Pick a spot, any spot. Farmville is perfect for picnics. Whether you’re stopping by for a day, or staying the weekend, a picnic is the perfect way to get the most of the beauty of the outdoors while enjoying your visit. As the weather begins to cool, now is an especially opportune time to take your meal alfresco. Pack your own fare, grab something to-go from one of our many delicious restaurants, or have it delivered to your location of choice with WayFast Delivery. Not sure where to go? We’ve put together a list of the best picnic spots in Farmville. Read on to find out more.
Wilck’s Lake
Wilck’s Lake is picnic prime-time. Covered picnic tables and grills are available along the grassy sides of the 55-acre lake, while a two-mile interpretive Sarah Terry Walking Trail is great for an after-meal stroll. Young ones will enjoy the shaded Lions Club playground, and if you happen to have a fishing rod handy the lake is full of largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish and more. There’s no wrong spot to spread a blanket at this idyllic spot.
Camp Paradise @ High Bridge Trail State Park
Camp Paradise is one of two access points to the High Bridge itself. In addition to putting you just a short walk from the bridge and its spectacular views, Camp Paradise is also the hidden gem on our picnic spot list. This location boasts a number of picnic tables, grills and plenty of shade. Don’t miss the one-of-a-kind playground made from entirely up-cycled materials. There are also numerous interpretive trails and hiking paths for the adventurers in the group. Note that since the High Bridge Trail is a state park, parking fees of $7 apply. Proper footwear and bug spray are highly recommended. This area is available per park guidelines from dawn till dusk.
Beneath the High Bridge
If you’re looking for a little more adventure, journey from the Camp Paradise entrance to the High Bridge Trail to a path leading beneath the bridge. This trail will bring you to one of the most unique picnic spots on our list. Enjoy your picnic with singular views of the High Bridge from below. You can also wade in the water from one or two access points. You’ll need to pack a blanket (and chairs if desired) along with your outdoor provisions since there are no picnic tables at this location, but the lovely historic views and babbling of the Appomattox River are worth the walk.
Downtown Plaza
If urban is more your style, enjoy a picnic in the heart of downtown Farmville on the Downtown Plaza. Pull up a bespoke bistro table and chair and enjoy the hum of the bustling downtown district. You’ll be just steps from our iconic LOVE Virginia sign so make sure to grab a few pre or post picnic pictures. Don’t miss our retired red caboose, a beloved fixture on the plaza.
Longwood’s Campus
For the true college-town feel (and a little history to boot!), pick a spot on Longwood University’s campus. Grab your basket and stroll down High Street, through the colonnades, and past the Jeffersonian Rotunda. Then head through the center of campus along Brock Commons to find your perfect place. Family in tow? Set up at some of the tables beside the Longwood fountains where kids can splash in the jetting water. Picnicking solo? Kick back in a relaxing Adirondack chair with a view of the grounds. History buffs can also head to the south end of campus to spread a blanket near Longwood’s iconic Joan of Arc statue. At 154-acres, Longwood offers endless picnicking possibilities.
From the heart of downtown to beneath the High Bridge, we hope this list inspires you to gather some friends and food and pick one of the perfect picnic spots for a DIY outdoor dining experience of your own. Got a favorite picnic spot that isn’t on this list? We would love to see it. Don’t forget to tag #VisitFarmville in your favorite pics.