Just a few miles from downtown Minneapolis lies one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Minnesota. Who knew that a park as large and neat as Minnehaha Falls could hide within a large city?

Minnehaha Falls Park centers around its namesake, the waterfall. The falls are actually near the northwest corner of the park, and there is much more to see. Most people stop wandering after they come upon the falls, and it is not difficult to see why. This natural wonder is enclosed in a large, semicircular basin, and I could spend an hour mesmerized by the movement. In winter, Minnehaha Falls freeze into an equally beautiful sight. On any given days, you can see adventurous kids and teens climbing underneath the falls.

If you take a stroll around the rest of the park, you will find many more gorgeous sights. The falls lead into a small stream, which runs into the bicycling path. The cycling path connects with the Mississippi River trail and the Fort Snelling trail. There are several neat statutes around, too, and one of them commemorates the Indians Hiawatha and Minnehaha (from the "Song of Hiawatha" poem by Longfellow).

Besides the natural beauty of the Minnehaha Park, there is also a picnic area. In summer, food and gifts are sold near the falls and picnic area. There is also a playground and metered parking – and make sure to pay, because the park police will give tickets! Minnehaha Park is both a great family trip and a romantic place, too.

Minnehaha Falls State Park is quite pretty, with lush green areas surrounding the water. The falls themselves aren’t all that impressive, but worth a look. There is a café with restrooms in the park, and parking is available if you choose to drive instead of making the long walk or bike ride. To get there from downtown, simply follow the River Parkway.

The falls and creek are the main attraction, but the park also features a snack bar, picnic area, souvenir shop, public barbeques, and playground equipment. The John Stevens house (one of the first houses in Minneapolis) is well-preserved example of a pioneer family's dwelling. Volunteers from the Minnesota Historical Society offer tours on weekends. A statue of the Indian brave Hiawatha and his love Minnehaha (inspired by Longfellow's poem "The Song of Hiawatha") stands in the middle of the creek.