Summit Park
Summit Park Map
About Summit Park in Saint Paul
Summit Park, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a small but historically significant public space situated at the intersection of Summit Avenue and Ramsey Street. This 0.43-acre park offers visitors a unique vantage point overlooking the city's West End neighborhood and the Mississippi River valley.
The park's history dates back to the late 1850s when it was the site of Carpenter's Hotel, also known as Summit Avenue House. After the hotel was destroyed by fire in the 1880s, the land was acquired by the city and designated as a public park in the mid-1890s, fulfilling landscape architect Horace W.S. Cleveland's vision of preserving public views along Summit Avenue.
Summit Park underwent significant renovations between 2004 and 2008, transforming it from a neglected space into a more welcoming area. The park now features several elements that pay homage to Saint Paul's history. These include a decorative metal railing salvaged from the historic Selby Avenue Bridge, a retaining wall constructed with stones from the old High Bridge, and a central bronze eagle sculpture that once adorned the New York Life Insurance Building in downtown Saint Paul.
The park's layout includes gravel walkways, landscaped areas, and seating options that allow visitors to enjoy the panoramic views. It serves as a peaceful retreat for local residents and a point of interest for those exploring the historic Summit Avenue area.