Gold Medal Park

A Peaceful Downtown Retreat

Found in Minneapolis' Downtown East neighborhood, Gold Medal Park spans 7.5 acres of tranquil green space amid the bustling Mill District. Opened in May 2007, this park isn't just another patch of grass in the city - it's a thoughtfully designed urban sanctuary created by landscape architect Tom Oslund, who drew inspiration from Minnesota's ancient Native American burial mounds.

At the heart of the park stands a 32-foot-high sculptural observation mound that you can climb via a gently spiraling walkway. From the top, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Mississippi River, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, the Guthrie Theater, and the old milling district - all framed by a grove of mature trees that adds depth to the scene.

Natural Beauty with Artistic Touches

More than 200 mature trees call this park home, some transported from as far as New Jersey, offering plenty of shady spots to escape the summer heat. The open green lawns beneath these trees provide perfect spaces for stretching out with a book or simply watching clouds drift by.

Artistic elements enhance the natural landscape, including sculptures that once graced the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. As evening approaches, blue LED-lit benches scattered across the grounds light up. These illuminated seating areas provide a distinctive atmosphere after sunset.

Just a short walk away on West River Parkway, you can find the Interstate 35W Bridge Remembrance Garden, a thoughtful memorial honoring those affected by the 2007 bridge collapse.

What to Do Here

Gold Medal Park keeps things beautifully simple. There's no playground equipment or fancy facilities - just open space that invites you to use your imagination. You'll see people walking, jogging, picnicking, and when winter blankets the park in snow, the mound transforms into a popular sledding hill.

The expansive grassy areas are meant for lounging, setting up hammocks between trees, or getting in an outdoor workout. Early risers might spot the November Project, a community workout group that gathers here on Wednesday mornings at 6:27 AM (yes, that specific time).

Dog owners particularly appreciate the park's pet-friendly policy, making it an ideal spot to exercise your four-legged friend while enjoying some peace and quiet away from the city's noise.

Throughout the year, the park occasionally hosts seasonal events and festivals. and festivals. During summer, it offers one of the best vantage points for viewing the annual Aquatennial Fireworks lighting up the Minneapolis skyline.

The park's scenic landscapes and iconic spiral design have made it a favorite backdrop for photographers. On any given weekend, you might spot couples taking wedding photos, teens posing for prom pictures, or families capturing memories against the city backdrop.

A nearby farmer's market adds to the charm, providing convenient access to snacks and local goods. When autumn arrives, the park transforms into a canvas of red and gold as the foliage changes color, creating a particularly photogenic setting.

History & Recognition

The park's name pays homage to the area's milling heritage and its connection to Gold Medal Flour, a historic brand from General Mills. This connection to Minneapolis' industrial past adds a layer of meaning to this modern green space.

In 2024, the park received the prestigious GOOD DESIGN® Award - an international honor established by mid-century modern visionaries Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen - recognizing its thoughtful design and contribution to urban life.

Open year-round and maintained by the Gold Medal Park Conservancy, this green space offers a quiet retreat within Minneapolis' urban core. Its proximity to cultural attractions like the Guthrie Theater and the Mill City Museum makes it easy to include in a day of exploring the city, with street parking available nearby for visitors.