Summit Park

A Window to Saint Paul's Past

Perched at the intersection of Summit Avenue and Ramsey Street, Summit Park is a small but mighty gem in Saint Paul's crown. At just 0.43 acres, what this park lacks in size, it makes up for in its spectacular views overlooking the West End neighborhood and the Mississippi River valley.

This little glimpse of tranquility has quite the backstory. Back in the 1850s, the spot was home to Carpenter's Hotel (also called Summit Avenue House). After fire claimed the hotel in the 1880s, the city swooped in and turned the land into a public park by the mid-1890s. This wasn't just random development - it actually fulfilled renowned landscape architect Horace W.S. Cleveland's dream of keeping those stunning Summit Avenue views accessible to everyone.

From Neglected to Noteworthy

Between 2004 and 2008, Summit Park got the makeover it deserved. What was once a somewhat forgotten space transformed into a welcoming retreat that beautifully honors Saint Paul's rich history.

Walk through the park today and you'll spot pieces of the city's past cleverly incorporated into its design. There's an ornate metal railing that once graced the historic Selby Avenue Bridge, a sturdy retaining wall built with stones from the old High Bridge, and perhaps most impressively, a bronze eagle sculpture standing proud at the center - a magnificent piece that previously adorned the New York Life Insurance Building downtown.

A Moment of Calm

The thoughtfully designed layout features gravel paths winding through landscaped areas, with comfortable seating spots perfectly positioned for taking in those panoramic views. No matter if you're a local seeking a peaceful moment away from the hustle of city life or a visitor exploring the historic charms of Summit Avenue, this modest park offers a quiet place to pause and connect with Saint Paul's landscape and legacy.