Picnic Planner

1238 Dekalb Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

Starting as a catering company and skyrocketing (via its popularity at Smith's Olde Bar) into a fully functional, kickass barbecue stand off Dekalb, Fox Bros. has grown into Atlanta's favorite spot for 'cue. Of the chicken, ribs and pork, our favorite bite is an order of the smoked wings--one part spicy, one part smoky--they are guaranteed to be better than you expected.

61 North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30308 (map)

Sometimes it's just more fun to enjoy good, greasy eats during a summer picnic. And what better place to turn to than the legendary V. (Downtown location, of course.) Chili dogs and onion rings are staples, and don't miss a chilly frosted orange to cool off the summer temps. Get your order from one of the last standing car hops in the city for extra renaissance points.

4469 Stella Dr, Atlanta, GA 30327 (map)

Perhaps the only place in America where you can see hip acts like Beck or Jay-Z while enjoying elaborate picnic spreads with candelabras is Chastain Park Amphitheatre. If you didn't realize you were supposed to bring a spread when attending a Doors show, never fear: Chastain has gourmet to-go. Those who want a full dinner pre-show should look to the neighboring Horseradish Grill.

248 Oakland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30312 (map)

Visiting Oakland Cemetery is like taking a beautiful walking history lesson through our city's past. Atlanta's founding fathers, 24 former mayors, Margaret Mitchell and golf legend Bobby Jones are just a few of the folks who were laid to rest here. Skip the fried seafood from neighboring Six Feet Under and switch it up with tacos from Mi Barrio. Time to sit and ponder, friends.

2000 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 (map)

Picnic and a movie? Maybe not your typical picnic idea, but some things are just better enjoyed at nighttime. One of the great things about the Starlight Six is not only can you bring in a spread of eats (and booze), but you get a double feature for only $7. Action guaranteed.

Hwy 78 E (Exit 8), Stone Mountain, GA 30087 (map)

It's an outdoor paradise! Laser shows, camping, boating, hiking and an adventure ropes course give all the options picnicking folks could want without having to leave the greater metro area. Our favorite option is enjoying a picnic on the top of the mountain, a culinary reward for the climb to the top.

1026 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (map)

Can't go outside? Embrace the bad weather and head to a place with no windows. The Highland Tap, with its cellar location, stiff martinis and loaded sammies 'n' steaks will have you forgetting your bad luck in a heartbeat. Plus, if the rain lets up, you are in the most walkable shopping block in Atlanta--how perfect!

500 10th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 (map)

Picnicking in Piedmont Park when it starts to rain? You have no idea how lucky you just got. Head to the Park Tavern (corner of 10th and Monroe) and enjoy $1 draft beer until the rain subsides. Plus, with beautiful park views and a spacious covered patio, we're willing to bet you stay there for awhile regardless of the weather.

1812 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 (map)

You're not actually outdoors, but the covered patio can fool you. This whimsical and colorful spot off Peachtree gives off the feeling that you are dining in a jungle. A plethora of plants provide a background, live birds chirp at you as you enter and a vegetarian-friendly menu make this patio seem like you're anywhere but Buckhead.

438 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

Picnics are all about colorful scenery, and there isn't a spot to see more colorful indoor scenery than at the Vortex in Little Five Points. From the unique clientele to the quasi-nude pictures that adorn the walls to the "rules" listed on the front of the menu, there is no other burger place this entertaining in Atlanta.

406 W Ponce De Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 (map)

As stated before, picnics in the South typically require fried chicken. Hope your picnic gets rained out on a Tuesday, because this gives you the excuse to head over to Decatur's Watershed for the best fried chicken in Atlanta. James Beard award winner Scott Peacock does it pan-fried style (our favorite) and his chocolate cake will make everything in life seem okay.