When the weather turns warm, there’s nothing like grilling outside. This year, consider turning your grill party into a portable feast. From New York to Austin to San Francisco there are great public parks where you can bring a portable grill and enjoy your burgers, dogs and veggies in a beautiful spot outside of your home. Here are some picks for five great big city parks where you can grill outdoors.
SAN FRANCISCO
For a city less than 50 square miles in size, San Francisco doesn’t skimp on the places to host a grill-a-thon. Several of the area’s parks come with barbecue pits and picnic areas for those who want to bring their own grills. Golden Gate Park is big enough for groups while options like Baker Beach and Ocean Beach offer a taste of the sea air. Check the websites and call ahead though, as some places take reservations and may require a fee.
In San Francisco, try Nexgrill’s 2-burner portable propane gas tabletop grill.
Golden Gate Park
AUSTIN
Texas’ state capital is famous for its barbecue. Those who want to make their own can do it in the great outdoors. Several of the more than 300 parks in Austin have designated barbecuing areas that allow small, charcoal or propane grills. The massive Zilker Park has six full-service picnic areas you can reserve, allowing groups to get down and dirty with ribs and brisket after a dip in the Barton Springs Pool or a canoe ride on Town Lake.
In Austin, try Weber’s Go Anywhere portable single burner propane gas grill.
Zilker Park
CHICAGO
Tailgate before your favorite concert at Soldier Field by arriving early enough to set up in one of the surface lots. Deep fryers and open fire pits must stay at home, but grills with propane tanks are allowed. Make the most of your meal, though. Parking lot parties must end when the show starts.
In Chicago, try Weber’s Original Kettle.
Golden Gardens Park
NEW YORK
While the obvious choice would be to explore Central Park, the country’s most famous green space actually only allows grilling on Memorial Day, Labor Day and the Fourth of July — and then only in designated areas and without propane tanks. Other places in the Big Apple are more accommodating and allow barbecuing year round as long as it’s in designated areas, not under trees and visitors clean up their trash. Propane tanks are not allowed. Check NYCGovParks.org for options by zip code and borough.
In New York, try Weber’s Smokey Joe portable charcoal grill.
Prospect Park
