Matthew Meadows Park

If you want somewhere quiet without the crowds, this spot out in the northeast heights is one of the better-kept secrets in the area. The open grass field is genuinely big — room to spread out a blanket, kick a ball around, or just let the kids roam without feeling on top of other families. Shade trees do real work here, and the covered seating means a picnic in July doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. The bike track and walking path connect nicely to nearby trails, so it works just as well for a casual ride as it does for a lazy afternoon. Hummingbirds and dragonflies show up regularly, which sounds like a small thing until you’re actually sitting there.