Summer in Lincoln Square: Your Perfect Picnic Awaits!

Summer is officially here, and there's no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather than with a picnic. Thankfully, Lincoln Square has everything you need to curate the perfect al fresco dining experience, from gourmet treats to essential picnic gear, it’s all here in Lincoln Square. Plus, we're surrounded by fantastic green spaces just waiting for your blanket and basket!

No picnic is complete without an array of delicious eats. Lincoln Square boasts an impressive selection of bakeries and markets to stock up on all your favorites. Start your picnic off right with artisanal breads, pastries, and more from Breads Bakery (1890 Broadway between 62nd and 63rd Street), Tartinery (10 Columbus Circle), Rosetta Bakery (1928 Broadway between 64th and 65th Street), Cafe Aroma (1873 Broadway between 61st and 62nd Street), Maman (152 Columbus Ave between 66^th and 67^th Street), or Le Pain Quotidien (60 W 65th Street between Broadway and Central Park West).

If you're looking for prepared dishes or specialty items, head to Gourmet Garage (155 W 66th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave), Whole Foods Market (10 Columbus Circle), or Morton Williams (2015 Broadway at 68th Street). For delicious grab-and-go meals, check out Lincoln Square’s wide array of fast-casual eateries including Alan's Marketplace (27 Columbus Avenue at 60th Street), Le Botaniste (156 Columbus Ave at 67th Street), and The Independent Cafe (61 W 62nd Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave). Don't forget your fruits and veggies! The Richard Tucker Park Greenmarket, held Thursdays and Saturdays in its namesake park (Broadway at 66th Street) is your go-to for seasonal, local produce.

Once your menu is set, it’s time to gather your gear. Find stylish, practical picnic baskets and accessories at Williams Sonoma (10 Columbus Circle), West Elm (1870 Broadway between 61^st and 62^nd Street), Pottery Barn (1965 Broadway at 67th Street), and grab a cozy and durable blanket from Target (1865 Broadway at 61st Street).

Keep cool and protected with sunscreen from Kiehl's (154 Columbus Ave at 66th Street), Sephora (1863 Broadway between 61st and 62nd Street), or Target  and protect your eyes with a new pair of shades at Sunglass Hut (10 Columbus Circle).

With your basket full and your essentials in tow, it's time to choose your picnic destination. Lincoln Square is just a stone’s throw away from one of the best picnic spots in the City – Central Park. If you prefer to picnic with tables and chairs, check out Richard Tucker Park (Broadway & 66th Street) and Dante Park (Broadway & 64th Street), where the Lincoln Square BID provides free tables, chairs, and umbrellas for your enjoyment.

We invite you to shop, dine, and explore all that Lincoln Square has to offer this summer. For a full list of local offerings, visit our Neighborhood Guide. Grab your picnic supplies and make lasting memories at the Gateway to the Upper West Side!

Photo Credit:
Image 1 - Williams Sonoma
Image 2 - Maman
Image 3- Kiehl's