Wendy and Keith Witherspoon and their daughters enjoy a day at Alden Park. From left to right, Madelyn, Amelia and Olive. Photos: Amanda Gahler
Discover what Edina’s diverse park system has to offer.
Edina is home to nearly 40 parks and recreational facilities. Each of these spaces is specially designed and offers plenty of ways to enjoy most any summer activity. Where’s the best spot to enjoy a sunset? Go for a bike ride? Take the kids for a play date? Get the most out of your parks and recreation experiences this summer, right here in town.
Best place for live entertainment
Located in the heart of a shopping plaza named after the park, Centennial Lakes is full of charm and community activities. Monday through Thursday during the summer months, you can catch free cultural performances at the Maetzold Amphitheater. Be sure to pick up an entertainment schedule at the park or check out the downloadable online version for up-to-date events. Movies in the Park are also shown at sunset on Thursday evening throughout the summer. Stop by the connected shopping plaza’s Cherry Berry Frozen Yogurt Bar before the film starts for a sweet treat. 7499 France Ave. S.; 952.833.9580; edinamn.gov
Best spot for reading a book
Known as the “secret garden,” Arneson Acres is tucked away from the urban sprawl. If you’re cruising down 70th Street, it’s easy to pass by the 13.2-acre park without noticing the beautiful oasis that lies behind the Edina History Museum. Arneson is home to more than 28 formal gardens, a bubbling fountain, gazebo and flowering trees and shrubs. In July, the flowerbeds bloom with geraniums, echinacea, Siberian irises, lavender, lilies and many other plant species. The garden’s benches are the ideal spot for an afternoon read. 4711 W. 70th St.; 952.826.0437.
Best hiking adventure
Near Vernon Avenue and Olinger Boulevard is where you’ll find Bredesen Park, a 206-acre area with more than 2 miles of walking, jogging and biking paths around Nine Mile Creek. Though the trails around the creek are paved, the park also features natural trails that weave through the center of the park. Stroll through the luscious scenery and escape from the daily stresses of life amid the tall trees. 5901 Olinger Blvd.; 952.826.0367.
Best picnic area
In winter, many people head to Alden Park for some figure-skating fun. Now that it’s summer, take your sweetie—or your friends—on a picnic at Alden Park. The 5 acre park is small and intimate, but don’t underestimate its amenities. Alden’s grassy hills are dotted with many trees to provide the perfect amount of shade to dine under. So pack a picnic basket and grab a big, comfy blanket to enjoy a “down-to-earth” meal. 6750 Belmore Lane; 952.826.0367.
Best spot to watch the sunset
There’s plenty to do at Rosland Park—explore the new playground, go fishing or play tennis, pick-up baseball, volleyball or disc golf. But nothing compares to catching a sunset on the Lake Cornelia pier. The cherry on top of this peaceful experience? In the middle of the lake sits a large spray fountain, for extra serenity. 4300 W. 66th St.; 952.826.0367.
Best bike trail
If a peaceful bike ride is what you’re in the mood for, then the Edina Promenade has just the trail for you. The 80-foot wide greenway space connects many of Edina’s retail, residential and recreational offerings. A bonus: The pedestrian and bike paths are completely separated, so you don’t have to worry about weaving in and out among walkers.
Best place for a rainy day
Don’t let rainy days get you down. Take the children to Adventure Peak in Edinborough Park. “The Peak” is an indoor play paradise and includes a climbable oak tree structure, four giant tube slides and a triple wave slide. In all, this enclosed park environment has more than 45 activities to keep children engaged and entertained for hours. Ten-punch and season passes are available at the park or online. Did we mention there’s a climbing wall and inflatable air bounce gear specially made for toddlers? Other park highlights: a healthy concession stand (Peak Café), swimming pool and walking track. 7700 York Ave. S.; 952.833.9540.
Most dog-friendly park
Woof! Woof! Did you know Edina has an off-leash dog park? Established in 1925, Van Valkenburg is the only city park that has an open area devoted to dogs. Permitted pups in the off-leash area must wear a special collar that changes color each year. The area is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and cost for the permit is $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Discounts are available if you’re purchasing a permit for more than one dog. Collars are available at Edina City Hall. 4935 Lincoln Drive; 952.826.0367.
