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 Mystery and power of electricity |
3537 Zenith Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55416 United States +1 612 926 3878 http://www.thebakken.org/ |
Located in a beautiful Tudor-style mansion, this fascinating museum is home to an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, gadgets and scientific instruments related to electricity. The museum's benefactor, Earl Bakken and his company, Medtronic, have been instrumental in the creation of numerous medical devices that are based on the use of electricity. It was his intense interest in the subject of electricity that led to the creation of this exceptional, if not curious, showplace. The exhibits range from the basic workings of a light bulb to the intricacies of an electronic pacemaker. The exhibit devoted to the insane genius of Dr. Frankenstein is well worth the admission price in itself. The library's lush gardens feature more than 200 varieties of medicinal plants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: S. Krystal McCauley |
 Photo: Peter Van den Bossche  |
 Photo: anne elizabeth moore |
 Photo: Graeme Thickins |
 Photo: hapticdata |
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362-acre urban refuge |
12615 County Road 9 Minneapolis, MN 55441 United States +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, paddle boats, 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 |
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Animals in the city |
1225 Estabrook Dr Minneapolis, MN 55103 United States +1 651 487 8200 http://www.comozooconservatory... |
This zoo offers a true old-fashioned family outing. Visitors can still see the old cages on the outside of the Zoodale Gift Shop/Restaurant building. Now the big cats, gorillas, other simians and the hoofed animals all have new homes. The Sparky the Seal Show delights all ages during the summer. And it is all free. Of course, you could buy treats for the seals and yourself, too. The adjacent amusement park provides kiddie rides and cotton candy during the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Malinda Welte |
 Photo: Keng-Yu Lin |
 Photo: Malinda Welte |
 Photo: John Watne |
 Photo: Kevin D. Hendricks |
 Photo: John Watne |
 Photo: Daniel Flies |
 Photo: Keng-Yu Lin |
 Photo: JM Adams |
 Photo: Ursula Murray Husted |
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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 |
 Photo: Witty Girl |
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Park in a dome |
7700 York Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55435 United States +1 952 893 9890 |
Entirely indoors, the park boasts a bubbling brook surrounded by trees and seasonal flowering plants along paved paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a more athletic endeavor, Edinborough contains a running track, a small health club with all the up-to-date workout apparatus, swimming pool and a children's playground. There is even an ice skating rink for those who still want to partake in a winter sport, but enjoy climate control. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Misty Garrick Miller |
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Peaceful, 14-acre sanctuary |
1940 Theodore Wirth Parkway (at Glenwood Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55422 United States +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 |
 Photo: Joe Martz |
 Photo: Heathere Willoughby |
 Photo: Nate |
 Photo: Kate Norlander |
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1820s living history |
101 Snelling Lake Road Minneapolis, MN 55111 United States +1 612 725 2389 / +1 612 725 2724 (Visitors Center) http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/par... |
Originally built in 1819, this impressive collection of buildings of native limestone was designated Minnesota's first National Historic Landmark. For 30 years after it was built, the fort was the hub of the upper Mississippi, providing a gathering place for Native Americans, fur traders and settlers. Today, you can hike, bike, ski, fish, canoe or just take in nature. The park also hosts numerous events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony Webster |
 Photo: Scott Macdonald |
 Photo: verybestof11 |
 Photo: Presley Martin |
 Photo: john wartman |
 Photo: Christopher Ward |
 Photo: Stevesworldofphotos |
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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 |
 Photo: pelennor |
 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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Charming Open-Air Structure |
4135 W Lake Harriet Pkwy Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States |
Free summertime concerts at this location have been a grand old tradition since 1888. This charming open-air structure is the fifth facility built on the same site since transit magnate Thomas Lowry built the first pavilion. This classical single story building with eyebrow roof and corner turrets is reminiscent of the structural design that was prevalent in the neighborhood at the turn of the 20th century. The band shell hosts diverse music programs and events throughout the summer including jazz, rock, Broadway tunes and classical music concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Hoogheem |
 Photo: Kevin Hoogheem |
 Photo: Rob Marquardt |
 Photo: Greg Putrich |
 Photo: Jess Bullis |
 Photo: Clue Master |
 Photo: Kim Zilla |
 Photo: B. Timm |
 Photo: noodles2k50 |
 Photo: gail |
 Photo: Adam Gregory |
 Photo: Clement Schulze |
 Photo: Sarah Ellgen |
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 Photo: Gregory Eklund |
 Photo: Laura E. Hansen |
 Photo: Sara VanDerWerf |
 Photo: Mary Van Der Werf |
 Photo: Chris Moewes |
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 Photo: Paul Ceelen |
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 Photo: Mary M. Crawford |
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Lovely urban refuge |
4610 County Road 44 Minneapolis, MN 55364 United States +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 |
 Photo: teachr456 |
 Photo: Dereck Reiter |
 Beautiful landscape |
3600 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN 55408 United States +1 612 822 2171 http://www.lakewoodcemetery.co... |
A walk around a cemetery may not be your idea of how to spend a lazy afternoon, but the sprawling grounds of this one offer some of the most beautiful landscape open to the public.The city's largest cemetery is full of treasures of architecture and marvelous gestures of remembrance. Memorial Chapel, designed by Harry Wild Jones and built in 1908, is an exquisite Byzantine wonder, filled with eye-catching mosaics and a series of stained glass windows that double as a sundial. The grounds provide a soothing escape and a chance for a calm, reflective time for oneself. Opened in 1871, history abounds within the cemetery, final resting spot to well-known Twin Cities' families such as the Walkers, Lorings, and Blaisdells. Vice-President Hubert Humphrey is buried here, as are Minneapolis Park system designer Horace Cleveland and Emil Obeerhoffer, the first musical director of the Minneapolis Symphony. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kurt Canada |
 Photo: Carrie Hatler |
 Photo: Tracy E. Anderson |
 Photo: jon behm |
 Photo: Carrie Hatler |
 Photo: Mamluke |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Dan |
 Photo: Dan |
 Photo: Zachary Herbst |
 Photo: lauren rauk |
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 Photo: olde_goth |
 Photo: Brooke Roegge |
 Photo: alisonia |
 Photo: wver |
 Photo: Sharon Parker |
 Photo: Mark Wojahn |
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First city-owned park |
1382 Willow St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +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 |
 Photo: Evan Bibbee |
 Photo: Matt Gray |
 Photo: ɹɐǝʇuǝʌ1ǝ |
 Photo: Dan Wick |
 Photo: Ben Ostrowsky |
 Photo: quarkusjackson |
 Photo: Ben Ostrowsky |
 Photo: masami k-m |
 Photo: Cori Culhane |
 Photo: Evan Bibbee |
 Photo: Linda Beaverson |
 Photo: Marsha Wilson |
 Photo: Jim Eagan |
 Photo: Linda Beaverson |
 Photo: sheldon mains |
 Photo: Bree Radloff |
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 Photo: Nee Lougiu |
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 Photo: A. Sparks&N. Labello |
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 Photo: Leif Brostrom |
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 Photo: Jonathan Sutcliffe |
 Photo: Steve Mullis |
 Photo: Meg Whetung |
 Photo: Nik Arnoldi |
 Photo: Heather Wray |
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 Photo: Jerry Huddleston |
 Photo: Drayke Larson |
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 Photo: Brian James Macke |
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Beauty and tranquility |
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 370 4900 http://www.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 |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy |
 Photo: Meagan Jeske |
 Photo: Darcy K. Rue |
 Photo: Matt Fitt |
 Photo: Amelia Mahlstadt |
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Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park |
1225 Estabrook Dr St. Paul, MN 55103 United States +1 651 487 8200 www.comozooconservatory.org |
This Victorian beauty has recently been updated and refurbished. The glass-enclosed wings of the building are a horticulturist's dream. Each wing has a different theme with helpful placards naming each plant species. Most rooms have fountains or other water features. With its lush surroundings, this is a favorite spot for wedding photos. Do not miss the Japanese bonsai trees. It is adjacent to the Conservatory. Enjoy live music at Music Under Glass every Thursday. The gift shop has unusual cards and botanical gifts. Admission: USD1 adults, USD.50 children (5-12). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John S |
 Photo: John S |
 Photo: Kate Harrington |
 Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers |
 Photo: steven_t_will |
 Photo: Melissa Hjelle |
 Photo: Mike Hawkins |
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A great place to relax |
221 East 5th Street Between 5th and 6th Streets, Sibley Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +1 651 266 6400 http://www.stpaul.gov/depts/pa... |
Enjoy a stroll on the intertwining walkways that wind through this park. A man-made stream is the center of attention for many who visit. During the warm spring and summer months, listen to recorded and live music from the bandstand. In winter, the park twinkles as thousands of lights decorate the trees. Many people meander through the park and hang out, unwinding from the tough day at work. If you like to see a diverse crowd, love to people watch, or just want to relax, come to Mears Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Elm |
 Photo: Matt S |
 Photo: Paige Becker |
 Photo: Aric McKeown |
 Photo: krystle_rae |
 Photo: Emily |
 Photo: Eric Goemer |
 Photo: hot shot 48 |
 Photo: Mindy McFarren |
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Glimpse of a different era |
Portland Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 313 7793 |
Mill Ruins Park opened its doors to the public in 2001. Visitors can learn about the city's flour production and water power run industry here. Once you're done with your history lesson for the day, take a walk on the park trails or enjoy a nice, leisurely lunch on the picnic area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lawrence G Sobczak |
 Photo: Ezra Gray |
 Photo: Luke Ibis |
 Photo: Ben Lazarus |
 Photo: Andrew |
 Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers |
 Photo: Aaron May |
 Photo: Kurt Canada |
 Photo: Kurt Canada |
 Photo: Luke Ibis |
 Photo: Michael Hartford |
 Photo: Theresa Hanacek |
 Photo: Mike Cashman |
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 Photo: Brian Johnston |
 Photo: Skyler Kehren |
 Photo: Stefanie |
 Photo: Rob Walstrom |
 Photo: Craig Faulkner |
 Photo: Lucie Dutfield |
 Photo: Thomas Gay |
 Photo: Joshua Nixon |
 Photo: David McGee |
 Photo: Erika |
 Photo: Kwalz |
 Photo: Elliott M. Burke |
 Photo: Jesse Berezovsky |
 Photo: Creek Hopper |
 Photo: notasham |
 Photo: Aaron Roufs |
 Photo: Greg W |
 Photo: Jennifer Laviolette |
 Photo: Justin Coyne |
 Photo: Dave Berthiaume |
 Photo: Amy Butler |
 Photo: Nick |
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Unique display of art |
725 Vineland Place Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 375 7622 / +1 612 375 7577 http://garden.walkerart.org/ |
Across from the Walker Art Center sits what many consider one of the boldest and most unique displays of art in the country, if not the entire world. Inaugurated in 1988, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a showcase for more than 40 works of art including major sculptures by George Segal, Ellsworth Kelly, Jenny Holzer, Henry Moore and Franz Lipschitz. The entrance to the 11-acre garden is bordered by Ampersand, a pair of colossal granite columns by Martin Puryear. During the warmer months, the 300-foot stainless steel arbor planted with a variety of blooming plants and colorful flowers is spectacular. The garden's centerpiece is the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture and fountain by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The 55-foot spoon topped by a 15-foot red bing cherry is the garden's most famous display. The Garden is open year round. Even in the dead of winter, visitors make the trek to the Cowles Conservatory on the west side of garden to view the changing display of blooming plants. The small conservatory is also home to a Frank Gehry-designed giant fish with scales of glass that rests on its tail in a pond surrounded by orange trees. Admission to the garden is free. The conservatory is open 10am-8pm Tue-Sat; 10am-5pm Sun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Leet |
 Photo: strangeluck7 |
 Photo: Kevin Hoogheem |
 Photo: John Weigand |
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 Photo: madisonbear |
 Photo: madisonbear |
 Photo: Jeremy Pavleck |
 Photo: Collin Lyle |
 Photo: Nathan Wegener |
 Photo: Jennie |
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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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 Photo: Abigail Lesher |
 Photo: Nick Traxler |
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 Photo: Rajesh Kunnath |
 Photo: Eric Snowdeal Jr. |
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 Photo: Jerry H |
 Photo: Collin Knopp-Schwyn |
 Photo: Jane N. Rudewick |
 Photo: Dave Stagner |
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 Photo: Sara Lee |
 Photo: David Hale |
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 Photo: Jason Melquist |
 Photo: Bryan King |
 Photo: S. Roufs |
 Photo: Lowell Huesers |
 Photo: Charlie |
 Photo: David Pollitt |
 Photo: Victoria Chen |
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Lovely garden getaway |
3675 Arboretum Drive Minneapolis, MN 55317 United States +1 952 443 1400 http://www.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 |
 Photo: ssedro |
 Photo: Shusaku |
 Photo: Andy Tinkham |
 Photo: lowrezolution |
 Photo: Brian Hanson |
 Photo: dr.lily_atyourservice |
 Photo: Bob Kupbens |
 Photo: Kris Maule |
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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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Attractive & Urban |
2840 N Shore Drive Minneapolis, MN 55391 United States +1 763 559 6700 http://www.threeriversparkdist... |
The Twin Cities area is blessed with some of the most extensive and attractive urban gardens in the country. This lovely garden on Lake Minnetonka's Crystal Bay in Wayzata, once a private paradise, is now a Hennepin County park. It is actually many gardens in one. There is a collection of more than 1,000 daily daylily cultivars, a grape arbor and an azalea collection, as well as many perennials and annuals. The formal flower gardens are designed and maintained by master gardeners. Like other gardens in the Twin Cities, many weddings take place at this peaceful retreat overlooking scenic Lake Minnetonka. Admission is free and the season runs May through October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Well-Tended Inner City Haven |
1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 673 2427 |
This extraordinary, sunken, city-owned park outside of Orchestra Hall was dedicated in 1975. It's a well-tended inner city haven, complete with big shade trees, flowers, a large reflecting pool, cascading waterfalls and eccentric tubular stainless steel fountains. The plaza really springs to life during MusicFest, the annual summer music festival of the Minnesota Orchestra. The venue also hosts a number of other outdoor concerts of varying genres, as well as events during the city's annual Aquatennial festivities. The intimate urbane of Peavey Plaza and its sparkling pool is transformed into a dazzling skating rink in the winter. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David W. Lee |
 Photo: Stacy Schwartz |
 Photo: Shannon Klug |
 Photo: Stacy Schwartz |
 Photo: Megan Myers |
 Photo: HOARY HEAD |
 Photo: Brian Wisconsin |
 Photo: Darrel Dawkins |
 Photo: willyboy2007 |
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Have a seat and relax |
109 West 4th Street Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +1 651 266 6400 http://www.stpaul.gov/depts/pa... |
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 |
 Photo: Brian Houska |
 Photo: Mark Estes |
 Photo: Erica Mauter |
 Photo: Cassandra Lidgerding |
 Photo: dadslinger |
 Photo: Tony Durrant |
 Photo: Roxanne Rea Piloton |
 Photo: Brent Honadel |
 Photo: Tory's Captive Light |
 Photo: Kate Mura |
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Lovely oasis of rolling hills |
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 370 4900 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
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 |
 Photo: Megan Myers |
 Photo: Emily Greenseth |
 Photo: stramy |
 Photo: Luke Ibis |
 Photo: Megan Myers |
 Photo: Matthew C. Dettinger |
 Photo: Timothy Gardner |
 Photo: Deepak Gopalakrishna |
 Photo: Thomas Andersen |
 Photo: Thomas Andersen |
 Photo: Kevin Hoogheem |
 Photo: jessiferseabs |
 Photo: Cinda Miller |
 Photo: Thomas Smith |
 Photo: Thomas Boblett |
 Photo: p.kinne |
 Photo: Bob Carlson |
 Photo: Steve Yochum |
 Photo: Carla Januska |
 Photo: dastinkytwinz |
 Photo: Bill Vollink |
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Chirp and tweet! |
4124 Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 230 6400 http://www.minneapolisparks.org/ |
Just a minute away from the Lyndale Park Gardens, this bird sanctuary is a sanctum sanctorum in spring for birds. Every feathery flight taken by these migratory songbirds ends at this quiet destination, and warblers are the main draw! The Minnesota Audubon Society offers free tours every Tuesday at 9a during April and May, and a guidebook providing detailed information about the sanctuary is available too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
