The Great All-American Picnic: The South

Liven up the dog days of summer by planning your own fabulous picnic. We've covered Los Angeles, the Bay Area, New York, Chicago, and now we're heading south of the Mason-Dixon line. From N'awlins to Savannah, we've hand-picked some of the best places to enjoy idyllic scenery and dine al fresco with an All-American picnic.

Once you find the perfect location, serve up Star Chef Picnic Recipes and get prepared with our Picnic Supplies checklist.

New Orleans, LA - City Park

Head to the lush New Orleans Botanical Garden in City Park for an idyllic summer picnic setting. After enjoying a quiet picnic amongst bountiful summer blooms, explore other fun activities City Park has to offer. The Carousel Gardens Amusement Park has rides and roller coasters as well as a 100-year-old antique carved carousel. Then, visit the renowned New Orleans Museum of Art and peruse paintings by Degas, Picasso and Braque.

Charleston, SC - Angel Oak Tree

Angel Oak Tree

Known to locals simply as "The Tree," Angel Oak Tree is a 1,500 year old live oak. The tree grows on the beautiful Johns Island, and its massive branches provide over 17,000 square feet of shade - perfect for spreading your picnic blanket under. Take refuge under the oak and marvel at the beauty of the oldest object (living or non-living) East of the Rockies.

Savannah, GA - Wormsloe Historic Site

If breathtaking scenery is what you're after, look no further than the Wormsloe Historic Site in Savannah. The site is made up of ruins of a colonial estate constructed by one of Georgia's first settlers. Scenic nature trails wind through the ruins amid oak trees and fragrant flowers making it the perfect place for a romantic picnic. It might even be a great place for a romantic picnic proposal!

Pensacola, FL- Big Lagoon State Park

Wormsloe Historic Site

Big Lagoon State Park offers nearly 700 acres of waterfront land and 21 picnic shelters. More than just a picnic site, Big Lagoon has beaches, trails, swimming, canoeing, fishing and a wildlife viewing observation tower - perfect activities to fill a summer Saturday with the family.

Charlotte, NC - Freedom Park

Known as the "Central Park" of Charlotte, Freedom Park is centered around a lovely 7-acre lake. The best part about picnicking here is that the picnic shelters have built-in grills. Pack a cooler with burgers, hot dogs and veggie kabobs so you can grill up fresh fare for your fellow picnickers to devour. For tips on summer grilling, check out our article on Backyard Barbeques.

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