Creative Outdoor Picnic Set Up Ideas for 2023

Ah, the great outdoors! Nothing beats a day spent with friends and family, enjoying a delicious picnic under the warm Houston sun. But what if we told you that you could elevate your picnic experience to a whole new level? In this blog post, we'll guide you through creative outdoor picnic set up ideas for 2023 in Houston, Texas. From choosing the perfect location to crafting a delectable menu and adding luxurious touches, regardless if you are celebrating a baby shower, bridal shower or engagement, we've got you covered. So grab your picnic basket and let's get started!

 

Short Summary

• Choose the perfect picnic spot from 3 exceptional parks in Houston.

• Create a delectable menu with items like chicken salad sandwiches and charcuterie boards.

• Elevate your picnic experience with luxury add-ons, delivery & set up services, and clean up afterwards!

​

Choosing the Perfect Location

When planning a Houston picnic, the location is key. A picturesque spot not only provides a stunning backdrop for your gathering, but also sets the mood for the entire event. With so many beautiful parks to choose from, how do you decide on the perfect one? Fear not, we've narrowed it down to three exceptional locations in Houston that are tailor-made for memorable picnics.

 

Let's dive in!

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Buffalo Bayou Park

Buffalo Bayou Park offers a breathtaking view of downtown Houston, making it a popular choice for picnics. This picturesque park has something for everyone, from its underground cistern and art installations to its beautiful gardens and native landscaping.

​

With paddle craft and bike rentals available, you can explore the park's hike and bike trails or even go kayaking and canoeing. The park is equipped with essential facilities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and grills, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

 

And with lifeguards on duty during the summer months and a security patrol keeping an eye on the park, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your picnic without any worries. See more events going on.

​

Memorial Park

If you're looking for a spacious park with plenty of room to spread out, Memorial Park is the place to be. As the largest urban park in Texas, it boasts an 18-hole golf course, numerous walking trails, and designated picnic areas. Open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day, Memorial Park offers ample time for you to enjoy your picnic and take in the beautiful surroundings.

​

To ensure a great picnic experience at Memorial Park, pack plenty of food and drinks, don't forget the sunscreen and bug spray, and make sure to check the weather beforehand. A roast beef sandwich can be a great addition to your picnic menu at Memorial Park.

​

Clay Family Eastern Glades

For those seeking a hidden gem with lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, look no further than Clay Family Eastern Glades. Located within Memorial Park, this 100-acre park features a 5.5-acre lake, wetlands, over 550 trees, and 2.5 miles of trails that connect 40 acres of restored wetlands, savannah, and picnic areas. Open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day and dog-friendly, Clay Family Eastern Glades is a fantastic spot for picnics, hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching.

​

To ensure a hassle-free picnic experience, plan ahead, bring all necessary items such as food, drinks, and utensils, and familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations. Consider adding a tomato basil dish to your picnic menu, especially on a tomato basil Friday.

​

 Other Houston Picnic Spots

Houston has many great spots to set up a picnic. If you want to see more see this list of 6 great picnic spots in Houston.

​

 Creating a Delectable Picnic Menu 

Now that you've chosen the perfect location, it's time to craft a mouthwatering menu that will please every palate. From classic sandwiches to elegant charcuterie boards and refreshing beverages, we've got some scrumptious ideas that are sure to impress your guests.

​

Let's explore some delicious picnic menu options, including kalamata olives served, red onions served, and roasted red peppers as tasty appetizers!

 

Chicken Salad Sandwich

A classic picnic favorite, the Chicken Salad Sandwich is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that can be made ahead of time. To make a delicious Chicken Salad Sandwich, simply mix together chicken, mayonnaise, sweet pickle juice, onion, celery, garlic powder, grapes, and almonds or cashews in a bowl. For a twist, try adding some chicken vegetable mix, feta cheese, and sliced red onions to the recipe for extra flavor and nutrition.

​

Once the ingredients are evenly distributed, spread the mixture onto two slices of bread and enjoy. The beauty of the Chicken Salad Sandwich lies in its adaptability - feel free to experiment with different ingredients or bread types to suit your taste buds.

 

Charcuterie Board

A Charcuterie Board is an excellent way to add variety to your picnic menu while providing a visually appealing spread. It typically features a selection of cured meats, cheeses, including goat cheese, crackers, fruits, nuts, and spreads.

 

When assembling your Charcuterie Board, consider the different flavors and textures of the items, arranging the meats, cheeses, including jack and cheddar cheeses, and crackers in an attractive manner. Then add in the fruits, nuts, and spreads, and top it off with herbs and edible flowers for a touch of color.

 

To ensure the longevity of your Charcuterie Board, store it in a cool, dry place, and if necessary, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

 

Champagne and Spirits

Elevate your picnic experience by adding some bubbly and spirits to your menu. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to make your picnic a little more luxurious, a glass of champagne or a carefully crafted cocktail can add an extra touch of sophistication.

​

Prosecco is a wallet-friendly option for those looking to enjoy some sparkling wine without breaking the bank. Alternatively, you can explore the world of canned wines, with top brands such as LUBANZI, Kiss of Wine, Canned Wine Co, Mirabeau, Babe, Daylesford, Sipful Organic Bubbly, and Small But offering a wide range of flavors and styles.

​

Elevating Your Picnic with Luxury Add-Ons

Why not make your picnic extra special with some luxurious add-ons? From beautiful backdrops to elegant dessert carts and festive balloon arcs, there are plenty of ways to enhance your outdoor gathering and create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

 

Let's take a look at some add-ons that can take your luxury picnics to the next level!

​

Back Drop Selections

Backdrops provide a beautiful backdrop for photos and memories, transforming your picnic into a picturesque event. Whether you choose a natural scenery backdrop, such as a beach or park, or opt for a colorful fabric or tapestry backdrop, these selections can add an extra touch of elegance to your gathering.

​

For those feeling crafty, there are plenty of DIY options available for creating your own unique backdrops. Imagine the stunning skyline views of Houston serving as the perfect backdrop for your luxury picnic at Buffalo Bayou Park.

 

Dessert Cart

A Dessert Cart adds a sweet touch to your picnic, offering a variety of delectable treats for your guests to enjoy. Fill the cart with gelato, brownie bites, homemade cookies, and chocolate-covered strawberries for an irresistible selection of goodies.

​

When planning your dessert cart, ensure you have enough desserts for all your guests and consider offering a range of flavors and textures to please everyone. Don't forget to provide utensils and napkins, so your guests can enjoy their desserts comfortably.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

Balloon Arc

A Balloon Arc creates a festive atmosphere and adds a pop of color to your picnic. To make one, you'll need balloons, a balloon arch kit, and some other supplies. Inflate the balloons and attach them to the arch kit, then shape the balloons into an arch and secure it in place with tape or string.

​

To make your balloon arch last, use good quality balloons and treat them with something like "Hi-Float," keeping them away from direct sunlight and heat, and avoiding overinflation.

​

A balloon arc can be a great addition to celebrations like baby showers, bridal showers, engagements, or even just a fun weekend picnic.

​

If you are interesting in renting any of the items listed above, and more, check out our rental order page.

​

Tips for a Hassle-Free Picnic Experience

Now that we've covered the perfect location, delicious menu, and luxurious add-ons, let's ensure your picnic runs smoothly with some essential tips. From delivery and setup to clean-up and breakdown, we've got the advice you need to make your picnic experience stress-free and enjoyable for everyone involved.

​

Delivery and Set Up

Taking advantage of Delivery and Set Up services can make your picnic significantly less stressful. These services can help with setting up the picnic area, delivering food and supplies, and ensuring everything is ready for your guests to enjoy.

 

At Houston Picnic we handle delivery and set up. By outsourcing these tasks, you can focus on enjoying the company of your friends and family without worrying about the logistics.

​

Clean-Up and Breakdown

Nobody wants to spend hours cleaning up after a picnic. That's where our Clean-Up and Breakdown services come in handy. We help ensure that the picnic area is left spotless and organized after your gathering, allowing you to enjoy the event without any concerns about cleaning up afterwards.

​

To make clean-up even easier, lay out a washable picnic blanket, pack food in sealable containers, and bring a trash bag to collect anything that needs to be thrown away.

​

Once the picnic is over, give your cooler a good clean with water and a mild detergent and rinse it off thoroughly.

​

 Summary 

In conclusion, planning a creative outdoor picnic in Houston, Texas, is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. By choosing the perfect location, crafting a delectable menu, and adding luxurious touches, you can create a memorable experience that will be cherished by all. With our guidance on hassle-free picnic tips and services, you can focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones and creating lasting memories.

 

So gather your friends and family, and don't worry about all the picnic stuff, we got you! We will create an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Houston! Contact us today.

​

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some great outdoor picnic locations in Houston, Texas?

For a memorable outdoor picnic in Houston, you can't go wrong with spots like Buffalo Bayou Park, Memorial Park, and Clay Family Eastern Glades. These locations will provide a great backdrop for your picnic!

​

Whether you're looking for a romantic spot for two or a fun place to bring the whole family, these parks have something for everyone. Enjoy the lush greenery, the stunning views, and the peaceful atmosphere. Pack a picnic basket and make a picnic.

​

What are some delicious picnic menu ideas?

If you're looking for an easy and delicious picnic menu, why not pack a classic Waldorf Salad, some snacks like chips and salsa, and a light dessert like berries and cream?

​

There's something to please everyone!

​

How can I make my picnic extra special?

You can make your picnic extra special by incorporating small details like decorations, music, and lighting to set the mood. Don't forget to add some delicious food and drinks to complete the perfect picnic experience.

​

What services can help make my picnic hassle-free?

Organizing a picnic doesn't need to be a hassle - there are professional catering services that can take care of all the planning, set-up, and clean-up for you.

​

So why not let someone else do the work and have a worry-free picnic? Contact Us

​

What tips can you give to ensure a successful picnic?

To guarantee a successful picnic, plan in advance, pack all the necessary items, and make sure that the location you choose is compliant with all regulations.
 

Ensure that you have enough food and drinks for everyone, and that you have the right utensils and plates. Bring a blanket or chairs to sit on, and don't forget to bring a trash bag to clean up after the event.