Brooklyn Park, Minnesota: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Brooklyn Park, Minnesota (Local’s Guide)

Looking for things to do in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota and around Hennepin County? Whether you live nearby or you’re just visiting the north side of the Twin Cities, this area is packed with parks, trails, family attractions, and some underrated food spots. I’ve pulled together 10 easy, fun ideas that work for couples, families, and solo travelers. Most of these are within a 15–25 minute drive from Brooklyn Park, so you don’t have to spend your whole day in the car.

1. Explore Nature at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park

If you only have time for one stop near Brooklyn Park, make it Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. It’s just across the Mississippi River from town and feels like a little slice of the North Woods without the long drive up north. You’ll find:
  • Easy walking and biking trails along the Mississippi River
  • Scenic views from the top of the dam
  • Lots of birds, especially in spring and fall
  • Picnic spots with plenty of shade
On a quiet evening, standing on the dam and listening to the water rush below is surprisingly relaxing. If you like taking photos, the river views at sunset are hard to beat. Travel tip: Bring a light jacket, even in summer. The breeze coming off the river can feel cooler than you expect.

2. Walk, Bike, or Blade the Rush Creek Regional Trail

Love to get outside but don’t want a steep hike? The Rush Creek Regional Trail is perfect. This paved trail runs right through Brooklyn Park and connects to nearby suburbs. You can:
  • Walk a short stretch with kids or grandparents
  • Bike a longer section for a solid workout
  • Rollerblade or push a stroller — it’s smooth and mostly flat
The trail winds past ponds, trees, and quiet neighborhoods. Parts of it feel surprisingly peaceful for being so close to the city. Local-style day: Grab coffee from a nearby shop, hop on the trail, and turn it into a slow Saturday morning walk. It’s a great way to see a more relaxed side of Brooklyn Park.

3. Have a Park Day at Central Park in Maple Grove

Just about 10 minutes west of Brooklyn Park, Central Park in Maple Grove is one of the area’s most popular gathering spots — and for good reason. Here’s what makes it special:
  • Huge playground that kids absolutely love
  • Loop trail around a pond for walking or light jogging
  • Rolling green space for frisbee, picnic blankets, or just people-watching
  • Seasonal splash pad in warm weather and ice skating loop in winter
If you’re traveling with kids, you could easily spend a whole afternoon here. Adults will appreciate all the nearby cafes and restaurants at Arbor Lakes, just across the street. Travel tip: In winter, the ice skating trail with lights feels straight out of a holiday movie. Rentals are usually available, but bring your own skates if you have them.

4. Shop, Eat, and Stroll at Arbor Lakes

Speaking of Arbor Lakes, this is one of the best things to do near Brooklyn Park if you enjoy shopping, dining, and walking around a lively area. Located in nearby Maple Grove, the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes and the surrounding area offer:
  • National brands and local boutiques
  • Plenty of sit-down restaurants and casual spots
  • Outdoor patios when the weather’s nice
  • Seasonal events, lights, and decorations
It’s an easy place to:
  • Meet friends for dinner
  • Stretch your legs after a long drive
  • Pick up last-minute items for a road trip
Budget idea: Skip the big meal and grab ice cream or coffee and just wander. The area has a nice small-city feel without being overwhelming.

5. Spend a Day at Elm Creek Park Reserve

A short drive north of Brooklyn Park brings you to Elm Creek Park Reserve, one of the crown jewels of Hennepin County’s park system. This huge park (over 4,000 acres) offers:
  • Swimming pond with a sandy beach in summer
  • Mountain biking trails for different skill levels
  • Winter tubing hill that’s a hit with families
  • Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking
  • Nature play area and picnic shelters
If you want that “Up North Minnesota” feeling without driving hours to the Brainerd Lakes or Duluth, Elm Creek is a solid stand-in. Pack list: Towels, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small cooler with snacks will make your day here a lot more comfortable.

6. Discover North Mississippi Regional Park

Head a little south toward Minneapolis and you’ll find North Mississippi Regional Park, another hidden gem along the river and still only about 15–20 minutes from Brooklyn Park. Here, you can:
  • Walk easy riverside trails
  • Let kids play at the nature-themed playground
  • Stop by the Carl W. Kroening Interpretive Center (check hours)
  • Watch for eagles, herons, and other wildlife
The park gives you that “big river” feel of the Mississippi without downtown traffic or parking headaches. It’s calm, green, and a nice break from busy city streets. Photography tip: Early morning and golden hour are great times for river photos, especially if you like softer light and fewer people.

7. Play a Round at a Local Golf Course

If you enjoy golf, Brooklyn Park gives you some solid options without the sky-high prices you might find in other metro areas. Popular nearby courses include:
  • Edinburgh USA (Brooklyn Park) – A well-known course with a Scottish feel and challenging layout.
  • Brookland Golf Park – More casual and beginner-friendly, great for practice or a relaxed round.
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, hitting a bucket of balls at the driving range on a sunny afternoon can be a fun, low-pressure outing. Local hint: Morning tee times usually mean cooler temps and less wind. Book ahead on weekends and during peak summer.

8. Check Out Brooklyn Park’s Diverse Food Scene

One of the most underrated things to do in Brooklyn Park is simply eating your way around town. The city is home to a wide range of communities, and that shows up on the menu. You’ll find:
  • Delicious African restaurants (including Liberian and Ethiopian)
  • Asian eateries, including Vietnamese, Thai, and Hmong flavors
  • Classic American diners, pizza spots, and sports bars
Instead of heading straight to a national chain, try picking one local spot you’ve never heard of. Ask your server what they recommend — that’s usually how you discover your new favorite dish. Fun idea: Turn it into a mini “food tour.” Lunch in Brooklyn Park, dessert in Maple Grove, and maybe a late coffee in Minneapolis.

9. Catch a Game or Event in Downtown Minneapolis

One big perk of staying in or near Brooklyn Park is how close you are to downtown Minneapolis — usually about a 20–25 minute drive, depending on traffic. From there, you can:
  • See a Twins baseball game at Target Field
  • Watch the Timberwolves or a concert at Target Center
  • Cheer on the Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium
  • Enjoy theaters, comedy clubs, and live music venues
Afterward, it’s easy to head back to Brooklyn Park for a quieter night’s sleep, while still enjoying all the big-city energy for a few hours. Parking tip: Look for event ramps a few blocks away from the main venue. It’s often cheaper and getting out afterward is less stressful.

10. Take a Scenic Drive Around the Lakes

If you enjoy simple pleasures like rolling down the windows and putting on your favorite playlist, a scenic drive around the Minneapolis lakes makes a great low-key outing from Brooklyn Park. From town, you can drive into Minneapolis and loop around:
  • Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska
  • Lake Harriet
  • Lake of the Isles
You can:
  • Walk or bike the paved paths around the lakes
  • Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards in warm weather
  • Grab a snack from a lakeside pavilion or food truck
When you’re done, head back up to Brooklyn Park. The contrast between peaceful suburb and lively lakes area gives you a pretty full Twin Cities experience in one easy afternoon.

Final Thoughts: Brooklyn Park as a Laid-Back Twin Cities Base

Brooklyn Park might not shout “tourist hot spot,” but that’s part of its charm. It’s a relaxed, friendly place to:
  • Enjoy parks and trails along the Mississippi
  • Sample a surprisingly diverse food scene
  • Use as a launch point for exploring Hennepin County and the Twin Cities
If you like a mix of nature, local flavor, and easy access to big-city attractions, this corner of Minnesota is a smart base for your next trip.

Share Your Brooklyn Park Favorites

Have you spent time in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota or nearby Hennepin County?
  • What’s your favorite park or trail?
  • Is there a local restaurant everyone should try?
  • Any hidden gems I missed?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments — they help other travelers plan better trips. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a visit to the Twin Cities area.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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