Picnic Spots in Jackson MS

Looking to soak up some sunshine and enjoy a laid-back meal outdoors?

Whether you're packing a homemade lunch or picking up your favorite local bites, picnicking is the perfect way to slow down and savor your surroundings. From scenic green spaces to tucked-away lawns near your go-to restaurants, here are some of the best spots in town to throw down a blanket, relax, and enjoy a picnic.

Mayes Lake at LeFleur's Bluff State Park

Credit: McMurtray Photography

Lefleur’s Bluff State Park/Mayes Lake

3315 Lakeland Terrace, Jackson, MS 39216

LeFleur’s Bluff is a green oasis in the center of urban Jackson, offering camping, fishing, picnicking, and scenic nature trails. The 305-acre park also boasts an 18-hole disc golf course for outdoor fun. At Mayes Lake, there are 5 picnic pavilions that are perfect for a quick bite, or to reserve for a special gathering or event. In the Riverside day-use area, you’ll find shady picnic tables and a few charcoal grills, plus access to the playground and bathrooms.

Pairing Suggestion: Pick up Tuk Tuk Boom or Beagle Bagel at Highland Village

Laurel Park

1841 Laurel St, Jackson, MS 39202

Located in the Belhaven Neighborhood, Laurel Park is the perfect place to put down a blanket for a picnic with the family in the large green space, or at one of the picnic tables in the pavilion.

Pairing Suggestion: Grab Wing Mouth or Rowan's

Picnicking on The District Green

District at Eastover

1250 Eastover Dr, Jackson, MS 39211

Home to charming retail spots, and restaurants, the green space at The District is an ideal spot to relax and recharge. Spread out a blanket or settle into an Adirondack chair for the perfect picnic—whether you bring your own bites or grab something to-go.

Pairing Suggestion: Sal & Mookie's or Northshore

Mississippi Museum of Art

380 South Lamar Street, Jackson MS 39201

The Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art is a 1.2-acre green space in the heart of downtown Jackson, surrounded by the city’s leading cultural institutions. Designed to celebrate all forms of art, the garden features native plants, permanent sculptures, water features, and a welcoming lawn—perfect for picnics, relaxing, or enjoying seasonal blooms.

Pairing Suggestion: Pick up Steve's or Sugar's Place

Belhaven Town Center/Belhaven Terrace

1121 N Jefferson St, Jackson, MS 39202

Tucked behind the Belhaven Terrace sits a welcoming turf lawn perfect for picnicking. Grab a bite from one of the Belhaven Town Center restaurants and enjoy the space from a blanket or one of their comfortable outdoor seating options. This fenced area also hosts family movie nights, music performances, and more!

Pairing Suggestion: MayDay Ice Cream or Poppy Pies

Mynelle Gardens

4736 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209

The serene, seven-acre Mynelle Gardens features vibrant blooms, a peaceful pond, charming bridges, and plenty of shady spots—making it a perfect place to enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by natural beauty.

Pairing Suggestion: Grab Bully's

Author

Erin McKewen

Jackson native and proud Fondren homeowner Erin has long loved The City with Soul. She is a graduate of the Jackson Public School System, as well as Millsaps College, where she studied Psychology and English. She is a copywriter for The Tell Agency, and a new addition to the Visit Jackson support team. When she is not writing, she spends her time being bossed around by her pets, digging in her yard, laughing with her friends, and planning her next adventure.