METCALF MOVING BLOG

January 3, 2018

Exploring The 612: The 5 Best Parks In Minneapolis

Time to pack up the truck and move.

Why?

Because the “Land of 10,000 lakes” is also the land of a lot of parks. The city of Minneapolis alone has over 5,000 acres of dedicated parkland. In fact, 97% of Minneapolis residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park.

For the past five years, Minneapolis parks have made headlines.

Keep reading to find out what all the rave is about.

How Do Minneapolis Parks Rate?

The Trust for Public Land is a nonprofit organization. It helps fund and create parks in the US. Published annually, their ParkScore ranks the 100 largest U.S. cities on how well they meet the public’s need for parks.

How did Minneapolis fair?

It ranked Number One. For the fifth year in a row.

Choosing the parks to highlight is difficult. Based on reviews from locals and visitors, we’ve chosen 5 Minneapolis parks every newcomer needs to visit.

Minnehaha Falls Park

It features limestone bluffs, breath-taking views of the Mississippi River, and a crashing 53 ft. natural waterfall. Minnehaha is both one of the oldest and the most popular parks for locals and visitors alike.

Activities: off-leash dog run, gorgeous bike trails, summer concerts, ample picnic areas, children’s wading pool, and 193 acres of awe-inspiring beauty.

The Chain of Lakes

The waters of Minneapolis are famous for their many beaches. Chain of Lakes includes five of the twelve. Chain of Lakes runs along the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway and boasts 15 miles of lakeside walking and biking trails.

Endless activities: canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, sailboat watching, and . . . wait for it . . . logrolling classes.

Powderhorn Park

A park with something for every season. Ice skating, sledding and the annual Powderhorn Sled Art Rally in winter. The park buzzes in summer as people enjoy the 4th of July display and the Annual Art Fest.

In 2011 the first National Get Outdoors Day was held at the park. “The day is designed to give people a chance to try new outdoor activities like canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, geocaching, fishing, birding, rock climbing, mountain biking and archery.” Something for everyone.

Mill Ruins Park

Built around the ruins of a 19th-century mill. It was the site of the “largest direct-drive water-powered facility in the world and was the leading international producer of flour.

Features: located next to the historic Stone Arch Bridge, St. Anthony Falls, and the Mill City Museum positioned on the Mississippi Riverfront.

Como Park

Although not in Minneapolis, this park, located in St. Paul (the twin city of Minneapolis) is worth adding to your itinerary.

Besides the miles of walking, jogging, and biking trails, two distinct adventures await you at Como Park:

The Como Park Zoo

Minnesota’s oldest zoo, open every day of the year, still offers free admission. Add a ride on the carousel, a visit to the amusement park, or play a round of mini-golf. And you won’t want to miss the many other attractions waiting for you around the park.

Marjorie McNeely Conservatory

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, the Sunken Gardens update their beautiful floral shows according to the season. “This ever-changing display is as artful as it is fragrant.”

The conservatory celebrated its 100th birthday in 2015 and has provided a picturesque backdrop for hundreds of weddings throughout the years.

Make Your Move

Over 18 million visitors are drawn to Minneapolis parks and activities every year. This bustling urban playground offers outdoor fun along with culture and cuisine.

If you’re thinking of relocating to this one-of-a-kind city, you’ll want movers you can trust. Check out our comprehensive moving checklist. It provides important tips and reminders to help keep you organized.

Metcalf Moving and Storage is here, waiting to give you peace of mind. Contact us today.

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