Where to Picnic at Night in Raleigh
When selecting a location for a nighttime picnic, you’ll want to consider the view and convenience factors. Below is a short list of our recommendations for locations to consider for a picnic at night.
Best Places in Raleigh for a Nighttime Picnic
Flowers Field in Dorothea Dix Park
If you’re looking for a truly special place to picnic at night in Raleigh, we recommend Flowers Field in Dorothea Dix Park. The field looks out onto the Raleigh skyline, creating a beautiful and romantic backdrop for your nighttime picnic.
It’s best to arrive at this location prior to sunset so you can enjoy the array of colors that light up the Raleigh skyline as the sun sets. The skyline will transform from golden hues as the sun sets and sparkle with twinkling lights as the day turns into night.
Because Dix Park is so large, and Flowers Field itself is large too, you’ll have plenty of room to sprawl out.
In terms of convenience, Dix Park has various free parking lots near Flower’s Field. Both the Adams Building lot and Kirby Building lot are available to park and are near the field, only a short walk away.
Overall Score: 10/10
Nighttime View Score: 10/10
Convenience: 9/10
Restrooms: There are two port-a-Johns in the field closer to the skyline on the right side of the field.
Additionally, the nearby Flower Cottage will provide some light as well as a trash and recycling bin for when you’ve finished with your nighttime picnic and need to throw away garbage.
Dorothea Dix Park is free and open to the public every day of the year and is open from dawn to dusk. Be aware that the park closes at dusk, and while there are no gates that formally close the park, it’s recommended you finish your picnic and exit the park at dusk.
Midtown Park
Next on our list of best places for a night picnic in Raleigh is the Coastal Credit Union Midtown Park located in the North Hills. Midtown Park is about 2.8 acres and sits in the heart of North Hills. In addition to its manicured grass lawn, the park also has a stage that hosts performers throughout the year. We recommend checking the North Hills event calendar to ensure your picnic doesn’t fall on the same night as a concert.
Because Midtown Park is open 24 hours a day, this is a great choice if you’re planning to picnic well into the night. It’s also a good option if you’d like to bring takeout to your picnic instead of packing your own food. With loads of restaurants nearby, you could easily order takeout at Chuy’s and enjoy your meal in this green space, making this a terrific convenient option.
Midtown Park also offers ample parking within walking distance of the park. The most convenient parking will be street parking around the park, but be aware these spots are limited to two hours. There are also two parking garages available with free parking if street parking isn’t available.
Overall Score: 8/10
Nighttime View Score: 7/10
Convenience: 10/10
Restrooms: Midtown Park does not have specific bathrooms, but there are a variety of restaurants nearby with restrooms.
There are also a handful of trash cans around the park so you can easily clean up and throw away any garbage after your picnic.
Lighting Options for a Night Picnic
Keep in mind that when picnicking at night, you’ll want to have some form of light so you and your guests can easily move around the picnic and find any food or drink. Below is a list of lightweight and portable light options you might consider.
Flameless candles or tea lights
Battery-powered lantern like a camping lantern
Battery-powered string lights
About the Author
Angela Byrnes - Owner, Southern Picnics
Angela is the owner of Southern Picnics and started the business in September 2020. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with degrees in Writing and Literature. She later attended Duke University where she received a certificate in Digital Media and Marketing.