West River Parkway - a bridge over a body of water surrounded by trees
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West River Parkway

4.6
·491k reviews·Minneapolis, United States

A scenic urban parkway along the Mississippi River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Peak foliage beauty

CrowdLow
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West River Parkway - a bridge over a body of water surrounded by trees

West River Parkway

Best Time

Fall mornings

Peak foliage beauty

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic urban parkway along the Mississippi River, perfect for biking, running, and enjoying city views. Instagram

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Don’t sleep on West River Parkway. One of the most important - yet least discussed - sections. Instagram"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Parkway

Enjoy one of the city's most important, yet often overlooked, biking sections.

🍁 Fall Colors Galore

Experience peak fall foliage along the Mississippi River.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mississippi River Views

Mississippi River Views

Along the entire parkway

Breathtaking vistas of the Mississippi River, perfect for a scenic stroll or bike ride.

Instagram
Winchell Trail Access

Winchell Trail Access

Multiple entry points

Connect to the Winchell Trail for an extended urban hike amidst fall foliage.

Instagram
Stone Arch Bridge Festival

Stone Arch Bridge Festival

West River Parkway

Experience a vibrant arts festival with local artists and vendors along the parkway.

Instagram+1
Pickleball on the Parkway

Pickleball on the Parkway

Water Works Pavilion

Enjoy a unique pickleball experience with temporary courts set up directly on the parkway.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Parkway's Beauty

West River Parkway offers stunning Mississippi River views and is a prime spot for biking and walking. Check for special events like 'Pickleball on the Parkway' that temporarily close sections to traffic, creating unique recreational opportunities. Instagram

Safety and Lighting

While generally considered a safe biking route, be aware that some lighting along West River Road has been affected by copper theft. Consider carrying a reliable bike light, especially if you plan to visit during dawn or dusk. Reddit

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Peak foliage beauty
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Special events
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter cycling
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

you guys can stick to the west side highway, the new east river park facelift looks so good #nyc #newyorkcity #newyork #nycparks #newyorker
@thekatieromero
22.2K likes • 212.7K views

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Parkway

Enjoy one of the city's most important, yet often overlooked, biking sections. Instagram

🍁 Fall Colors Galore

Experience peak fall foliage along the Mississippi River. Instagram

Would you believe this is in Minneapolis, MN?! This is thee best Fall hike right in the city! 🗺️ Located off West River Parkway 🌊Along the Mississippi River 📍 Multiple Entry Points 🚙 Multiple Parking Lots starting at the Trailhead & North 🥾 Winchell Trail - go as far as you’d like & back! 🍁 Peak is now happening!! #minnesota #minneapolis #mpls #hikemn #mnoutdoors #meetminneapolis #minneapol...
ilovethisstate
158 likes • 5K views
Hey picklers - something exciting is coming to Downtown Minneapolis... Introducing ✨ Pickleball on the Parkway ✨ — happening Saturday, September 13 at Water Works Pavilion with Pickleball play RIGHT ON West River Parkway! Our team is getting creative reimagining downtown spaces, shutting down the parkway to make room for nearly 30 pickleball courts, where there will be tournament as well as open ...
mplsdtparks
148 likes • 6.5K views

🎨 Support Local Arts

Visit the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for unique art and crafts. Instagram

💡 Carry a Bike Light

Some lights are out due to theft; ensure visibility. Reddit

Come on down to the river and play!!!! ☀️🌿🌉 Find me on the West River Parkway trail just south of the 4th Ave Bridge. It’s a great day to support the arts! Stone Arch Bridge Festival Booth 213 ✨ Sun. June 15, 10-5pm #stonearchbridgefestival #twincitiesarts #nemaa #snagmember #shopsmall #minneapolis #jewelry
heather.s.nuber
39 likes • 385 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Parkway

Enjoy one of the city's most important, yet often overlooked, biking sections. Instagram

🍁 Fall Colors Galore

Experience peak fall foliage along the Mississippi River. Instagram

🎨 Support Local Arts

Visit the Stone Arch Bridge Festival for unique art and crafts. Instagram

💡 Carry a Bike Light

Some lights are out due to theft; ensure visibility. Reddit

👟 Explore Winchell Trail

Extend your walk or run on this scenic trail. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning Mississippi River views and the parkway's suitability for biking and running, calling it an 'important' and 'least discussed' gem. Instagram The accessibility and connection to trails like Winchell are highly praised. Instagram Some note concerns about intermittent lighting due to theft, advising visitors to be prepared. Reddit

What People Like

Scenic river views
Great for biking/running
Access to Winchell Trail

What People Dislike

Intermittent lighting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

West River Parkway is accessible via multiple entry points and has several parking lots, particularly starting at the trailhead and heading north. It's also a key route for cyclists traveling to the University of Minnesota from the south. Instagram

Yes, West River Road, which encompasses much of the parkway, is considered one of the safest biking paths in Minneapolis. Reddit

While direct bus routes might vary, the parkway is generally accessible from downtown Minneapolis, which is well-served by public transportation. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options. Instagram

There are multiple parking lots available along the parkway, with options starting at the trailhead and continuing northward. Instagram

Minneapolis has a robust bike-sharing program, and you can likely find rental stations near the parkway or in the adjacent downtown and North Loop areas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

West River Parkway is a public park and does not require tickets for general access. Entry is free for all visitors. Instagram

Parking availability and any associated fees can vary. It's advisable to check signage at the parking lots or consult the Minneapolis Parks Foundation website for the most current information. Instagram

The parkway is generally open year-round, but specific sections may be closed temporarily for events like 'Pickleball on the Parkway' or during winter for maintenance. Instagram

Dogs are typically allowed in Minneapolis parks, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific park rules and regulations. Instagram

Yes, events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival and 'Pickleball on the Parkway' are held here. Keep an eye on local event listings and park announcements. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy biking, running, walking, and scenic views of the Mississippi River. Special events also offer unique activities like pickleball. Instagram+1

Absolutely! It's a crucial part of the Twin Cities Marathon course and offers a great, relatively flat surface for runners. Instagram

The entire parkway offers beautiful river views. Look for spots near the Stone Arch Bridge and areas with clear sightlines of the Minneapolis skyline. Instagram

Restroom facilities are typically available at various points along the parkway, especially near pavilions and parking areas. Instagram

Yes, you can connect to the Winchell Trail from West River Parkway for a more extensive urban hiking experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the river and city skyline. Fall also provides vibrant colors. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and cityscapes. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views. Instagram

The Stone Arch Bridge, views of the Minneapolis skyline, and the Mississippi River itself are prime subjects for photographers. Instagram+1

Drone usage in Minneapolis parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check with the Minneapolis Parks Foundation and FAA guidelines before flying. Instagram

Walk along the parkway south of the 4th Ave Bridge for great perspectives of the Stone Arch Bridge and the river. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

West River Parkway is a fantastic spot for families looking for outdoor fun. The paved paths are perfect for strollers and young cyclists, offering safe spaces to explore. Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, and keep an eye out for special events like the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, which can be a delight for children with its vibrant atmosphere and art displays. Instagram The connection to the Winchell Trail also offers opportunities for short, family-friendly nature walks. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Cyclists

For runners and cyclists, West River Parkway is a must-visit. It's a significant part of the Twin Cities Marathon route, offering a smooth, scenic, and relatively flat course. Instagram The parkway provides miles of dedicated path along the Mississippi River, making it ideal for long training runs or leisurely bike rides. Remember to bring your own lights due to potential issues with park lighting. Reddit You can also link up with the Winchell Trail for a more challenging, off-road experience. Instagram

🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts

If you appreciate art and local culture, plan your visit around the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, which takes over West River Parkway. Instagram+1 This event showcases a diverse range of local artists and craftspeople, offering a unique shopping and browsing experience. Even outside of festival times, the parkway offers beautiful views that inspire creativity and provide a picturesque backdrop for photography. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling and Running on the Parkway

West River Parkway is a gem for cyclists and runners, offering a well-maintained path with stunning views of the Mississippi River. It's recognized as a crucial segment of the Twin Cities Marathon course, highlighting its suitability for endurance activities. Instagram The path is generally flat, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Remember to be mindful of other users and adhere to posted speed limits.

While generally safe, a recent concern has been the intermittent lighting due to copper theft. Reddit It's highly recommended for cyclists and runners to carry their own reliable bike lights, especially if planning to use the parkway during dawn or dusk. This ensures visibility and enhances safety, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenic route without worry.

Beyond the main path, the parkway provides access to the Winchell Trail, offering a more rugged and natural experience for those looking to extend their run or hike. Instagram This combination of paved paths and natural trails makes West River Parkway a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Events and Community Engagement

West River Parkway frequently transforms into a vibrant hub for community events, offering unique experiences that draw locals and visitors alike. One notable event is the 'Pickleball on the Parkway,' which temporarily closes sections of the road to create a massive pickleball court, showcasing creative use of urban spaces. Instagram This event highlights the parkway's adaptability and its potential for recreational innovation.

Another significant event is the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, which spans across West River Parkway, featuring a wide array of local artists, artisans, and food vendors. Instagram+1 This festival turns the parkway into an open-air gallery and marketplace, celebrating the Twin Cities' creative spirit. Attending these events offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with the local culture and enjoy the parkway in a festive atmosphere.

These events not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community and highlight the parkway's role as a dynamic public space. Planning your visit around these happenings can add an extra layer of excitement to your experience. Instagram+1

Navigating Safety and Accessibility

West River Parkway is widely regarded as a safe and accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists. Reddit Its designation as a key part of the Twin Cities Marathon course underscores its suitability for athletic pursuits. Instagram The parkway offers multiple access points and parking areas, making it convenient for visitors to reach and explore. Instagram

However, it's important to be aware of potential safety considerations. Recent reports indicate that some lighting along West River Road has been affected by copper theft, which could reduce visibility during early morning or late evening hours. Reddit Travelers are advised to carry their own lights for added safety. Despite this, the overall consensus from users is that the parkway remains a secure and enjoyable place for outdoor activities.

The parkway also connects to other trails, such as the Winchell Trail, expanding the possibilities for exploration. Instagram This interconnectedness enhances the parkway's appeal as a versatile destination for both casual recreation and more adventurous outings.

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