With summer right around the corner, picnic season is also approaching. And with that comes good weather, good company and, most importantly, good food. But there is another crucial aspect to picnics, and that is a good location.
For the students who are staying in Columbia this summer and have yet to find their perfect place to have a picnic, worry no more. Columbia is fully equipped with picnic locations for all types of people.
Here, MOVE rated and reviewed a few places to start:
**For those with Tiger pride** — _Francis Quadrangle_
A picnic on the quad might not be a new idea, but it is timeless. For people who want to spend a beautiful day at the heart of MU’s pride and history, the Quad is the place to be. This location has a spacious and colorful landscape and is also home to the legendary Columns. Spending the day at the Quad is sure to result in a good time shared with others who also love picnics — and MU!
(4 out of 5 stars)
**For those who appreciate art and history** — _Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial at Battle Garden_
This garden is a memorial to honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr. Not only is this location pleasing to the eye, but its historical significance is pleasing to the mind, as well. The garden has a sculpture, which is a semi-circular earth mound that is built into the site. According to the [Columbia city website](http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/ParksandRec/Trails/MLK/mlk_history.php#sculpture), Barbara Grygutis, the sculptor, intended for the sculpture and its environment to bring people together. This picnic location will please those who want to enjoy the present while honoring the past.
(3.5 out of 5 stars)
**For those who seek adventure** — _Rock Bridge Memorial State Park_
This park, which is only a short drive from MU, is perfect for people who want to do more with a beautiful day than simply have a picnic. Although the park does offer a shelter for picnics, it is also home to a playground and eight trails, as well. On these trails, visitors can hike and bike. They can even go horseback riding if they visit the trail between July 1 and Oct. 31. This location is the optimal place to go for an adrenaline-filled day — with a picnic break, of course.
(4.5 out of 5 stars)
**For those who love romance** — _Wildlife Pond (between Stephens and Lefevre Halls)_
This secluded location near Memorial Union on the corner of College Avenue and University Avenue is truly a hidden gem. The pond is made beautiful with a fresh and colorful landscape and is even known to have ducks swimming around. The pond is great for people who want to go somewhere quiet and enjoy the simple beauty of nature. The setting is serene and on-campus, so it offers an option for people who want to stay close to MU but have some privacy, as well. It makes the perfect place for a picnic date.
(4.5 out of 5 stars)
