When’s the last time you went on an old-fashioned picnic? The weather has finally broken! Turn off the smartphone. Grab a picnic basket. Fill it with some fruit and soft brie from Whole Foods Market or a garden salad from Carlino’s, pick up an Irish Soda Bread from Yori’s Church Street Bakery or a warm Pain de Campagne from La Baguette Magique. Tuck a soft blanket in the backseat of the car or walk to one of the area’s perfect picnic spots. Fantastic for a special date or bring the whole family!
Everhart Park
100 S. Brandywine St., West Chester
Surrounded by breath-taking historic homes, Everhart Park is the second oldest park in the borough. The 10.2 acres of land was originally owned by William Everhart. Old shade, a gazebo and plenty of grassy space make this a great spot to enjoy with a date or a family.
Hoopes Park
700 Hoopes Park Lane, West Chester
Located on the west end of the borough, Hoopes Park is located on 16.2 acres of land. The park was named after Josiah Hoopes, one of the three original park supervisors. The park opened in the summer of 1957 so the children of the community could have a place to gather. Sit back and watch a baseball game or tennis match while relaxing in the warm sun.
Marshall Square Park
405 N. Franklin St., West Chester
Inspired by Washington Square Park in Philadelphia, Marshall Square Park was first developed as an arboretum for botanical research to provide “suitable walks and introduce various ornamental trees and shrubbery.” In 1878, it became a public park, predating NYC’s Central Park by nine years. It is named after Humphrey Marshall, a local farmer who was one of America’s first true botanists. Plenty of tall trees and grassy hills make a perfect location to spend an afternoon getaway.
Oakbourne Park
1014 South Concord Rd., West Chester
Home to the stunning Oakbourne Mansion and fantasy-like Water Tower, this one-time estate boasts acres of trails, old shade and promises a great way to relax and get away from it all.
Goose Creek Park
840 E. Street Rd., West Chester
Located a short drive from West Chester on Route 926 and behind Goose Creek Grill, this 29-acre trail-packed park offers geocaching. What an interesting way to join a “real-world adventure” as part of your relaxing afternoon jaunt.
Brandywine Battlefield
U.S. Rt. 1, Chadds Ford
How about including some local history in that picnic? Fifty acres of rolling hills and forests are just waiting to be explored. Home to the Ring House and to Lafayette’s Headquarters, this park is the perfect combination of fun, relaxation and a little history.
All parks have facilities and are kid-friendly and pet (with leash) friendly. Visit West Chester Parks & Recreation for additional park details and directions.
Photo credits: Ed Williams
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