Mears Park

A Historic Urban Oasis

Found in the heart of downtown Saint Paul's Lowertown district, Mears Park is a charming two-acre retreat that offers a refreshing break from city life. Occupying a full city block between 5th, 6th, Sibley, and Wacouta streets, this pocket of greenery has been evolving since 1888, with its current incarnation emerging from a 1992 redesign by landscape architect Don Ganje and artist Brad Goldberg.

Cascading water feature with natural stone steps amid urban surroundings

Photo: blhphotography (CC BY 2.0)

Natural Features

The park features a lovely stream that meanders diagonally across the space. With its gentle waterfalls, stepping stones, and quaint bridges, the stream creates a surprisingly tranquil soundtrack that somehow makes the surrounding city fade away. Close your eyes for a moment, and you might forget you're downtown at all.

Groves of slender birch trees create dappled shade throughout the park, standing like sentinels around seasonal flower gardens that change their display as the months pass. The combination of flowing water and rustling leaves creates a peaceful atmosphere - a quiet refuge amid the urban environment.

Vintage clock along the sidewalk in Mears Park

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Design Elements

Mears Park balances structure with wilderness in a way that feels intentional but not overly manicured. Diagonal paths invite you to wander through the space, eventually leading to a central paved area that transforms into an event venue when needed.

The irregular stone walls bordering the flower beds double as impromptu seating - fantastic for enjoying a coffee or quick lunch. Throughout the park, thoughtfully placed rock formations enhance the natural feel, while subtle hills help buffer traffic noise from the surrounding streets.

Events and Entertainment

Year-round, the park comes alive with summer concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. A permanent performance stage hosts free musical shows, including the vibrant Twin Cities Jazz Festival that fills the area with music and food trucks.

You'll often hear classical music playing softly from speakers near the bandshell, adding an unexpected soundtrack to your visit. In warmer months, outdoor movie nights bring the community together under the stars.

View of the park's north corner

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Seasonal Beauty

If you can catch Mears Park in autumn, you're in for a treat - the deciduous trees create a canopy of gold, orange, and red that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding restored warehouses. The gardens shift their palette throughout the growing season, offering something new with each visit.

Winter brings its own magic when holiday lights transform the bare branches into a twinkling display that brightens the long Minnesota nights, making even the coldest evenings feel a bit warmer and more festive.

Autumn trees on the park grounds with golden foliage

Photo: Joe Passe (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Amenities and Accessibility

Dog lovers, rejoice - Mears Park welcomes your four-legged friends with dedicated cleanup stations that include bags and trash bins. You'll see plenty of locals walking their leashed companions along the paths, with a grassy area available for brief off-path explorations.

The park is well-lit after dark, making evening strolls feel safe and comfortable. Note that while portable restrooms appear during major events, there aren't permanent facilities within the park itself.

Gentle stream flowing over rocky terrain through the heart of the park

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Surrounding Area

Mears Park's location makes it an ideal resting spot when exploring downtown Saint Paul. You're just steps away from the Saint Paul Farmers Market, CHS Field (where the St. Paul Saints play), and a variety of restaurants and bars throughout Lowertown. It's no wonder the park has become a favorite lunch spot for nearby workers and a popular backdrop for wedding photos.

Community Impact

More than just a pretty space, Mears Park has played a significant role in Lowertown's revitalization. It represents a green heart that pumps life into the neighborhood, creating a gathering place where urban living feels a little more connected to nature.

The park brings people together while providing moments of calm in the middle of the city. Whether you're visiting Saint Paul or call it home, Mears Park is a nice spot to take a break and enjoy some nature within the urban setting.