Midtown Greenway
A 5.5-mile paved urban trail on a former railroad corridor, connecting Minneapolis neighborhoods with gardens, bridges, and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Midtown Greenway
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 5.5-mile paved urban trail on a former railroad corridor, connecting Minneapolis neighborhoods with gardens, bridges, and scenic views.
"It's truly breathtaking how beautiful it is, and right in the middle of the city too."
🚴♀️ Bike Commuter's Dream
A fantastic option for commuting, connecting you across the city. Often plowed in winter!
🌳 Hidden Urban Gem
Breathtaking beauty right in the city. Perfect for a scenic ride or walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Martin Olav Sabo Bridge
Over Hiawatha Avenue (Hwy 55)
Minnesota's first cable-stayed suspension bridge, offering stunning views and architectural interest.

Urban Oasis
Throughout the trail
Discover surprising community gardens and a convenient bike shop nestled within this vibrant city trail.

Connected Urban Exploration
Connecting Minneapolis neighborhoods
This trail acts as a vital artery, linking the Mississippi River to the Minneapolis Lakes and beyond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Midtown Greenway
Winter Riding & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚴♀️ Bike Commuter's Dream
A fantastic option for commuting, connecting you across the city. Often plowed in winter!
🌳 Hidden Urban Gem
Breathtaking beauty right in the city. Perfect for a scenic ride or walk.
🗺️ Well-Marked Paths
Clearly marked with separate lanes for biking and walking/running. Easy to navigate.
🛠️ On-Trail Bike Shop
Conveniently located bike shop for any quick repairs or supplies you might need.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚴♀️ Bike Commuter's Dream
A fantastic option for commuting, connecting you across the city. Often plowed in winter!
🌳 Hidden Urban Gem
Breathtaking beauty right in the city. Perfect for a scenic ride or walk.
🗺️ Well-Marked Paths
Clearly marked with separate lanes for biking and walking/running. Easy to navigate.
🛠️ On-Trail Bike Shop
Conveniently located bike shop for any quick repairs or supplies you might need.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Midtown Greenway, calling it a 'beautiful bike path' and a 'hidden gem' that offers a breathtaking escape right in the city. Its well-marked, divided paths and surprising features like community gardens and a bike shop are frequently praised. It's a highly recommended spot for both commuting and leisure.
"A nice historic trail on the old Milwaukee Road transcontinental line through South Minneapolis."
Jay Dee
"Beautiful bike path."
Christopher Porter
"Love the Midtown Greenway. A hidden gem that takes you from the Mississippi River to the Minneapolis Lakes and beyond. Well marked with divided biking and run/walk paths, there are several wonderful surprises on the route including community gardens, a bike shop and the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge over Hiawatha Avenue (Hwy 55), the first cable-stayed suspension bridge in the state of Minnesota. Check it out!"
Steven Mosborg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Midtown Greenway is accessible from numerous points throughout South Minneapolis. Major access points include intersections with Hiawatha Avenue, Nicollet Avenue, and Hennepin Avenue. You can find detailed access points on the Midtown Greenway map.
Limited street parking is available near various access points. For longer visits, consider parking at a nearby park or utilizing public transportation to reach an access point.
Yes, several Metro Transit bus routes run parallel to or intersect with the Greenway, making it accessible via public transport. Check the Metro Transit website for routes near your starting point.
Absolutely! The Midtown Greenway bike trail is a paved, relatively flat path with clear markings and often separated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, making it very beginner-friendly.
The most popular way to explore is by bike, as it's a dedicated bike trail.
However, it's also a beautiful path for walking, jogging, or rollerblading.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Midtown Greenway is a public park and trail, so there are no tickets or admission fees required to use it. It's free for everyone!
The Midtown Greenway is open year-round, from dawn until dusk. However, it is plowed and maintained for winter use.
Restroom facilities are limited directly on the trail. It's advisable to use facilities at parks or businesses near access points before or after your ride. Some sources suggest checking near Bryant Park or Grand Central for restrooms in NYC, but this is not applicable to the Minneapolis Greenway.
Yes, the paved surface of the Midtown Greenway makes it accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
Dogs are welcome on the Midtown Greenway, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be respectful of other users and clean up after your pet.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Midtown Greenway bike trail spans over 5 miles, offering a substantial route for cycling and walking enthusiasts.
You'll experience a diverse range of scenery, from urban landscapes and community gardens to beautiful natural areas and impressive bridges like the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge.
Many users find the Midtown Greenway safe, especially during daylight hours. It's a popular commuter route. For late evening rides, it's recommended to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit areas.
Yes, there are benches and resting spots along the trail, particularly in park-like areas. The East Midtown Greenway in NYC also offers benches for enjoying river views.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends, especially during pleasant weather, tend to be busier. Winter daylight hours also offer a less crowded experience.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
While the Greenway itself doesn't have direct dining establishments, you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars in the neighborhoods it passes through, such as Uptown Minneapolis and near the Minneapolis Lakes.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy during your visit. Pack out everything you pack in to keep the trail clean.
There are several park-like areas and open spaces along the Greenway that are perfect for a picnic. Look for designated seating areas or grassy spots.
📸 📸 Photography
The Martin Olav Sabo Bridge is a standout for photography. Also, look for scenic overlooks, community gardens, and the urban cityscape views along the trail.
Yes, the East Midtown Greenway in NYC is noted for its sunrise runs,
and the open nature of the Minneapolis Greenway offers opportunities for beautiful light during golden hours.The Greenway is ideal for landscape, urban, and nature photography. Capture the blend of city life and green spaces, the unique bridge architecture, and seasonal changes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Budget Travelers
🏃♀️ Runners and Joggers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of the Midtown Greenway
The development of the Greenway has been a phased process, with significant improvements and extensions over the years. Key milestones include the construction of the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge, a visually striking and functional piece of infrastructure that enhances connectivity and safety. The trail continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to improve access, amenities, and its overall user experience, solidifying its role as a beloved urban amenity.
Cycling the Midtown Greenway: Tips and Tricks
For those looking to commute, the Greenway provides a safe and efficient route, bypassing much of the city's traffic. Several access points allow for easy entry and exit, connecting you to various Minneapolis neighborhoods. If you encounter any mechanical issues, there's a convenient bike shop located directly on the trail. For a truly scenic ride, consider starting near the Mississippi River and heading west towards the Minneapolis Lakes, or vice versa.
Winter Wonders on the Midtown Greenway
Cycling in winter on the Greenway can be a unique adventure. Ensure your bike is equipped for the conditions, perhaps with studded tires. The quiet solitude of a winter ride, with the city's sounds muffled by snow, is truly special. It's a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of Minneapolis during the colder months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit