The best parks & outdoor spots in St. Paul

“When you just need ten quiet minutes and a Mississippi view, Grove Street Overlook Park in Newport delivers. A small, landscaped overlook tucked by the river, it’s perfect for coffee-at-sunrise, a short stroll, or a low-key spot to clear your head between errands.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Whether you need a quick energy-burn or an easy picnic, Pioneer Park has swings, slides, a tidy playground and picnic areas. There’s also a basketball court for spur-of-the-moment games, and the whole layout is clean and simple so you can keep an eye on everything.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Just next door in Newport, Bailey School Forest Park is 80 acres of low-key woodland wandering where well maintained trails double as a classroom for local kids. Go to clear your head, picnic or reflect, and when winter hits, sneak in some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Loveland Park is that relaxed green space with a ball field, grills, basketball and tennis courts, plus easy hiking trails. Great for pick-up hoops, a mellow game of catch, or a post-burger stroll... the kind of low-key neighborhood spot you end up using way more than you expect.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Whether you're craving a burst of humidity in February or curious about plants with serious survival skills, CBS Conservatory packs more than 2,000 specimens across four distinct climate zones. It's a living collection for courses and the community, with everything from rare species to research favorites.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When the week gets loud, Thompson County Park delivers quiet wooded trails, a calm lake, and a legit playground for kid energy while you snag a shady picnic spot. Perfect for an easy bike spin or unhurried walk that feels like a getaway without leaving the east metro.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 18, 2026

“When your cooped-up canine needs a proper zoomies session, Kaposia Landing delivers with an off-leash dog area, easygoing walking trails, and plenty of green to clear your head. Perfect for a quick weekday reset, then back to pretending your living room isn’t a chew toy graveyard.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 28, 2026