Rivers Edge Commons Park - Image 1
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Rivers Edge Commons Park

4.6
·242 reviews·Elk River, United States

Rivers Edge Commons Park offers scenic Mississippi River views, updated seating, and hosts vibrant community events like summer concerts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Concerts and pleasant weather

CrowdHigh
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Rivers Edge Commons Park - Image 1

Rivers Edge Commons Park

Best Time

Summer evenings

Concerts and pleasant weather

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rivers Edge Commons Park offers scenic Mississippi River views, updated seating, and hosts vibrant community events like summer concerts.

4.6
(242 reviews)

"A beautiful downtown park with updated seating and great river views, perfect for concerts."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Concert Schedules

Don't miss the Riverfront Concert Series! Check dates and times beforehand.

Bring Your Own Seating

While there's built-in seating, extra blankets or chairs are great for concerts.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverfront Concert Series

Riverfront Concert Series

Main stage area

Enjoy live music with stunning Mississippi River backdrops. A perfect summer evening activity.

Updated Seating & Green Spaces

Updated Seating & Green Spaces

Throughout the park

New concrete seating and manicured lawns offer comfortable spots to relax and enjoy the views.

Mississippi River Overlooks

Mississippi River Overlooks

Terraced viewing areas

Scenic elevated views of the rushing Mississippi River, ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Concerts

The Riverfront Concert Series is a major draw, so check the schedule for live music events. Arrive early for prime seating, especially on warmer evenings, as popular spots fill up fast. Consider weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds.

River Views, Not River Access

Despite its name, Rivers Edge Commons Park offers elevated views of the Mississippi River rather than direct riverbank access for swimming or launching boats. Plan for scenic overlooks and nearby docks for fishing or boat parking.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts and pleasant weather
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good for lunch
Crowd
Low
When
Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We’re open yall!!!🍕🇮🇹 come on in!! #serranobrothers #pizza #italian #minnesota #foryou #pasta #restaurant
@serrano.brothers
16.4K likes • 199.4K views

Check Concert Schedules

Don't miss the Riverfront Concert Series! Check dates and times beforehand. Instagram

Bring Your Own Seating

While there's built-in seating, extra blankets or chairs are great for concerts. Reddit

Nothing like the Elk River, but I could do without these. #elkriver #leeches #scenery #fyp #westvirginia
@mnbarney
3.5K likes • 123.2K views
Calling all country music fans! World According to Garth is playing tonight at Rivers Edge Commons Park in Elk River. 🤠 Don your cowboy boots and join us for a night of toe-tapping tunes and lively entertainment. Yeehaw!
thebankofelkriver
1 likes • 98 views

Parking Strategy

Parking can be tricky during events; explore Main Street options. Reddit

River Views, Not Access

Enjoy the scenic overlooks; direct river access is limited. Reddit

Join ERMU tomorrow at the Elk River Downtown Trick-or-Treat event on Main Street! ERMU staff and a bucket truck will be located near the Rivers Edge Commons Park from 2-6 pm this Friday, October 27. See you there — if you dare! #DowntownTrickOrTreat #HalloweenEvent #SeeYouThere #TrickOrTreat #ERMU
ermu_mn
2 likes • 64 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Concert Schedules

Don't miss the Riverfront Concert Series! Check dates and times beforehand. Instagram

Bring Your Own Seating

While there's built-in seating, extra blankets or chairs are great for concerts. Reddit

Parking Strategy

Parking can be tricky during events; explore Main Street options. Reddit

River Views, Not Access

Enjoy the scenic overlooks; direct river access is limited. Reddit

Splash Pad Fun

A small splash pad is available for cooling off on hot days. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(242 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Rivers Edge Commons Park for its beautiful Mississippi River views, updated amenities like concrete seating, and its role as a venue for community events such as the Riverfront Concert Series. Some note that despite its name, direct river access is limited, and parking can be challenging during popular events.

"May 2025 -
One of my preferred Elk River parks is now even more attractive. As evident from my May photographs, the park boasts new concrete seating and beautifully manicured green sod and vegetation. The updated seating contributes to the park's enhanced look, which is especially fitting for Memorial Day and the Riverfront Concert Series.

2022-
It a beautiful downtown park even in winter at 20 below zero. Many tables and benches to sit and enjoy the Mississippi River- during the spring, summer and fall months. It’s a perfect venue during the summer for the Riverfront Concert Series. It’s one of my favorite parks in Elk River."

Michael Hecker - Park Reviewer

"Nice little place in town there in Elk River. Great for those working in town too. Covered shelters. Cement slabs terraced so lots of folks can sit and enjoy the river flowing by. Concerts there weather permitting. Nice walk down a ramp to a dock area. Could fish there or come in by boat and park your boat there. The Mississippi River was really rushing by and on the high side when we were there. Some Pokemon gyms and stops there. And more Pokey stops if you walk down the downtown main street there by the park. Not really much of a walking trail, which is too bad. But you can walk down the main street to get some steps. Nice but very noisy. Besides gazing at the river there isn't much walking and communing with nature there. To cool off there is a little splash pad or in front."

Robin K.

"Our wedding ceremony took place at Rivers Edge Commons and we could not be happier with the location! Having built in seating and electrical for our DJ and Singer were a huge plus! We opted for a fall wedding due to the colored foliage along the Mississippi River. We are so lucky that our many of our guests showed up even when there was traffic in the downtown area. Parking is great as there are many places to park and the bars on main st are also a huge plus for event planning. The only little thing, we were not able to reserve parking spots for our wedding party vehicles but we made it work anyway. So glad we can revisit our ceremony site for anniversaries to come! Photo credit to Aaron Billberg Photography"

Geri Urizar Torrence

What People Like

Scenic river views
Updated seating
Community events

What People Dislike

Limited river access
Event parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rivers Edge Commons Park is located in downtown Elk River, Minnesota, easily accessible by car. It's situated along Main Street, making it a convenient spot for those working or visiting the downtown area. TikTok

Yes, there are parking options available, particularly along Main Street. However, during popular events like the Riverfront Concert Series or downtown trick-or-treat events, parking can become challenging. It's advisable to arrive early or explore nearby street parking. Reddit

While the park is named Rivers Edge, it offers elevated views of the Mississippi River rather than direct riverbank access for activities like swimming. There are docks available for fishing or boat parking. Reddit

The park features a ramp leading down to a dock area, and the terraced seating can accommodate various needs. The updated concrete seating also enhances accessibility. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation to Rivers Edge Commons Park is limited. However, Elk River is served by local transit routes, and checking the local transit authority's schedule is recommended for potential connections. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Rivers Edge Commons Park is a public park and generally does not have an admission fee for general access. Special events held within the park may have separate ticketing or registration requirements. Instagram+1

As a public park, Rivers Edge Commons Park is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific event hours may vary, and it's always best to check the city's event calendar for any scheduled activities. TikTok

The Riverfront Concert Series at Rivers Edge Commons Park is usually a free event, making it a popular community gathering. It's advisable to confirm this on the official Elk River Parks and Recreation website or local event listings. Instagram

Generally, parks allow visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific park rules or event guidelines, especially during organized events. Reddit

The park offers covered shelters and has been used for private events like wedding ceremonies, indicating some reservation possibilities. For specific event planning, it's recommended to contact the Elk River Parks and Recreation department. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic river views, relax on the updated seating, attend the Riverfront Concert Series, and utilize the fishing docks. There's also a small splash pad for kids. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are docks available at Rivers Edge Commons Park that are suitable for fishing on the Mississippi River. Reddit

The park itself doesn't feature extensive walking trails, but you can walk along the downtown Main Street adjacent to the park to get your steps in. Reddit

The park hosts events like the Riverfront Concert Series, community trick-or-treat events, and has been a venue for private ceremonies. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The elevated views of the Mississippi River, especially during different seasons like fall foliage, offer excellent opportunities for photography. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Rivers Edge Commons Park is located in downtown Elk River, which has several bars and restaurants on Main Street, making it convenient for dining before or after visiting the park. Reddit

The park has tables and benches, and visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food for a picnic. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal with a river view. Reddit

During larger events like the Riverfront Concert Series or community gatherings, food vendors may be present. It's best to check event details for specific vendor information. Instagram+1

Downtown Elk River offers a variety of dining options, including Italian cuisine at Serrano Brothers Eatery, and other local establishments catering to different tastes. TikTok

While there is a splash pad at the park, there are no specific concessions mentioned directly at the splash pad. However, nearby downtown eateries can provide refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The terraced seating areas overlooking the Mississippi River offer fantastic panoramic shots. The updated green spaces and any event stages also provide good backdrops. TikTokReddit

Yes, the park is beautiful year-round. Fall foliage along the river is particularly stunning for photos, and even winter offers a stark beauty. TikTokReddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted at public events. However, always be mindful of performers and attendees, and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram+1

One visitor shared a personal history about the park being the original site of the Elk River Hardware Company, which could be a unique angle for historical photography. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be great for capturing both wide river views and details. A telephoto lens could be useful for wildlife if any appears on the river. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rivers Edge Commons Park offers a pleasant outing for families, especially with its small splash pad for cooling off on hot days. Reddit While it doesn't have extensive playgrounds, the open green spaces are great for kids to run around. The elevated river views can also be captivating for younger visitors, offering a chance to spot boats or wildlife. TikTok

Attending community events like the Downtown Trick-or-Treat is a fantastic family activity, with the park often serving as a central point. Instagram Parking can be a consideration during events, so planning ahead is wise. Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended, as dedicated concessions might be limited outside of specific event vendors. Reddit

💍 Couples & Event Planners

For couples, Rivers Edge Commons Park offers a picturesque setting for ceremonies, particularly during the fall when the colored foliage along the Mississippi River creates a stunning backdrop. Reddit The park provides built-in seating and electrical access for DJs and singers, simplifying event logistics. Reddit

While parking for wedding parties might require some coordination, the availability of nearby downtown bars and restaurants is a significant plus for event planning. The park's scenic beauty and community feel make it a memorable location for special occasions. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

Solo travelers and day-trippers will find Rivers Edge Commons Park a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River. Reddit It's an ideal place to unwind, perhaps with a book or just to people-watch, especially during the quieter weekday afternoons. TikTok

The park's location in downtown Elk River also makes it convenient for exploring local shops and eateries. If visiting during the summer, catching a free concert is a great way to experience the local vibe. Instagram Remember that direct river access is limited, so focus on enjoying the overlooks and the tranquil atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Riverfront Concert Series Experience

The Riverfront Concert Series is a highlight of Rivers Edge Commons Park, transforming the space into a vibrant hub of live music during the summer months. These concerts are a fantastic way to experience the local community and enjoy performances against the scenic backdrop of the Mississippi River. Many visitors rave about the atmosphere, with some noting it's a perfect way to spend a warm evening. InstagramReddit

To make the most of the concert experience, it's recommended to arrive early, especially on popular nights, to secure a good spot. While there is built-in seating, bringing a blanket or portable chairs can enhance comfort. The series often features a variety of genres, so checking the schedule in advance is key to catching your favorite acts. Reddit

Beyond the music, the concerts offer a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy the park's amenities. It's a quintessential summer activity in Elk River, drawing families, couples, and individuals alike for an evening of entertainment and community spirit. TikTok

Navigating the Park's River Views

Rivers Edge Commons Park offers a unique perspective of the Mississippi River, characterized by its elevated overlooks rather than direct riverbank access. This design provides stunning, expansive views of the water as it flows through Elk River. Visitors can appreciate the river's power and beauty from terraced seating areas, which have been recently updated with concrete benches and well-maintained green spaces. TikTokReddit

While you can't easily launch a boat directly from the main park area, there are docks available for fishing or for boats to park if you arrive via the river. This setup makes it ideal for those who enjoy watching the river's movement, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the natural scenery. The name 'Rivers Edge' might suggest direct access, but the park's charm lies in its panoramic vistas. Reddit

For photographers, the elevated vantage points are a dream, especially during seasons like fall when the surrounding foliage adds a vibrant splash of color to the river landscape. The park's design ensures that the river remains the focal point, offering a peaceful retreat with a constant, dynamic natural backdrop. TikTokReddit

A Hub for Community Events

Rivers Edge Commons Park serves as a vital gathering space for Elk River's community events, hosting a variety of activities throughout the year. From the popular Riverfront Concert Series in the summer to seasonal celebrations like the Downtown Trick-or-Treat event, the park is a central location for local festivities. InstagramReddit+1

These events highlight the park's versatility, accommodating everything from live music performances to family-friendly Halloween activities. The presence of covered shelters and ample space makes it suitable for various gatherings, and its downtown location adds to its accessibility for residents and visitors alike. Reddit

The park's role in community life is evident in how it's utilized for both planned events and spontaneous enjoyment. It fosters a sense of local pride and provides a welcoming environment for people to connect and celebrate. TikTok

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