North Mississippi Regional Park

Nestled between I-94 and the Mississippi River, North Mississippi Regional Park provides a scenic oasis just steps from downtown Minneapolis. This popular regional park is part of the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, which has been continually noticed as the No. 1 park system in the country. It’s 67.2 acres offer excellent views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding woods and prairie. Here you will find abundant wildlife in action, such as a Great Blue Heron nesting on an island, deer foraging, a beaver felling trees, and hawks and eagles soaring overhead. In summer, the native prairie flowers provide ever-changing color and draw in crucial pollinators.

The park’s walking trails meander through the prairie and along the shores of the river. Bike trails traverse the park and connect with Webber Parkway, Shingle Creek, and various commuter routes into downtown. South of 57th Avenue, the park provides additional amenities including a play area, wading pool, picnic tables, grills, shelters, a fishing pier, and a boat launch. The park also participates in the Mississippi River Paddle Share program. You can rent a kayak upstream at Brooklyn Park’s River Park, and paddle to the return station at North Mississippi Regional Park!

Located within the park, the Carl W. Kroening Interpretive Center provides nature programs and environmental learning for all ages. It includes bird watching stations, interpretive exhibits about the Mississippi River and local wildlife, nature exploration resources, and a Nice Ride Bike Share station. Visitors can explore seasonal topics in the park with a naturalist and get creative with arts and crafts. Family Fundays are offered throughout the year – one Sunday afternoon a month, families can spend an afternoon with nature themed activities that everyone can enjoy. The center also offers a Nature Nuts Play Group and School Release Day Programs.

Mississippi River Paddle Share

Mississippi River Paddle Share is a new and exciting recreational and transportation opportunity for people who have some kayaking experience, don’t own a boat, and want a safe and enjoyable river experience. This is a first-of-its-kind program in a national park and in the country. Kayak rental stations and return stations are located in select parks within Three Rivers Park District. Reserve your kayak 21 days in advance for a specific date and time, pick it up at the selected rental station...

Read More
l