Water Power Park

Water Power Park, nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This 1.4-acre park is located at the east end of Saint Anthony Falls, the only major waterfall on the Mississippi River. The park was established in 2007 as part of Xcel Energy's recreational enhancements during the relicensing of the St. Anthony Falls Hydroelectric Project. Owned by Xcel Energy and managed by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, the park also lies within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, offering visitors a chance to explore both nature and history.

The park is famed for its sweeping views of the river and downtown Minneapolis. It features multiple interpretive panels that illustrate the area's evolution, from its use by Native Americans, who saw the falls as sacred, to its role in powering the city's early industries, such as sawmills and flour mills. The St. Anthony Falls Hydroelectric Plant, located nearby, continues to produce hydroelectric power, marking a historical milestone as the site of the nation's first commercial hydroelectric generation station.

Visitors to Water Power Park can enjoy accessible walking and biking trails that meander through an open green space. The park provides benches and overlooks, offering serene views of the cascading water and the dramatic Minneapolis skyline. Educational opportunities abound, as the park includes more than a dozen interpretive nodes highlighting the cultural, industrial, and ecological aspects of the area. Despite its constraints in landscape development due to its location on a dam, the park's minimal design enhances the natural and industrial features of its surroundings.

Water Power Park serves as an excellent destination for photography, relaxation, and education. It's an inviting location for families, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts, making it one of the hidden gems in Minneapolis.