Minnehaha Regional Park in Minneapolis, MN covers 170 acres and takes its name from the spectacular waterfall that plunges 53 feet into a gorge. If you’re planning to spend a day at the park, and you’re wondering what to do, you know you’ll have a great time when you check out a few of these popular attractions and activities. 
Hiking
The highlight of Minnehaha Regional Park is its striking waterfall, and you have plenty of trails that will take you to different views of the falls. You can stand at the top of the falls and watch the water rush over the edge. Then use the staircase to descend into the gorge below the falls to enjoy another amazing view. If you really want to stretch your legs, take the trail down the gorge past the stone bridges and pools to a sandy beach where Minnehaha Creek and the Mississippi River meet.
Historical Sites
Minnehaha Regional Park is home to numerous historical sites where you can learn about the area. Robert Jones built the Longfellow House in 1906 as a replica of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Today, it houses the Minnesota School of Botanical Art. The Princess Depot was constructed in 1875 and was part of the first railroad line that connected Minneapolis to Chicago. It’s now a free museum. The John H. Stevens House was one of the first homes built in the area and commemorates the beginnings of Minneapolis.
Sports
If you’re interested in playing sports, you’ll love the options available at Minnehaha Regional Park. You can play a game at the volleyball court or take a stroll on the walking paths. On warm summer days, cool down at the wading pool. The kids will also have a great time at the playground. Plus, the park is home to a nine-hole disc golf course. This course is free to play, has concrete tees, and offers a flat layout with tree obstacles that will challenge players of all skill levels.
Gardens
When the sun is out and the weather is warm, stop by the different gardens around the park to see what’s blooming. The Longfellow Gardens has a unique variety of perennials and annuals. This mix of flowers makes it a picturesque place to visit during almost every season. The Minnehaha Falls Pergola Garden showcases a variety of native plants, and the Song of Hiawatha Garden is a circular garden that has a Tuscan-style fountain as its centerpiece.
Biking
Another great way to explore Minnehaha Regional Park is on two wheels. You’ll find several paved trails that wind through the park and are ideal for biking. If you don’t have a bike of your own, you can rent one from Wheel Fun Rentals. You’ll find everything from surreys to quad sports, so you’ll have no issues finding something that everyone will enjoy riding as you explore the park.
Whether you’re interested in learning some history or taking in the amazing views, you know you’ll have a great time in Minnehaha Regional Park when you check out these top activities.
Image via Flickr by Lorie Shaull used under CC By
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