Made-in-Woodstock Picnic Guide: Local Eats, Sips & Scenery
Nothing says summer like a picnic and Woodstock has everything you need to make it effortlessly delicious, totally local, and charmingly laid-back.
🧺 First, Pick Your Picnic Spot
Looking for the perfect backdrop? Try:
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Emricson Park – A wide-open park with tons of room to spread out. You’ll find plenty of shade, multiple pavilions, and lots of ways to play, making it perfect for pairing your picnic with a little outdoor adventure.
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Woodstock Square Park – A picturesque, charming setting, surrounded by local shops, historic beauty, and, if you’re lucky, live music from the bandstand.
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Ryders Woods – Peaceful trails wind through lush greenery, with benches tucked along the way and a quiet pond that adds to the charm. A serene, off-the-beaten-path spot for a laid-back picnic.
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🧀 Now, Fill That Basket with Local Flavor
Skip the big box store and build your perfect picnic from these local treasures:
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- Snacks & Specialty Goods: Stock up on gourmet items from The Market by D&A, Food Shed Co-Op, or the Woodstock Farmers Market (Tuesdays & Saturdays).
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Main Bites: Grab mouthwatering BBQ from Porkies, go classic with sandwiches from Cesaroni’s Cafe & Deli, or dig into crispy comfort with Southern Fried Chicken from 3 Brothers.
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Sweet Treats: Dessert? Yes, please. Think J&G Pastries, By the Dozen Bakery, or Isabel’s for some delicious homemade goodies!
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Sips: Pick up a growler from Holzlager Brewing Co. or Kishwaukee Brewing Co., a bottle of wine from Winestock Market to toast the day, or a refreshing iced tea from Casting Whimsy.
🧺 Make it Picture Perfect
The best picnics have a little extra flair:
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Set the scene with stylish touches from Black Oak Home & Haven Co., The Backdrop, or The Grove House Market.
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Add a pop of color with fresh blooms from Apple Creek Flowers or Dented Gate Flower Farm.
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So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just a sun-drenched Saturday, Woodstock gives you all the ingredients to picnic.
Show off your perfect picnic moments and inspire others to explore! Tag us with #RealWoodstock or @RealWoodstockIL (Instagram) for a chance to be featured and share the local love!