Picnic Spots with River Views

Irvine Park

Nestled in a quiet, residential neighborhood, this park is a charming escape in the center of a historic district just west of downtown. The crown jewel of this outdoor space is the ornate fountain in the center of the park—offering soothing sounds of trickling water in a picturesque setting.

Indian Mounds Park

Head to the East Side to the Dayton’s Bluff neighborhood is an elevated experience overlooking the Saint Paul city skyline. The park is a sacred burial space for Indigenous Peoples and is home to the only known remaining burial mounds in the Twin Cities urban centers.

This culturally significant outdoor space welcomes visitors and features several facilities for picnic goers including two shelters, a designated picnic area, BBQ grills and restroom facilities, among the expansive natural surroundings.

Mears Park

Located in Lowertown, Mears Park brings Mother Nature to the bustling city center. The space features a trickling stream that runs diagonally through the park, gorgeous seasonal landscaping, and a covered band shell. It is also home to a variety of concerts, events and festivals throughout the year—with Twin Cities Jazz Festival as the staple headliner.

Summit Overlook Park

Aptly named, this triangular-shaped park sits on the corner of Summit Avenue and Ramsey Street and overlooks downtown Saint Paul. Its smaller size and proximity to the grand homes in the residential neighborhood makes it feel like you are a guest in someone’s backyard. Notable features include the park’s bronzed New York Eagle statue and various vantage points overlooking the valley.

Rail View Picnic Area at Union Depot

Take a seat at one of six covered picnic tables for a front row view of the train tracks leading to the Union Depot. View freight and passenger trains less than 100 feet away and the added bonus of aircrafts from Holman Field flying overhead. The space is adjacent to the eastern side of Lot D and is also accessible via bike/pedestrian paths connecting at Sibley Street and Kellogg Boulevard.

Rice Park & Landmark Plaza

In the heart of downtown sits a quaint gathering space and central hub to the community. With a manicured lawn overlooking the ever-so-stunning Landmark Center, ample tables and chairs, a plethora of benches lining the tree-lined walks, and a sparkling fountain, this park is truly an urban oasis. Throughout the summer the park features free live music events and food trucks on Wednesday afternoons. It is also a walkable distance from a selection of delicious eateries such as Herbie’s on the Park, the St. Paul Grill, Wreststaurant at the Palace, Afro Deli, and many more for a meal that is “Hot to Go.” For the simple foodies, there is often a glizzy (hot dog) stand that sits on the corner of Market and 5th Street for a quick, summertime treat.

Head across the street to the Landmark Center Plaza to discover a collection Peanut Gang character statue—in honor of Saint Paul’s own, Charles Schulz, the creator behind Charlie Brown.

Summit Overlook Park

Aptly named, this triangular-shaped park sits on the corner of Summit Avenue and Ramsey Street and overlooks downtown Saint Paul. Its smaller size and proximity to the grand homes in the residential neighborhood makes it feel like you are a guest in someone’s backyard. Notable features include the park’s bronzed New York Eagle statue and various vantage points overlooking the valley.