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 Lovely building with a storied past |
2925 Dean Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55416 United States +1 612 925 8323 http://www.calhounbeachclub.co... |
The history of the Calhoun Beach Club is as diverse as the things it has been used for. The nine-story structure, overlooking magnificent Lake Calhoun, was started in 1928. With only the exterior completed, the Depression caused completion to be delayed about 18 years. Following World War II, the club provided a lively social setting for its members. However, the club fell on financial hard times in the early 1950s and went into bankruptcy. In 1954, the building was converted into a hotel and marketed as the place to have proms, parties, luncheons, banquets and wedding receptions. This proved very successful and the upper floors of the hotel were converted into ritzy apartments only the very wealthy could afford. The second and third floors became home to WTCN TV and Radio studios. During the 1960s the hotel became a home for the elderly and was renamed Calhoun Beach Manor. In 1977, the building was rejuvenated as the stellar sports and social club it was meant to be. Returning to its original name, handball and squash courts were restored, a swimming pool was uncovered and tennis courts, steam rooms, saunas, sunrooms and a jogging track were installed. The lobby was refurbished in the art deco mode and the structure once again glittered. In the late 1980s, the club expanded its facilities to include an aerobics studio, volleyball and basketball courts and the latest in exercise gear. Although the athletic club is private, the facility's meeting and banquet rooms are available to the public. This lovely building is definitely worth a visit. 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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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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New life for an old favorite |
1360 North Lexington Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55104 United States +1 651 488 4920 http://www.comopark.com/pavili... |
Located on the eastern edge of Como Park, this old favorite has graced the shore of Como Lake for more than 100 years. Less than ten years ago, it underwent a complete renewal. It had been boarded up and steadily declining throughout the 1980s. The structure was actually torn down and completely rebuilt, though it has the same design as before. On its wide veranda stage overlooking the lake, free concerts and plays are offered during the summer months. The building houses Black Bear Crossings on the Lake, meeting rooms and banquet facilities. In the summer, paddle boats and canoes are available for rental use on the small lake. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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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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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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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 |
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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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Beauty and tranquility |
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +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 |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy |
 Photo: Meagan Jeske |
 Photo: Darcy K. Rue |
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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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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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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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Chirp and tweet! |
4124 Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 230 6400 http://www.minneapolisparks.org/ MSchmidt@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 |
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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 |