Ames Lake Park

Nature's Comeback Story

Tucked into the urban landscape of Saint Paul, Minnesota, Ames Lake Park tells a fascinating tale of environmental redemption. The heart of the park is Ames Lake, a wetland with an unexpected history - it was actually filled in during the 1950s to make way for the Phalen Shopping Center, only to be restored decades later as part of a community revival initiative.

It's pretty remarkable when you think about it - this space has come full circle, from wetland to shopping center and back to nature again.

From Concrete to Cattails

The transformation didn't happen by accident. The Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District carefully designed the restoration, which included rerouting Prosperity Avenue and crafting wetland features. The result? A peaceful natural haven that feels miles away from city life, despite being right in the middle of it.

Take a Breather

Need some fresh air? The park's walking paths meander around the lake, well-suited for a morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or simply finding a quiet moment with nature.

One of the nicest features is the pier that extends into the water, giving you a front-row seat to observe local wildlife and the gentle rhythm of the wetland ecosystem.

Beyond the Boundaries

What makes Ames Lake Park even better is that it doesn't exist in isolation. The park connects to the wider Saint Paul green network, with easy access to the Bruce Vento Trail. You can start your outdoor adventure at the lake and extend it far beyond if you're feeling ambitious.

A Team Effort

The park is currently under the care of St. Paul Parks and Recreation Environmental Services, with helping hands from the Watershed District. It's a living example of what can happen when communities decide to invest in restoring natural spaces - a small but significant victory for urban environmentalism in the heart of Saint Paul.