If you’re looking for an easy and memorable summer adventure in the Twin Cities, make time to visit Mississippi Gateway Regional Park and the nearby Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, all part of the Three River Park District. I had seen the Dam before, but I recently went with my two teens to check out the new additions like the playground, and all three of us left genuinely impressed.
The newly updated playground and splash features are a huge draw for younger kids, but what surprised me most was how much there is for older kids, teens, and adults to enjoy too. Between the scenic treetop trail, sweeping river views, sandy beach areas, and the experience of walking across the dam itself, this park truly offers something for every age.
The New Playground, Visitors Center and Water Features
The playground area at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park is beautifully designed and feels woodsy yet modern, spacious, and thoughtfully planned. Kids can climb, explore, and cool off in the water features while parents relax nearby. It’s the kind of playground where children could easily spend hours.
Plus there’s a new visitors center called the Gateway Center with educational exhibits and programming.
One thing I appreciated was that there are decent restrooms! This is HUGE for parents taking their kids to play and splash around on a hot day, or needing a place to use the restroom with your child (not so easy with a porta-potty).
The Treetop Trail and River Views
One of the highlights of the visit was the elevated treetop trail, and it’s 900 feet long! Walking above the landscape gives you a cool look at the surrounding nature. It’s peaceful, scenic, and makes the park feel unique compared to a typical playground stop.
If you like walking or biking, the trail system throughout the park is extensive, making it easy to turn your visit into a longer journey if you want to explore more. Along the way, you’ll find fishing spots, shaded areas to sit, and several scenic overlooks.
Walking Across the Coon Rapids Dam
Crossing the dam itself is easily one of the coolest parts of this park. The walkway stretches across the Mississippi River and connects both sides of the park system, allowing visitors to move between Brooklyn Park and Coon Rapids on foot or by bike.
The views from the dam are beautiful, especially around sunset. Watching the water flow below while taking in the surrounding greenery made this feel like much more than just a local playground outing.
Note: It can be windy on the walkway crossing the dam.
Beaches, Kayaks, and More
There are several beach areas where families can relax, play in the sand, or cool off near the water. We also noticed self-serve kayak rentals available, which would make for an even more adventurous return visit later this summer.
Between the beaches, trails, playgrounds, fishing access, and river activities, you could easily spend an entire afternoon here without running out of things to do.
Helpful Parking Tip Before You Go
One important thing to know before visiting: the two sides of the park have different entrance policies. One is FREE to enter, the other is not.
- The west side in Brooklyn Park is free to enter by vehicle. The address is:
10360 West River Road, Brooklyn Park - The east side in Coon Rapids requires a vehicle entrance fee. The address is:
9750 Egret Blvd NW, Coon Rapids
Once you’re parked, though, you can freely walk or bike across the dam between both sides. And it’s worth doing as there’s a lot to see on both sides!
A Few Questions People Have Asked Me
I posted a Reel of the new playground and features and got some questions. Here are some answers:
Is it handicapped accessible?
Yes, there are wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, and the Treetop Trail is wide, level and paved. The Gateway Center is also accessible. All-terrain wheelchairs are also available by request.
Is it dog-friendly?
Yes, it’s very dog-friendly, featuring a large off-leash area and miles of dog-friendly trails.
My Overall Thoughts
It’s rare to find a spot that genuinely works for toddlers, teens, and adults all at once, but Mississippi Gateway Regional Park and the Coon Rapids Dam really deliver.
Whether you want an easy evening walk, a place for the kids to burn energy, a scenic biking destination, or just a relaxing way to enjoy the Mississippi River, this is absolutely worth adding to your Twin Cities summer bucket list.
Check out my photo gallery for more pics!
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