up a side of dog treats.
Click here to learn more.
Fruitful Yield | La Grange Park
When planning your picnic, make sure to stop by Fruitful Yield for all your healthy provisions. This local gem offers a wide range of nutritious snacks, fresh foods, and convenient premade options that are perfect for a day out. From organic trail mixes and wholesome granola bars to fresh fruits and sandwiches, Fruitful Yield has everything you need to create a delicious and nutritious picnic spread.
Click here to learn more.
Olive & Well | Oak Park
There’s nothing better than sitting outside in the sun, dipping freshly baked bread into an exquisite selection of olive oils and balsamic vinegars, and Olive and Well in Oak Park can help. This specialty store offers a variety of premium oils and vinegars that can elevate your picnic experience, adding a touch of gourmet to your outdoor meal. Pair these with some artisan bread and fresh produce for a delicious and sophisticated picnic spread.
Click here to learn more.
Publican | Oak Park
That’s right, you can now get the James-Beard-winning Publican Quality Bread right here in the Oak Park Arts District. Whether your picnic calls for a baguette and a coffee or a more elaborate spread, you can count on Publican to deliver. Along with their daily fresh baked bread, they offer big sandwiches, lunch pastries, savory snacks, and cookies, ideal for a hassle-free picnic. Their jambon beurre sandwiches will come out around 1 p.m., and in the evening you can scoop up a Roman-style pizza from 4 to 8 p.m.
Click here to learn more.
Riverside Foods | Riverside
Well-loved in the Riverside neighborhood, Riverside Foods is a family-owned grocer that has served its community for over 40 years. In addition to fresh produce, meats, and standard grocery items, they offer a range of prepared foods, including salads, sandwiches, and hot dishes. Many of their prepared dishes nod to the family’s Greek history and use cherished family recipes. The knowledgeable employees are eager to answer questions and share recommendations. And the best part is that they offer curbside pickup, so you can grab your picnic provisions on the go.
Click here to learn more.
Starship | Forest Park
Whether you’re in the heat of summer or planning a crisp fall picnic, Starship has what you need. This beloved Star-Trek themed restaurant has built a loyal customer base over the last 45+ years. They offer cold and hot sandwiches as well as fresh salads. but they may be best known for their homemade soups. The menu flaunts over 120 soups, all with tasty flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients.
Click here to learn more.
Sugarbeet | Oak Park
Sugar Beet Food Co-op. is a community-owned store that offers a fantastic selection of organic and locally sourced foods, ideal for creating a fresh and delicious picnic spread. Choose from fresh produce, artisan cheeses, gourmet snacks, and premade deli items. Sugar Beet’s commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that your picnic provisions are both tasty and ethically sourced. Enjoy a delightful picnic with the best that Sugar Beet has to offer.
Click here to learn more.
Swansons | La Grange
Located in the heart of La Grange, Swanson's is a renowned full-service deli famous for their iconic Blue Cheese Ball, house-made corned beef, chicken salad, and handcrafted specialties. Their sandwiches range from classic Reubens to unique creations like the "Italian Stallion." Everything is made to order with generous portions and flavorful combinations. Along with their deli staples, they offer all the fixins’ for a full picnic spread including meats, cheeses, specialty dips, freshly baked bread, and desserts.
Click here to learn more.
Step 2: Choose Where to Bring Them!
Once you've decided on your food, simply pick a place to take it! While Oak Park may feel like an extension of Chicago, people may not know that it is surrounded by outdoor adventures. Join us as we explore prime picnic locations in the Cook County forest preserves near the Oak Park area and beyond.
Brookfield
Brookfield Woods
Located just west of 1st Ave is Brookfield Woods. Home to the Salt Creek Trail, Brookfield Woods offers various paved and unpaved trails that run along the Des Plaines River, Salt Creek, and Brookfield Zoo. Visitors can enjoy views of a glacial valley, gravelly moraine, and Salt Creek’s unique pool and riffle environment.
Address: 31st St, west of 1st Ave Brookfield, IL 60513
Learn more about Brookfield Woods.
Forest Park
Miller Meadow Woods
Forest Park has a plethora of forest preserves to explore. Miller Meadow is one to note, with walking trails, picnic areas, and unique offerings like an off-leash dog area and drone and model airplane flying field. The off-leash dog area is 7 acres with an outdoor shelter and two miles of trails. An annual membership is required: $60/dog for Cook County residents and $120/dog for nonresidents.
Miller Meadow Model Airplane Flying Field
Address: 1st Ave Cutoff, north of Cermak Rd Cook County, IL 60130
Miller Meadow-North
Address: Roosevelt Rd, east of 1st Ave Cook County, IL 60130
Miller Meadow-South
Address: 1st Ave, south of Roosevelt Rd Cook County, IL 60130
La Grange
Arie Crown Forest
La Grange has many forest preserves nearby in the surrounding areas of Countryside and Hodgkins. Arie Crown is a forest preserve located off of La Grange Rd, offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and beautiful views. Dogs are allowed, but only on a leash. Explore nature with your furry friend or gather with friends and family for a picnic.
Address: S LaGrange Rd, north of 67th St Countryside, IL 60525
Theodore Stone Forest
Theodore Stone Forest offers 142 acres of woodlands, with miles of paths, nature, and wildlife. Amid the tranquility of nature, visitors can enjoy a leisurely picnic at one of the preserve's two spacious picnic groves, offering a serene setting for relaxation and connection with the outdoors.
Address: 67th St, east of S La Grange Rd Hodgkins, IL 60525
River Forest
Thatcher Woods
Located less than 25 minutes from the center of town is Thatcher Woods, a 245-acre area offering miles of unpaved walking trails, beautiful scenery, and a trailside museum. Home to a diverse array of bird species and plant life, Thatcher Woods is the ultimate location for exploring nature near Oak Park. The Trailside Museum is free to visitors and hosts events throughout the year for kids, teens, and adults. Whether you want to fish, enjoy a long hike, or have a picnic, Thatcher Woods is an excellent site for your adventure.
Address: 738 Thatcher Ave River Forest, IL 60305
Riverside
Schuth’s Grove
If you’re looking for true scenic beauty from the comfort of a kayak, look no further than Schuth’s Grove in Riverside. Located along the Des Plaines River, Schuth's Grove offers a serene retreat with a convenient canoe and kayak launch, charming picnic areas, and well-maintained pathways. This tranquil oasis beckons visitors to explore, with plenty of parking and a stable shoreline to ensure hassle-free access to the water's edge. Whether you're searching for a leisurely paddle, a riverside stroll, or a picnic with loved ones, Schuth's Grove provides a welcoming escape in the Chicagoland area.
Address: W Cermak Rd, west of Des Plaines Ave Cook County, IL 60546
Learn more about Schuth’s Grove.
Schiller Park
Schiller Woods
There are plenty of forest preserves to discover in the Schiller Park area. The top of the list is Schiller Woods. Discover its natural landscapes where diverse habitats thrive; visitors can view lush woodlands to vibrant prairies, sedge meadows, and wetlands. Boasting expansive open spaces and a tranquil pond, this sanctuary provides visitors with many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're picnicking in the greenery, casting a line for fishing, or soaring kites into the sky, Schiller Woods has something to offer nature enthusiasts of all ages. Schiller Woods also has many other areas to explore where visitors can enjoy fishing, bicycling, and sledding in the winter. Or, you can hop in line to visit the Schiller Woods Magic Water Pump.
Address: W Irving Park Rd, west of N Cumberland Ave Chicago, IL 60634
Irving Park Road Canoe Landing
Irving Park offers a canoe landing with access to the Des Plaines River. Individuals and families can easily board their canoe for a tranquil trip in the water with exceptional nature views.
Address: Des Plaines River Rd, north of Irving Park Rd Schiller Park, IL 60176
River Bend Family Picnic Area
Gathering with friends and family amid the tranquil beauty of a forest preserve offers a perfect escape from the bustle of daily life. Surrounded by towering trees, picnicking becomes a great escape, and the River Bend Family Picnic Area in Schiller Park offers the perfect location. Surrounded by acres of wildlife and beautiful scenery, visitors will love this inviting oasis.
Address: Des Plaines River Rd, north of Lawrence Ave Schiller Park, IL 60176
Westchester
Westchester Woods
Westchester Woods is a great spot to gather with friends or go for a long walk to detox the mind and relieve the stress that a modern lifestyle can cause. And, while winter may seem far away, Westchester Woods is known to be one of the best sledding spots around. Its ultimate hill will send visitors soaring through the snow at record speed.
Address: W Cermak Rd, east of S Manheim Rd/S La Grange Rd Cook County, IL 60526
Whether you explore nature alone or embark on an adventure with a group, the forest preserves of the near-west suburbs stand ready to welcome you. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic basket, and venture forth into the great outdoors!