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Cool parks in Saint Paul

Finding a cool park to hang out in changes the entire pace of the afternoon.

Based on 469 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Como Regional Park image 1
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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.

Spanning a very spacious area, the park offers many shaded trails and a picturesque pond with a dock. It features a free zoo and conservatory, maintained by dedicated staff and supported by donations.

Admission is free and visitors can bring their own food and drinks, which is pretty cool. The arboretum has unique trees and plants, including the Corpse Flower and a bonsai room. Shows and animals add to the cool experiences.

People are saying

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

"The zoo is free, so I highly recommend donating to support it."

"I thought the park was super cool and had so much to offer."

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.

02
Como Park image 1

Zoo combines lush botanical walkways and peaceful lake views with well-maintained gardens and free admission. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, inviting leisurely strolls and family visits. Design shows clear care, blending natural beauty with animal exhibits.

Offers a harmonious blend of gardens, zoo, and picnic grounds for families and nature lovers. Features free entry, walking paths, and a small amusement park for kids under 14.

Cool gorilla and other unique animals stand out. The conservatory adds a neat touch. It offers animals not found at the Minnesota Zoo and feels like a free trip with good value.

People are saying

"I loved this little zoo; it's a family favorite."

"I loved walking through the beautiful park and seeing the animals."

"It's pretty cool that entry and parking are totally free."

Good to know

1

Admission to Como Park Zoo is free or available through a donation of your choice.

2

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The Bonsai festival attracts large crowds, especially on Mother's Day.

03
Shadow Falls Park image 1

Small park offers gorgeous views of the Mississippi River and a stream-sized waterfall covered in moss. Trails vary from paved paths for biking and running to steep, muddy dirt paths along the creek. Shaded areas with trees provide spots for relaxation and hammocking.

Small size combines with paved trails for running and biking. The park features a waterfall flowing into the Mississippi River and offers excellent views along with clean, beautiful surroundings.

A cool viewing spot overlooks the river and city skyline. Shadow Falls Park offers a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere that feels cool and refreshing.

People are saying

"I loved exploring the fun trails by the creek."

"I found the views of the Mississippi River to be really beautiful."

"The parks offer beautiful views of the river and a magical waterfall."

Good to know

1

The park has a parking lot, drinking fountain, and porta potty.

2

Parents should have children use the restroom before walking any of the trails.

3

The park features a waterfall that leads into the Mississippi River.

04
Phalen Regional Park image 1

Traditional Chinese pavilion and arch add an oriental flair to the spacious park with lakeside views. The atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with walking and biking trails, a beach, and water activities. Sculptures and bridges along paths create an interesting environment for visitors.

A beautiful lake anchors this park, surrounded by walkable trails perfect for biking and walking. It offers family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, a beach, and sports facilities.

Walking trails offer great spots to relax by the water. Water features and a splash pad add cool interactive elements throughout the park.

People are saying

"I loved walking and biking the scenic paths around the lake at this park."

"I loved walking my dog on the varied paths here."

"The splash pad additions are really cool."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the lake, especially on the western shore.

2

The beach area is great for families and swimming.

3

Dogs are welcome at the park, but be mindful of leash laws.

05
Rice Park image 1

Urban park offers beautiful landscaping with flower-lined paths and a large fountain featuring whimsical statues. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, enhanced by occasional live music and food trucks. Surrounding diverse architecture creates a striking backdrop for relaxation and photography.

A beautiful historic park with well-maintained landscaping, benches, and public art including Peanuts character statues. It offers a peaceful, scenic atmosphere perfect for relaxing, strolling, or enjoying views of the Landmark Center.

Cool lights brighten the park, especially around the water feature and fountain. Peanuts characters add a fun, unique touch to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, charming oasis in the heart of downtown."

"The scenery here is beautiful, with a great view of the Landmark Center."

"I loved the cool lights and water feature here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at Rice Park, especially during events.

2

Bathrooms are limited at Rice Park, so plan accordingly.

3

The park hosts outdoor skating every Friday from 5 pm to 8:30 pm.

06
Western Sculpture Park image 1

Small park features large geometric sculptures that move with the wind and invite tactile interaction. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits those seeking calm, with a unique playground offering imaginative climbing and spinning activities for kids. Apartments border the area, requiring visitors to be considerate of the community.

Small and peaceful, the park features large sculptures and a unique playground with climbing and spinning elements. Apartments border the area, so visitors should be considerate of the nearby residents.

A very cool playground offers unique features for kids. The Western Sculpture Park showcases geometric, modern sculptures with impressive welding and stone work.

People are saying

"I saw some cool, geometric sculptures at the playground."

"It's a small park with surprisingly massive sculptures."

"These parks have surprisingly massive and cool sculptures."

Good to know

1

The park features large, geometric sculptures that encourage tactile interaction.

2

Visitors should be respectful of the nearby apartments and community.

3

The park is small and can be easily overlooked, making it a hidden gem.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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