McRae Park

A Local Space

Positioned in Minneapolis' Northrup neighborhood, McRae Park spans a modest 8.4 acres with a surprising variety of amenities for its size. With its mix of lush greenery and prairie patches, it strikes that perfect balance between well-maintained and naturally beautiful.

Whether you're looking to break a sweat or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind, McRae offers options for both. The park sits conveniently close to local shops, and you won't have to circle the block hunting for parking - there's typically plenty available.

Get Your Game On

McRae offers a good selection of outdoor facilities including fields for soccer and football, three ball fields, and courts for tennis and basketball. One of the coolest features has to be the multipurpose broomball rink that transforms with the seasons - an ice rink during winter months and a roller rink when the weather warms up. The lighted broomball setup is particularly popular when the temperatures drop.

There's also a volleyball court for those beach-sport lovers. Fair warning though - some of the playing fields, especially the soccer areas, might not always be in pristine condition.

For families with little ones, the wading pool provides a fantastic splash zone from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It's a popular spot for kids to cool off during hot Minnesota summer afternoons.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The recently renovated playground and tot lot are notable features of McRae Park. Modern equipment designed for various age groups means everyone from toddlers to tweens can find something entertaining.

The saucer swing - affectionately dubbed the "relaxing swing" by local kids - is often the most sought-after spot. Little ones also love the pretend storefronts for imaginative play and the merry-go-round style ride that seems to appeal to children of all ages.

What's particularly nice is how the playground balances safety with fun. The equipment is up-to-date and suitable for the smallest visitors, while still offering challenges that keep older kids (and let's be honest, some adults too) thoroughly engaged.

Indoor Offerings

When the weather doesn't cooperate, head to the recreation center with its craft room, meeting spaces, kitchen, and warming room. You can even rent these areas for private gatherings.

The center staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness - always a plus when navigating public facilities. During summer months, the park hosts the Summer Meals Program, providing free weekday meals to kids 18 and under. The grounds themselves are thoughtfully maintained, making them accessible no matter the season.

Winter Wonderland

When snow blankets Minneapolis, McRae Park becomes a winter recreation spot. The hills transform into perfect sledding spots, while the lighted rink draws broomball enthusiasts for evening games throughout the winter.

These cold-weather activities have become neighborhood traditions, with the sledding hills particularly popular among families looking to burn off some energy during those long Minnesota winters.

Fresh Updates

2023 brought several welcome improvements to McRae, including new playground equipment and better drainage systems for the sports fields. Some areas, like the pickleball courts, might still be works in progress.

The open field areas are popular with dog owners and their four-legged friends, making this modestly-sized park a nice gathering spot for the neighborhood.