The best parks for picnics in Beijing

Get your hampers ready and head for one of these picnic-friendly parks

Finding a grassy patch that you’re actually allowed to sit on poses somewhat of a challenge in our fair city, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. With summer on the horizon, keep cool and plan the perfect afternoon by getting your hampers ready and heading for one of these picnic-friendly parks below. 

Olympic Forest Park: Best for a whole lot of space

While the south entrance is more of a hectic tourist trap than an outdoor reprieve, following the trails through the park you’ll easily find a quiet green corner to set up camp. There’s plenty of entertainment, with an amusement park and pedalos available for hire. Build up your appetite by climbing Mount Yangshan for a picturesque view of the park and Bird’s Nest stadium.

Purple Bamboo Park: Best for lake views

The expanse of grass that greets picnic pioneers entering Purple Bamboo’s east gate is a perfect patch to set down and start your fresh-air feast. There are also plenty of other spots on offer by the lake, in pavilions, or hidden away in one of the park’s plentiful tree-shaded nooks.

Chaoyang Park: Best for carnival atmosphere

Downtown Beijing’s biggest park has got it all: plenty of open green spaces, a boating lake, an amusement park and a fake beach complete with sun-loungers and an outdoor water park. You’ll find the best picnic spots to the northeast of the park, away from the crowds, where vast expanses of green overlook the water.

Longtan Park: For a quick escape from the crowd

One of the largest modern parks inside Beijing's Second Ring, Longtan Park boasts elegantly arched bridges, towering rock formations – and a whole lot of recreational activities for kids. But despite all that, the park doesn't attract a crowd as most other larger parks do, so you'll have more green to yourself as you head lakeside to lay down your blankets and bring out your hamper.

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