Thomas Lowry Park

A Slice of History

Nestled in the Lowry Hill neighborhood of Minneapolis, Thomas Lowry Park is one of those charming little green havens you might walk right past if you weren't looking. What was once called Douglas Triangle got a name change in 1984 to honor Thomas Lowry, the visionary behind Minneapolis' street railway system (think of him as the transportation guru of his time).

This pocket-sized park offers a breath of fresh air amid the urban landscape, with its thoughtful landscaping, winding brick paths, and diverse collection of trees and shrubs. It's a rather serene location - a quiet retreat from city life that doesn't make it onto most tourist maps.

What Makes It Special

The centerpiece here is the historic Seven Pools fountain, designed by landscape architect Phelps Wyman back in 1924. It features a series of seven cascading basins creating a gentle waterfall effect that helps mask the city noise around you. Recently rebuilt, these pools maintain their natural aesthetic while stretching a couple hundred feet through the park - pretty impressive for such a compact space.

Right beside the fountain stands a vine-covered pergola with an old-world charm. Draped with grape vines, it's particularly stunning in mid-summer when everything is in full bloom (mark your calendar for July to August if you want to see it at its best). The pergola offers a wonderful shady spot to sit and maybe finish that book you've been meaning to read.

What You'll Find

This isn't your typical playground-and-picnic-tables kind of park. Thomas Lowry is designed for quieter pursuits - contemplative walks, a peaceful moment on one of the scattered benches, or spreading a blanket on the well-kept lawn. The absence of play equipment makes it a particularly peaceful spot.

Dog lovers, you can bring your furry friends along, but keep them leashed. Just note there are no restrooms or water fountains here, so plan accordingly. And despite how tempting those Seven Pools might look on a hot summer day, swimming isn't allowed - though nobody will stop you from dipping your fingers in to cool off.

Community Heart

Despite its small footprint, the park is frequently used for local events. It hosts intimate weddings, family photoshoots, and community get-togethers, including the annual Lowry Hill Neighborhood Association's Ice Cream Social.

The park's manageable size makes it meant for those moments when you need just a quick escape - ideal for reading a few chapters, enjoying a coffee, or taking a thoughtful stroll away from the urban hustle.

Finding Your Way

One of the perks of Thomas Lowry Park is its strategic location. You're just a short walk from cultural hotspots like the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Arts, making it an ideal spot to decompress after a museum visit. Find the right spot in the park, and you'll catch glimpses of downtown Minneapolis framed by the neighborhood's historic homes - a little urban vista that feels like a secret between you and the city.