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Top 5 places to have a picnic
12:00 am Apr 15 - by Jamie Rudman – Buzz Writer
Frat Park
Nestled between various frat houses and apartment complexes (between Third and Second Streets and Daniel and Chalmers Streets) this large open field is a great spot to lay down a blanket and enjoy a picnic. Plus, it’s a short walk from many on-campus apartments; I mean who wants to lug all that food around campus?
The Quad
As soon as the weather is decent outside you can find The Quad littered with students working on homework, throwing a ball around or even tight-rope walking. Just make sure to keep your eye open for any uncaught Frisbees or footballs while you’re digging into your food.
Illini Grove (Lincoln Ave and Pennsylvania Ave, Urbana)
When at Illini Grove you feel like you’re in the middle of a forest preserve rather then a town surrounded by corn fields. Illini Grove is perfect picnic place with an abundance of picnic tables, shelter and tons of trees for shade coverage.
Arboretum- Hartley Gardens (1800 S. Lincoln Ave, Urbana)
By far one of the prettiest spots on campus the Hartley Gardens is a beautiful spot for a picnic because you will be surrounded by flowers and other crops. Make sure to check out the Japan House which is only a short walk away.
Meadowbrook Prairie (South Urbana along Windsor Road and Race Street)
Meadowbrook Prairie is by far the best spot for a picnic in the Champaign-Urbana area! This park is slightly off campus but well worth the trip. There is plenty of grass space along with picnic tables and a shelter for those days when the sun is beating down on you. The best part about Meadowbrook Prairie is after you chow down all your food you can walk, run, bike or rollerblade (just be careful not to fall, I still have a scar from a nasty fall last year) on the paved path which features artistic sculptures along with beautiful scenery.
Sound Off
Last post: Apr. 16, 2008 at 12:32 am
aswi (Adam Swiatek) said on Apr. 15, 2008 at 2:54 pm:
I have heard that the park next to Carle Clinic is also a nice place to have a picnic -- there is even a lake. You could rent a canoe and go for a ride with your picnic basket.
J_fisher7 (Josh Fisher) said on Apr. 16, 2008 at 12:32 am:
Frat Park? If you want to cut the hell out of your feet on all the broken glass out there. Come on now. I would say Urbana has a better selection of scenic picnic areas. Check out the big open field near the frolf course out on Florida and Philo... if you've got a ride.
Melinda Miller (Melinda Miller) said on Apr. 15, 2008 at 12:54 pm:
I recommend Homer Lake. It's 20 minutes east of Urbana and worth the drive!