Picnicking by the Schuylkill River

Picnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized Mess
I can't help but feel relieved that spring is here to stay. There's something so incredible about Philadelphia when the weather is just right. We have our fair share of festivals, beer gardens and outdoor activities all spring and summer long. I'm already looking forward to outdoor movie nights, an outing to a nearby Lavender farm and another trip to Longwood Gardens. But there's one outdoor activity that Derek and I have already taken part of last week - picnicking! We packed up lunch and headed to a sunny spot along the Schuylkill River trail.
Picnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized Mess
There are so many great spots for picnics in Philly, whether it's right along the Schuykill, one of the many places that are part of Fairmount Park, or the parks in the city - like Rittenhouse Square or Washington Square Park! Here are a few suggestions I have on where to get a few things to pack for for your picnic around the city.

  • Cheese: One of the cheapest places to buy cheese in the city with a huge selection is Trader Joe's! I was able to pick up some mild cheddar, havarti with dill and goat cheese for under $10. 
  • Bread: Head to Metropolitan Bakery for a fresh selection on all the different types of bread you will need. My personal favorite is the french baguette. Plus, there's locations in Rittenhouse, University City, Chestnut Hill and in the Reading Terminal Market.
  • Fruit: Iovine Brothers in Reading Terminal is my go to for all of my produce needs. Everything is local and in season making for super cheap prices you won't feel bad about!
  • Dessert:  A few of my favorite choices for dessert-to-go are Beiler's Donuts (try the chocolate mousse donut if cream filled donuts are your jam), ICI Macarons & Cafe for every colorful macaron you need to brighten up your picnic and Pamcakes for some of the most unique/fresh cupcakes in the city.
Picnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized MessPicnicking by the Schuylkill River | Organized Mess
Derek and I used to always go on picnics in our hometown while we were still in high school and in college when I used to come home to visit. Our go-to spot was Pinchot Park since that wasn't very far from our town so it's been great to find new spots around our newest home here in Philadelphia. What are your favorite warm weather activities?