Theodore Wirth Regional Park - A person sitting on a bench in the middle of a park
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Theodore Wirth Regional Park

4.7
·3k reviews·Golden Valley, United States

Minneapolis's largest park, offering 740+ acres of diverse nature, year-round recreation, and urban escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Theodore Wirth Regional Park - A person sitting on a bench in the middle of a park

Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Minneapolis's largest park, offering 740+ acres of diverse nature, year-round recreation, and urban escape.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"You can feel like you're in the wilderness despite being in the middle of Minneapolis."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Explore Diverse Trails

Mix of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and strolling. Great for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal amidst nature. Mill Valley Market offers great options too! :sandwich:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden

Southwest corner of the park

Discover native Minnesota flora and fauna in this serene, protected sanctuary. A peaceful escape.

The Quaking Bog

The Quaking Bog

Near the Trailhead building

Experience a unique natural habitat with boardwalks through a rare quaking bog. Educational and fascinating.

Wirth Lake Beach

Wirth Lake Beach

West side of the park

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking by the lake. A perfect spot for summer fun.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace All Seasons

Theodore Wirth Park is a year-round destination. From summer hiking and swimming to winter skiing and snowboarding, there's always an adventure. Check trail conditions, especially after snow or rain, as some paths can get muddy or icy.Instagram

Navigate the Vastness

At over 740 acres, this is Minneapolis's largest park. Familiarize yourself with the different areas like Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, the Quaking Bog, or Wirth Beach to make the most of your visit. Parking can be tricky during events.Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage, pleasant walks
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter weekends
Why
Skiing and snow activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Who’s adding this to their summer list? #minneapolis #minnesota #twincities #twincitiesmn #optoutside #citypark #theodorewirthpark #onlyinmn #exploremn #hike #Hiking #nature
@mnprairiegal
9.9K likes • 129.2K views

🗺️ Explore Diverse Trails

Mix of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and strolling. Great for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal amidst nature. Mill Valley Market offers great options too! :sandwich:

Mill Valley Market in Minneapolis, MN is located in the Trailhead building at Theodore Wirth Park. The restaurant offers sandwiches, soups and salads, many made with organic and local ingredients. #travel #minnesota #minneapolis #Summer #icecream #Hiking @Elle Hansen325
@midwestsoftserve
5.7K likes • 85.1K views
Theodore Wirth Regional Park has got to be one of the best in Minnesota! It includes: Archery Beach Biking Path Cross-Country Ski Trail Disc Golf Course Fishing Pier Garden Golf Course Hiking Mountain Biking Picnic Area Playground/Tot Lot Restroom Facility Soccer Field Tennis Court Walking Path
mnbucketlistmom
1.4K likes • 143.9K views

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful landscapes year-round, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:

❄️ Winter Wonderland

Cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding are popular. Trails are groomed! :snowboard:

Theodore Wirth Regional Park is the largest park in the Minneapolis park system. Located West of Downtown Minneapolis, it spans 740.29 acres, including 82.99 acres of water and 280 acres of golf courses. Winter, spring, summer, and fall, this beautiful park is a treasure. . . . . #minneapolis #minnesota #goldenvalley #exploreminnesota #captureminnesota #autumn #optoutside #getoutside #prince #nat...
roepkepr
51 likes • 429 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Explore Diverse Trails

Mix of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and strolling. Great for all fitness levels! :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal amidst nature. Mill Valley Market offers great options too! :sandwich:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful landscapes year-round, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:

❄️ Winter Wonderland

Cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding are popular. Trails are groomed! :snowboard:

📍 Event Parking

Be aware of potential parking issues during special events like ski races. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Theodore Wirth Regional Park's vastness and year-round appeal, highlighting its ability to feel like a wilderness escape within the city. The well-maintained trails and diverse natural areas like the Quaking Bog and Eloise Butler Garden are frequently praised. Some minor drawbacks include potential parking challenges during events and occasional trail conditions after heavy rain or snow.

"A great series of parks and trails. There really is something for everyone, from volleyball and swimming at Wirth Lake to wildlife and native flora viewing at Eloise Butler. You can feel like you're in the wilderness despite being in the middle of Minneapolis, viewing rare habitat types like the quaking bog. Hiking, biking, or just strolling, there's something to do and plenty of helpful park staff to ask for more ideas."

Chaosrunepownage

"Not sure how I haven't reviewed Theodore Wirth yet, but it is a fantastic park. Numerous trails both paved on unpaved, hiking only and multipurpose. Extremely well maintained and so many different areas to explore from the Trailhead to Wirth Beach area, to Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden to the Quaking Bog and more! I am very fortunate to live so close to one of my favorite parks! Pics from all over the park over the last 2 months."

Antoinette Szymanski

"Theodore wirth park has a surprising amount of unsaved, as well as paved trails. Country in the city."

Teri Crelly

What People Like

Diverse natural areas
Year-round activities
Well-maintained trails

What People Dislike

Event parking issues
Muddy trails after rain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located west of downtown Minneapolis. You can access it by car via various entrances. Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes serving the park's perimeter. Consider using a navigation app for the best route to your desired area within the park.Instagram

Yes, there are multiple parking lots throughout the park, including near the Trailhead building, Wirth Beach, and the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden. However, parking can become limited during large events or on busy weekends.Reddit

Absolutely! The park is well-connected by bike paths, making it an accessible destination for cyclists. Many paved and unpaved trails within the park are also great for biking.Instagram

Given its size, a park map is helpful. You can often find them at park entrances or online. Many visitors use their phones with GPS to explore different sections like the Quaking Bog or the wildflower garden.Instagram

The main entrances are along Glenwood Avenue and Theodore Wirth Parkway. If you're heading to the Eloise Butler Garden, use the entrance on The Paseo. For the Quaking Bog, the Trailhead building area is a good starting point.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a public park and generally free to enter. Some specific activities or facilities, like the golf course or special events, may have associated fees.Instagram

The park grounds are typically open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily. However, specific facilities like the beach or restrooms may have different hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Minneapolis Parks website for the most up-to-date information.

No, access to the hiking and walking trails within Theodore Wirth Regional Park is free. You can explore the diverse landscapes without any admission cost.Reddit

Generally, no permits are needed for casual use like hiking, picnicking, or disc golf. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or specific activity, it's best to contact the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Department.

The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden is typically open from spring through fall, when the flowers are in bloom. Winter access might be limited or restricted to protect the delicate ecosystem.TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers a variety of trails, from paved multi-use paths around Wirth Lake to unpaved, more natural trails through the woods and near the Quaking Bog. The ~4-mile loop around the park is popular for a good walk or run.Reddit

Yes, Wirth Lake Beach offers a swimming area during the summer months. There's also a fishing pier on Wirth Lake for those looking to cast a line.Instagram

Winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and sledding. The Loppet Foundation often grooms trails for skiing.Instagram+1

Absolutely! The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is a prime spot for birdwatching, with a variety of native species attracted to the diverse plant life.TikTok

Yes, the park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as playgrounds for children. It's a great spot for family outings.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Mill Valley Market is located in the Trailhead building and offers sandwiches, soups, and salads, often using local ingredients. It's a convenient spot for a bite after exploring.TikTok

Definitely! There are numerous picnic areas throughout the park, making it an ideal location for a packed lunch or a barbecue. Bring your own food and enjoy the natural setting.TikTok

Beyond Mill Valley Market, the surrounding Minneapolis area offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. You can easily find something to suit your taste before or after your park visit.

While specific offerings can vary seasonally, there may be concessions available at Wirth Lake Beach during the summer. It's best to check for current availability closer to your visit.

Park rules regarding alcohol can vary. It's advisable to check the official Minneapolis Parks and Recreation guidelines for Theodore Wirth Park to ensure compliance.

📸 📸 Photography

The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden offers stunning floral shots, especially in spring and summer. The Quaking Bog provides unique natural textures. The lake views and sunset colors are also highly photogenic.Instagram

Yes, Theodore Wirth Park is excellent for nature photography. You'll find diverse habitats, from wetlands to forests, attracting various wildlife and showcasing seasonal changes.TikTok

Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade in wooded areas can be beneficial.Instagram

Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. The Eloise Butler Garden is particularly good for observing and photographing birds.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Theodore Wirth Park is a fantastic destination for families. With multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and the swimming beach at Wirth Lake, there are plenty of ways to keep kids entertained during warmer months.Instagram In winter, activities like sledding and snow tubing offer exciting outdoor fun. The park's diverse trails are also great for family walks or bike rides, allowing everyone to explore nature together. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to immerse themselves in nature, Theodore Wirth Park is a gem. Explore the unique Quaking Bog and the serene Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden for a dose of natural beauty and tranquility.TikTokInstagram The park offers a variety of trails, from paved paths perfect for a leisurely stroll to more rugged, unpaved routes for a more challenging hike. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the changing flora throughout the seasons.

❄️ Winter Sports Lovers

When the snow falls, Theodore Wirth Park transforms into an active winter playground. It's a prime spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with groomed trails available.Instagram Families and friends can enjoy sledding and snow tubing, and programs like Melanin in Motion offer low-cost snowboarding lessons.Instagram The park provides a great opportunity to embrace the cold and enjoy classic winter activities.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Natural Wonders

Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a haven for nature lovers, boasting diverse ecosystems within the city limits. The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit, showcasing native Minnesota plants and attracting a variety of bird species.TikTok It's a peaceful retreat perfect for quiet contemplation and nature observation. Another unique feature is the Quaking Bog, a rare habitat accessible via boardwalks, offering a glimpse into a distinct ecological environment.Instagram These natural areas provide a stark contrast to the urban surroundings, making the park feel like a true escape.

Year-Round Recreation Hub

This park truly shines with its year-round recreational offerings. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on a network of paved and unpaved trails, swimming at Wirth Lake Beach, or playing disc golf.Instagram+1 As the seasons change, the park transforms into a winter wonderland. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular, with trails often groomed by organizations like the Loppet Foundation.Instagram For thrill-seekers, snow tubing and sledding provide family-friendly fun, and there are even opportunities for snowboarding lessons through programs like Melanin in Motion.Instagram

Community and Amenities

Beyond its natural beauty and recreational activities, Theodore Wirth Park serves as a community hub. The Trailhead building houses Mill Valley Market, a convenient spot for refreshments and light meals.TikTok The park also features various sports facilities, including archery ranges, soccer fields, and tennis courts.Instagram For those looking to relax, ample picnic areas are scattered throughout, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet lunch amidst nature.TikTok The park's extensive amenities ensure there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful day outdoors.

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