Thanks to Minneapolis Northwest for sending me this article with great ideas!
Summer in the Midwest often includes heading to a cabin for some outdoor fun. But for those who aren’t lucky enough to have a lake house or simply don’t want to sit in traffic on a Friday afternoon, there’s Minneapolis Northwest. Minneapolis Northwest includes the cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove, and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis. You don’t need to go far this summer to experience outdoor fun. Simply head over to Minneapolis Northwest to enjoy the same activities you would at a cabin - paddling, golfing, swimming, and more:
Paddle Lakes and Rivers
Paddle along the mighty Mississippi River at North Mississippi Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. No kayak? No problem – the Mississippi River Paddle Share program is a first of its kind self-serve kayak sharing system that allows you and your family to have a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience. If you prefer lakes to rivers, head over to Fish Lake Regional Parkwhere you can kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy SUP Squatch - a unique six-to-10-person paddleboard.
Go for a Swim
Kids and parents alike will enjoy the refreshing, man-made chlorinated swimming hole at Elm Creek Park Reserve and wide, sandy beach at Fish Lake Regional Park.
Relax on the Golf Course
Golfers can enjoy a day on some of the top ranked courses in the Midwest, including Edinburgh USA in Brooklyn Park and Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove. No matter the weather, golfers can enjoy the game with a trip to the new, state-of-the-art Top golf facility in Brooklyn Center.
Fishing Options for Everyone
Minneapolis Northwest is home to a number of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes, not to mention the Mighty Mississippi. Anglers will enjoy the wide range of fishing options available in Minneapolis Northwest, including several areas to launch fishing boats or carry-in.
Bike Along Beautiful Trails
Minneapolis Northwest is a haven for fat bike enthusiasts, with nearly 13 miles of groomed single-track trails at Elm Creek Park Reserve, Hennepin County’s largest park. Bikers will also enjoy cycling alongside the Mississippi River at North Mississippi Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park.