Bohemian Flats Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Nestled along the mighty Mississippi, Bohemian Flats Park carries whispers of lives long past. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this land was home to European immigrants building new lives in America. What once bustled with family homes later shifted to industrial use before finding new purpose as a public park in the 1980s.

What You'll Find

This 4.5-acre riverside park provides excellent views of the Mississippi River and sits just a stone's throw from the University of Minnesota campus and Washington Avenue Bridge. You can find thoughtfully designed biking and walking paths throughout - pedestrians can enjoy trails closer to the water while shared paths near the road accommodate cyclists too.

The open grassy areas invite you to spread out a blanket and soak up some sunshine or simply watch the river flow by. If you're planning to stay awhile, take advantage of the covered and uncovered picnic areas equipped with tables and barbecue grills. On warm days, the sand volleyball court regularly fills with players smacking balls across the net and kicking up sand.

The park features a boat dock, where Mississippi River cruises regularly depart. Whether you fancy a dinner cruise, sunset tour, or passing through the river locks, these boat excursions reveal Minneapolis from an entirely different perspective. If you're the patient type, bring your fishing gear - the riverfront location makes this a prime fishing spot where you might just reel in something impressive.

Practical Matters

When nature calls, you can find portable restrooms that are kept in good condition. For parking, there's a pay lot with reasonable rates - especially if you arrive early. And your four-legged friends are welcome here too; the park's dog-friendly policy makes these riverside paths ideal for walks with your canine companion.

What you might appreciate most is the surprising tranquility. Despite being so close to downtown Minneapolis, there's a peaceful quality here that offers a genuine escape from urban intensity without actually leaving the city.

What's New

The park is currently getting some well-deserved TLC through various renovation projects. An oak savanna restoration is underway, along with clearing of overgrown areas and the addition of native plants and trees. You'll soon enjoy improved accessibility, new seating areas, and enhanced lighting within the grounds.

These improvements reflect a thoughtful balance - preserving the natural character that makes this place special while making it more welcoming and functional for everyone who visits.