Now that it's warming up in the 804, it's time to take your meals outside. If you're planning a picnic, peruse no further — here's your guide to a picture-perfect outing, from where to go to which nearby spots can supply the bites.

Forest Hill Park

If you want a bit of outdoor adventure with your meal, head to Forest Hill Park. The park has picnic shelters close to several trails great for walking, running, and biking. Swing by Gold Lion Community Cafe or Crossroads before you arrive to pick up a refreshing coffee and lunch. Start with ice cream if the weather insists.

Enjoy your meal with the sprawling view at Libby Hill Park. | Photo by RICtoday

Libby Hill Park

Eat and enjoy "The View That Named the City" in Church Hill. Ideal for watching the sunset, the park also features picnic table seating, fountains for ambiance, and plenty of space to lay out a blanket and relax. If you want to grab something to eat, Proper Pie, Cobra Burger, and The Hill Café are only a few blocks away. If you're lucky, you might catch some live music or a local artist capturing the view.

Maymont

There are plenty of scenic spots at Maymont to picnic, whether you’re in the mood to sit in the Japanese Garden, on a shady hill, or near the Children’s Farm. Pack a lunch or keep things simple with bagels and coffee from Lamplighter or Nate's Bagels before you get to the park. Don't forget a blanket.

Scuffletown Park

Nestled between Strawberry Street and Stafford Avenue, Scuffletown Park is perfect for a picnic with a few friends. If you’re headed out in the early afternoon, you can snag a treat from Idle Hands, about three blocks over. Looking for a full meal? Grab a pizza from 8½, and don't forget to add a few cannolis to your order.

Bryan Park

Located in Northside, Bryan Park is a sprawling area with a playground, picnic shelters, and 17 acres of Azalea gardens. We recommend getting a fresh local lunch at the RVA BIG Market, which is open year-round on Saturday mornings. Feel free to walk to a more secluded area if you prefer to be away from the market’s hustle and bustle.

Oregon Hill Overlook

Bring a blanket, spread out in the shade, and settle in to watch the river flow. There are also several benches — plus one rope swing — if sitting on the ground isn't your style. Grab a pizza from Pupatella or some donuts from Oh! Mochi and enjoy one of the best views in the River City.

Belle Isle has plenty of riverside spots to set the scene. | Photo by RICtoday

Belle Isle

If you're looking for a closer view of the James, trek across the pedestrian bridge with your basket and settle in at one of the several riverfront spots Belle Isle has to offer. Approach from the east to grab some takeout at Casa Del Barco or Soul Taco and enjoy your tacos on the rocks.

VMFA Sculpture Garden

Surround yourself with art and soak up some sun at the VMFA. The food options are pretty endless. Pick up sandwiches from Garnett's, grab coffee from Black Hand or Paix, or snag a bite while at the museum from the VMFA's Best Café. Take your pick, then set up shop on the grassy lawn.

Byrd Park

The lakes of Byrd Park provide a perfect opportunity for a waterside snack. Plus, Fountain Lake has public grills on site. Grab a steak from Belmont Butchery and get in touch with your inner grillmaster — just watch out for hungry geese.

Pony Pasture

Pony Pasture and the Huguenot Flatwater have rocky riverside spots similar to Belle Isle. Head out in the morning, grab to-go boxes from Eat 66 on the way over, and meditate over a breakfast sandwich or two.

Tell us where you go to get some fresh air and enjoy a snack.