Central Park is the perfect outdoor venue for a picnic in New York!
Set against the backdrop of the New York City skyline and tucked away from the sounds of the city, Central Park has a certain magic that can transform a casual gathering into an unforgettable experience. The lush landscapes and endless views make it a picnic lover’s paradise, and it's the perfect venue for dining al fresco!
If you need help choosing a location, check out The 7 Best Picnic Spots in Central Park.
Picnic Permits & Reservations
Permits are only needed if you have 20 or more people in your group. If you have less than 20 people, you are not required to have a permit; however, it is the only way to guarantee that your desired location will be available. Permits are $25.00 each, and we strongly recommend securing a permit for both your event date and a rain date, since permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Apply for your permit here with a minimum of 21 days advance notice.
grab and go picnics
Grab & Go Picnics
Our individual picnics are the perfect accompaniment to any activity! They are individually packed in their own reusable tote, and are easy to grab & go.
Whether you need lunch for 1 or 100, this is a delicious and easy option. Select picnics even come with a picnic blanket!
Book ahead and pick up at our shop right outside Central Park.
Romantic Picnic Baskets for Two
The Romantic Basket (to go) includes a selection of cured meats, artisanal cheese, olives, chocolate, bubbly, a blanket, and more! It's a sumptuous romantic picnic that's just right for treating that special someone.
Looking to take it up a notch? The Ultimate Picnic Basket (delivery) adds on baguettini sandwiches, caviar, roses, and a few other extra special details. It's perfect for birthdays, proposals, anniversaries, or any special moment that calls for love and luxury!
See All Romantic Picnic Options
Waterside Picnic Setup
Picnic Experience Packages
Enjoy a full-service picnic with loved ones, friends or colleagues while you take in iconic views of the NYC backdrop. Perfect for special occasions, wedding proposals, birthdays, corporate parties, work socials, or brunch with friends and family!
Our all-inclusive packages include food, beverages, blankets, pillows, parasols, setup, cleanup, and everything you need to have a perfect picnic!
Book a Picnic Experience Package
Custom Picnics & Events
Plan a socially-distanced big group picnic, social gathering, corporate party, or wedding reception picnic!
Our picnic experts will create a custom package around your specific needs and budget.
We handle all aspects of your picnic, including setup and cleanup, so you can just show up and have a great time!
Browse private event packages or contact us to discuss planning a custom event.
Picnic Tables in Central Park
Picnic tables are located at the Heckscher Playground, Arthur Ross Pinetum and Great Hill North. Please note that picnic tables are in high demand and cannot be reserved.
The use of tables and chairs are not permitted in Central Park, but if you must have a table for your meal you can always head to one of the many restaurants in Central Park.
BBQ Picnics
If you're interested in having a BBQ picnic, please note that barbecuing is permitted in Central Park on just three days of the year (Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day).
Need a picnic setup? We can provide the setup if you provide the BBQ! See details about our Picnic Setup for 10 persons or Picnic Setup for 20 persons packages.
More on Barbecuing in Central Park