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Chain of Lakes, The


Five scenic lakes in a row
42117 West River Road
(Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board)
Minneapolis, MN 55411
+1 612 230 6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.or...
Known as the City of Lakes, it is befitting that the confines of Minneapolis are home to 22 lakes within the city limits. Regarded as the crown jewel of the Minneapolis Parks System, the Chain of Lakes is comprised of five scenic lakes in a row along the west side of the city: Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet and Lake Nokomis. A series of tree-lined roadways, parks, and beaches, including magnificent Minnehaha Parkway and Creek, interconnect this picturesque area of Minneapolis. Each of the lakes has a distinct personality. They all provide an outlet for bicyclists, rollerbladers, joggers and walkers as they traverse the many miles of paved paths around the lakes. Canoes, sailboats and fishermen share this water wonderland with swimmers, beach volley players and sun worshippers. To protect the delicate shorelines, no powerboats are permitted on city lakes. In the winter, cross-country skiers, ice fishermen, broomball leagues and ice sailing abound.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Chain of Lakes, The photo by Serge Y.
Photo: Serge Y.
 

 
Clifton E French Regional Park


362-acre urban refuge
12615 County Road 9
Plymouth, MN 55441
+1 763 559 8891
http://www.hennepinparks.com/o...
Commonly called French Park, this well-maintained member of the Hennepin Park System is located on the north end of Medicine Lake. A 362-acre urban refuge used primarily for recreational activities, it also has beautiful natural features.

A long winding inlet of the 900-acre lake bisects the park. Beaver, muskrat, mink and turtle live here, while great egret, black crowned night heron, belted kingfisher, geese, ducks and spotted sandpiper nest or feed in the area. White-tailed deer, red fox, woodchuck, cottontail rabbit, great horned owl and red tailed hawk frequent the area.

Cross-country ski trails are mowed for hikers in the off-season. There is a sandy swimming beach with restrooms, changing rooms and a snack bar. There are volleyball courts, a public boat launch and a picnic area with tables and grills. Park visitors can rent bicycles, rowboats, canoes, paddleboats, fishing poles and in winter, cross-country skis. In winter the frozen lake becomes a skating rink and kids go sledding on the hills.

A fee is charged for parking and can be paid on a daily basis, or an annual pass, good at all county parks, may be purchased.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park


360 scenic acres
10360 West River Road
Brooklyn Park, MN 55444
+1 763 424 8172
http://www.hennepinparks.com/o...
This park is 360 scenic acres spanning both sides of the Mississippi River. The showpiece of the park is the 1,000-foot dam built in 1914. The small town of Coon Creek was located in what is now the park and during the construction as many as 1,000 men worked here. Deer, red fox, raccoon, woodchuck, weasel, rabbit and different varieties of squirrels live along the banks, while mink, muskrats, beavers and turtles inhabit the river. The park is a hotspot for fishing, which can be done from shore, boat or platforms on the dam. Walleye, northern, bass and crappie are common.

The Visitor Center includes live animal exhibits, an aquarium displaying native fish, an observation deck, information center and restrooms. Three main trails total 4.5 miles and traverse all habitats within the park, groomed for cross-country skiers in the winter.

Skis, snowshoes and canoes are available for rent. Picnic tables and grills are plentiful. Campsites are available, including a separate primitive site for canoeists. A handicapped accessible walkway across the dam connects the Hennepin and Anoka County sections of the park and provides an excellent view of the river.

A fee is charged for parking and can be paid on a daily basis, or an annual pass, good at all county parks, may be purchased.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park photo by Sheryl Meier
Photo: Sheryl Meier
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park photo by James
Photo: James
 

 
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden


Peaceful, 14-acre sanctuary
1940 Theodore Wirth Parkway
(at Glenwood Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55422
+1 612 370 4903
Marsh marigolds, showy lady slippers and shy violets are just a few of the many wildflowers that bloom in this peaceful, 14-acre sanctuary. Inaugurated in 1907, it is the oldest public wildflower garden in the United States. Visitors are free to wander the picturesque trails in both the shady woodland garden and the sunny prairie garden.

A small interpretive building has exhibits and books about nature, including a biography of the garden founder, botanist and conservationist Eloise Butler. Guided tours and special programs, such as full moon hikes and talks on medicinal plants, are offered on weekends.

Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden photo by Joe Martz
Photo: Joe Martz
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden photo by Heathere Willoughby
Photo: Heathere Willoughby
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden photo by Nate
Photo: Nate
 

 
Falls of St. Anthony


Thunderous 32-foot torrent of cascading water
W River Rd & Portland Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55414
+1 612 627 5433
In 1680, a Belgian friar named Father Louis Hennepin discovered a thunderous 32-foot torrent of cascading water that he named St. Anthony Falls. This scenic waterfall was thus responsible for the birth of Minnesota's largest city. Today the falls are well contained by concrete and stone block as well as a series of dams. They can be viewed best from the Stone Arch Bridge or the observation deck of the Upper Lock and Dam. Guided tours are offered by the MHS. USD4 Adults; USD3 Seniors; USD2 Children.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Falls of St. Anthony photo by John R Meixner
Photo: John R Meixner
Falls of St. Anthony photo by Jim Pearson
Photo: Jim Pearson
Falls of St. Anthony photo by John R Meixner
Photo: John R Meixner
Falls of St. Anthony photo by Joel Dueck
Photo: Joel Dueck
Falls of St. Anthony photo by Carolyn Ganus
Photo: Carolyn Ganus
Falls of St. Anthony photo by DoktorStilton
Photo: DoktorStilton
Falls of St. Anthony photo by Paul Weimer
Photo: Paul Weimer
Falls of St. Anthony photo by coconuts mom
Photo: coconuts mom
 

 
Gateway Trail, The


A beautiful ride, walk or run
500 Lafayette Rd
Department of Natural Resources
St. Paul, MN 55155
+1 651 296 6157
http://www.a1trails.com/biking...
This paved public trail follows the bed of the Soo Line Railroad from St. Paul to Stillwater. Whether biking, inline skating, running or walking, it will take you from the city to the country in 19 miles.

The trail runs through residential neighborhoods, past parks, and through North St. Paul along Highway 36. Many of the municipalities have created access paths to the parks that sit along the way. A slight detour will take you to the Maplewood Community Center.

Enjoy the view as you pass Lake Phalen, past the small community of Mahtomedi and into historic Stillwater. The last train passed this way in 1987, and markers along the way point out where some of the old train stations sat, such as Gladstone (Gloster). There are interpretive markers that tell about some of the wildlife along the way. Maps are available from the DNR office.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Hyland Lake Park Reserve


Good Old Outdoor Fun
10145 Bush Lake Rd
Bloomington, MN 55438
+1 763 694 7687
Camping, biking, skiing, canoeing and good old outdoor fun can all be found at the Hyland Lake Park Reserve south of Minneapolis. The Richardson Nature Center contains numerous exhibits and information about this 1,000-acre urban, woodland reserve. The nature trails are dotted with overlooks and observation decks allowing observation of deer, pheasant, ducks, geese and a variety of songbirds. There are 7 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of paved bike paths. The Hyland Outdoor Recreation Center contains a snack bar, gift shop and restrooms. The center rents bikes, rowboats, canoes and paddleboats in the summer and skis, snowshoes and skates in the winter. The hiking and biking trails are groomed in the winter for cross country skiing and snowshoes. A large picnic area, a small fishing pier and boat launch are situated in the lake area.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Hyland Lake Park Reserve photo by romadden84
Photo: romadden84
Hyland Lake Park Reserve photo by Alan Seaver
Photo: Alan Seaver
 

 
Indian Mounds Regional Park


A great view and fascinating history
Off Mounds Blvd., Northeast of Downtown St. Paul
St. Paul, MN 55101
+1 651 266 6400
bob.bierscheid@ci.stpaul.mn.us
The history of this area dates back 2,000 years. The park offers a great panoramic view of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Paul. Enclosed by metal rail fences, six ancient Indian burial mounds rest within the rich soil of the park. No climbing on the sacred mounds allowed.

An old reconstructed aerial beacon, used for many years by aircraft approaching the Holman Field airport across the river, stands near the mounds. In 1776, a man named Jonathon Carver discovered what is now known as Carver's Cave. Inside the cave, he found ancient artifacts and hieroglyphics. Plaques posted nearby tell the detailed stories of these historical landmarks.

This popular park is available for anyone including family picnics, skateboarders, hikers, bikers, groups and field trips. Rustic restrooms are scattered throughout the park for your convenience. No admission charge, but fees may apply to large picnic groups. In that case call +1 651 645 5713 for fees and availability of picnic areas, otherwise first come, first serve.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Indian Mounds Regional Park photo by Gary Sankary
Photo: Gary Sankary
Indian Mounds Regional Park photo by Tiffany Follett
Photo: Tiffany Follett
 

 
Kellogg Mall Park


Relax along the river
Kellogg Boulevard
(between Wabasha and Robert Streets)
St. Paul, MN 55101
+1 651 266 6400
A recent effort by the city of St. Paul to reclaim the riverfront is this beautiful park across the street from the Courthouse.

Take a stroll and enjoy the view of the Mississippi River from the pathways of the Kellogg Mall Park. A fountain provides a cool spot during the warm months and transforms into the famous Salvation Army red kettle in the winter helping to raise money for their cause. Watch fireworks occasionally, or check out the paddleboats on the river from one of the many benches or take a seat on the grass. Take a walk, have a seat and enjoy the view.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Kellogg Mall Park photo by Kate Harrington
Photo: Kate Harrington
 

 
Lake Minnetonka Regional Park


Lovely urban refuge
4610 County Road 44
Minnetrista, MN 55364
+1 763 694 7754
http://www.threeriversparkdist...
This 392-acre regional park is a lovely urban refuge with excellent recreational facilities. A large picnic area, located by the lake, offers shelters, tables, grills and an open play area suited for croquet and volleyball games. A large fishing pier and boat launch provides easy access to majestic Lake Minnetonka.

Frolic on the beach or take a dip in the chlorinated swimming pond constructed by the lake. Spread a blanket, stick an umbrella in the sand and lay back to soak up the suns golden rays as breezes from one of the state's largest lakes help keep you cool. A small visitor center offers information, meeting rooms for corporate outings by the beach and restrooms.

A minimal parking fee is charged or a season pass good at all Hennepin Parks is available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Lock and Dam #1


Magnificent panoramic views
West River Road at East 50th St
Minneapolis, MN 55417
+1 612 742 2971
Lock and Dam #1, also known as the 'Ford Dam,' is located near Minnehaha Park in southeast Minneapolis. Construction of the dam, deemed necessary to improve river navigation between Minneapolis and St. Paul, began in 1899 and was completed in 1917. In 1923 the Ford Motor Company was given a permit to build a power plant. It generates enough power to operate the lock along with supplying the needs of the Ford Plant and local residents.

Like the observation deck of the Upper St. Anthony Lock and Dam, the Visitor Center provides a bird's eye view of the spectacular 675-foot long dam and locking procedure. Magnificent panoramic views of the river and surrounding area can also be seen from the promenade three stories above the dam. From the deck visitors can witness barges, towboats and a multitude of pleasure craft making their way up and down the lock. The small picnic area nearby allows sightseers to make it a leisurely day of surveying river traffic. Admission is free and the visitor center is open April through October.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lock and Dam #1 photo by ken yee
Photo: ken yee
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Mark Dille
Photo: Mark Dille
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Jeffrey Long
Photo: Jeffrey Long
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Nathan Machula
Photo: Nathan Machula
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Shawn Hogendorf
Photo: Shawn Hogendorf
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Ericka Bailie-Byrne
Photo: Ericka Bailie-Byrne
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Jesse D. & Mark H.
Photo: Jesse D. & Mark H.
Lock and Dam #1 photo by Justin Thiele
Photo: Justin Thiele
 

 
Loring Park


First city-owned park
1382 Willow St
Minneapolis, MN 55403
+1 612 370 4929
In 1883, the city purchased 35 acres of land and turned it into the first city-owned park, a gorgeous commons known as Central Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the designer of New York City's Central Park, thus the name. In 1890, the park's name was changed to honor Charles Loring, the first president of the Minneapolis Park Board and the initial force behind preserving much of the land that eventually evolved into one of the nation's most magnificent city park systems.

An active and much-used inner city recreation area, Loring Park has a basketball court, paved walking and bike paths, numerous tennis courts, horseshoe pits and shuffleboard courts. In winter, the lake is packed with skaters. On the west side Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge connects the park to the Walker Art Center. Loring Greenway, a well-traveled pedestrian thoroughfare, connects the park to downtown's Nicollet Mall. At the end of the Greenway is the Berger Fountain, shaped like a giant dandelion.

Free concerts are held in the summer and picnic tables are scattered throughout the park. The recreation building houses restrooms, an information center and ping-pong tables.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Loring Park photo by Evan Bibbee
Photo: Evan Bibbee
Loring Park photo by Matt Gray
Photo: Matt Gray
Loring Park photo by ɹɐǝʇuǝʌ1ǝ
Photo: ɹɐǝʇuǝʌ1ǝ
Loring Park photo by Dan Wick
Photo: Dan Wick
Loring Park photo by Ben Ostrowsky
Photo: Ben Ostrowsky
Loring Park photo by quarkusjackson
Photo: quarkusjackson
Loring Park photo by Ben Ostrowsky
Photo: Ben Ostrowsky
Loring Park photo by masami k-m
Photo: masami k-m
Loring Park photo by Cori Culhane
Photo: Cori Culhane
Loring Park photo by Evan Bibbee
Photo: Evan Bibbee
Loring Park photo by Linda Beaverson
Photo: Linda Beaverson
Loring Park photo by Marsha Wilson
Photo: Marsha Wilson
Loring Park photo by Jim Eagan
Photo: Jim Eagan
Loring Park photo by Linda Beaverson
Photo: Linda Beaverson
Loring Park photo by sheldon mains
Photo: sheldon mains
Loring Park photo by Bree Radloff
Photo: Bree Radloff
Loring Park photo by AlexanderBrowne
Photo: AlexanderBrowne
Loring Park photo by Nee Lougiu
Photo: Nee Lougiu
Loring Park photo by eweisser
Photo: eweisser
Loring Park photo by A. Sparks&N. Labello
Photo: A. Sparks&N. Labello
Loring Park photo by Peter Corbett
Photo: Peter Corbett
Loring Park photo by Manoj
Photo: Manoj
 

 
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden


Beauty and tranquility
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55409
+1 612 370 4900
http://www.minneapolisparks.org/
MSchmidt@minneapolisparks.org
This rock garden is part of the Lyndale Park Gardens, and is a flowery tribute to the bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima in the year 1945. Peace stones from the two cities can be found on display here, alongside other ancient formations that have historical significance. On August 6 each year, a ceremony is held to commemorate the tragedy. Spring flowers are in full bloom from April l5 - June l, so you may match your visit accordingly. Ample parking space is available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden photo by Third Base Line
Photo: Third Base Line
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden photo by Third Base Line
Photo: Third Base Line
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden photo by Joseph Charles Eddy
Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden photo by Meagan Jeske
Photo: Meagan Jeske
Lyndale Park Peace (Rock) Garden photo by Darcy K. Rue
Photo: Darcy K. Rue
 

 
Minnehaha Park and Falls


Spectacular urban delight
Hiawatha Ave at Minnehaha Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55417
+1 612 667 4800
http://www.nps.gov/miss/maps/m...
This is one of the spectacular urban delights of south Minneapolis. Winding its way from the south shore of Lake Harriet, Minnehaha Creek cuts a 5-mile path along 50th Street on its way to the Mississippi River. Picturesque Minnehaha Parkway, running parallel to the creek, is a splendid drive featuring lush gardens and large shade trees. The route can also be traversed by foot or bike via the trails.

The culmination of the gurgling and bubbling creek as it rushes to meet the mighty Mississippi is the cascading splendor of Minnehaha Falls, and 170-acre magnificent Minnehaha Park. One of the city's most-used stretches of parkland, it features several large picnic grounds, formal gardens, playing fields, hiking trails, and undeveloped natural areas. Four different staircases, made of local stone, lead from the uplands to various spots along the creek bottom. There they connect to a trail that follows the creek to its confluence with the river across from St. Paul's Hidden Falls Park.

A separate paved trail connects the park to historic Fort Snelling State Park. Of special historical significance is the John H Stevens House Museum that was recently moved to park grounds south of the Falls. Contact the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board for additional information.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by theCallowQueen
Photo: theCallowQueen
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Matt Barton
Photo: Matt Barton
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by bikepunk
Photo: bikepunk
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Suzanne Boben
Photo: Suzanne Boben
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Suzanne Boben
Photo: Suzanne Boben
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Matt Barton
Photo: Matt Barton
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Derek Bakken
Photo: Derek Bakken
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by mfriemer3030
Photo: mfriemer3030
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by theCallowQueen
Photo: theCallowQueen
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Bradley Nelson
Photo: Bradley Nelson
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Bradley Nelson
Photo: Bradley Nelson
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Sara J. Lathrop
Photo: Sara J. Lathrop
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Jason Randolph
Photo: Jason Randolph
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Dave Poortvliet
Photo: Dave Poortvliet
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Jesse Reed
Photo: Jesse Reed
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Matti Mattila
Photo: Matti Mattila
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Megan Brown
Photo: Megan Brown
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Eric Hanson
Photo: Eric Hanson
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Sean Garrick
Photo: Sean Garrick
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Christopher Berry
Photo: Christopher Berry
Minnehaha Park and Falls photo by Verena Jung
Photo: Verena Jung
 

 
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum


Lovely garden getaway
3675 Arboretum Drive
Chaska, MN 55317
+1 952 443 1400
http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/
reservations@arboretum.umn.edu
This one thousand acre attraction located just west of Minneapolis is a gardener's paradise. It is also the perfect spot for anyone who simply wishes to visit a beautiful and peaceful place. The University of Minnesota, which owns the arboretum, conducts research here and offers a wide variety of educational programs. Several miles of walking paths weave through the gardens, with a lane along side for those who wish to drive.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum photo by James
Photo: James
 

 
Minnesota Transportation Museum


Nostalgic rides around town
193 Pennsylvania Ave East
St. Paul, MN 55101
+1 651 228 0263
http://www.mtmuseum.org/
A collection of working locomotives, steamships, train depots, roundhouses, trolleys and motor coaches brings the history of local transportation alive. The MTM has five exhibit sites in and around the Twin Cities area that are visited by more than 100,000 people annually. The various restored depots and roundhouse allow visitors to travel back to the golden age of the railroads.

The most popular exhibit is the Como-Harriet Streetcar Line, a rebuilt portion of what used to be the nation's largest urban rail service that was a 500-mile system in its heyday. Restored cars dating from the late 1800s and early 1900s run a two-mile round trip course between Lakes Harriet and Calhoun in South Minneapolis. Cars run every 15 minutes and passengers can board at the Linden Hills Station or the Lakewood Cemetery platform. For $1.50 it is a fun and inexpensive ride for people of all ages.

The museum's other big draw is the Minnehaha, a 1906 steamboat which used to ferry streetcar passengers all over Lake Minnetonka. Back from a watery grave, the restored steamboat is as good as new and spruced up with a snazzy maroon and gold paint job.

The season runs mid-May through mid-October and hours at each site vary. Call the museum information line or visit the web site for schedules and fares. The trolley rides are cash only; other sites accept credit cards.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Minnesota Transportation Museum photo by Michael Hicks
Photo: Michael Hicks
 

 
Mystic Lake Casino


Popular Tourist Destination
2400 Mystic Lake Blvd
Prior Lake, MN 55372
+1 952 445 9000 / +1 800 262 7799
http://www.mysticlake.com/
Conveniently located a half-hour southwest of downtown, this casino is open around-the-clock and includes more than 100 blackjack tables, 2,800 gaming machines and a bingo hall. There is an attached hotel and top class entertainment. Many national acts grace the stage at Mystic, including rock bands, solo acts, magicians and comedians. With four restaurants offering a variety of cuisine, it is easy to find something to your liking. The all-you-can-eat buffet is a spectacular feast and considered the best east of Las Vegas. Professional, on-site daycare is offered in Playworks, a large indoor playground. Keep in mind, however, that Mystic Lake Casino is alcohol-free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mystic Lake Casino photo by Brooke Zumas
Photo: Brooke Zumas
 

 
Nicollet Mall


Country's First Pedestrian Mall
Between Washington Ave and 13th St
Minneapolis, MN 55403
+1 612 661 4700
In 1967, faded Nicollet Avenue, the city's principal shopping area, was converted into one of the country's first pedestrian malls. The traffic-clogged street was replaced with a rolling, 30-foot wide roadway for buses and taxis only. Sidewalks were widened and turned into a shady, flower-filled boulevard. A clock holds court over Peavey Plaza at 11th Street. This 12-block area is home to hundreds of shops, theaters, department stores, and restaurants.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Nicollet Mall photo by Andréas Olofsson
Photo: Andréas Olofsson
Nicollet Mall photo by Rohan Kohli
Photo: Rohan Kohli
Nicollet Mall photo by TimWilson
Photo: TimWilson
Nicollet Mall photo by J. Culbert
Photo: J. Culbert
Nicollet Mall photo by Marc Donnelly
Photo: Marc Donnelly
Nicollet Mall photo by Zeke Rice
Photo: Zeke Rice
Nicollet Mall photo by Joey Marchy
Photo: Joey Marchy
 

 
Rice Park


Have a seat and relax
109 West 4th Street
St. Paul, MN 55101
+1 651 266 6400
http://www.stpaul.gov/depts/pa...
bob.bierscheid@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Rice Park, a public square since 1849, serves as an outlet for anyone who needs to relax or downtown workers who just want to eat lunch away from their desks. Make a wish in the giant fountain that dominates one corner of the park. Faced by the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, the main St. Paul Public Library, Landmark Center, and the St. Paul Hotel, the park is a peaceful, shady haven. Free concerts held in the summer are a joy to all. Winter brings the ice sculptures carved for the St. Paul Winter Carnival; you can watch the carvers in action and enjoy them afterwards.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Rice Park photo by Brian Houska
Photo: Brian Houska
Rice Park photo by Mark Estes
Photo: Mark Estes
Rice Park photo by Erica Mauter
Photo: Erica Mauter
Rice Park photo by Cassandra Lidgerding
Photo: Cassandra Lidgerding
Rice Park photo by dadslinger
Photo: dadslinger
 

 
Rose Garden


Lovely oasis of rolling hills
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55409
+1 612 370 4900
http://www.minneapolisparks.or...
MSchmidt@minneapolisparks.org
On the northeast shore of Lake Harriet in Minneapolis, visitors find this beautiful sloping rose garden. This lovely oasis of rolling hills features a carefully tended and sweet-smelling glen of blooming flowers bordered by two capricious fountains. The garden, which opened in 1907, is the second-oldest public rose garden in the country and is a favorite site for weddings. The roses bloom from mid-June to late-September, yet the garden season is extended by the appearance of spring bulbs and various perennials that bloom throughout the spring, summer and fall months. Across from the rose garden is a tranquil Japanese rock garden, restored in recent years after the original had all but disappeared. Adjacent to the rock garden is the Roberts Bird Sanctuary.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Rose Garden photo by Megan Myers
Photo: Megan Myers
Rose Garden photo by Emily Greenseth
Photo: Emily Greenseth
Rose Garden photo by stramy
Photo: stramy
Rose Garden photo by Luke Ibis
Photo: Luke Ibis
Rose Garden photo by Megan Myers
Photo: Megan Myers
Rose Garden photo by Matthew C. Dettinger
Photo: Matthew C. Dettinger
Rose Garden photo by Timothy Gardner
Photo: Timothy Gardner
Rose Garden photo by Deepak Gopalakrishna
Photo: Deepak Gopalakrishna
Rose Garden photo by Thomas Andersen
Photo: Thomas Andersen
Rose Garden photo by Thomas Andersen
Photo: Thomas Andersen
Rose Garden photo by Kevin Hoogheem
Photo: Kevin Hoogheem
Rose Garden photo by jessiferseabs
Photo: jessiferseabs
Rose Garden photo by Cinda Miller
Photo: Cinda Miller
Rose Garden photo by Thomas Smith
Photo: Thomas Smith
Rose Garden photo by Thomas Boblett
Photo: Thomas Boblett
Rose Garden photo by p.kinne
Photo: p.kinne
Rose Garden photo by Bob Carlson
Photo: Bob Carlson
 

 
Skyway System


Second story span was revolutionary
Throughout both downtowns
Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
On 7th Street, between Marquette and 2nd Avenues in downtown Minneapolis, is the city's first skyway bridge. Now ubiquitous in the city, this 2nd story span was revolutionary when it debuted in 1962. The network of skyways connecting buildings in the downtown areas often surprises visitors. Built to protect downtown workers and shoppers from the elements, the skyways have developed into little cities within cities with restaurants, shops and services. Minneapolis and St. Paul each have about five miles of skyways connecting numerous downtown blocks, making it easy to go from store to store without ever venturing outside.

Connecting to hotels and some apartment buildings, the skyways make it possible to live, eat, bank, work and shop without going into the open air. The public's love of the skyways has clearly played a part in the continued commercial vitality of the downtown areas.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Skyway System photo by Erik Ostrom
Photo: Erik Ostrom
Skyway System photo by jim Winstead
Photo: jim Winstead
Skyway System photo by KitchenGod
Photo: KitchenGod
Skyway System photo by Laura D'Amico
Photo: Laura D'Amico
 

 
Stone Arch Bridge


The Great Bridge
Minnesota Historical Society
125 Main Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
+1 651 296 6126 / +1 800 749 5584
http://www.nps.gov/archive/mis...
When it was completed in 1883, the 2,100 foot-long Stone Arch Bridge was hailed as a magnificent structure, referred to as The Great Bridge, and compared favorably to the elaborate architecture of a Roman viaduct. Interestingly enough, as it was being built critics blasted the project and its owner, railroad tycoon James J Hill, calling it 'Jim Hill's Folly.' The bridge still stands astride the river as a monument to the man and empire he created. More importantly, James Hill wanted the bridge to provide a grand entrance to the city of Minneapolis and in the heyday of train travel it did just that. Comprised of 23 arches of limestone mined in the southern Minnesota town of Mankato, Hill personally supervised its building. It remains the second oldest bridge still spanning the mighty Mississippi River. As train traffic slowly declined, the Minneapolis depot closed in 1981 and trains were routed around the downtown area. The bridge was resurfaced to accommodate pedestrians, bikers, skaters and trolleys. The bridge provides impressive views of downtown Minneapolis, the river and several old and historic flourmills. The Stone Arch Bridge also provides a spectacular view of the Falls of St. Anthony. See website for guided tour info and more.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Brian Moen
Photo: Brian Moen
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Wayne M
Photo: Wayne M
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Scott Schumacher
Photo: Scott Schumacher
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Matt Gray
Photo: Matt Gray
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Kari Larson
Photo: Kari Larson
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Amy Lash Esau
Photo: Amy Lash Esau
Stone Arch Bridge photo by RKS
Photo: RKS
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Kevin Barber
Photo: Kevin Barber
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers
Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Steve Prakope
Photo: Steve Prakope
Stone Arch Bridge photo by bitwix
Photo: bitwix
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Zakcq Lockrem
Photo: Zakcq Lockrem
Stone Arch Bridge photo by spikenheimer
Photo: spikenheimer
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Billy Duss
Photo: Billy Duss
Stone Arch Bridge photo by Shea Dunn
Photo: Shea Dunn
 

 
Upper St. Anthony Lock and Dam


Panoramic view
1 Portland Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55401
+1 612 333 5336
Located at the start of Portland Avenue South, the Observation Deck of the Upper St. Anthony Lock and Dam provides perhaps the best panoramic view of the Falls of St. Anthony. Visitors who visit the deck when the winter snows are melting, adding to the flow of the river, will witness the tremendous force of water that amazed the early settlers. Even the normal flow of the river and its awesome power around the falls and the Lock and Dam is breathtaking.

Finished in 1963, the Upper Lock is the last of 29 locks and dams built between Minneapolis and St Louis. These engineering wonders form a 'ladder,' lifting and lowering boats as they navigate the river. Via this series of locks and dams, Minneapolis is linked with the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway, as well as the Ohio and Missouri River systems. If you are fortunate, on the day of your visit you may see this lock and dam in operation, allowing a Mississippi River barge to bypass the roaring falls. Lock and Dam #1, located downstream, provides another excellent view of the river and the lock and dam operation. Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
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