The park, which sits at the base of Boulder Canyon and just blocks away from Boulder’s affluent Pearl Street Mall, is ample with trees offering shade, access to the creek, and public facilities. Because of its central location, Eben G. Fine is is a favored destination for runners, walkers, tubers, and picnickers alike. With the relaxing sounds of the stream nearby, the park offers idyllic scenery while you chow down on local fare.

Along the foothills of North Boulder lies Wonderland Lake, a serene watering hole with plentiful lakeside lounging spots for your next al fresco lunch. The lake is located 0.2 miles (about a five minute walk) from the Wonderland Lake Trailhead, and the destination is more than worth that short stroll, with ample grass bordering the lake, picnic tables, and benches on the southwest side of lake. The park also offers access to trails throughout Boulder Open Space

Once a literal dump, Parfet Park was dedicated to George W. Parfet, a clay miner, after he died in 1924. Today, it’s a charming and well-trafficked plot of grass, sitting at the center of downtown Golden along both the town’s main street and Clear Creek—an ideal spot for people watching, reading, and, of course, an afternoon picnic. The park features picnic tables (if you didn’t bring a blanket), public bathrooms, mountain views, and access to Clear Creek Trail.

Alamo Placita Park is one of Denver’s hidden gems. The 4.6-acre plot of land opened used to be the location for high-diving elk back in 1898. Now, elaborate flower displays are the main attraction to this historic locale. Alamo Placita—meaning “Little Place of Cottonwoods”—is one of seven parks that is serviced by Denver Parks and Recreation’s horticultural team. The symmetrical parterres of blooms at the center of the park create the ideal backdrop for a lunchtime picnic

If your idea of a perfect picnic spot includes Denver’s skyline, make sure to secure a shaded patch of land at Barnum Park. The park was named after wealthy circus mogul Phineas T. Barnum of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, who bought 760-acres of land in Denver in 1878. Instead of elephants and lions, Barnum Park features walking trails, a dog park, and the Barnum Lake Park Reservoir. The pavilion at the top of the park’s hill offers stunning views of the Mile High City in the distance.

If you’re looking for a less crowded spot to wine and dine, Harriman Lake Park in Littleton promises a serene lakeside experience. Just south of Bear Creek Lake, Harriman sits in the middle of a prairie, surrounded by a 1.43 mile loop trail. There are a two main lakeside spots ideal for picnicking, in addition to park benches and picnic tables. However, park amenities are limited to maintain the natural integrity of the area.

While it might seem like an obvious choice for a picnic, the Denver Botanic Gardens boasts plentiful lawn space, tucked away benches, and a flowering oasis ideal for a picnic for two. And while outside food is welcome (but no alcohol, please), the gardens’ restaurant, Hive Garden Bistro, is open for takeout orders.