Boom Island Park
A scenic riverside park offering stunning Minneapolis skyline views, perfect for picnics, recreation, and community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hoop jams and fewer crowds
Boom Island Park
Best Time
Hoop jams and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic riverside park offering stunning Minneapolis skyline views, perfect for picnics, recreation, and community events.
"Beautiful views of the river with many options for your jig."
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect riverside picnic with skyline views. :picnic_table:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Utilize the extensive walking and biking paths for a great workout or scenic exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Minneapolis Skyline Views
Riverfront
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline, especially vibrant during sunsets.
Riverside Walking & Biking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore miles of scenic trails along the Mississippi River, perfect for jogging, cycling, or a leisurely stroll.
Picnic & Event Areas
Various locations
Spacious open areas and covered pavilions ideal for picnics, family gatherings, and small events.
Playground & Water Access
Near the boat dock
A fun playground for kids and easy access to the river for water activities like canoeing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Picnic Perfect with Skyline Views
Event Space & Trail Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect riverside picnic with skyline views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Utilize the extensive walking and biking paths for a great workout or scenic exploration. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Events
Wednesday evenings feature free hoop jams – a fun, community-driven activity.
🚤 Water Taxi Adventure
Consider a ride on the electric water taxi for unique city views from the Mississippi River.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks for a perfect riverside picnic with skyline views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Utilize the extensive walking and biking paths for a great workout or scenic exploration. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Events
Wednesday evenings feature free hoop jams – a fun, community-driven activity.
🚤 Water Taxi Adventure
Consider a ride on the electric water taxi for unique city views from the Mississippi River.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit in the morning or late afternoon during summer for more comfortable temperatures. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boom Island Park is widely praised as a beautiful riverside destination offering ample green space for picnics and recreation. Visitors appreciate the stunning Minneapolis skyline views, well-maintained trails for walking and biking, and family-friendly amenities like the playground. It's also noted as a convenient spot for events and a resting point along the river trail.
"Very nice riverside park. Lots of free space for running around or picnics. They have a few covered areas for events and a play structure for kids. This park is also along the main trail and so is a good place to rest while covering the full trail."
Zach Roper
"It was my first time here after hearing about it various times. It really is a beautiful place and I had gone on the perfect day to see it all. Lots of trails to stroll along or flat grassy areas to lay out a blanket and relax or picnic."
Nou Yang
"Lots of places to explore when you come out here lots of picnic areas and water access close by! Well lit and lots of parking around!"
justin lyson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boom Island Park is accessible by car with ample parking available. It's also a great stop along the main river trail for cyclists and walkers. Public transportation options can get you close, with further exploration on foot or by bike.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available around the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Boom Island Park is situated along a major river trail, making it easily accessible and a popular destination for cyclists.
While direct routes might vary, you can typically reach areas near Boom Island Park via Minneapolis public transport, followed by a short walk or bike ride. Check local transit schedules for the best options. :bus:
Many visitors enjoy combining a walk or bike ride along the river trails with a picnic in the park, taking in the skyline views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Boom Island Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors.
Boom Island Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, but specific hours can vary. It's always a good idea to check the official Minneapolis Parks website for the most up-to-date information. :clock1:
While many picnic areas are first-come, first-served, the park does have covered pavilions that can be reserved for events. Check with Minneapolis Parks for reservation details.
The Minneapolis Hoop Jams held on Wednesday evenings are free and do not require any signup or tickets. Just show up and join the fun!
The park hosts various community events, including the popular Wednesday night hoop jams. Keep an eye on local event listings or the Minneapolis Parks calendar.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy picnics, walking, biking, playing on the playground, and even take a ride on the Minneapolis Water Taxi for unique city views.
Yes, it has a playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around and play.
While there's water access for activities like canoeing, swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in this section of the Mississippi River. :warning:
Yes, restrooms are available within the park for visitor convenience. :toilet:
The park offers fantastic views of the Minneapolis skyline, the Mississippi River, and surrounding bridges and parklands.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Boom Island Park. However, it's a popular spot for picnics, so bringing your own food is highly recommended.
Some visitors have reported seeing families with grills for parties, suggesting it might be permissible in designated areas. It's best to confirm with Minneapolis Parks regarding specific grilling regulations.
Packing a picnic is the most popular way to dine at Boom Island Park. You can enjoy your meal with beautiful river and skyline views.
You'll find various dining options in the surrounding Minneapolis neighborhoods. It's advisable to bring your food to the park to maximize your time enjoying the scenery. :forkandknife:
Alcohol policies in Minneapolis parks can vary. It's recommended to check the official Minneapolis Parks and Recreation guidelines regarding alcohol consumption in public parks. :wine_glass:
📸 📸 Photography
The riverfront offers stunning angles of the Minneapolis skyline, especially during sunrise and sunset. The bridges and park trails also provide scenic backdrops.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for skyline photography.
Yes, the water taxi offers a unique perspective for photography, capturing the city from a different vantage point on the Mississippi River.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations if you plan extensive shoots. :camerawithflash:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline and park landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas, some of which are covered, providing shade on sunny days. The easy access to trails also means you can incorporate a short, family-friendly walk or bike ride into your visit. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and drinks for a comfortable family outing. :child:
🏃♀️ Active Visitors & Fitness Enthusiasts
The open fields provide space for various outdoor fitness activities, and the river access allows for kayaking or canoeing for a full-body workout. The scenic views along the Mississippi River make any exercise session more enjoyable. Don't forget to bring your running shoes or bike! :runner:
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Consider visiting during the Wednesday night hoop jams for unique action shots, or take a ride on the water taxi for a different perspective of the city from the river. The park's natural beauty, combined with its urban backdrop, offers a wide range of photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Boom Island Park by Water
For those seeking a more active water adventure, the park provides access for canoes and kayaks. Paddling along the river allows for a more intimate connection with the natural surroundings and offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. You can paddle towards Nicollet Island or explore other areas accessible from the Mississippi.
Whether you opt for a guided water taxi tour or a self-guided paddle, exploring Boom Island Park from the water offers a refreshing and memorable way to see Minneapolis. It's a chance to appreciate the city's relationship with its iconic river. :boat:
History and Heritage of Boom Island Park
The park has evolved significantly over time, transforming from a more industrial area into a cherished public green space. The Minneapolis Parks system has worked to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area, making it a vital part of the city's park network. The park's location along the main river trail connects it to a larger network of trails and historical sites, offering a glimpse into the city's development.
Today, Boom Island Park serves as a testament to urban renewal, offering residents and visitors a place to connect with nature, enjoy recreational activities, and appreciate the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River, all while being reminded of the city's rich history.
Community and Events at Boom Island Park
The park's open spaces and covered pavilions also make it a popular venue for private events and gatherings, such as birthday parties and baby showers. Visitors have noted seeing larger families hosting celebrations, indicating the park's suitability for such occasions. It's advisable to check with Minneapolis Parks for reservation policies if you plan to host an event.
Beyond organized events, the park fosters a sense of community through shared enjoyment of its amenities. Whether it's families picnicking, individuals exercising on the trails, or friends gathering for hoop jams, Boom Island Park provides a welcoming environment for diverse community interactions. :performing_arts:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit