Raspberry Island

Island Features

Tucked beneath the Wabasha Street Bridge in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Raspberry Island is an urban hideaway sitting right in the Mississippi River. At just 2 acres, this compact retreat holds a special distinction as Saint Paul's last true island. Despite its small footprint, this 696-foot-above-sea-level haven offers a surprisingly serene escape from city life.

Nighttime view of the island's eastern tip and Robert Street Bridge

Photo: Chad Davis (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Historical Background

True to its name, wild raspberries once flourished across this little patch of land. The island has lived many lives since the mid-19th century, even spending time as Navy Island when a small naval base set up shop there in 1949.

A major turning point came in 2007-2008 when a $5 million state-funded renovation transformed what was once described as a "sun-baked expanse of dirt and rocks" into the charming public space you'll find today.

Elevated view of Raspberry Island and Schubert Club Bandshell

Photo: Charles Kremenak (CC BY 2.0)

Landscape and Design

The island's makeover included reinforcing the shoreline with limestone riprap, adding winding walking paths, and breathing life into the landscape with over 2,500 trees and flowers, many of them native to the area.

One of the island's greatest assets? The stunning views of downtown Saint Paul and the mighty Mississippi. Make your way up to the bridge for an even better vantage point to watch boats navigate the historic waterway below.

Looking west toward Wabasha Street Bridge

Photo: verygreen (CC BY 2.0)

Facilities and Attractions

The Minnesota Boat Club calls Raspberry Island home and has since 1885, making it Minnesota's oldest athletic club. Their Mission Revival style boathouse, built in 1910, isn't just functional - it's a piece of history listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Another highlight is the illuminated bandshell, constructed in 2004 by the Schubert Club of Minnesota. This performance space hosts musical events year-round and has helped establish the island as a sought-after venue for weddings, concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings.

Vibrant fall foliage with downtown St Paul across the river

Photo: Tony Webster (CC BY 2.0)

Visitor Amenities

You can find plenty of benches scattered around the island, ideal for sitting back and soaking in the riverside atmosphere. While there aren't any grills or picnic tables, these seating areas make ideal spots for enjoying a packed lunch or takeout while watching the river flow by.

Getting to the island is straightforward - you can walk directly from the Wabasha Street Bridge, or if you're driving, there's a parking lot available.

Cultural Attractions

Beyond its natural charm, the island occasionally hosts special events that add an extra layer of interest. Recent visitors have enjoyed exploring the Alebrijes: Keepers of the Island exhibition, a vibrant art installation that brought even more color to this riverside retreat.