Best attractions and places to see around Maplewood include a variety of natural spaces and recreational areas. This region, specifically Maplewood, Minnesota, features several lakes popular for water sports and outdoor activities. Expansive parks offer self-guiding trails, floating boardwalks, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The area combines natural landscapes with community-focused amenities, providing diverse options for exploration.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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This is a pretty big park that has lots of features, mountain bike trails, paved trails, ballfields, playgrounds, goes for blocks.
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One of the region's most popular parks, Harriet Island has a wide array of amenities on offer. The main draw, of course is the frontage along the Mississippi River, but you'll also find a large events center, paddleboat tours, and excellent views of St. Paul.
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Battle Creek Regional Park is over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, & wetlands. The miles and miles of trails are perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners to escape the city and enjoy immersion in nature without needing to travel far from home.
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Battle Creek Regional Park is over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, & wetlands. The miles and miles of trails are perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners to escape the city and enjoy immersion in nature without needing to travel far from home.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
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Battle Creek Regional Park is over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, & wetlands. The miles and miles of trails are perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners to escape the city and enjoy immersion in nature without needing to travel far from home.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
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This lake was originally a wetland that was expanded when the surrounding park was developed. It is fed by storm sewer water run off, which for years resulted in algae blooms in the summer which produced a not-so-pleasant smell. However, recent efforts to improve the water quality, such as replacing invasive species with native plants and other filtration systems have greatly reduced the amount of algae blooms.
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Maplewood, Minnesota, is rich in natural beauty, particularly its lakes and extensive park systems. You can visit Como Lake and Lake Phalen, both popular for water sports and outdoor activities. Additionally, Battle Creek Regional Park offers over 1,800 acres of natural woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands with miles of trails.
Yes, Maplewood offers several family-friendly options. Como Lake and Lake Phalen are great for families, with opportunities for water activities. Battle Creek Regional Park features playgrounds and paved trails suitable for all ages. The Maplewood Nature Center and Neighborhood Preserves also offer self-guiding trails and wildlife viewing, perfect for a family outing.
The area around Maplewood is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the Gateway State Trail or Trout Brook Regional Trail. For cyclists, there are extensive road cycling routes, including the Saint Paul Grand Round and the Mississippi River Trail. Hikers can explore easy trails such as the Battle Creek Dog Park Loop or the Lake Phalen Trail. Find more details on specific routes in our guides for Running Trails around Maplewood, Road Cycling Routes around Maplewood, and Easy hikes around Maplewood.
Maplewood and its surroundings offer several hiking opportunities. Battle Creek Regional Park has miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands. You can also find easy hikes like the Battle Creek Dog Park Loop and the Lake Phalen Trail. For more options, check out our guide on Easy hikes around Maplewood.
While Maplewood, Minnesota, is primarily known for its natural attractions, the Maplewood Area Historical Society at the Bruentrup Heritage Farm works to preserve and share local history, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Lake Phalen is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park and is particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts. It hosts the annual Dragon Boat Festival each July, making it a vibrant hub for community events and recreation. The lake drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek.
Harriet Island Regional Park is a popular facility located along the Mississippi River. It offers a wide array of amenities, including a large events center, paddleboat tours, and excellent views of St. Paul. It's a great spot for walking along the river and enjoying the urban landscape.
Cyclists have many options around Maplewood. The Gateway State Trail, which converges at Duluth Junction, is a paved path connecting St. Paul with Pine Point Regional Park. Other popular routes include the Saint Paul Grand Round and the Mississippi River Trail. You can find detailed routes in our guide to Road Cycling Routes around Maplewood.
The Maplewood Nature Center and Neighborhood Preserves offer self-guiding trails, floating boardwalks, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It's an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature and observe local flora and fauna without traveling far from the city.
Como Lake, originally a wetland, has seen significant efforts to improve its water quality, reducing algae blooms and enhancing its appeal. It's a family-friendly lake, perfect for enjoying the outdoors and various water activities in a pleasant environment.
Yes, at Duluth Junction, where the Gateway and Brown's Creek trails meet, you'll find a small pavilion and picnic tables, making it a common resting place for trail users. Many parks, including Battle Creek Regional Park, also offer facilities like ballfields and playgrounds that often include picnic areas.


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