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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Saint Paul's best

Parks with fun activities

A day at the park is the easiest way to find some genuine fun outside.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 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.

Shows at the zoo offer fun entertainment for both kids and adults. Como Regional Park provides a relaxing and educational outing suitable for all ages.

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."

"It's a fun time with rides and attractions for the kids."

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
Boyd Park image 1

Playground features colorful, innovative equipment including drums, xylophone, slides, and swings designed for kids of all ages. Large green spaces with shaded, safe sections invite families for picnics and outdoor activities. The park's unique architecture and materials create a clean, pleasant environment with constant activity.

Playground areas offer colorful, shaded, and safe sections for different ages with climbing equipment made from splinter-free plastic lumber. Green spaces include hidden surprises for kids and attract many children, making it a lively family spot.

Big space with colorful playground equipment offers lots of fun for kids. Outdoor activities keep children engaged and entertained.

People are saying

"The playground equipment here is fun and colorful for kids."

"The playground equipment is fun and good for climbing."

"The playground equipment is fun and colorful for kids."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms at Boyd Park.

2

Street parking is available near Boyd Park.

3

The playground equipment includes swings, slides, and climbing structures.

03
Mattocks Park image 1

Large trees provide ample shade across a spacious playground with varied equipment for toddlers and older kids. The park maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with well-kept tennis courts and picnic areas nestled in a clean, pleasant neighborhood setting.

A well-shaded playground with a full canopy offers ample shade and a nature-like feel. The park includes a shaded picnic area, a playground suited for young kids, and well-maintained tennis courts.

Frequent fun events happen to watch. A variety of toys for kids to push around keeps things lively. The playground offers a solid spot for play.

People are saying

"This park's playground is amazing for kids of all ages."

"The playground here is awesome and shady."

"It's a great spot for fun activities, especially the well-shaded playground."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available at Mattocks Park.

2

The playground features shaded areas, making it comfortable for visits at any time.

3

The tennis courts at Mattocks Park are well maintained and available for use.

04
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.

Hand feeding giraffes stands out as a unique fun activity. The place offers a mix of zoo, gardens, and an amusement park for kids under 14, making it great for family fun.

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 packed with fun activities, especially the zoo and gardens."

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.

05
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.

Fun trails run alongside the Mississippi River, offering great paths to explore. The park and surrounding woods provide a variety of outdoor adventures that keep things interesting.

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.

06
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.

An easy path offers a changing route for walks and fun. The splash pad provides water play, and recreation equipment adds variety. Many events happen here, keeping activities lively.

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."

"There are so many fun activities, like walking, running, and biking."

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.

07
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.

Open spaces include picnic areas with two shelters that have electricity, plus walking and riding trails for exploration. The playground features a 24-foot sky tower climbing structure with a tornado slide and a crooked house for kids. Sports facilities include basketball and tennis courts, and the park offers clean restrooms and free street parking.

Offers fun for all ages with activities that engage both children and adults. Provides a solid option for a day filled with outdoor enjoyment.

People are saying

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

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with serene atmosphere and great views."

"The views of the river and city skyline are breathtaking."

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.

08
Harriet Island Regional Park image 1

Park offers stunning river and city views with open lawn space and live music at a bandshell. Paths remain quiet and clear, attracting an older crowd seeking calm and scenic walks. Facilities support festivals and casual gatherings with picnic areas and food vendors.

Great views of downtown and the Mississippi River define the park. Amenities include barbecue grills, picnic tables, a playground, and open green spaces for activities like kite flying and frisbee.

Fun live music and great vendors create a lively atmosphere. Kids enjoy the space, making it a spot for family fun.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of downtown and the river."

"The fair had great food, beer, vendors, and live music."

"The parks offer beautiful views of downtown and the river."

Good to know

1

Paddleboats offer affordable midday rides and romantic sunset rides from the park.

2

Food trucks are available on select days during events at the park.

3

Parking can be confusing and limited at Harriet Island Regional Park.

09
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.

Music festivals and skating create lively scenes. Scattered Snoopy statues and dogs add playful charm to walks.

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."

"It's a fun place with charming benches, fountains, and statues."

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.

10
Mears Park image 1

City block-sized park offers babbling brook, water features, and large trees providing shade. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and zen with flowing water and dappled shade to lively and musical during festivals with live bands and food trucks lining the streets. Well-kept gardens and multiple stages create a vibrant community space for relaxation and events.

Square layout fits food trucks lining the streets. Waterfalls and benches create a soothing, zen vibe. Hosts live music and outdoor movies for a lively atmosphere.

Events and concerts happen regularly here, creating lively moments. The Saint Patrick's Day parade ends at this spot, adding to its festive vibe.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, clean spot right in the middle of downtown."

"I loved the lively atmosphere and hot tunes at the Jazz Fest."

"I found the fun activities, like concerts and parades, really enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Mears Park hosts the Twin Cities Jazz Festival annually, featuring free music performances.

2

Parking can be tricky during events, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The park is dog-friendly, making it a great place to walk pets.

11
Great River Water Park image 1

Water park offers peaceful atmosphere with clean, cold water and well-maintained pools. Features include zero-entry pool, kiddie play structure, two waterslides, and a one-meter spring diving board. Suitable for children of various ages, it stays uncrowded and provides open swim sessions.

Water park offers a fun play area for young kids. It suits families with toddlers and provides a safe, engaging environment.

Two waterslides and a one meter spring diving board offer fun ways to jump into the pool. Open swim sessions and skating fun nights add variety to the activities for kids and families.

People are saying

"This water park offers fun activities for kids of all ages."

"It's a great place for kids to play, especially the zero depth area."

"This water park is great for young kids and toddlers."

Good to know

1

Sundays are free from noon to 5 PM at the water park.

2

Reservations are recommended for birthday parties to confirm space and swimming times.

3

The zero depth area is great for younger kids.

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