Spring in Orlando is the perfect time for a nice picnic. We haven’t quite reached that “I’m melting” phase of summer, and we don’t have to worry about the daily afternoon thunderstorms just yet.

Before it feels like we’re swimming in the summer humidity, it’s time to pack your picnic basket, grab a big blanket, and head to one of Mr. Clean Can’s favorite picnic spots in the Orlando area. Whether you’re looking for somewhere for the kids to burn off some energy, or a spot with a bit of romance for a special date, we’ve got you covered!

1. Kraft Azalea Garden

This is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic with your significant other. It’s small, but the massive cypress trees provide a ton of shade, which is a necessity even in the spring. Located on the shore of Lake Maitland in Winter Park, it’s a beautiful, scenic area.

• Why it’s great: It’s quiet and feels tucked away from the busier parts of Winter Park.
• Keep in mind: It’s a favorite for professional photographers, so don’t be surprised if you’re sharing the view with a wedding shoot or two.

2. Lake Eola Park

If you’re a local, you likely already know about or have visited Lake Eola Park a time or two. This is a convenient spot to picnic if you live near downtown Orlando, or if you plan on being in the area and want a nice outdoor area to hang out with friends and family.

• Why it’s great: If you go on a Sunday, you can hit the Farmers Market first and grab everything you need for the picnic right there!
• Pro Tip: Stick to the areas further away from the main walkway if you want to avoid the heaviest foot traffic.

3. Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake

Planning a picnic with a large group or kids with lots of energy? Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake is the place to go! It’s a massive 183-acre park right on Turkey Lake that offers a lot more than just a patch of grass.

• Why it’s great: There are plenty of actual picnic tables and pavilions, disc golf, and multiple playgrounds to keep everyone busy.
• Cost: There is a small per-vehicle entry fee (usually around $5), but it’s worth it for the amenities and the space.

4. Harry P. Leu Gardens

This is a beautiful spot year-round, but if you want to see everything in full bloom, now is the time to go!

• Why it’s great: They host regular movie nights and also specific picnic days where you can bring everything you need for an awesome picnic into the gardens.
• Check the calendar: General admission doesn’t always allow for a full picnic setup, so check their event schedule before you pack the cooler.

5. Baldwin Park

Baldwin Park is great if you want a picnic that doesn’t require a ton of planning. The trail around Lake Baldwin has several wide-open grassy areas that stay nice and breezy.

• Why it’s great: It’s incredibly dog-friendly, for all of you with furry friends. Also, if you don’t feel like prepping food at home, you can just grab takeout from one of the restaurants on New Broad Street and walk it over to the lake.

A Quick Clean Up Reminder

We’re all about keeping this place we call home looking good. If you’re heading out this weekend, remember to pack a small trash bag for your leftovers. Trash cans in the parks fill up quickly, and we don’t want any waste to end up with the wildlife or in our beautiful bodies of water.

And if your trash bins at home are starting to smell like that leftover picnic food, give us a call. At Clean Cans, we’ll come by and get your bins looking (and smelling) like new so you can focus on enjoying the weather.