Anoka MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Anoka, Minnesota.
1. Lyric Arts Main Street Stage
LIVE THEATER AND PERFORMANCES
The Lyric Arts Main Street Stage is Anoka's premier performing arts venue offering high-quality theatrical productions throughout the year. This intimate theater showcases a diverse range of plays, musicals, and special events that appeal to audiences of all ages. Visitors can enjoy professional-caliber performances in a charming historic building located in downtown Anoka.
2. Rum River
SCENIC NATURAL WATERWAY
The Rum River flows through Anoka providing beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or simply strolling along the riverside trails that offer stunning views of the waterway. The river has historical significance as it played an important role in the early logging operations that helped establish Anoka.
3. Anoka-Champlin Mississippi River Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Anoka-Champlin Mississippi River Bridge connects the cities of Anoka and Champlin across the mighty Mississippi. This significant crossing offers impressive views of the river and serves as both a functional transportation link and a scenic spot for photography. Visitors can walk across the bridge to appreciate the natural beauty of the Mississippi River from this unique vantage point.
4. Riverfront Regional Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Riverfront Regional Park offers beautiful views and recreational activities along the banks of the Mississippi River in Anoka. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, fishing spots, and open green spaces perfect for family outings and outdoor recreation. The park serves as an important natural space within the city where people can connect with the river that has shaped Anoka's history and development.
5. Heart of the City Music Factory
VICTORIAN CONCERT VENUE
The Heart of the City Music Factory is a beautiful Victorian-style concert venue and event center located in the historic Old Milk Factory on the Rum River. This distinctive venue hosts a variety of musical performances, special events, and private functions in a charming atmosphere. The unique setting combines historical architecture with modern amenities to create a memorable experience for all who attend events here.
6. Harmony Gardens
PEACEFUL BOTANICAL SETTING
Harmony Gardens provides visitors with a tranquil botanical experience showcasing beautifully maintained flower displays and landscaped areas. The gardens feature a variety of plant species, walking paths, and seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. This horticultural gem offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life and serves as a popular spot for photography and quiet contemplation.
7. Anoka County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Anoka County Historical Society preserves and shares the rich history of Anoka and the surrounding area through its museum and educational programs. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that illuminate the region's past from Native American settlements through early European colonization to the present day. The society also offers special events, walking tours, and research resources for those interested in delving deeper into local history.
8. Peninsula Point Park
RIVERSIDE NATURE PRESERVE
Peninsula Point Park is a natural oasis located at the confluence of the Rum and Mississippi Rivers in Anoka. This scenic park features walking trails, fishing spots, wildlife viewing opportunities, and spectacular views of both rivers from its unique geographic position. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse ecosystem that supports various bird species and other wildlife in this urban nature preserve.
9. 10K Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
10K Brewing offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of locally-made brews in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere in downtown Anoka. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of handcrafted beers made with quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. The brewery often features live music, special events, and a convivial environment that makes it a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists exploring Anoka.
10. Rabbit Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Rabbit Park provides families with a welcoming outdoor space featuring playground equipment, open grassy areas, and recreational facilities. Children can enjoy the play structures while adults appreciate the comfortable seating areas and walking paths throughout the park. This community green space hosts various seasonal activities and serves as a beloved gathering place for Anoka residents and visitors.
11. Green Haven Golf Course
PREMIER PUBLIC GOLFING
Green Haven Golf Course offers golfers a challenging 18-hole experience on beautifully maintained greens and fairways. This city-owned facility features professional design elements, practice areas, and a full-service clubhouse with dining options. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the meticulously landscaped course that blends sporting challenge with natural beauty in a relaxing environment.
12. Anoka Aquatic Center
FAMILY WATER RECREATION COMPLEX
The Anoka Aquatic Center provides refreshing summer entertainment with its various water features, pools, and slides. Families can enjoy the zero-depth entry pool, water slides, diving boards, and splash pad areas that accommodate swimmers of all ages and abilities. This popular seasonal attraction offers a perfect way to cool off during hot Minnesota summers while providing safe, supervised aquatic fun for the community.
13. Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
NATIONAL PARK RIVER EXPERIENCE
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area runs through Anoka as part of a 72-mile National Park Service managed corridor along America's most iconic river. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, bird watching locations, and interpretive exhibits that highlight the ecological and historical significance of the Mississippi. This natural treasure offers year-round recreational opportunities while preserving the environmental integrity of one of the nation's most important waterways.
14. Historic Downtown Anoka
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Historic Downtown Anoka features a genuine, non-manufactured Main Street filled with unique shops, restaurants, and historic architecture. Visitors can browse through specialty stores offering everything from antiques to contemporary crafts while admiring the well-preserved buildings that reflect the city's rich heritage. The pedestrian-friendly district hosts seasonal events and provides a distinctive shopping experience that sets Anoka apart as a destination within the Twin Cities region.
15. Anoka Halloween Celebrations
HALLOWEEN CAPITAL EVENTS
Anoka proudly embraces its title as the "Halloween Capital of the World" with extensive October celebrations that have been a tradition since 1920. Visitors can experience three different parades, a 5K Grey Ghost Run, house decorating contests, and numerous family-friendly activities throughout the month. These festive events attract thousands of visitors annually and showcase the community spirit that has made Anoka famous for its Halloween heritage.