Best Budget Activities in Minneapolis/St. Paul

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is a must-visit natural wonder in Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The park is home to a stunning 53-foot (16.15 meters) waterfall that cascades over layers of limestone and sandstone, creating a dramatic sight. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the trails that wind through the park, taking in the beautiful views of the falls, the surrounding woods, and the Mississippi River. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun family outing, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is a great destination to explore.

This paved public trail follows the bed of the Soo Line Railroad from St. Paul to Stillwater. Whether biking, inline skating, running or walking, it will take you from the city to the country in 19 miles. The trail runs through residential neighborhoods, past parks, and through North St. Paul along Highway 36. Many of the municipalities have created access paths to the parks that sit along the way. A slight detour will take you to the Maplewood Community Center. Enjoy the view as you pass Lake Phalen, past the small community of Mahtomedi and into historic Stillwater. The last train passed this way in 1987, and markers along the way point out where some of the old train stations sat. There are also markers that tell about some of the wildlife along the way. Maps are available from the DNR office.

Theodore Wirth Regional Park is Minneapolis's third largest nature park that is operated and managed by the Park & Recreation Board of Minneapolis. The park currently covers 843 acres (341 hectares) and is almost as big as the famous Central Park in New York City. The park features an 18-hole golf course, a 9-hole 3 par course, a lake, a skiing trail, fishing facilities and more. This is a great place to spend your day off from work by getting some much-needed exercise to keep your body in shape.