St. Louis Park MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. Louis Park, Minnesota.
1. Westwood Hills Nature Center
URBAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Westwood Hills Nature Center is a serene natural oasis in the heart of St. Louis Park offering visitors a chance to connect with nature. The center features hiking trails, a water garden, and a modern interpretive center where visitors can learn about local ecosystems. Families particularly enjoy the new playground that opened in summer 2022, making it a perfect destination for both educational and recreational outings.
2. Aquatic Park
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
The Aquatic Park in St. Louis Park provides refreshing summer fun for residents and visitors alike. This popular water facility offers various water features and swimming areas suitable for all ages. During hot summer months, it becomes one of the most visited recreational spots in the city.
3. Oak Hill Park Splash Pad
COOLING OUTDOOR FUN
Oak Hill Park Splash Pad offers a refreshing escape during Minnesota's warm months with its interactive water features. Located within Oak Hill Park in St. Louis Park, this family-friendly attraction is perfect for children to cool off and play. The splash pad complements the park's other recreational amenities, making it an excellent destination for a full day of outdoor activities.
4. Pavek Museum of Broadcasting
MEDIA HISTORY COLLECTION
The Pavek Museum of Broadcasting houses an impressive collection of vintage radio and television equipment, showcasing the evolution of broadcast technology. Located in St. Louis Park, this specialty museum provides visitors with a fascinating journey through the history of communication technology from the early 20th century to modern times. The museum's interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff create an engaging experience for visitors of all ages interested in media history.
5. Copperwing Distillery
CRAFT SPIRITS DESTINATION
Copperwing Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally crafted spirits in a welcoming atmosphere in St. Louis Park. The distillery provides tours where guests can learn about the distillation process and the art of creating premium spirits. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their uniquely crafted beverages, making it a perfect stop for those interested in artisanal drink experiences.
6. North Cedar Lake Regional Trail
SCENIC URBAN PATHWAY
North Cedar Lake Regional Trail offers a picturesque route for cyclists, joggers, and walkers through St. Louis Park and surrounding areas. This well-maintained trail connects to the broader Twin Cities trail network, making it ideal for longer recreational outings or commuting. The trail's proximity to Cedar Lake provides beautiful views and access to natural areas within an urban setting.
7. Louisiana Oaks Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION GROUNDS
Louisiana Oaks Park serves as a community gathering space with various recreational facilities for St. Louis Park residents. The park features sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. Its central location and diverse amenities make it a popular destination throughout the year for local events and casual recreation.
8. Creekside Park
TRANQUIL NEIGHBORHOOD RETREAT
Creekside Park offers a peaceful retreat with its natural setting along a creek in St. Louis Park. The park features walking trails, playground equipment, and open green spaces perfect for relaxation or active play. Its namesake creek adds a soothing natural element to this charming community park.
9. Bass Lake Preserve
NATURAL WETLAND CONSERVATION
Bass Lake Preserve protects valuable wetland habitat while offering visitors serene hiking opportunities in St. Louis Park. The George Haun Trail within the preserve provides access to observe local wildlife and plant species in their natural environment. This conservation area represents an important ecological resource within the urban landscape of the Twin Cities region.
10. Lake Nokomis Trail
LAKESIDE RECREATIONAL PATH
The Lake Nokomis Trail is a 7.3-mile paved path that offers scenic views as it connects Minneapolis to Burnsville through three communities. This 10-foot-wide trail is popular for cycling, running, and walking, with Lake Nokomis providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor recreation. The well-maintained path serves both recreational users and commuters seeking an alternative transportation route.
11. Midtown Greenway
URBAN CYCLING CORRIDOR
The Midtown Greenway is a 5.5-mile former railroad corridor transformed into dedicated biking and walking trails in south Minneapolis. Owned by the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority and maintained by the City of Minneapolis, this urban trail provides a crucial east-west transportation route. The greenway has become a model for urban trail development, featuring separated paths for different users and connections to the broader regional trail system.
12. Luce Line Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
The Luce Line Trail extends 76.7 miles across Carver, Hennepin, McLeod, and Meeker counties, connecting rural Minnesota with urban Minneapolis. This converted rail trail features varying surfaces along its route, accommodating different recreational activities from cycling to horseback riding. The trail's length and diversity of landscapes make it a favorite for day trips and longer adventures through the Minnesota countryside.
13. Bde Maka Ska Lake
MINNEAPOLIS' LARGEST LAKE
Bde Maka Ska Lake is the largest lake in Minneapolis, covering 401 acres with a maximum depth of 87 feet. The lake serves as a centerpiece of the city's Chain of Lakes, offering swimming beaches, fishing piers, and a 3.1-mile paved trail around its perimeter. Visitors enjoy water activities in summer and ice skating in winter, making this natural landmark a year-round recreation destination.
14. Nelson Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Nelson Park provides a convenient meeting point and recreational area for community events in St. Louis Park. The park offers parking facilities that serve as a gateway to the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail system. Its accessible location makes it a popular starting point for the city's monthly Walk the Park community walking events.
15. Walk the Park Program
COMMUNITY FITNESS INITIATIVE
Walk the Park is a free community walking program that encourages residents to explore St. Louis Park's extensive trail system. Held on the second Saturday of every month from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., participants enjoy guided 1-2 mile leisure walks through different parts of the city. The program accommodates all ages and includes indoor walking options at St. Louis Park Middle School during inclement weather or when temperatures drop below 40 degrees.