There’s something about these late summer days. The golden light, the quiet breeze, the way everything feels just a little slower. It’s the perfect time to hit pause and head outside for a simple pleasure: a picnic.
As the days start to cool and the evenings creep in earlier, now’s your chance to roll out a blanket, pack your favorite snacks, and enjoy one of Salt Lake’s beautiful local parks. From wide open lawns to peaceful views, these six parks offer some of the best settings in the county for a memorable end-of-summer picnic.
Big Cottonwood Regional Park
If your idea of a perfect picnic includes lots of open space, this is your park. Big Cottonwood Regional Park covers more than 55 acres and sits just off 1300 East in Millcreek. It has that mix of peaceful and lively that makes it great for just about any kind of outing.
You’ll find huge grassy fields for tossing a frisbee or laying out a full picnic spread. There are shaded picnic tables if you prefer to stay off the grass, and playgrounds nearby for the kids. The layout gives you plenty of room to find a quiet corner, even on busy weekends.
The wide lawns and mature trees make this a great late-afternoon or early evening spot. Bring a cooler, your go-to picnic playlist, and enjoy the breeze before the evenings get chilly.
Park hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Group picnics, family outings, and a low-key afternoon
Memory Grove Park
Memory Grove is one of those parks that feels like a secret, even though it’s right in Salt Lake City. You head down a staircase just east of the Capitol and suddenly you’re in a shaded, tree-filled park that feels miles away from city noise.
There are picnic tables scattered throughout, including some tucked near memorials and along the Freedom Trail. If you're looking for something calm and reflective, this is your spot. The trails are quiet, the pond is peaceful, and the atmosphere is respectful and serene. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed outside the designated off-leash zone.
Late summer is a great time to visit. The tree cover keeps it cooler, and the evening light gives everything a soft, golden glow. Bring a book, a blanket, or a friend and enjoy the slower pace.
Park hours: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Peaceful solo picnics, thoughtful walks, and cool shade on warm days
Knudsen Park
Knudsen Park might be small, but it packs a lot into its 7.5 acres. Located in the southeast corner of Holladay, this newer park was thoughtfully designed with a focus on nature and relaxation.
There’s a hammock garden (yes, really), a water play area for kids, and a set of scenic footbridges that cross over Big Cottonwood Creek. The picnic pavilion is reservable, but you’ll also find several open grassy areas and informal picnic spots around the historic oak groves.
This park is great for families looking for an easy outing or anyone who wants to picnic with a view. You’ll hear the creek running nearby and might even spot cyclists coming through on the adjacent trail system. It’s a small park, so come early if you want one of the more shaded areas.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Casual family picnics, hammocking, and peaceful nature breaks
Bingham Creek Regional Park
Suppose you want space, head to Bingham Creek. This park is still growing, but the first 65 acres are already open and loaded with picnic potential. Located near Daybreak, it features multi-purpose fields, bike trails, a playground, and a ton of open lawn.
There’s a large pavilion that can be reserved, but you’ll also find wide grassy stretches where you can set up your own picnic base. It's great for big groups, birthday lunches, or active kids who want to run wild after eating.
By late summer, the fields are buzzing with weekend games, so the vibe is lively. If you're into mixing food with activity, like a walk or a quick ride on the pump track, this park has options. And more features like splash pads and sports courts are coming soon.
Park hours: 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Big families, group hangouts, and energetic afternoons
Murray Park
Murray Park feels like the go-to gathering place for the east side. With multiple pavilions, big open lawns, a creek, and paved walking paths, it’s one of the most versatile parks for a picnic.
You’ll find plenty of shaded tables and benches, plus areas where you can toss down a blanket near the water or under mature trees. There’s an arboretum, sports fields, and even an amphitheater. It’s one of those parks that always has something going on, but never feels overcrowded.
This is a great spot for those end-of-summer picnics that blend food, walking, and a little people-watching. The walking trail weaves through all corners of the park, so after you eat, it’s easy to stretch your legs and explore.
Park hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Best for: Classic park picnics, long walks, and family-friendly vibes
Draper Historic Park
Looking for a picnic that’s quiet, local, and a little bit historic? Draper Historic Park is just two acres, but it’s beautifully maintained and sits in the heart of Draper’s historic downtown.
There’s a gazebo at the center and plenty of open green space around it. The park is dotted with historic markers and monuments, giving it a sense of place and meaning. It's a great spot for a peaceful lunch break, a midweek picnic, or a low-key hangout before catching a summer concert at the gazebo.
Because it’s smaller, you won’t find playgrounds or large sports fields here, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. Bring a simple picnic and enjoy a calm, cozy setting that feels like a step back in time.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Quiet lunches, peaceful evenings, and history buffs
Make the Most of the Last Summer Stretch
September always sneaks up fast. One minute you’re in full summer mode, and the next you’re grabbing a sweater and wondering when the sun started setting so early. Before that shift hits hard, take a moment for yourself.
Pick a park. Pack something simple like fruit, sandwiches, cold drinks, maybe a little dessert. Grab a book, bring a friend, or just go solo. Let the season slow down around you for a while.
And if you do head out, snap a photo and tag the park. You never know who you’ll inspire to do the same before the clouds roll in.
Summer’s still here, at least for a little while longer. Let’s not waste it.
Leave a Reply