Picnic in Bailey Park

Picnic Like a Pro

Where to go, what to eat, and how to upgrade your picnic game in and around Winston-Salem!

Picnic like a pro with our tips on the best places and best food to take with you, or upgrade and hire someone to make your experience truly memorable!

Where to Picnic

  • The Lawn in front of Reynolda House – with a spacious lawn and easy parking, this is as easy as it gets (on the weekends, park in Reynolda Village and walk up the road)
  • Old Salem Square – stake out a spot in quaint Salem Square, then stroll the streets
  • Quarry Park – picnic in the meadow after taking in the beautiful Winston skyline from the overlook
  • Bailey Park – for an urban feel, spread out on the grass at Bailey Park (and get some Lill Dipper ice cream after!)
  • Tanglewood Park – there are so many choices for the perfect spot, but we like the picnic tables near Mallard Lake for shade or any of the grassy knolls for sun 
  • West Salem Public House – for the beer aficionado, go to the Pub, where picnics are encouraged
  • A Local Vineyard – Raffaldini, Medaloni, and Divine Llama all allow outside picnics (but not outside alcohol)

What to Eat

Pack a cooler with homemade goodies, or go the easy route and pick up prepared food!

  • Buie’s Market – head to their charcuterie section and grab some cheese, cured meat, and crackers, then throw in some fruit + veggies to round out the meal – don’t forget beer or wine!
  • The Carving Board – you can’t go wrong with any order from the Carving Board! Best bet: order sandwiches and a few side salads to share
  • The Board Babe – get a prepared to-go charcuterie picnic box for an easy all-in-one option
  • Bobby Boy Bakery – while they are best known for their desserts, they also offer amazing lunchtime specials

Upgrade the Experience

There are a couple of new local enterprises that will set up and cater your picnic for you! If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, try one of these companies that will make it easy to picnic like a pro:

  • Keeley Nicole Events – With the dreamiest set-ups (see the picture above!), this would be perfect for a date night!
  • Lavander Picnic – They offer 3 packages with specific menus for up to 4 guests – how fun for an intimate birthday!

Picture courtesy of Keeley Nicole Events, by Light of Your Life Photography

Mentioned:

Reynolda House

This historic home is now a museum of American art. Today, works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Grant Wood, Stuart Davis, and Jacob Lawrence hang on the walls of the restored house, while changing exhibitions are featured in a 3,000 square-foot-gallery. Decorative arts and archival objects complete the Museum’s three collections.

Old Salem

The historic town of Salem has been preserved and restored - an authentic view of the rich cultural history of early Southern life! Old Salem is such a cute place to wander and explore.

Quarry Park

A peaceful little spot in the heart of Winston. Check out the overlook pier that has a perfect view of the deep blue waters of the old quarry. It's no wonder they call it Quarry Park!

Duck Pond at Tanglewood

Tanglewood Park

The most amazing park just outside Winston with lots of open space, a dog park, a bed and breakfast, swimming, tennis, softball, golf and horseback riding.

Bailey Park
Located in the Innovation Quarter in downtown Winston-Salem, Bailey Park is a 1.6-acre publicly accessible green space that features a covered stage, restroom facilities, a food truck court and a large grassy lawn suitable for a variety of recreational activities.

West Salem Public House

A modern American take on the Public House tradition! Fun atmosphere and good food & drinks.

Raffaldini Vineyards

When it comes to winery visits you can't go wrong with Raffaldini. The views are amazing, great tasting room and good wines. You will love it there. It’s about 45 minutes away.

Medaloni Cellars

Beautiful winery location that offers wine tastings and tours in addition to hosting weddings and other events.

Divine Llama Vineyards
A vineyard and tasting room where you can drink wine and pet llamas and miniature horses. Lots of fun!

Buie's Market

A neighborhood market with local produce, local dairy & eggs, unique food items, grab-and-go selections, plus a fantastic beer and wine selection. There's also a bar for coffee, beer, and wine by the glass to enjoy in store or at one of their outdoor tables.

The Carving Board

The place to go for sandwiches, salads, and food to go. They make almost everything in-house, and the quality is evident. Best for lunch, they do close on the early side.

The Board Babe

A newcomer to the food scene, The Board Babe is popular for charcuterie and for offering a fun spot pre- or post- dinner to get a drink. They're slowly expanding their cafe, so look for more brunch and dinner options in the future.

Bobby Boy Bakeshop
High quality pastries, with intricate details and a European flair. Excellent sandwiches and coffee, too! The perfect spot for a morning coffee date or a lunchtime sandwich!