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 Picturesque St. Croix River Valley |
6959 Pellar Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55033 United States +1 651 436 5391 http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/par... |
Afton State Park lies along the bluffs of the picturesque St. Croix River Valley just a short trip southeast of the Twin Cities area. Visitors will find 1,700 acres of near-primitive grasslands and dense forests. In fact, access to much of the swimming and camping area is by hiking only. High vantage points provide stunning views of the river and surrounding areas. Badgers, red fox and deer thrive in this magnificent reserve, while hawks and eagles soar above. The Visitors Center provides interpretive exhibits and necessary information about the park. Fishing is allowed from shore or canoe and the swimming beach is well maintained. There are 5 miles of horseback riding trails, 4 miles of paved trails for biking, 19 miles of well-groomed cross country skiing trails and 20 miles of well-marked hiking trails. If you enjoy downhill skiing or snowboarding, visit the nearby Afton Alps Recreation Area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Clean, quiet lake |
Cedar Lake Ave and Cedar Lake Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 661 4800 |
Minneapolis' picturesque chain of lakes begins with Cedar Lake. This clean, quiet lake is the least urbanized of the five and the only Minneapolis lake with the backyards of private homes gracing its shores. Cedar Lake has two public beaches on its west and south shores, as well as a small, yet popular, clothing-optional Hidden Beach to the northeast. This technically illegal beach area, not easily accessible or visible from the public beaches, has been drawing those who wish to commune with nature for decades. Not as busy or crowded as the other popular city lakes, Cedar Lake is a great place for a relaxing swim, quiet canoe ride or just enjoying the natural scenery. A shallow channel connects the southern corner of Cedar Lake to Lake of the Isles. Contact the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board for additional information about the city lakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Zachary Herbst |
 Photo: John Hermanson |
 Photo: Steve Prakope  |
 Photo: Andrea Zanivan |
 Photo: joslyn layne |
 Photo: Steve Prakope |
 Photo: *AshleyG!* |
 Photo: Matt Kelly |
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Five scenic lakes in a row |
42117 West River Road (Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board) Minneapolis, MN 55411 United States +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 |
 Photo: Serge Y. |
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360 scenic acres |
10360 West River Road Minneapolis, MN 55444 United States +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 hot spot 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 |
 Photo: Sheryl Meier |
 Photo: James |
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Thunderous 32-foot torrent of cascading water |
W River Rd & Portland Ave Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John R Meixner |
 Photo: Jim Pearson |
 Photo: John R Meixner |
 Photo: Joel Dueck |
 Photo: Carolyn Ganus |
 Photo: DoktorStilton |
 Photo: Paul Weimer |
 Photo: coconuts mom |
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Good Old Outdoor Fun |
10145 Bush Lake Rd Minneapolis, MN 55438 United States +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 |
 Photo: romadden84 |
 Photo: Alan Seaver |
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A great view and fascinating history |
Off Mounds Blvd., Northeast of Downtown St. Paul Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +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 |
 Photo: Gary Sankary |
 Photo: Tiffany Follett |
 Relax along the river |
Kellogg Boulevard (between Wabasha and Robert Streets) Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +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 |
 Photo: Kate Harrington |
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Lake attracts young adults |
3000 Calhoun Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55408 United States +1 612 230 6400 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Connected by a channel to the Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun is the largest of the five lakes comprising Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. The lake attracts a younger crowd to the sandy beaches for volleyball, sunbathing and picnics. Walkers, in-line skaters and bikers proliferate on the three miles of paved paths circling the lake. Windsurfers, canoeists, kayakers and sailors fill the lake during the warmer months while ice fishing houses dot its frozen waters during the winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Mork, III |
 Photo: Ardent Eye |
 Photo: ef-u |
 Photo: Erik Ostrom |
 Photo: Robert Scott Parker |
 Photo: Alfred Essa |
 Photo: Erik Ostrom |
 Photo: Tobias Carroll |
 Photo: Chuck Greene |
 Photo: Alfred Essa |
 Photo: Bl@ck Coffee |
 Photo: Sean Thomasson |
 Photo: Brian Schwartz |
 Photo: Jacqui Holland |
 Photo: Natalie Auger |
 Photo: Maya Chavez Akin |
 Photo: Enrico Fuente |
 Photo: iggy.starbucks |
 Photo: Jeff |
 Photo: Amanda Nyren |
 Photo: Lynn Burns Hayes |
 Photo: Dilara Erdem |
 Photo: David Erickson |
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Lovely area of flowers and music |
South of Lake Calhoun Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 230 6475 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Travel half a mile south of Lake Calhoun on William Berry Parkway and you will find a lake that will make you wish summer were 12 months long. Named for the wife of Colonel Harry Leavenworth, the first commander of Fort Anthony (later named Fort Snelling), Lake Harriet is a lovely area consisting of sandy beaches, rose and rock gardens, a popular band shell and some of the city's most palatial homes. The Lake Harriet Trolley leaves from the lake's northwest curve, and Beards Plaisance, a large sheltered picnic area, occupies the southwest corner. The northwest shore is also home to the Lake Harriet Band Shell and refectory from which the Queen of the Lakes paddlewheel boat departs. The Lake Harriet Rose Garden, also known as Lyndale Park, located on the northeast corner of the lake, boasts some 250 different varieties of roses. This lovely sanctuary is a meticulously cared for and fragrant oasis of blooming flowers adjacent to a tranquil Japanese rock garden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MNkiteman |
 Photo: Carolyn Ganus |
 Photo: Meredith Westin |
 Photo: Aaron Dalrymple |
 Photo: Aaron Dalrymple |
 Photo: Nikki |
 Photo: Chris Andersen |
 Photo: Alex Bleasdale |
 Photo: Mamluke |
 Photo: Chris Andersen |
 Photo: Carolyn Ganus |
 Photo: Robert Scott Parker |
 Photo: Nikki |
 Photo: Andrea Zanivan |
 Photo: MNkiteman |
 Photo: Amy Conger |
 Photo: Todd Hein |
 Photo: Rita S. Healy |
 Photo: Allan Warrior |
 Photo: Brian Murphy |
 Photo: Ben Brouwer |
 Photo: tctaintor |
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Sailboats and canoes |
52nd Street and Cedar Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55417 United States +1 612 370 4923 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Lake Nokomis is the southernmost of the lakes in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Connected to the other lakes via Minnehaha Creek, this popular scenic lake boasts a busy beach, comfortable picnic area and great urban fishing. Like the other lakes, Nokomis has its share of sailboats and canoes dotting the water. The 2.7 miles of paved paths invite walkers, joggers, bikers and inline skaters to leisurely travel its boundary. This lake seems to be especially popular with the high school crowd, perhaps due to its proximity to many family-populated neighborhoods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Cosgrove |
 Photo: John Hermanson |
 Photo: Julie Sandburg |
 Photo: Joshua Yetman |
 Photo: Gary Sankary |
 Photo: John Hermanson |
 Photo: Julie Sandburg |
 Photo: Mark Dille |
 Photo: Pete Ryan |
 Photo: Stefanie Hollmichel |
 Photo: Steph |
 Photo: Marielle Nylander |
 Photo: Amy Kalberer |
 Photo: Steven Lee |
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Setting is delightful for sunbathing |
Franklin Ave and Logan Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55405 United States +1 612 661 4800 |
In 1880 Lake of the Isles was a stagnant marsh. Dredging of the swamp raised the property value surrounding the pond. Some of the city's largest and most elegant homes frame Lake of the Isles.This man-made lake is well stocked with pan fish, attracting anglers of all ages in the warm months as well as the cold. Swimming is not advised, but the setting is delightful for sunbathing, a picnic or reading a book under a large shade tree. In winter, park officials designate skating areas and erect a warming house. Walking, jogging or biking around its 2.7 miles of shoreline provides outstanding views of the downtown and the surrounding neighborhood. The serene atmosphere of Lake of the Isles makes it the lake of choice for canoeists.The southern portion of the lake is connected to the city's largest lake, Lake Calhoun, by a quiet channel. Contact the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board for additional information about the city lakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jess Bullis |
 Photo: Robert Scott Parker |
 Photo: Jess Bullis |
 Photo: Andrea Zanivan |
 Photo: Erik Ostrom |
 Photo: Karl Reichert |
 Photo: Andrea Zanivan |
 Photo: Bl@ck Coffee |
 Photo: Kevin M. Lee |
 Photo: anne |
 Photo: romaryka |
 Photo: lake elmo |
 Photo: lalakim |
 Photo: Julie Markant |
 Photo: Joshua Abrams |
 Photo: anna.marie |
 Photo: Nate Kennedy |
 Photo: Christine Hysell |
 Photo: pjayres |
 Photo: Chris Pommier |
 Photo: Pete Erickson |
 Photo: Jeremy Ryan Carr |
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Magnificent panoramic views |
West River Road at East 50th St Minneapolis, MN 55417 United States +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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ken yee |
 Photo: Mark Dille |
 Photo: Jeffrey Long |
 Photo: Nathan Machula |
 Photo: Shawn Hogendorf |
 Photo: Ericka Bailie-Byrne |
 Photo: Jesse D. & Mark H. |
 Photo: Justin Thiele |
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More Than 40 miles of Bike Trails |
Longfellow House Information Center 4800 Minnehaha Ave Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 370 4969 mbarrick@minneapolisparks.org |
With an extensive network of bike paths crisscrossing the city, Minneapolis can't be beat for inner city biking. More than 40 miles of bike trails, most paved and designated solely for bike travel, the Grand Rounds system of parkways provides a complete circle of bike paths from which to view the city. The paths features some great views including Minnehaha Falls, the Mississippi River and the Minneapolis skyline. On the north side, bikers tour Victory Memorial Drive and Theodore Wirth Parkway, then the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Parkway on the south, and ride along the Mississippi River on West River Road. The Cedar Lake Trail, an abandoned railroad right-of-way running nearly four miles from downtown Minneapolis past Cedar Lake to suburban St. Louis Park, is the most recent addition to this scenic and breathtaking route. Contact the Longfellow House Information Center for additional information and a map of the Grand Rounds Bikeway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert MacGregor |
 Photo: Robert MacGregor |
 Photo: Mike Ebert |
 Photo: Beth Brooks |
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Spectacular urban delight |
Hiawatha Ave at Minnehaha Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55417 United States +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 |
 Photo: theCallowQueen |
 Photo: Matt Barton |
 Photo: bikepunk |
 Photo: Suzanne Boben |
 Photo: Suzanne Boben |
 Photo: Matt Barton |
 Photo: Derek Bakken |
 Photo: mfriemer3030 |
 Photo: theCallowQueen |
 Photo: Bradley Nelson |
 Photo: Bradley Nelson |
 Photo: Sara J. Lathrop |
 Photo: Jason Randolph |
 Photo: Dave Poortvliet |
 Photo: Jesse Reed |
 Photo: Matti Mattila |
 Photo: Megan Brown |
 Photo: Eric Hanson |
 Photo: Sean Garrick |
 Photo: Christopher Berry |
 Photo: Verena Jung |
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Lovely garden getaway |
3675 Arboretum Drive Minneapolis, MN 55317 United States +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 |
 Photo: James |
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Nostalgic rides around town |
193 Pennsylvania Ave East Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +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. 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. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Hicks |
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Urban wildlife refuge |
3815 American Blvd. E Minneapolis, MN 55425 United States +1 952 854 5900 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Min... |
Nestled on the southern edge of the Twin Cities is one of the few urban wildlife refuges in the country. It offers visitors a rare chance to see natural habitat without venturing far from the city. The 8,000-acre reserve runs along the banks of the Minnesota River. The visitors center provides spectacular views of the river valley. There are a number of hiking and biking trails, prime bird watching spots overlooking the valley and picnic grounds that crisscross the Refuge. Admission to the visitor center and the reserve is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bolobilly |
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Nostalgic Train Ride Dining Experience |
601 N Main St Minneapolis, MN 55082 United States +1 651 430 3000 / +1 800 992 6100 http://www.minnesotazephyr.com info@minnesotazephyr.com |
Each ticket for this nostalgic trip includes a five-course dinner, entertainment and the train ride, which takes about three and a half hours. Board at the historic Stillwater Depot. The Grand Dome car offers the best views, but all of the cars are luxurious and restored to perfection. Feel free to tour the train during the run. The run follows the beautiful St. Croix River for a short way, then west through the rolling countryside, and returns along the same track. The daytime trips (noon departure) offer great views, but the evening trips (7:30p, Su 6p) may be the most romantic and dramatic. Attire is semi formal, so look your best and enjoy this elegant setting. The strolling Zephyr Cabaret will serenade you with hits of the 1940s and 1950s in period costume. A gourmet meal is served on white linen-clad tables with fine china service, by candlelight on the evening ride. Entrees are chosen at the time of ticket purchase. Courses include appetizer, a fresh crisp salad, a delicious soup du jour, your choice of three entrees and a delectable dessert to complete your repast. Call well in advance to secure your chosen date and time, especially around the Christmas holiday season. Ticket prices do not include tax, gratuity and beverages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jess Ulrich |
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Country's First Pedestrian Mall |
Between Washington Ave and 13th St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +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 |
 Photo: Andréas Olofsson |
 Photo: Rohan Kohli |
 Photo: TimWilson |
 Photo: J. Culbert |
 Photo: Marc Donnelly |
 Photo: Zeke Rice |
 Photo: Joey Marchy |
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The Great Bridge |
Minnesota Historical Society 125 Main Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +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 |
 Photo: Brian Moen |
 Photo: Wayne M |
 Photo: Scott Schumacher |
 Photo: Matt Gray |
 Photo: Kari Larson |
 Photo: Amy Lash Esau |
 Photo: RKS |
 Photo: Kevin Barber |
 Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers |
 Photo: Steve Prakope |
 Photo: bitwix |
 Photo: Zakcq Lockrem |
 Photo: spikenheimer |
 Photo: Billy Duss |
 Photo: Shea Dunn |
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Panoramic view |
1 Portland Ave Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +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. Review © 2007, Wcities |