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Local picks in Minnesota

Scenic views with playgrounds

A playground that keeps the kids occupied while still offering a view worth looking at for the adults.

Based on 911 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
North Loop Playground image 1
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Playground sits along river walking trail with unbeatable river views. It offers varied play equipment that stimulates imagination for kids of all ages. The park features beautiful walking trails and many benches for relaxing.

Great views of the water stand out here. The park offers nice river views that many find beautiful and unbeatable.

Playground offers slides, swings, and various activities that engage kids of all ages. It sits right along the river walking trail, providing a nice view of the Mississippi River while kids play.

People are saying

"This playground is great with lots of things to do."

"It's a kid-friendly park with beautiful river views."

"The river views from the park are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 per hour on Saturday.

2

Bring your EpiPen if you are allergic to bee stings.

3

The playground is suitable for kids of different ages.

02
Surfside Park image 1

Park offers lakefront views and two beaches catering to different ages. Large, varied playground serves as a heartfelt tribute and draws families. Open layout includes picnic tables and grills, creating a peaceful, clean environment for outdoor activities.

Views of the lake stand out with clear, beautiful sights and a refreshing breeze. Surfside Park offers an excellent view paired with nice amenities.

A beautiful tribute playground offers unique equipment that suits all ages. It provides a large, varied space where kids can swing, climb, and play for hours.

People are saying

"This playground is beautiful, new, and fun for all ages."

"This new playground is beautiful and fun for all ages."

"The lake views here are unmatched and great."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find with plenty of available spaces.

2

Restroom facilities are limited to portable toilets.

3

The playground is large and suitable for children of all ages.

03
Clifton E. French Regional Park image 1

Park offers spacious, modern playgrounds with areas for different ages and plenty of shade. Woodland setting creates a peaceful, scenic atmosphere with paved paths leading to the river. Busy on weekends, it provides ample seating and features like a water misting station and event building.

Walking trails provide neat views of the surrounding area. The beach offers a beautiful view close to Medicine Lake. Overall, the park features amazing views during hikes.

Several climbing structures and a bucket-type swing offer fun for kids of many ages. The playground includes water features and hidden musical instruments, with swings designed for multiple people like a saucer and two-seater swing.

People are saying

"This playground is amazing and so kid friendly with water features and swings."

"This playground is ginormous and has a huge tower for kids."

"The walking trails offer some really beautiful, amazing scenic views."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free.

2

Parking near the beach is limited with only a few spaces available.

3

The playground closes for the season in winter.

04
Westwood Hills Nature Center image 1

Nature preserve offers quiet nature vibes with pine-covered trails and floating boardwalks around a lake. Indoor spaces include live animal exhibits and rooms for events, while outdoor areas feature a playground and wildlife viewing. The setting feels like a peaceful sanctuary despite nearby urban noise.

Trails offer beautiful views with clean, clear water visible along the paths. The scenery combines natural water features and greenery for a peaceful outdoor experience.

A modern playground near the Nature Center stays busy with kids. The outdoor play area suits small children well and keeps them entertained during events.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly spot with a great playground."

"The playground here is fun and suitable for children."

"The water views here are beautiful and clear."

Good to know

1

Entry to the nature center is free for all visitors.

2

Pets are not allowed on the premises or trails.

3

The center offers birthday party packages for children.

05
Richardson Nature Center image 1

Nature center offers live animal exhibits including birds and reptiles, alongside interactive stations like puppet shows and microscopes. Large windows and a rocking chair room provide wildlife viewing opportunities in a peaceful, family-friendly setting with well-maintained walking trails.

Trails offer pretty views and a sledding hill adds variety. Upstairs, you can see raptors like an owl, hawk, and kestrel, enhancing the peaceful scenery.

A short walk from the building leads to a kidโ€™s nature play area filled with logs and sticks to play with and rearrange. An indoor play area also offers space for active fun.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with an indoor play area."

"I loved the pretty views on the trails and the sledding hill."

"It's an awesome nature center with a small children's area."

Good to know

1

The activity of visiting the nature center is free.

2

The trails are well maintained and easy to walk.

3

The center has live animal exhibits inside.

06
Spring Lake Park Reserve image 1

Country park offers panoramic river views and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and strolling. Atmosphere stays peaceful and well-maintained, with playground and archery areas adding variety for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Trails run along bluffs with panoramic views of the Mississippi River and lake. Open spaces reveal prairie flowers, wildlife, and birds, including eagles in flight.

Several slides, swings, and climbing structures offer variety for kids of different ages. The playground suits both big and little kids and keeps small children entertained for hours.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful panoramic views of the river."

"I loved the beautiful scenic views of the river."

"I loved the beautiful trails and scenery."

Good to know

1

The park has well-maintained trails suitable for hiking and biking.

2

Handicap-accessible paths are available, but some trails may be bumpy.

3

Clean bathrooms are available, including handicap-accessible options.

07
Wood Lake Nature Center image 1

Nature preserve with scenic boardwalks crossing over a large lake offers peaceful walking trails and quiet wildlife viewing spots. The atmosphere stays serene and relaxing, attracting families and those seeking calm in an urban setting.

Scenic boardwalks cross the lake, offering gorgeous views and close encounters with wildlife. Trails stretch about 2 miles, surrounding the lake with beautiful sights and many birds.

Outdoor space features a playground that suits kids well. Trails nearby add to the fun and exploration.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, serene Meditation Spot with abundant wildlife."

"The lake views from the boardwalk are spectacular."

"The outdoor playground here is great and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Foraging classes require pre-registration to participate.

2

The Halloween boo trail is a seasonal event for families.

3

Winter classes include cross country skiing and other outdoor activities.

08
Lake Harriet Regional Park image 1

Park surrounds a serene lake with paved walking trails and a band shell hosting concerts. Atmosphere stays relaxing and peaceful, with green spaces and a playground for families. Canoe rentals and picnic areas add to the variety of outdoor activities.

Gorgeous lake views surround walking paths and open spaces. The park offers scenic greenery and a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of room to enjoy sunsets and city sights.

Massive playground offers ample space for kids to play near the bandshell. It features fun equipment and sits close to scenic views and a lake.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly park with a massive playground."

"I loved the great, beautiful lake views here."

"It's a nice playground for the kids."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur on Saturdays and Sundays at the bandshell.

2

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction and road closures.

3

Restroom facilities may be limited; expect porta potties during events.

09
East Medicine Lake Park image 1

Small park with large playground featuring diverse swings and slides, plus beach access and a boat launch. Atmosphere is serene but noisy due to nearby freeway and busy beach area. Offers picnic shelters with grills and water stations, plus walking and bike trails around the lake.

A dock extends over the water for close-up lake views. Sunsets create a beautiful scene over the lake. The park stays clean with bathrooms nearby.

Playgrounds feature multi-level towers with slides, various swings including saucer and adaptive types, and spinning rides. Equipment suits kids aged 2-12 with separate areas and safety swings with buckles.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with an awesome playground."

"The playground here is awesome and recently renovated."

"I loved the great lake views, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

The beach is closed due to water quality issues.

2

There is free parking available at the park.

3

The park has clean restrooms and well-maintained facilities.

10
Eastman Nature Center image 1

Large building with glass viewing areas showcases live animals and educational displays. Trails offer easy hiking through peaceful forest scenery with floating boardwalks and a nearby pond. Outdoor spaces include nature play areas and activities suitable for all ages.

Side paths offer better views and attract dogs. Bike trails provide a gorgeous view across the area.

A large play area features a nature play area with a mud kitchen that encourages exploration. An educational play area adds learning to the fun, alongside activities like disk golf and swimming.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly with educational exhibits and fun outdoor activities."

"The hiking paths offer great scenic views and wildlife sightings."

"The nature playground has a fun mud kitchen and animal area."

Good to know

1

The visit is free, making it accessible for families.

2

Parking could be tight during peak weekend times.

3

The visitor center offers activities and programming for both kids and adults.

11
Bush Lake Park image 1

Lake with crystal-clear waters anchors a spacious park featuring multiple playgrounds and well-maintained walking trails. Calm and peaceful atmosphere suits families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing, swimming, or kayaking. Facilities include picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a sandy beach with a roped-off swimming zone.

Surrounding trails offer peaceful walks with views of the forest and wildlife. A nearby beach provides a glorious view of the lake.

Several playgrounds offer plenty of space for kids and families. One playground includes a sitting area for parents inside, alongside a picnic area and bathhouse nearby.

People are saying

"The parks here have great playgrounds perfect for kids."

"I loved the glorious views from the beach."

"The playground here is really nice and huge."

Good to know

1

Bush Lake Park offers free parking for all visitors.

2

The park has clean bathrooms available for public use.

3

Canoe rentals are available, or you can bring your own canoe.

12
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park image 1

Park offers great views of river and dam alongside lush scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Multiple playgrounds and treetop boardwalks provide engaging spaces for children. Trails and picnic areas support varied outdoor activities in a well-designed, nature-focused setting.

Views of the dam and river stand out, especially from the dam walkway. The Treetop Trail offers stunning sights over the wetland and treetops, adding variety to the scenic experience.

Multiple playgrounds feature nature-inspired equipment for kids of all ages. A splash pad and treetop boardwalk add variety and fun to the play areas.

People are saying

"The treetop trail offers stunning views and is awesome for an evening walk."

"I enjoyed the beautiful views of the Mississippi River."

"I loved the treetop trail, it was awesome and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parents should supervise children at the playground due to uneven natural stone stairs.

2

Kayak rentals are available for visitors looking to explore the water.

3

The visitor center opens at noon, so plan your visit accordingly.

13
Cherokee Regional Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking river views and spacious green areas with well-maintained walking trails. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, attracting families and nature lovers. Features include modern playgrounds, sports courts, and shelters suitable for picnics and events.

Breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley and the St. Paul skyline dominate from the High Bridge Overlook. Multiple spots offer gorgeous river vistas alongside picnic areas and a playground.

A 24-foot sky tower climbing structure with a tornado slide stands out, alongside a crooked house for younger kids. Swings and monkey bars offer classic fun, but some areas lack shade and need minor maintenance.

People are saying

"These parks offer serene, secluded trails with gorgeous river views."

"The scenic views of the river valley and skyline are breathtaking."

"The Playground offers breathtaking views of the river and skyline."

Good to know

1

The park has picnic areas, pavilions, and a basketball court for recreational activities.

2

Restroom facilities are available and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

Free parking is available along the streets adjacent to the park.

14
Excelsior Commons image 1

Lakeside park offers spacious green areas and sandy beaches with playgrounds for all ages. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, even when crowded, with plenty of spots for picnics, fishing, and watching boats. Facilities include a bandshell for live music, concession stands, and fire pits, supporting various outdoor activities.

Stunning water views shine especially at sunset, with sights of the lake, fancy boats, and a cute town nearby. The beach and lake views offer a great backdrop for relaxing or enjoying a meal.

Play areas include separate zones for toddlers and older kids, with swings, a merry-go-round, and waterfront access. The playground is well maintained and suitable for little kids.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and right on the lake."

"The playground here is great for little kids."

"The scenic views of the water, especially at sunset, were stunning."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $3.50 per hour near the lake.

2

Expect limited parking availability, especially during events.

3

The park hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year.

15
Como Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden offers a peaceful atmosphere and live music under glass. Zoo and outdoor pavilion add variety, while picnic areas support relaxed visits. Free access invites casual exploration despite limited parking.

Paths wind through the park offering many scenic spots to pause and enjoy views. The colonial-style pavilion overlooks the lake and swan pedal boats, creating a great backdrop for photos.

Playgrounds include a renovated playground up the hill and equipment that helps tire kids out. The area features walking paths, green spaces, and a kids entertainment park with rides.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"I appreciated the playground and the beautiful, well-maintained grounds."

"It's a beautiful place with peaceful, soothing surroundings."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

16
Marshall Terrace Park image 1

Small park along the Mississippi River offers views of heron rookery and water birds nesting on nearby islands. It features playground, sports courts, and picnic areas with grills, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Wooden stairs lead down to the riverbank, enhancing access to the natural setting.

Views include heron rookeries with Great Blue Herons nesting in island trees and sandbars. The spot also offers a nice view of the Lowry Bridge lighting and sightings of cormorants and egrets.

A nature-themed playground offers kids a quiet spot to play near the river. It includes a kiddie pool and sits alongside courts and fields for other sports.

People are saying

"You can see the heron rookery from these parks."

"The nature-themed playground is right by the Mississippi River."

"I loved the awesome view of the heron rookery."

Good to know

1

The park has a small parking lot with limited spaces available.

2

Visitors can enjoy views of herons nesting in the nearby trees.

3

The park features a nature-themed playground suitable for children.

17
Cleary Lake Regional Park image 1

Large lake anchors a park with canoe and paddle boat rentals, a 9-hole golf course, and swimming beach. Tall trees and picnic areas create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of walking trails. Amenities support diverse activities like fishing, volleyball, and dog walking.

Water views and open fields offer gorgeous scenery. Benches provide spots to enjoy the birdwatching and natural surroundings, though the trail itself shows few lake views.

A variety of play equipment fills the well-maintained playground area. Nearby amenities include a swimming area, golf course, and sand volleyball court.

People are saying

"You can walk, bike, swim, and fish at these parks."

"The scenic views here are gorgeous, with lush green fields and water."

"The playground is beautiful and well maintained."

Good to know

1

The park has a large lake suitable for boating and fishing.

2

You can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards at the park.

3

The children's playground features a variety of play equipment.

18
Bde Maka Ska image 1

Scenic lake with beautiful beaches and extensive bike trails offers a calm, peaceful atmosphere ideal for walking and relaxing. Lakeside pavilion features Native art and increased seating, while water rentals and playgrounds add active options. The area combines urban nature with spaces for dining and live jazz music.

Views include downtown skyline and lake vistas that stand out from trails and concession areas. Beaches and the lake offer beautiful scenic spots for walking and relaxing.

Cute playgrounds near the lake include a teeter-totter element that adds a nostalgic touch. These nice playgrounds offer good spots for children to play around the docks and parks.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful scenery and the lake views here."

"The scenic views of the lake and downtown are gorgeous."

"I saw nice playgrounds around the lake."

Good to know

1

There are several beaches and rental options for paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks.

2

The lake has well-maintained walking and biking trails.

3

Free street parking is available nearby, but some lots require payment.

19
Lake Nokomis Park image 1

Vast lakeside park with spacious beach and lush greenery offers a family-friendly and lively atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas, boat rentals, and snack shacks. Trails and quiet water create a versatile space for recreation and relaxation.

Lake views dominate the scenery with lush greenery in summer and colorful trees in fall. The park offers peaceful vistas year-round, making it a great spot to enjoy nature's calm.

A playground with a swingset sits near the beach area by the lagoon. It stays busy and offers a nice spot for kids to play.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, with amazing lake views and relaxing scenery."

"The playground here is right by the beach."

"The lake views here are beautiful and picturesque."

Good to know

1

Trivia Mafia events occur regularly at the park, featuring beer and food.

2

Pond hockey tournaments take place during winter at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging on busy days; consider arriving early.

20
Lakeside Commons Park image 1

Spacious park with lakeside beach and playground areas separated for different ages. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, with family-friendly features like a splash pad and picnic pavilions. Water activities are supported by a dock and boat launch, while dogs are allowed outside swimming zones.

Amazing lake views dominate the landscape, paired with a peaceful natural setting that makes the scenery stand out.

A large playground offers separate areas for small and big kids with a clean, well-maintained setup. It includes a splash pad, swing set, and nearby picnic spots that keep children entertained.

People are saying

"The parks have a great playground and splash pad."

"The playground here is nice and clean."

"I loved the amazing lake views and peaceful natural scenery."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 for non-residents, but it's free for Blaine residents.

2

A parking permit is required during peak hours from 10am to 5pm.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the beach but are permitted in the park.

21
Bryn Mawr Meadows Park image 1

Large city park offers great city views and extensive sports fields including baseball, basketball, and kickball. Open spaces and clean bike paths create a lively, fun environment while maintaining a generally quiet atmosphere with few people around.

Quiet spots offer great views of the city. Meadows provide a beautiful, peaceful setting for taking in the skyline.

Several small playgrounds include a wading pool and are surrounded by nature spaces. Canadian Geese often occupy the playgrounds, limiting access for kids.

People are saying

"The park is beautiful with a great city view."

"I loved the great view of the city here."

"I loved the great views of the city."

Good to know

1

The park has clean bike paths, sports fields, playgrounds, and nature spaces.

2

There are limited parking spaces, making it hard to find a spot during busy times.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find nearby spots.

22
Minnehaha Falls image 1
Tourist attraction

Waterfall and surrounding trails create a scenic setting with breathtaking views. Large open grounds include an outdoor theatre and public food court, supporting a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Families enjoy play areas and pedal carts, while music and art add cultural touches.

Amazing views of the falls are easy to access from well-maintained trails. The park offers handicap accessible spots to enjoy the scenic nature around the falls.

A decent-sized kids playground features swings, monkey bars, slides, and a teeter-totter on a sand base for barefoot play. Nearby areas offer picnic spots, hiking trails to the waterfall, and surrey rentals.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with its wonderful waterfall."

"The waterfall here is gorgeous and makes for a beautiful view."

"The waterfall here is breathtaking and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Entry to Minnehaha Falls is free for all visitors.

2

Parking costs $1.30 per hour and requires license plate recognition.

3

The park occasionally hosts festivals and events, so check the calendar.

23
Kaposia Landing image 1

Large grassy open space borders a major river with views of barge traffic and nearby train yards. Paved trails wind through the park, connecting top-notch baseball fields, a spacious dog park, and a well-equipped playground. The atmosphere stays peaceful and friendly, though occasional train noise punctuates the quiet.

Views include Bald Eagles soaring near the river and dense woods across the water. Many paved trails run alongside the river, offering clear spots for walking and wildlife watching.

A playground sits in a well-groomed park with benches and picnic tables nearby. The equipment is nice but limited, which may lead to quick boredom for some kids.

People are saying

"It's a huge dog park with open grassy areas."

"I saw many eagles from this spot; it's a great scenic view."

"The playground equipment here is nice."

Good to know

1

Kaposia Landing has a large dog park with an open grassy area.

2

Parking is secure and plentiful at Kaposia Landing.

3

The park features paved trails suitable for walking and biking.

24
Lake Josephine County Park image 1

Country park offers clean sandy beach and calm lake waters with easy parking and well-maintained playgrounds. Atmosphere stays peaceful and cozy even when busy, attracting families and nature lovers. Facilities support fishing, swimming, and picnics in a quiet, relaxed setting.

Lovely views of the lake create a peaceful vibe. Picnic tables offer spots to enjoy a frozen treat while taking in the sunset scenery.

Playground features a kids play area with plenty of benches and shaded spots nearby for resting.

People are saying

"It's a nice, clean beach perfect for swimming."

"I loved the pretty, peaceful views here."

"The playground bathrooms were clean."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and just a short distance from the beach.

2

The park had public bathrooms that were clean.

3

The beach and water are suitable for swimming and paddle boarding.

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