City of Minneapolis: Parks & Trails -

The city of Minneapolis, Minnesota contains 11 unique communities, each with their own distinct neighborhoods. Among all of these separate areas are countless parks and recreation opportunities. Ranging in size from massive, regional parks to small, neighborhood treasures, residents of Minneapolis have plenty of options when it comes to life in the outdoors. The following article will look at each of the 11 communities and the most notable parks found within.

The Calhoun Isles community is comprised of 9 neighborhoods, each offering unique parks for visitors to enjoy. With 14 parks including some of the most famous destinations in the state, as well as a smattering of smaller, natural parks located throughout, Calhoun Isles provides ample opportunities for residents to embrace the outdoors. Known for their scenic beauty and lakeshore amenities, the parks within the Calhoun Isles community represent some of the best parks that Minnesota has to offer. They include:

Lake Calhoun Park: One of Minnesota’s most popular destinations, Lake Calhoun Park is 518 acres of scenic beauty. Servicing the Cedar-Isles-Dean, East Harriet, ECCO, Linden Hills, and West Calhoun neighborhoods, the park features the magnificent Lake Calhoun, a local favorite, as well as a wide variety of amenities. Lake Calhoun Park is home to an archery range, wildly popular beach, biking/walking path around the lake, boat docks, a fishing pier, picnic facilities, soccer and softball fields, and sand volleyball courts. During the summer months, Minnesota goes out on the lake to play. With swimming, boating, sailing, fishing, and even logrolling available, Lake Calhoun Park is a wonderful destination for a sunny, summer day. Described as one of Minnesota’s most beautiful lakes, the Lake Calhoun Park is a must-visit destination.

Lake of the Isles Park: A 208 acre park located north of Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles Park services the Cedar-Isles-Dean, East Isles, Kenwood, and Lowry Hill neighborhoods. A wildly popular tourist attraction and scenic destination, Lake of the Isles Park is an engineered lake that attracts an average of 5.5 million visitors a year from all over the world. This is largely due to its beautiful waterfront and rich amenities. Connected to Lake Calhoun through a lagoon as well as trails, Lake of the Isles Park offers visitors biking/walking paths, fountains, a soccer field, a fishing pier, and the beautiful lake itself. During the winter, Lakes of the Isles Park also opens a hockey rink and an ice skating area. Cherished by the nearby neighborhoods and the state of Minnesota as a whole, Lake of the Isles Park is a popular wedding destination and afternoon getaway location.

Cedar Lake Park: Cedar Lake Park is part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park. At 288 acres, this park services the Bryn Mawr, Kenwood, and Cedar-Isles-Dean neighborhoods. Located on Cedar Lake, the park offers great fishing and swimming opportunities. Residents enjoy visiting the three separate beaches as well as fishing for northern pike, muskie, and bass on the fishing pier. The park also offer visitors a biking/walking path, picnic area with grills, and cross-country skiing trails in the winter.

Bryn Mawr Meadows Park: A large, neighborhood park located within the Bryn Mawr neighborhood, Bryn Mawr Meadows Park is deeply connected to the history of the surrounding area. Established in the early 1900’s, Bryn Mawr Meadows Park has seen a number of improvements over the years. As time has passed and the park has expanded thanks to better infrastructure and its inclusion in the Luce Line Regional Trail. The park offers 51.56 acres of open space and amenities for visitors to enjoy. Amenities include biking/walking trails, a broomball rink, cricket field, picnic area with outdoor grills and restrooms, a playground, soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, and a wading pool. A staple of the Bryn Mawr community, Bryn Mawr Meadows Park is cherished by all.

Bassett Creek Park: Bassett Creek Park offers visitors lots of open space in addition to several amenities. They include a biking/walking path, playground, soccer and softball fields, sports facility, and tennis and volleyball courts. With so many active amenities, Bassett Creek Park is ideal for residents who are seeking a destination to play a sport or compete in a league. Additionally, the park’s trails connect to larger, regional trails such as the Cedar Lake Regional Trail and the Luce Line Regional Trail. These trails extend for miles in all different directions, and connect visitors to other parks and cities within the metro area.

Theodore Wirth Regional Park: Theodore Wirth Regional Park is the largest park in the Minneapolis park system. The home of a multitude of activities and numerous events, Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a central location within the city of Minneapolis. Amenities include archery, biking/walking paths, a decorative fountain, disc golf, a fishing pier, multiple gardens, a golf course, picnic facilities, restrooms, soccer fields, tennis courts, and more. Additionally, the park features a chalet ideal for weddings or parties, pavilion, and a beach area for visitors to enjoy special events or time out in the sun. In the winter time, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, and it is a popular location for cross-country skiing on the trails, sledding/snow tubing on the park’s sledding hill, or snowboarding at the Wirth Winter Recreation Area. At over 720 acres, this park connects to the Harrison, Willard Hay, and Bryn Mawr neighborhoods. A great destination for all ages and interests, Theodore Wirth Regional Park is one park that you do not want to miss.

Bryant Square Park: Bryant Square Park is home to several community events within the CARAG neighborhood. As the only park located directly within the neighborhood limits, Bryant Square Park holds a special place within the CARAG community. It is home to the Bryant Square Park POPS (Public Outdoor Performance Space), an amphitheater that is used for concerts, movies, theatrical productions and more within the park. The park also offers visitors a basketball court, hockey/ice skating rink, warming house, playground, soccer and softball fields, and a wading pool. The large playground is a particularly popular amenity among children. With its convenient location, numerous events, and rich amenities, Bryant Square Park is a great option for the whole family.

Painter Park: Painter Park is located adjacent to the CARAG neighborhood. A small, neighborhood park at approximately 3 acres in size, Painter Park is located within the Lyndale neighborhood and is adjacent to the Painter Recreation Center. With a basketball court, playground, soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, and restrooms, Painter Park is an ideal location for active outdoor recreation. Perfect for neighborhood pickup games or young families with kids, Painter Park is a well-balanced option.

Park Siding Park: Park Siding Park is a small park tucked away in the Cedar-Isles-Dean neighborhood. Located near a trail that was once a railroad, Park Siding Park is a great destination for walkers/bikers to take a rest break, or for young families to enjoy an afternoon at the park. The park features a playground, picnic area, and outdoor grill. While only 1.39 acres in size, this quiet park is a great destination for those desiring a more peaceful setting.

Kenwood Park: Kenwood Park is a neighborhood park located exclusively within the Kenwood neighborhood. At nearly 33 acres, Kenwood Park is not the largest park available, but it does offer several great amenities. These include picnic areas with grills, a playground, restrooms, a softball field, walking paths, and the city’s largest bank of public tennis courts. Additionally, the park is located on sloping hilltops, giving visitors great views of the chain of lakes.

Thomas Lowry Park: Thomas Lowry Park is located exclusively within the Lowry Hill neighborhood. A scenic wedding destination, the park features brick pathways, a grape arbor, and seven cascading pools with well-maintained landscaping. The serenity and peace of the park make it extremely romantic and ideal for passive outdoor recreation. During the months of July-August, the park is in full bloom and attracts a number of visitors.

Mueller Park: Mueller Park is a small, neighborhood park with several amenities. Visitors can enjoy the ½ basketball court, picnic area, playground, and wading pool. While not offering as much activity as the nearby lakes, visitors often enjoy the peaceful nature of this centrally-located park.

The Camden community is home to a wide array of parks and outdoor recreational spaces for residents to enjoy. There are 11 main parks throughout the community in addition to multiple small, natural areas. The parks include:

Cleveland Park: A 1.4 acre park that was developed in conjunction with its neighbor, the Lucy Laney at Cleveland Park Community School, Cleveland Park is the only park located within the Cleveland neighborhood. Utilized by the school as well as the surrounding neighborhood, Cleveland Park offers visitors a baseball/softball field, basketball court, picnic area with grills, restrooms, and a wading pool. A perfect location for young families, those desiring to play a sports game, or anyone looking to have a picnic on a sunny afternoon, Cleveland Park is enjoyed by the entire Cleveland neighborhood.

Folwell Park: As one of the largest parks located in North Minneapolis, Folwell Park has become a parks and recreation center for those living within the Camden community. This is largely due to its extensive events and amenities. At nearly 27 acres, the park hosts baseball/softball fields, basketball court, biking/walking paths, football/soccer fields, playground, tennis court, and a wading pool. Additionally, the park is home to the Folwell Recreation Center. The center offers a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room and multipurpose room. This wonderful park is a fabulous resource for the Folwell community and provides programming for the local youth year-round.

Bohanon Park: Bohanon Park is the central park within the Lind-Bohanon neighborhood. At 8.53 acres, it offers baseball, cricket, and softball fields, a basketball court, hockey rink, ice skating rink, picnic area, playground, restrooms, a sports facility, tennis court, and a wading pool. The park is located adjacent to the Jenny Lind Elementary School making it ideal for young families and children.

Carl Kroening Interpretive Center: The Carl Kroening Interpretive Center is a very unique destination located on the eastern side of the Lind-Bohanon neighborhood, along the Mississippi River. The center is a combination of park reserve and interactive museum where visitors can enjoy murals and wildlife displays, while learning about the historical Mississippi River area and its habitats. Situated among natural prairieland and forests, the Kroening Interpretive Center is a huge hit among all ages. Its very interactive nature and immersive exhibits make it ideal for kids camps or birthday parties, but the park also offers miles of guided trails for nature exploration.

Perkins Hill: Perkins Hill is a small park located near the center of the McKinley neighborhood. The park features a basketball court, picnic area, and a playground. At 3.76 acres, the park is not very sizeable, but its status as the only park in the neighborhood makes it central to the local community. Perfect for young families or those desiring a peaceful afternoon, Perkins Hill is a special place in McKinley.

Creekview Park: A 7.3-acre park located near the local Olson Middle School the Creekview park is encompassed by the larger Shingle Creek Park. The park features a skate park, ballfield, playground, and picnic area. Additionally, it is home to the Creekview Recreation Center. The center features a community kitchen and computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room and multipurpose room.

Shingle Creek Park: Shingle Creek Park runs throughout the Shingle Creek neighborhood. At nearly 75 acres, Shingle Creek Park is located along the west bank of the 12-mile riverbed sharing its name. The park provides ample open space for visitors in addition to baseball and soccer fields, a basketball court, ice rink, hockey rink, skate park and a wading pool. Guests enjoy the abundance of wildlife and active outdoor recreational options. The park services the Shingle Creek, Lind-Bohanon, and Humboldt Industrial neighborhoods, meaning that many of the park’s amenities are found within other neighborhoods. The Shingle Creek neighborhood section of Shingle Creek Park features ballfields, a 3 story play structure, and lots of open space in addition to containing Creekview Park and all of its amenities. Additionally, Shingle Creek park has a walking path along the banks of the creek that connects it with the nearby city of Brooklyn Center. The sheer size and number of amenities found within Shingle Creek Park make it a very popular destination for the whole neighborhood.

Victory Park: Victory Park is found on the northern end of the Victory neighborhood. While only 2.35 acres, the park offers a basketball court, picnic area, playground, soccer field, tennis court, and a wading pool. The numerous amenities offered at Victory Park make it a central location for the neighborhood community. A popular destination on a warm, sunny day, Victory Park is cherished by all. Additionally, during Memorial Day, the park and the nearby parkway come alive with a concert and time of remembrance.

Victory Memorial Park: Victory Memorial Park borders the west side of the Victory and Cleveland neighborhoods and wraps around the Victory neighborhood to the north. Eventually it crosses the northern side of the Webber-Camden neighborhood. A narrow 3.8 mile parkway encompassing Victory Memorial Drive, the parkway features lush trees and commemorative markers for the area’s World War 1 servicemen placed throughout. Guests can enjoy the beautiful landscaping and reflect on the lives of those who fought for our country. Victory Memorial Park ends at Webber-Camden’s Webber Park.

Ryan Lake: The Victory neighborhood is also home to the only lake in North Minneapolis, Ryan Lake. Ryan Lake is a small, fishing lake. At 19 acres, the lake reaches a depth of 36 feet and offers scenic beauty with a peaceful atmosphere. The lake is a good fishing destination for bluegill, black crappie, largemouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. A unique amenity for the region, Ryan Lake is located in the upper north corner of the Victory neighborhood.

Webber Park: The largest park in the Webber-Camden neighborhood, Webber Park is rich with amenities. The park includes a basketball court, biking/walking path, gardens, picnic area with outdoor grills, playground, public library, restrooms, and tennis court. Additionally, the park is home to a natural swimming pool. This pool is the first public swimming pool in the US to have a natural filtration system where plants in a nearby pond filter the water as opposed to chemicals. The unique amenities offered at Webber Park make it a central location for the neighborhood as well as the surrounding area. Visitors thoroughly enjoy being able to access the library, go for a swim, or explore the outdoors, all in one location.

The Central community of Minneapolis, Minnesota is located in the heart of the downtown area. Amidst the towering skyscrapers and busy city streets, a collection of parks and natural areas give residents and visitors alike scenic areas for rest and recreation. While there are not parks located in every neighborhood, there are still plenty of parks accessible to all.

While largely commercial and industrial in nature, the Downtown East neighborhood does offer residents and visitors several notable parks. They include:

Gold Medal Park: Gold Medal Park is attached to the famous Guthrie Theater and offers visitors scenic views of the nearby Mississippi River in addition to lots of open space. A beautiful, small park located in a busy, downtown area, Gold Medal Park is a great location to go on a walk or share a picnic. It’s location near the impressive city skyline makes it a peaceful haven in an otherwise busy and active region.

Stone Arch Bridge: The Stone Arch Bridge is one of the many landmarks in the downtown area. While not technically a park, the bridge is a pedestrian bridge offering scenic, sweeping views of the Mississippi River in addition to the city itself. The Stone Arch Bridge connects to walkways along the river bank as well as bridging across the Mississippi towards the University of Minnesota. Cherished by photographers, romantics, runners, bikers, and those who simply enjoy taking a stroll, the Stone Arch Bridge is one of the most revered locations in the downtown area.

The Elliot Park neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Elliot Park: Elliot Park shares the name of the neighborhood in which it resides and is located adjacent to Northcentral University in the center of the neighborhood. A park oasis located in the middle of a bustling city, Elliot Park offers visitors a number of amenities. These include a baseball/softball field, basketball court, picnic area with grills, playground, restrooms, skate park, tennis court, and wading pool. At 6.44 acres, Elliot Park offers a swath of green, open space amidst a busy surrounding environment.

Franklin Steele Park: Franklin Steele Park is one of the oldest parks in the city of Minneapolis. Despite its small size of 1.57 acres, the park has plenty to offer for those seeking active recreation. With a ½ basketball court, playground, and splash pad play area, Franklin Steele

The city of Loring Park is home to one park that shares its same name:

Loring Park: A large park located near the center of the neighborhood, Loring Park is home to a wealth of amenities. Visitors can enjoy both passive and active recreation while strolling through the beautiful gardens and scenic landscaping. The park features a bandstand, basketball court, biking/walking path, decorative fountain, fishing pier, gardens, a picnic area, playground, art on display, restrooms, a tennis court, and a wading pool. Within the park, there are several notable locations. The Garden of the Seasons is a local favorite destination for peaceful walks and times of reflection. The garden has three sections that visitors can enjoy. There is the Woodlands Circle with native Minnesotan trees, shrubs, and wildflowers located in the center of the garden; the Wheel of Color where eight wedges of colorful perennials are grown in a ring around the middle of the garden; and there is the Tapestry of Green which forms the outer ring of the garden. Additionally the park hosts a dog park, the Community Arts Center, and is connected to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden via a footbridge.

The Stevens Square-Loring Heights neighborhood is home to one large, community park for residents to enjoy:

Stevens Square Park: Located in the heart of the Stevens Square-Loring Heights neighborhood, Stevens Square Park is an important location for the entire community. The park is 2.51 acres in size and offers visitors a number of amenities. Visitors can enjoy the basketball court, playground, tennis court, walking paths, picnic areas, outdoor grill, and restrooms. Additionally, due to its central location, the park is home to numerous community events. Events include a fall harvest festival, free movies and music in the park, and the Red Hot Art community arts festival.

The Longfellow community within the city of Minneapolis is home to a number of parks. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy anything from a small neighborhood park to a large, regional preservation. The parks in the community include:

The Cooper neighborhood is home to one park:

Brackett Field Park: Brackett Field Park is the only park located within the Cooper neighborhood. At 10.32 acres, this sizeable park offers numerous amenities for visitors to enjoy. Amenities include a baseball/softball field, playground, skate park, soccer field, tennis courts, wading pool, picnic areas with a grill, restrooms, and walking paths. Additionally, Brackett Field Park is home to the famous Brackett Rocket. A large, 35-foot sculpture depicting a rocket taking off, this sculpture adds historical significance to the park as it was added during the Cold War. Its symbolism makes it an educational landmark in addition to adding excitement to the park.

The Hiawatha neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Hiawatha School Park: A 4 acre park located adjacent to the local elementary school, Hiawatha School Park is an active destination ideal for families and young children. The park offers a basketball court, hockey and ice skating rinks, playground, soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, and a wading pool. For those desiring passive recreation the park also offers gardens and a picnic area. A great location for entertaining the whole family, Hiawatha School Park is a staple of the local community and school system.

Minnehaha Regional Park: Minnehaha Regional Park is one of the oldest and most visited parks within the entire state of Minnesota. This is largely due to its beautiful scenery and unique attractions. At 167.24 acres, the park encompasses a significant portion of the Hiawatha neighborhood. The biggest attraction at the park is its 53-foot waterfall. Minnehaha Falls is incredibly scenic year-round, with gushing water during the warmer months and a frozen ice crystal drop off in the wintertime. Visitors from all around travel here to see the falls and take pictures. Other attractions include limestone bluffs, a river, bandstand, biking paths, decorative fountains, a disc golf course, gardens, picnic areas, a playground, numerous art sculptures, volleyball courts, a wading pool, and trails. Also located within the park is the Sea Salt Eatery which offers fresh seafood, wine, beer, ice cream, and more. Encompassing the southern half of the Hiawatha neighborhood, Minnehaha Regional Park is an integral part of the local community, and each year it draws in more than 850,000 visitors.

The Howe neighborhood is home to two parks. They are:

Longfellow Park: Longfellow Park is an 8 acre park located within the Howe neighborhood. It offers numerous amenities for visitors including a basketball court, football field, hockey and ice skating rinks, a picnic area with grills, playground, restrooms, tennis court, wading pool, and walking paths. Located on the northern edge of the neighborhood, Longfellow Park is a great destination for the whole family with no shortage of recreational activities to get involved with.

Mississippi Gorge Regional Park: Mississippi Gorge Regional Park is a wildlife sanctuary and natural area located within the Howe neighborhood. At 132 acres, this massive park houses beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. More than 150 species of migratory birds can be seen among the hardwood forests and steep bluffs found within the park. While there are not very many amenities offered within the park itself, visitors can venture throughout on numerous biking/walking paths and appreciate the untouched nature of the park.

The Seward neighborhood is home to one park:

Matthews Park: Matthews Park is the only park found within the Seward neighborhood. At 10 acres, it offers a good variety of amenities for its guests. Included within the park is a basketball court, biking/walking paths, a broomball rink, garden, picnic area with grill, hockey rink and ice skating rink, soccer field, softball field, tennis court, sand volleyball court, and a wading pool. Additionally, the park is home to a recreation center offering further amenities for guests including a community kitchen and a gymnasium.

The Near North community is home to numerous parks spread throughout its six unique neighborhoods. Ranging in size and amenities, each park contributes to the lifestyle found within each of the respective neighborhoods. The parks in the Near North community include the following:

The Harrison neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Bassett Creek Park: Bassett Creek Park is a 70 acre park that offers visitors lots of open space in addition to several amenities. They include a biking/walking path, playground, soccer and softball fields, sports facility, and tennis and volleyball courts. With so many active amenities, Bassett Creek Park is ideal for residents who are seeking a destination to play a sport or compete in a league. Additionally, the park’s trails connect to larger, regional trails such as the Cedar Lake Regional Trail and the Luce Line Regional Trail. These trails extend for miles in all different directions, and connect visitors to other parks and cities within the metro area. Bassett Creek Park services the Harrison and Bryn Mawr neighborhoods.

Harrison Park: Harrison Park is a close to 7 acre park located in the northeast corner of the neighborhood. Adjacent to the Harrison Education Center and the Harrison Neighborhood Association, this park is an important location for the neighborhood. In addition to being the site of many neighborhood events, the park offers visitors a multitude of amenities. Amenities include a baseball/softball fields, a basketball court, biking/walking paths, a football/soccer field, picnic area, playground, restrooms, and a wading pool.

The Hawthorne neighborhood houses two parks. They include:

Farview Park: Farview Park is the larger of the two parks in the Hawthorne neighborhood. At 21 acres, the park boasts impressive amenities in addition to offering incredible views of the Minneapolis skyline. On one of the park’s hilltops, visitors have a panoramic view of the skyline that is both picturesque and exciting. Amenities at Farview Park include a baseball/softball field, basketball court, biking/walking paths, a football field, picnic areas, an outdoor grill, restrooms and a wading pool. Additionally, the park is home to the Farview Recreation Center. The Farview Recreation Center plays an active role in the neighborhood by providing community events and open space. Visitors can utilize the community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting rooms, and multipurpose room.

Orvin “Ole” Olson Park: Orvin “Ole” Olson Park is a small, 3.5 acre park located along the Mississippi River. Named after a park commissioner, the park features impressive views of the river and the Minneapolis skyline. Visitors will be sure to enjoy the park’s open green space while admiring the impressive skyline and coursing river. Additionally, the park offers biking/walking trails that follow the riverbank and connect with the larger James I. Rice and West River parkways.

The Jordan neighborhood is home to three parks. They are:

Jordan Park: Jordan park is the largest park within the neighborhood. Attached to the local school, this nearly 4 acre park offers several convenient amenities. Included within the park are baseball and softball fields, a playground, picnic areas with an outdoor grill, and a wading pool. A great park for young families, children especially enjoy the newly renovated playgrounds, and there are plenty of shady areas to take a break from the sun or to share a family picnic.

Glen Gale Park: Glen Gale Park is a small, 1.42 acre park offering a play area for young families. With a playground, horseshoe pits, and drinking fountains, Glen Gale Park makes a great location to spend a couple of hours on a sunny day. The park has numerous picnic tables and benches throughout which offer a break from all of the action. Additionally, the park’s open play field is perfect for throwing a frisbee or exercising the dog.

Cottage Park: Cottage Park is a very small, neighborhood park with a rich history. As one of the oldest parks in the city of Minneapolis, Cottage Park was established in 1883 and holds a special place in the neighborhood’s heart. Despite it’s small size at only half an acre, Cottage Park enchants visitors with its beautiful landscaping, colorful gardens, and interactive playground. Additionally, the park provides numerous seating options for those seeking peace in the outdoors.

Near North has three parks that include:

Hall Park: Hall park is a large park located in the Near North neighborhood. At nearly 6 acres, the park offers two distinct sections located on either side of Lyndale Ave. A pedestrian foot bridge connects the two sides. For those desiring more passive recreation, the east side offers walking paths, picnic tables, and a small playground. On the other hand, the west side of the park offers several active recreational options including a basketball court, picnic tables and grills, a playground, and a wading pool. The good mix of amenities and distinct sectors of Hall Park make it a popular destination within the Near North neighborhood

Bethune Park: Bethune Park is the largest park in the Near North neighborhood. It features a basketball court, picnic area with grill, playground, restroom facility, and wading pool. What makes Bethune Park so unique is the large, open spaces that it offers. Visitors have plenty of room to exercise and explore. Additionally, Bethune park provides one of the most beautiful views of the Minneapolis skyline.

Lovell Square: Lovell Square is only 1.29 acres in size, and offers visitors a quiet, peaceful location in the midst of a bustling city. While there are very few amenities, the park offers a small playground and picnic area, making it a quieter destination within the city.

The Sumner-Glenwood neighborhood is home to one park as well as lots of open space. These areas include:

Sumner Field Park: Sumner Field Park is the only park located within the Sumner-Glenwood neighborhood. A nearly 5 acre park, Sumner Field Park offers visitors passive outdoor recreation. With trails along the adjacent Bassett’s Creek and all throughout the neighborhood, Sumner Field Park is a central location within the Sumner-Glenwood community. The park features tree-lined walkways, large open fields, drinking fountains and a restroom facility.

In addition to the park, the Sumner-Glenwood neighborhood has pathways that wind around the entire neighborhood. Adjacent to these pathways are numerous open areas where visitors can enjoy green grass and recreation space. Towards the southern end of the neighborhood, the pathways wrap around two small ponds.

Within the Willard Hay neighborhood there are four unique parks for residents and visitors to enjoy. They include:

Willard Park: Willard Park is a smaller park located in the center of the Willard Hay neighborhood. Despite it’s size of 1.16 acres, Willard Park offers several engaging amenities. These include a baseball field, basketball court, playground, picnic area, restroom facility, and splash pad. Ideal for all ages, Willard Park is a conveniently located neighborhood park.

Farwell Park: Farwell Park is another small, neighborhood park. At 1.15 acres, it offers visitors a playground, picnic area, open field, and drinking fountains. While not as immersive as some of the neighborhood’s larger parks, Farwell Park is popular among kids and is a center for active recreation within the neighborhood.

North Commons Park: North Commons Park is the premier park destination in the Willard Hay area. At 25.48 acres, the park is full of great amenities for all ages and interests. Amenities include baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, biking/walking paths, a decorative fountain, football field, hockey and ice skating rinks, a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a soccer field, and tennis courts. Additionally, North Commons Park is home to the North Commons Water Park. With water slides, swimming pools, and play structures, the water park is a huge hit among young families. While not free, it is offered at a very affordable price for residents.

The Nokomis community is home to 11 distinct neighborhoods, each with their own park offerings. With park land ranging from small neighborhood parks to massive, regional reserves, there are many parks for residents and visitors alike to be excited about. The parks found within the Nokomis community include the following:

The Diamond Lake neighborhood is home to four parks. They include:

Diamond Lake Park: Diamond Lake Park is a large, natural wildlife preserve that shares the name of the neighborhood. Home to a wide variety of wildlife and migratory waterfowl, the park encompasses 81 acres and is a beautiful destination for nature enthusiasts. Residents are able to take a canoe out on the lake in the warmer months or go snowshoeing across during the winter. The park’s completely undeveloped nature makes it a wonderful addition to the neighborhood’s park system.

Todd Park: Todd Park is a 13 acre park located adjacent to Diamond Lake Park. Unlike its neighbor, Todd Park is highly developed and full of amenities. Guests can enjoy a baseball/softball field, playground, tennis court, drinking fountains, and walking paths. The park’s central location makes it an important community location, and each year it is the host of the Picnic in the Park Festival.

Edward C. Solomon Park: Edward C. Solomon Park is named after a recent park commissioner of the same namesake. At over 45 acres, this large park is cherished by the community. Known simply as Solomon Park, the park is comprised of fields, hills, wetlands, and a small pond. Visitors to the park can enjoy the wildlife and open space. Additionally, Solomon Park is home to an archery range where residents can practice their archery skills on hay bale targets.

Lake Nokomis Park: While the majority of the park is located in the surrounding neighborhoods, Diamond Lake is home to a section of Lake Nokomis Park.

The Ericsson neighborhood is home to only one park:

Lake Hiawatha Park: Lake Hiawatha Park is a very large, community park that encompasses almost half of the Ericsson neighborhood. At 240 acres, the park has plenty to offer for visitors. 140 acres of the park are part of the Hiawatha Golf Club. The remaining 100 acres is comprised of Lake Hiawatha itself and a park. In addition to enjoying the golf course, visitors can be active utilizing the basketball court, cross-country ski trails, fishing piers, hockey rink, horseshoe pit, ice skating rink, picnic area, playground, soccer field, softball field, tennis courts, walking trails, and wading pool. Lake Hiawatha Park offers restroom facilities and features an art sculpture from a local Minnesota artist. The park also offers a beach where visitors can swim in the lake during the warmer months.

While the Field neighborhood does not have any established parks, the Minnehaha Creek Parkway runs along the southern end of the neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy the creek while biking and running along the paths or having a picnic.

The Hale neighborhood is home to one park as well as some scenic trails:

Lake Nokomis Park: While the majority of the park is located in the surrounding neighborhoods, Hale is home to a section of Lake Nokomis Park.

In addition to Lake Nokomis Park, residents of the Hale neighborhood can also enjoy the scenic trails found on the north end of the neighborhood. Located along Minnehaha Creek, the trails are perfect for bikers or walkers.

The Keewaydin neighborhood contains two parks. They include:

Keewaydin Park: Keewaydin Park is attached to the local elementary school making it ideal for younger families. The park is 4 acres in size and offers a wealth of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Amenities include a picnic area, playground, soccer field, softball fields, walking paths and a wading pool. The smaller size and relaxed nature of this park make it perfect for visitors of all ages and interests, especially during the warmer months.

Lake Nokomis Park: The Keewaydin neighborhood contains the majority of Lake Nokomis Park. A massive park at over 400 acres, Lake Nokomis Park services the Diamond Lake, Hale, Keewaydin, and Wenonah neighborhoods. Amenities at the park are seemingly endless and include baseball and softball fields, biking and walking paths, a decorative fountain, fishing piers, football and soccer fields, pickleball and tennis courts, a playground, picnic areas with a grill, a pond hockey rink, and public art sculptures throughout. Additionally, visitors can make use of the lake. Lake Nokomis is one of only three sailing lakes in Minneapolis and also offers boat and canoe access. The park has several swimming beaches along the lake’s shores which are wildly popular during the summer months. A great destination for all ages and interests, Lake Nokomis Park is a wonderful park to visit year-round.

While the Minnehaha neighborhood does not have any parks located entirely within its neighborhood area, it does house a portion of the large Minnehaha Regional Park that shares its name.

The Morris Park neighborhood is home to one park that shares its name:

Morris Park: Morris Park is located in the center of the Morris Park neighborhood. It offers visitors several amenities to enjoy. They include a picnic area with grill, playground, restroom facility, skate park, soccer field, softball field, and wading pool. Adjacent to the park is a local school, and within the park is the Morris Park Recreation Center. The recreation center offers a community kitchen, craft room, meeting room, and multipurpose room. Visitors to Morris Park enjoy all of the amenities found within the park in addition to the manicured lawns and beautiful gardens.

The Northrop neighborhood is home to just one park:

McRae Park: McRae is an almost 8 acre park located in the central-west side of the Northrop neighborhood. Visitors enjoy the baseball and softball fields, basketball court, football field, picnic areas, playground, tennis and volleyball courts, and the wading pool. Additionally, McRae offers visitors access to a year-round ice skating rink. A popular destination for ice skating, hockey, and broomball, the McRae Ice Skating Center is a central point in the local neighborhood.

The Page neighborhood is home to one large park:

Pearl Park: Pearl Park is located in the center of the Page neighborhood. At nearly 30 acres, there are plenty of amenities for visitors to enjoy. With baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, football and soccer fields, hockey and ice skating rinks, a picnic area, pickleball, tennis and volleyball courts, a playground, and a wading pool, there are seemingly endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Pearl Park is commonly used for little league soccer, football, hockey and baseball. Additionally, the park’s large open spaces make it perfect for a game of catch or to exercise the dog.

Additionally, while not located within the neighborhood, Page shares the northern border of Diamond Lake Park.

The Regina neighborhood does not house any parks, but there are a multitude of options available in the surrounding neighborhoods.

The Wenonah neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Bossen Field Park: A 36.5 acre neighborhood park located near the center of the Wenonah neighborhood, Bossen Field Park plays an integral role in the local community. Visitors enjoy baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, a playground, restrooms, soccer fields, a sports facility, and a wading pool. As the only park entirely located in the neighborhood, Bossen Field Park is very popular during the warmer months.

Lake Nokomis Park: While the majority of the park is located in the surrounding neighborhoods, Wenonah is home to a section of Lake Nokomis Park.

The Northeast community, located in the northeastern section of the city of Minneapolis, is home to a wide array of wonderful parks. Because of its more removed nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city, Northeast is able to provide ample parkland for residents and visitors alike. Whether the parks are passive or active in nature, there is something for everyone within the Northeast community’s parks system. Below is a breakdown of the parks found within each of the Northeast community’s 13 unique neighborhoods.

The Audubon Park neighborhood is home to two parks:

Deming Heights Park: Deming Heights Park is located near the northern end of the Audubon Park and the southern end of Waite Park. While only partially located within the neighborhood, Deming Heights Park is known for its scenic beauty. A popular destination for weddings, the park features the highest point in the Minneapolis parks system, offering unparalleled views of the Minneapolis skyline. Visitors can also enjoy walking paths, beautiful trees and plant life, and picnic areas for time with the family. Also located at Deming Heights Park is the Elf Door. A popular destination for children, the Elf Door is situated in the bottom of a mature tree and often has shiny trinkets and toys inside for children who visit.

Audubon Park: Audubon Park is located in the heart of the neighborhood sharing its name. At just under 6 acres, Audubon Park is the perfect size for a family gathering or community-wide event. The park includes a basketball court, gardens, picnic area with grill, playground, soccer and softball fields, a tennis area, wading pool, and walking paths. Additionally, the park is home to the Audubon Recreation Center. Open to the community, the recreation center adds a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, meeting room, and multipurpose room to the park’s list of amenities. With so many amenities and a central location, Audubon Park is a popular destination year-round.

The Beltrami neighborhood is home to just one park:

Beltrami Park: Beltrami Park is just over 8 acres in size and a local favorite destination. The park is busy throughout the year with its numerous amenities. Beltrami Park hosts a playground, bocce courts, soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court and a basketball court. Visitors can also enjoy the wading pool, picnic areas, and restrooms. As one of only a few parks in Minneapolis to offer bocce ball, organized games take place on a weekly basis during the warmer months.

The Bottineau neighborhood is home to three parks. They include:

Edgewater Park: A small, 2.13 acre park located along the banks of the Mississippi River, Edgewater Park is perfect for those desiring a scenic overlook. The park features walking paths and picnic areas in addition to its overlook.

Gluek Park: Gluek Park is located on the western edge of the Bottineau neighborhood, along the edge of the Mississippi River. A popular wedding destination, Gluek Park is known for its scenic beauty. With its river access, walking paths, and picnic areas, Gluek Park is the ideal location for passive recreation.

Bottineau Field Park: Bottineau Field Park is the largest park in Bottineau neighborhood. At 7.18 acres, Bottineau Field Park offers visitors ample opportunities for active outdoor recreation. Amenities include a basketball court, baseball, softball, soccer, and football fields, a sand volleyball court, wading pool, playground, and picnic areas. With its central location within the neighborhood and its rich amenities, Bottineau Field Park is a busy, community destination year-round.

The Columbia Park neighborhood is home to two parks:

Columbia Park: The largest park within the Columbia Park neighborhood, Columbia Park is over 180 acres in size. While 150 acres of the park are taken up by the aforementioned golf course, the remaining 30 acres are packed with amenities. Visitors can enjoy an archery range, cross-country skiing trails, horseshoe pits, a playground, picnic areas, a rugby field, sledding hills, a soccer field, tennis courts, and walking paths. Columbia Park encompasses a significant portion of the neighborhood’s land area and is accessible to all.

Hi-View Park: Hi-View Park derives its name from its high elevation and view of the Minneapolis skyline. At just under 4 acres, Hi-View Park provides a cozy, quiet, park destination for residents. Despite its smaller size, the park features a baseball field, basketball court, horseshoe pits, a playground, wading pool, and a picnic area with a grill. A great destination for a family picnic or to enjoy a sunny afternoon, Hi-View Park is a special location within the neighborhood.

The Holland neighborhood is home to just one park:

Jackson Square Park: Jackson Square Park is the only park located within the Holland neighborhood. At nearly 7 acres, the park contains numerous amenities for visitors to enjoy. Amenities include a basketball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, softball field, sand volleyball court, and a wading pool. Perhaps the most notable aspect about the park, however, are its musical sculptures. The park is home to 7 large, interactive, percussion instruments which visitors can utilize. Kids and adults alike can experiment with making music while enjoying time at the park.

The Logan Park neighborhood is home to just one park:

Logan Park: Logan Park is a 10.4 acre park that shares the name of the neighborhood in which it resides. An athletic center within the neighborhood, Logan Park is home to many league sports, special events, and pick-up games throughout the year. The park has baseball, softball, soccer, and football fields, basketball and tennis courts, broomball, ice skating, and hockey rinks, a playground, wading pool, and walking paths. Logan Park is active year-round and a key component of the Logan Park neighborhood.

The Marshall Terrace neighborhood is home to one park:

Marshall Terrace Park: Marshall Terrace Park is the only park found within the Marshall Terrace neighborhood. At 6.5 acres, the park offers numerous amenities including baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, picnic area with grill, playground, and a wading pool. Residents enjoy the park’s location along the Mississippi River and the scenic views that it provides.

While the Northeast Park neighborhood does not have any established public parks, it is home to a large collection of ballfields located near the Jim Lupient Water Park. Visitors can utilize these fields for baseball, softball, football, soccer, or frisbee. Additionally, the local neighborhood utilizes this area for community leagues and games.

The Sheridan neighborhood is home to just one park:

Sheridan Memorial Park: Located along the Mississippi River, Sheridan Memorial Park is a peaceful and reflective location. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the cost of war and remember those who fought for American freedom. The park is home to a large, spherical structure emphasizing the importance of peace, numerous walkways, peace gardens, and markers detailing the ten conflicts in which Minnesotans have served. Sheridan Memorial Park’s serene atmosphere makes it ideal for those desiring passive outdoor recreation.

The St. Anthony East neighborhood is home to just one park:

St. Anthony Park: St. Anthony Park is 5.6 acres in size. Located on the southern end of the neighborhood, the park is home to a basketball court, playground, softball field, tennis court, and restrooms. Perhaps the most appreciated aspect of the park, however, is its large hill. The hill provides views of the Minneapolis skyline throughout the entire year, and during the winter months it is a very popular sledding hill. The good balance of active and passive recreation at St. Anthony Park make it perfect for an afternoon picnic or busy day at the park.

The St. Anthony West neighborhood is home to three parks. They include:

Boom Island Park: Boom Island Park is one of the most scenic destinations within the St. Anthony West neighborhood. A 22.5 acre park resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, Boom Island Park is a popular wedding destination or location for a family picnic. It affords incredible views of the river and the Minneapolis skyline. The park features biking and walking paths, a boat dock, picnic area with grill, restroom facility, and a playground. Perhaps the most unique aspect of Boom Island Park, however, is the picturesque lighthouse located along the river bank. While not a working lighthouse, it provides a unique tourist destination and wonderful backdrop for pictures.

BF Nelson Park: BF Nelson Park was named after Benjamin Franklin Nelson, a successful businessman from the area who owned a paper mill and roofing materials business in the 1880’s. The park is just under 12 acres in size and acts as a bridge between Boom Island Park and Nicollet Island. While there are very few amenities within the park, visitors can enjoy the walking paths along the Mississippi River and the Pioneer Statue. The Pioneer Statue is a 23 foot, granite statue depicting a pioneer family of three generations. Built in 1936, the statue is an historical destination and adds to the scenic nature of the area.

Dickman Park: While the smallest park located within the St. Anthony West neighborhood at just over 2 acres, Dickman Park is home to a wide array of amenities. Visitors can enjoy a basketball court, volleyball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, horseshoe pits, and a wading pool. The central location and plentiful amenities make Dickman Park a family favorite and great for active outdoor recreation.

Waite Park houses three distinct parks. They include:

Waite Park: A park that shares the name of the neighborhood in which it resides, Waite Park is an 8.88 acre park featuring numerous amenities and programs. Because of its connection to the nearby Waite Community School, many day programs and summer athletic camps take place within the neighborhood. Residents are able to enjoy these programs in addition to the park’s amenities. With a baseball field, basketball court, football field, picnic area with grill, playground, restroom facility, soccer field, softball field, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, a wading pool, and walking paths, there is something for everyone at Waite Park.

Cavell Park: Cavell Park is a small park located within the Waite Park neighborhood. At 3.6 acres, the park offers a baseball field, basketball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, softball field, and tennis courts. While not as large as some of the other parks in the neighborhood, Cavell Park is a great alternative for a quieter, more peaceful park experience.

Windom Park is home to one park that shares its name:

Windom Northeast Park: Windom Northeast Park is the only park found within the Windom Park neighborhood. At 8.21 acres, the park boasts a wide variety of active and passive amenities. Visitors can enjoy the baseball/softball field, basketball court, ice skating/hockey/broomball rink, football/soccer fields, picnic area with grill, restroom facility, tennis courts, and a wading pool. Perfect for visitors of all ages and interests, Windom Northeast Park is an integral part of the neighborhood.

The Phillips community is home to several unique parks. While one of the smaller communities within Minneapolis, the Phillips community’s 3 distinct neighborhoods each offer their own park options. Parks within the Phillips community include the following:

The Midtown Phillips neighborhood is home to one park:

Stewart Park: Stewart Park is located at the heart of the Phillips community. A 6.2 acre park known for its athletic facilities, Stewart Park includes a baseball/softball field, beautiful synthetic turf soccer field, wading pool, and a playground. The athletic fields are lighted, making them useful for day or night games. Many community leagues and teams compete at Stewart Park, making it a central location within the neighborhood.

The Ventura Village neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Peavey Park: At 7 acres, Peavey Park offers visitors numerous ways to enjoy the outdoors. With a baseball/softball field, basketball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, soccer field, tennis courts, volleyball court, wading pool, and walking paths, there is something for everyone at Peavey Park. Residents enjoy the active amenities that the park provides, but for those seeking passive recreation, Peavey Park makes a great destination for a picnic. Its urban setting provides individuals with a taste of the big city while enjoying the natural space.

Phillips Park: Phillips Park is a very unique park located within the Ventura Village neighborhood. While very small, it provides a playground for visitors and is home to the Phillips Community Center. The Phillips Community Center includes a community kitchen, computer lab, gymnasium, meeting room and a multipurpose room. What makes the community center most unique, however, is the fact that it houses tenants who provide additional services for the community.

While the Phillips West neighborhood does not have any parks, it is close to a plethora of outdoor recreational options. There are 5 parks located within the Phillips community alone, and countless others throughout the city of Minneapolis. Residents have quick and easy access to these great parks.

The Phillips community is also home to two additional parks located in the eastern side of the community. They include:

Cedar Avenue Field Park: A cozy, 1.89 acre park, Cedar Avenue Field Park offers visitors a basketball court, picnic area with a grill, and a playground. Perfect for younger families or those seeking a more peaceful park option, Cedar Avenue Field Park’s tree-lined walking path runs through the heart of the eastern Phillips area.

East Phillips Park: East Phillips Park is a 6.46 acre park located just south of downtown Minneapolis. It features a baseball/softball field, basketball court, picnic area with grill, playground, two soccer fields, tennis courts, a restroom facility, and a wading pool. The park is also home to the East Phillips Park Cultural and Community Center. A resource utilized and enjoyed by the entire neighborhood, the community center is open to the public and includes a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room, and a multipurpose room.

The Powderhorn community, located near the center of the city of Minneapolis, is home to 8 distinct neighborhoods. Each neighborhood offers its own parks and recreational centers for residents and visitors to enjoy. With a wealth of outdoor recreational options to explore, residents of the Powderhorn community have great access to the outdoors.

While the Bancroft neighborhood does not have any established parks, it does have a large, open space in the southern section. Known simply as Bancroft Meadows, this open field area is perfect for throwing a frisbee, playing fetch with the dog, or going for an afternoon stroll. For residents desiring greater outdoor recreational options, there are countless parks located within close proximity to the Bancroft neighborhood.

The Bryant neighborhood is home to one park:

Phelps Field Park: As the only park located within the Bryant neighborhood, Phelps Field Park plays an important role in the local community. It offers athletic and recreational facilities that are open to the public. Visitors can enjoy the basketball court, football/soccer field, playground, picnic area with grill, softball fields, tennis courts, and wading pool. Phelps Field Park is also home to the local Boys & Girls Club. The Boys & Girls Club offers daytime programs and activities throughout the year and is a great resource for the community’s youth. With so many amenities as well as fabulous programming, Phelps Field Park is a great destination to play sports, get involved in a program, enjoy nature, or go for a picnic.

The Central neighborhood is home to one park:

Central Gym Park: Central Gym Park is a unique park located in the southern end of the Central neighborhood. What makes it so unique is the fact that it surrounds a large gathering of community organizations all found within one building. This makes the park a great choice for outdoor recreation or for community activities. Amenities at the park include a basketball court, football/soccer field, softball field, picnic area with grill, tennis courts, and a wading pool. Visitors can also enjoy the large gymnasium found within the nearby building. Because of its status as the only park in the Central neighborhood and its wealth of amenities, Central Gym Park is an important community destination and is busy year-round.

The Corcoran neighborhood is home to one park:

Corcoran Park: Corcoran Park is located in the center of the Corcoran neighborhood. The park is 3 acres in size and features a playground, softball field, volleyball court, and wading pool. Additionally, the park is home to the Corcoran Recreation Center which includes a community kitchen, craft room, meeting room, and a multipurpose. Because Corcoran Park is the only park located within the Corcoran neighborhood, it is a very important community gathering place for the neighborhood. Visitors enjoy its amenities year-round.

The Lyndale neighborhood is home to one park:

Painter Park: Located on the east side of the Lyndale neighborhood, Painter Park is a 3 acre park offering active amenities and a recreation center. With a basketball court, playground, restroom facility, soccer field, softball field, and tennis courts, visitors have plenty of activities for all day entertainment. Additionally, the Painter Recreation Center adds a community kitchen, craft room, meeting room, and multipurpose room to the park’s list of amenities. As the only park in the Lyndale neighborhood, Painter Park is a central community location and the host of numerous programs and events.

The Powderhorn Park neighborhood is home to one park that shares its name:

Powderhorn Park: Powderhorn Park is a large community park located within the heart of the Powderhorn Park neighborhood. At nearly 66 acres, the park offers a wide array of amenities for its visitors. The park includes baseball/softball fields, football/soccer fields, basketball, tennis, and sand volleyball courts, a fishing pier, garden, picnic area with grill, ice skating rink, playground, walking paths, and a wading pool. Visitors enjoy the beautiful 11.5 acre Powderhorn Lake, which is stocked annually with crappies, sunfish, and adult catfish. Additionally, the park is home to the Powderhorn Recreation Center which contains a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room, and a multipurpose room. A year-round attraction for residents and visitors alike, Powderhorn Park is a great feature of the Powderhorn Park neighborhood.

The Standish neighborhood is home to one park:

Sibley Park: Sibley Park is the only park located within the Standish neighborhood. At nearly 8 acres, visitors enjoy the basketball court, hockey/ice skating rink, playground, soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, wading pool, and walking paths. The park’s walking paths offer scenic views and are surrounded by roses and wildflowers during the warmer months. Additionally, Sibley Park is home to the Sibley Recreation Center. The center has a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, meeting room, and a multipurpose room, all of which are open to the park’s visitors. These great, accessible amenities make Sibley Park a central location within the Standish neighborhood.

The Whittier neighborhood houses 4 parks. They include:

Washburn Fair Oaks Park: A 7.5 acre park located across from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Washburn Fair Oaks Park offers visitors a peaceful, green resting space with fabulous views of the Minneapolis skyline. While largely undeveloped, the park features a statue of George Washington for visitors to enjoy.

Clinton Field Park: Located one block away from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Clinton Field Park offers visitors a small, traditional park. At just under 1.5 acres, the park offers a basketball court, playground, and sand volleyball court. Ideal for younger families or those seeking a quiet destination, Clinton Field Park is a peaceful haven in the midst of a busy city.

Morrison Park: Morrison Park is the home of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.

Whittier Park: Whittier Park is the premier park in the Whittier neighborhood. With a basketball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, softball field, and wading pool, residents and visitors alike have much to look forward to. The park is attached to the local elementary school and is also home to the Whittier Recreation Center. The recreation center adds on a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room, and a multipurpose room. With so many amenities and a central location, Whittier Park is an important aspect of the Whittier neighborhood.

The Southwest community is located in the southwestern corner of the city of Minneapolis. With nine distinct neighborhoods, each offering their own parks and recreation services, residents of the Southwest community have no shortage of outdoor recreational options to explore. This article provides a breakdown of the parks that each neighborhood offers.

The Armatage neighborhood is home to one park:

Armatage Park: Armatage Park is located near the center of the Armatage neighborhood. A 17 acre park bustling with activity, residents and visitors alike enjoy the numerous amenities found within the park. With a baseball field, basketball court, football field, hockey/ice skating rink, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, skate park, soccer field, softball fields, tennis courts, a wading pool, and walking paths, Armatage Park is a community favorite. The park is home to numerous community events in addition to being the home of an 18-foot, bronze sculpture entitled Garden Party. This sculpture acts as the Armatage neighborhood’s gateway.

The East Harriet neighborhood is home to several parks. They include:

Lyndale Farmstead Park: Lyndale Farmstead Park is located along a hilltop and is regarded as one of the most historical locations in the city. The park is the home of the Lyndale Farmstead Recreation Center, one of the most beautiful recreation centers in the entire city. The recreation center offers visitors access to a community kitchen, craft room, game room, meeting room, and a multipurpose room. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor amenities such as biking/walking paths, a football field, gardens, an ice skating rink, pickleball and tennis courts, a playground, a soccer field, and softball fields.

Lyndale Park: Lyndale Park is located north of Lake Harriet. As a part of the Lake Harriet acreage, Lyndale Park encompasses 61 acres of scenic gardens, decorative fountains, and natural beauty. The park is home to the renowned Lyndale Park Gardens which offer visitors a splendid array of annuals and perennials. Additionally, the Roberts Bird Sanctuary is found within Lyndale Park and is the home of owls, hummingbirds, eagles, and more.

Lake Harriet Park: Lake Harriet Park is one of the most picturesque and stunning lakes found within the Twin Cities area. As a part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park, Lake Harriet is a well-known tourist attraction that draws in millions of visitors annually. Whether it be biking or walking on the paths around the lake, going for a swim at the beach, launching the boat into the lake’s waters, or catching a concert at the beautiful bandshell, Lake Harriet Park has something to offer for everyone. Guests from all around the world travel to this area to enjoy its scenic beauty and invigorating atmosphere. Lake Harriet Park also features gardens, fishing piers, playgrounds, restroom facilities, and a large pavilion near the bandshell. The pavilion is a particularly busy location due to its proximity to the bandshell and its convenient restaurant Bread & Pickle. With 470 acres to explore, visitors to Lake Harriet can comfortably spend the entire day at the park, making it a cherished and wildly popular outdoor destination.

The Fulton neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Pershing Field Park: Pershing Field Park is an 8.5 acre park located in the northwest corner of the Fulton neighborhood. In close proximity to the Minneapolis Southwest High School, Pershing Field Park is often utilized by young families and community youth. The park has baseball/softball fields, a basketball court, playground, soccer field, tennis courts, a wading pool, and walking paths. It also contains the Pershing Recreation Center which includes a community kitchen, craft room, meeting room, and a multipurpose room.

Lake Harriet Park

The Kenny neighborhood is home to one park which shares its name:

Kenny Park: Kenny Park is a 9 acre park located between two public schools. This convenient location makes it an important part of the local community. Ideal for young families and local youth, visitors enjoy the baseball field, basketball court, ice skating rink, picnic area with grill, playground, pond hockey rink, restroom facility, soccer fields, softball fields, tennis courts, and wading pool. In addition to programming from the local schools, the Kenny neighborhood utilizes the park for community events. Also located on the premises is the Kenny Neighborhood Center. With a community kitchen, meeting room, multipurpose room, and lots of activities, the neighborhood center is an integral part of the neighborhood.

The Kenny neighborhood is home to one park which shares its name:

The King Field neighborhood is home to one park:

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park: MLK Jr. Park is a community favorite. Established in honor of the famous Civil Rights leader, MLK Jr. Park is a central location within the King Field community. At 18.51 acres, the park offers great amenities that all can appreciate. Visitors enjoy the baseball field, basketball court, football field, picnic area, playground, softball fields, tennis courts, volleyball court, wading pool, and walking paths. Additionally, visitors can utilize the community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room, and multipurpose room found in the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center. With numerous community events, programs, leagues, and day camps happening at MLK Jr. Park, there is truly something for everyone. A final landmark within the park is the memorial sculpture. Designed by a local artist, the sculpture represents an outreach of friendship in honor of Dr. King.

The Linden Hills neighborhood houses three parks in addition to having access to some of the area’s greatest lakes. They include:

Linden Hills Park: Linden Hills Park is located in the center of the Linden Hills neighborhood. At just under 8 acres, the park offers several amenities for residents and visitors alike. With a baseball field, basketball court, ice skating/hockey rinks, a playground, picnic area with grill, restroom facility, soccer field, softball fields, tennis courts, and a wading pool, Linden Hills Park is an active location year-round. Community members enjoy the wide array of activities, regardless of the season, and the park’s active amenities are cherished by all. Additionally, the park is home to the Linden Hills Recreation Center which adds a community kitchen, craft room, meeting room, and a multipurpose room for visitors to enjoy.

William Berry Park: A natural, outdoor, recreational option located near the large regional lakes, William Berry Park is known for its hilly, wooded landscape that has been preserved since 1889. At just under 30 acres, the park offers extensive walking and biking paths through the magnificent wooded areas. William Berry Park also includes an archery range, picnic area, and a playground. For those desiring a scenic location for passive outdoor recreation, William Berry Park is a great choice.

Beard’s Plaisance: Beard’s Plaisance is attached to the nearby Lake Harriet Park. A popular community gathering location, the park is most often utilized for its picnic area, playground, and tennis courts. A great location for a family or neighborhood get-together, Beard’s Plaisance has seating for 80, 5 charcoal grills, and a restroom facility nearby.

Lake Harriet Park

Lake Calhoun Park: Linden Hills is located on the border of Lake Calhoun Park. One of Minnesota’s most popular destinations, Lake Calhoun Park is 518 acres of scenic beauty. The park features the magnificent Lake Calhoun, a local favorite, as well as a wide variety of amenities. Lake Calhoun Park is home to an archery range, wildly popular beach, biking/walking path around the lake, boat docks, a fishing pier, picnic facilities, soccer and softball fields, and sand volleyball courts. During the summer months, Minnesota goes out on the lake to play. With swimming, boating, sailing, fishing, and even logrolling available, Lake Calhoun Park is a wonderful destination for a sunny, summer day. Described as one of Minnesota’s most beautiful lakes, the Lake Calhoun Park is a must-visit destination.

The Lynnhurst neighborhood is home to three parks. They include:

Lynnhurst Park: Lynnhurst Park is the primary park within the Lynnhurst neighborhood. While only 8 acres in size, the park is a community gathering place and the home of many events. The Lynnhurst Recreation Center is located within the park grounds and includes a community kitchen, craft room, gymnasium, meeting room, and a multipurpose room. Outside of the recreation center, visitors can enjoy the baseball fields, basketball courts, biking/walking paths, hockey/ice skating rinks, playground, soccer fields, softball fields, tennis courts, and wading pool. Because of the numerous sporting fields found at Lynnhurst Park, the neighborhood and larger community uses the park for sporting leagues and tournaments. With so many amenities and a central location, Lynnhurst Park is cherished by all.

Minnehaha Creek West Park: A 39 acre park stretching across the Lynnhurst neighborhood, Minnehaha Creek West Park is a peaceful haven in the midst of a bustling city. While there are very few amenities for visitors, guests of the park enjoy its quiet nature. With the exclusion of tennis courts and walking paths, Minnehaha Creek West Park remains mostly undeveloped. During the warmer months, the creek is home to a wide array of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy watching the water flow while strolling along the paths and spotting wildlife. In the wintertime, the creek freezes over, allowing for visitors to walk along its surface.

Lake Harriet Park

The Tangletown neighborhood is home to two parks:

Fuller Park: Fuller Park is a small, neighborhood park housing several amenities and a recreation center. Visitors enjoy the basketball court, gardens, picnic area, playground, wading pool, and walking paths located within the park. Additionally, the recreation center gives visitors access to a community kitchen, computer lab, craft room, meeting room, and a multipurpose room. While only 2 acres in size, Fuller Park offers great amenities for an afternoon at the park.

Minnehaha Creek West Park

The Windom neighborhood is home to one park:

Windom South Park: Windom South Park is located adjacent to the local school. A very small, just over 1 acre park, Windom South Park is home to a playground for neighborhood and school youth. While tiny, Windom South Park is loved by the neighborhood kids and makes a great place for families to relax in the afternoon.

The University community is a collection of 6 distinct neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own parks and recreation offerings for residents and visitors alike. Whether it be small, neighborhood playgrounds or large, community parklands, the parks within the University community range in amenities and location. The following article will provide an overview of the parks found within the individual neighborhoods of the University community.

The Cedar-Riverside neighborhood is home to two parks. They include:

Currie Park: Currie Park is a small, 2.7 acre athletic park located on the western side of the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Best known for its synthetic turf soccer field, the park also offers a basketball court, picnic area with grill, playground, restroom facility, softball field, wading pool, and walking paths. Visitors enjoy using the active amenities, sharing a picnic in the park, or simply going for a stroll. Also located within the park is the Coyle Community Center. Established with the help of Pillsbury United Communities, the community center is the home of numerous events throughout the year. This helps to promote an active and engaged neighborhood community.

Murphy Square: Murphy Square is the oldest park in Minneapolis. A patch of natural beauty amidst a busy city, Murphy Square does not offer many amenities, but enchants visitors nonetheless. It’s location is part of what makes it so unique. Murphy Square is located adjacent to Augsburg college and just blocks from the U of M’s west bank. This convenient location makes the park accessible to students at both colleges as well as the neighborhood as a whole. The park is great for a picnic, as it has numerous picnic areas with outdoor grills.

The Como neighborhood is home to one park:

Van Cleave Park: Van Cleave Park is the only park located within the Como neighborhood. At just under 9 acres, the park is full of activity. Visitors enjoy the baseball field, basketball court, ice skating/hockey/broomball rink, gardens, picnic area, playground, restrooms, soccer field, softball fields, tennis courts, and wading pool. Van Cleave Park is located east of Dinkytown and north of the University of Minnesota, making it accessible to a significant number of individuals.

The Marcy-Holmes neighborhood is home to three unique parks. They include:

Holmes Park: Holmes Park is a 4.36 park located in the western end of the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood. The park includes a basketball court, picnic area, playground, restroom facility, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and a wading pool. Due to its location in one of the oldest neighborhoods within the city, Holmes Park is heavily utilized by the community for events or community gatherings.

Father Hennepin Bluff Park: Father Hennepin Bluff Park is one of the more unique parks in the city of Minneapolis. While offering very few amenities, the park is one of the best locations within the city for views of the Minneapolis skyline, Mississippi Gorge, and Stone Arch Bridge. Numerous walking and biking paths as well as bridges connect visitors with the scenic beauty of the area. The park’s location along the Mississippi River makes it a great location for an escape from the busy city. Father Hennepin Bluff Park offers visitors picnic areas with grills for an afternoon grill-out or meal with a loved one. Additionally, a bandstand located within the park adds community appeal by housing free concerts and other neighborhood events.

Historic Main Street Park: The Historic Main Street Park is a location of charm and beauty within the city of Minneapolis. While it is simply a stretch of biking and walking paths as well as picnic areas, visitors to Main Street Park enjoy the historic nature of Main Street and its rustic appeal. With rehabilitated commercial buildings, wooded green spaces, and a fabulous view of the Mississippi River, Historic Main Street Park is a wonderful destination to visit.

The Nicollet Island/East Bank neighborhood is home to three parks:

Chute Square: Chute Square is a 1.1 acre patch of green space within the heart of the city. While small, the park offers walking paths and several trees for shade. Additionally, the square is home to the historic Ard Godfrey house, the oldest wood frame house found in the Twin Cities. A peaceful location, visitors of all ages will appreciate the historical significance and rustic charm found within the park.

Historic Main Street Park

Nicollet Island Park: At nearly 27 acres, Nicollet Island Park is the largest park within the Nicollet Island/East Bank neighborhood. The park is an active community location, with many events and concerts taking place in its amphitheater. Visitors can enjoy walking or biking along the numerous paths or having a picnic in the park’s picnic area. The park’s promenade offers scenic views of the first dam on the Mississippi built in 1858. A final feature of the park is its sculpture from Minneapolis’ sister city of Ibaraki, Japan. Based on a 2,000 year-old terracotta mold for an ancient bronze bell, this sculpture adds a unique flair to the park.

The Prospect Park neighborhood is home to three parks. They include:

Tower Hill Park: At 4.5 acres, Tower Hill Park is a famous location within Minnesota. It is home to the historical Witch’s Hat water tower. A water tower built in 1914, Witch’s Hat water tower served the area until 1952. It was capable of holding 150,000 gallons of water. Constructed on one of the highest points in the city, the water tower is known for its signature sloped, green tile roof and octagonal observation deck. Once a year visitors are allowed to climb to the top of the tower and look out on its observation deck on the city of Minneapolis. The views are spectacular! The Witch’s Hat water tower is on the National Register of Historic Places and continues to be a landmark within Minneapolis.

Chergosky Park: Chergosky Park is a micro park tucked away in the Prospect Park neighborhood. While only containing a playground and picnic area, the park is a great location for younger families looking to escape the busy atmosphere of the city.

Luxton Park: Luxton Park is the home of outdoor recreation within the Prospect Park neighborhood. At 4.5 acres the park has plenty of activity to offer to its visitors. Visitors enjoy the basketball court, gardens, picnic area with grill, playground, restroom facility, soccer field, softball field, wading pool, and walking paths found within the park. Additionally visitors can make use of the Luxton Recreation Center. With its large gymnasium as well as its craft room, computer lab, community kitchen, meeting room, and multipurpose room, the recreation center adds great communal value to Luxton Park. As a whole, Luxton Park is an integral location within the Prospect Park neighborhood and plays a large role in shaping community events and recreational activities.

For more information regarding the individual neighborhoods found within Minneapolis, please refer to our supporting articles.

If you have any questions regarding the parks found within the city of Minneapolis, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to give Twin Cities Property Finder a call at 952.204.7950.