Hey Boo-Boo! Where can we take our pic-a-nic basket?

July 22, 2008 7:48 AM

I'm taking my girlfriend on a surprise picnic this weekend (Shh! Don't tell!), but am having trouble finding a nice spot for it. I live in Boston and have a car, so anywhere within, say, an hour or so drive is preferable. Suggestions?
posted by SamuelF to sports, hobbies, & recreation (16 answers total)

PLum Island Beach in Newburyport?
posted by Miko at 7:55 AM on July 22, 2008

You know, the Arnold Arboretum in JP is really nice. If you go in far enough you don't even realize you're still in the city.
posted by sutel at 8:06 AM on July 22, 2008

Off the top of my head: Leominster State Forest or Mount Wachusett.
posted by kate blank at 8:08 AM on July 22, 2008

The Decordova?
posted by dirtdirt at 8:21 AM on July 22, 2008

I know very little about Boston aside from what I saw when I visited last month, but how about the Old Manse and environs in Concord? There's a little river at the battlefield and people kayak down it and it's very shady and peaceful, even on a hot day. I also loved Sleepy hollow Cemetery, even if it might sound a little creepy :) I don't know if they allow picnicking, but it was a neat walk.
posted by Madamina at 8:40 AM on July 22, 2008

On top of Blue Hill? There's a road to the top, a weather station you can visit too. Bring a kite!.
posted by Gungho at 9:02 AM on July 22, 2008 [1 favorite]

Walden Pond in Concord?
posted by xbonesgt at 9:08 AM on July 22, 2008

All of the suggestions above are very good ones, I'd additionally recommend Wingaersheek Beach if you're a fan of the ocean.

Tower Hill Botanic Garden is also very cool, and your local library may even have a free pass for it.
posted by rollbiz at 9:26 AM on July 22, 2008

Halibut Point State Park on Cape Ann near Gloucester. Pick a stone and enjoy the wind and water. I fell in love with someone there and we're still together, if that encourages you.
posted by Any Moose In a Storm at 9:32 AM on July 22, 2008

Take the Boston Harbor Island ferry to Georges Island. It's got some great views, good picnic areas, and a neat abandoned Revolutionary/Civil War era fort. Plus on a hot day, being in the middle of the Harbor is the coolest place for miles.
posted by Plutor at 9:48 AM on July 22, 2008

I second the Halibut Point State Park. I'm going up there for a picnic this week.
posted by rodz at 9:52 AM on July 22, 2008

Land's End on the south is neat as well, if the drive seems worth it
posted by tonci at 10:12 AM on July 22, 2008

Nashoba Valley Winery
posted by Sprout the Vulgarian at 10:34 AM on July 22, 2008

May seem a little strange, but (assuming you're in the city proper and have a nice view) what about the roof of your apartment building at dusk? I have several friends who have done this with fantastic results.
posted by Rewind at 10:40 AM on July 22, 2008

Thanks for the replies, everyone. I'm leaning towards Halibut Point State Park right now, and will make a final decision (and mark some Best Answers) this week. All the suggestions are really nice.

Rewind: Tried that on the 4th of July, and it turns out the roof of our apartment building is sort of...squishy? I'm not entirely sure how to describe it, but it just doesn't feel right for walking on. It's sad and rather discomforting, really, especially since we live on the top floor.
posted by SamuelF at 11:03 AM on July 22, 2008

I like the Sheep Pasture in Easton. Very pretty, good for walking as well as sitting, and you can get AWESOME ice cream (and candy) at Hilliard's nearby.
posted by olinerd at 12:45 PM on July 22, 2008