July 3, 2009 8:31 pm

Picnicking in New York City: Outdoor Fun Is Just A Sunny Day Away

Warm rays and sticky heat, splashing around in the Atlantic Ocean and enjoying a frosty ice cream cone are some things that just scream East Coast summer. One of the best, on-the-spur-of-the-moment warm weather city perks is picnicking in a nearby park. With a little help from your neighborhood shops and friends, you can enjoy a carefree day. So next time the rain breaks, take advantage of the sunny day and experience summer at its best. Two logistics to coordinate and you're all set:

Location, Location
Just think green grass, trees and ample sunshine. What about your nearest park? A location that's just a quick walk around the block, a short drive or even in your own backyard. Want to venture further? With locations such as Central Park, Bryant Park, Flushing Meadows, Prospect Park, heck even Fort Tryon Park, you have no excuse. Find a park that suits your mood — the city is filled with lush, green spots perfect for a blanket, some friends and dining al fresco.

Outdoor Eats
For a quick and healthy option, try grabbing some organic snacks from Whole Foods. A loaf of bread, some cheese, tomatoes in EVOO, cookies and crisp Italian-style lemonade, and you have lunch to go. Trader Joe's is a cheaper alternative, but be prepared for a little bit of preparation for their snacks and dishes. For something ready-to-eat, head to Pret a Manger, a tasty, organic ready-to-eatery, with a healthy spattering of shops throughout NYC and wide selection of sandwiches, snacks, desserts and drinks. What if you're already lying in the grass and hunger strikes? No worries. The Upper East Side good-for-you pizza joint Slice, Pinkberry and Nonna offer direct delivery and even picnic "meals."

—Johana Langi

Whole Foods, Union Square
4 Union Square West
New York, NY 10003
212.673.5388

Trader Joe's, Union Square
142 E. 14th St.
New York, NY 10003
212.529-4612

Trader Joe's, Brooklyn
130 Court Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.246.8460

Trader Joe's, Queens
9030 Metropolitan Avenue
Flushing, NY 11374
718.275.1791

Slice
1413 2nd Ave
New York, NY 10021
212.249.4353

Nonna
520 Columbus Avenue
New York, NY 10024
212.579.3194

Photo credit: J Jodie, courtesy of Central Park

— Written by Johana Langi

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