Top Dallas Picnic Spots for Families
Summer in Dallas is the perfect time to gather family meals outdoors. With school out, pack your favorite dishes and explore the city’s most scenic spots.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Enjoy dinner on site during the Cool Thursdays Concert Series, running now through June and again September‑October. Food trucks such as Ruthie’s Rolling Cafe and Smoky Rose offer tasty options on the Arboretum lawn while you listen to tribute bands covering Journey or The Beach Boys. Purchase tickets and check the food‑truck schedule here. During daylight hours year‑round the Arboretum remains a serene, picturesque place to spread a blanket and dine.
Dallas Zoo
Snack on your favorite treats while watching exotic animals. In summer, the Zoo’s Safari Nights on Saturdays pair live music with a picnic and a cool breeze. The Dallas Zoo welcomes guests to bring their own food, and vendors like Bantu Barbecue and Prime Meridian Cafe sell savory dishes if you’re short on prep time. Pick a picnic table wherever you like—just keep the food away from tigers and elephants.
Kiest Park
Oak Cliff’s expansive Kiest Park offers tennis and sand‑volleyball courts, a playground, and ready‑for‑picnic tables. Consider a quick detour to the Bishop Arts District before settling at the park. A slice of pie from Eno’s Pizza Tavern and dessert from Emporium Pies will round out the experience.
Klyde Warren Park
Built over a freeway, Klyde Warren’s vibe invites you to linger. Family‑friendly activities—including a lending library, music programming, and a game center—are complemented by weekly food‑truck drop‑ins from local favorites such as The Butcher’s Son and Yummy Pizza. The park’s cozy tables and charming atmosphere set the backdrop for a memorable meal. Finish the day with a stroll to the Arts District.
NorthPark Center
Beyond a shopping destination, NorthPark features a beautiful courtyard ideal for upscale picnics. Dine al fresco at BreadWinner’s or grab take‑away from La Duni. With Eataly slated to open in 2020, the mall will soon offer even more to‑go options. Families often spend hours in the courtyard during spring and summer, enjoying both food and the urban oasis.
Preston Hollow Park / Preston Royal Village
After visiting Preston Royal Village’s retail options, head to the small park and playground in Preston Hollow. Quick‑service spots like Eatzi’s and Zoe’s Kitchen serve fresh lunch plates, while Interabang Books offers a new read. Combine a Mediterranean salad, a good book, and a hammock for a perfect afternoon.
Ronald Kirk Bridge
The stunning bridge over the Trinity River provides prime picnic real‑estate. Whether you’re practicing yoga, attending boot‑camp, or engaging kids’ activities, bring your own food or sample daily food‑truck offerings. The venue always hosts something exciting.
