Metro Detroit’s Best Parks for Picnics | Eater Detroit

"The riverfront offers many beautiful locations along its 5 1⁄2 miles to watch the river flow by, admire Canada, and enjoy your meal. Benches facing the river are spread out throughout the riverfront, as well as numerous parks and many grassy locations along the stretch from the Ambassador Bridge to Gabriel Richard Park. There’s also a sandy beach, a children’s musical garden, and a community barbecue pavilion. To rent a picnic shelter, visit the Michigan DNR website or call 1-800-44-PARKS. What to eat: At Atwater Beach, inside Valade Park, Smokey G’s serves barbecue ribs, pulled pork, and brisket sandwiches, along with turkey legs and chicken. All of the meats are slow-smoked over embers of fruitwood. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Pair any of the meats with baked beans, Brussels sprouts, or mac and cheese to round out the meal." - Monica Williams