With more than 1,000 acres of land, there are so many wonderful places to set up a picnic at Winterthur. Here are a few of our favorites:
The Bristol Summer House
One of the most iconic spots at Winterthur, the Bristol Summer House was built by Henry Francis du Pont in the 1960s and is based on a structure he saw at The Lindens in Bristol, Rhode Island. It provides shade and a great view. Could you ask for anything more from a picnic spot?
Under the Blue Atlas Cedar in the Pinetum
Feel transported to another world under the cover of this massive tree. A striking conifer with sparkling silvery blue foliage that drapes from the expansive branches, the blue atlas cedar provides wonderful shade and a feeling of privacy.
The grassy lawn near the Reflecting Pool
This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a shorter walk to your destination. Once the du Pont family’s swimming pool, the Reflecting Pool today creates a lovely vista of the East Terrace and is conveniently located just steps away from the library and the Campbell Collectionof Soup Tureens.
Icewell Terrace
If you prefer to picnic at table, look no further than Icewell Terrace. Overlooking the Glade Garden, this spot—once used to store ice for the main house—today is a shady, comfortable spot to picnic and linger.
Sycamore Hill
With views of the meadows and an abundance of shade created by the towering trees (it’s consistently 10 degrees cooler under the canopy of trees!), you’ll love to picnic here.
The Greenhouses
Nestled midway between the Visitor Center and the Museum are Winterthur’s greenhouses. Immerse yourself in this idyllic garden oasis while enjoying the comfort and convenience of traditional seating.
To go along with these picnic spots, here are some do’s and don’ts of picnicking at Winterthur:
Do stop at the Visitor Center Café to pick up picnic foods or snacks.
Do stop by the Winterthur Store to pick up supplies for your picnic.
Do clean up and leave your spot as you found it.
Don’t climb any trees or rocks.
Do make memories that will last a lifetime!