William Berry Park

A Hidden Natural Escape

Tucked between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska lies William Berry Park, a 29.23-acre haven in Minneapolis' East Harriet and Linden Hills neighborhoods. The park is part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park and connects to the surrounding lake parkways via William Berry Parkway, a segment of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway.

What we find special about this park is its ecological heritage. The William Berry Woods area is one of the few remaining native plant communities in Minneapolis' park system. While the city has evolved around it, this pocket of wilderness has remained largely untouched since glaciers shaped the landscape - preserving the same natural beauty that existed when the Park Board acquired it in 1889.

A Park with History

The park wasn't always known by its current name. Originally called Interlachen Park, it was renamed in 1916 to honor William Morse Berry, the first Superintendent of Minneapolis parks who served from 1885 to 1906. Berry was instrumental in establishing the foundation of what would become Minneapolis's celebrated park system.

Natural Escape in the City

With its rolling, wooded landscape, William Berry Park offers a surprisingly secluded retreat right in the heart of Minneapolis. The extensive walking and biking paths wind through magnificent forested areas, creating perfect opportunities to disconnect from urban life without leaving the city.

We find the park particularly magical after a fresh snowfall, when the woods transform into a winter wonderland. But truthfully, this green space offers a peaceful escape during all four seasons.

What to Do and See

If you're visiting with kids, the playground is a must-visit spot where little ones can burn off energy while you enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. The paved paths that meander through the trees make for excellent casual strolls or dog walking routes.

Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars - the mature tree canopy attracts a variety of feathered residents all year long. And history buffs might appreciate glimpsing the historic trolley line nearby, which offers a charming connection to Minneapolis's transportation past.

Park Evolution

The park has seen thoughtful development over the years. In 1908, sidewalks were added along the parkway and new trees were planted. The pin oaks introduced that year thrived so well that additional ones were planted the following year. The parkway received its first lights in 1914, coinciding with the creation of a bridle path through the wooded areas.