June 2005

The Perfect Picnic

by Peter Lau

Situated upon the Mississippi river, overlooking downtown Minneapolis/St Paul, and containing many historic burial mounds of the Dakota people, is Indian Mounds Park. This unique park is just that proper blend of elements that ONLY the twin cities has to offer making it a damn fine place to have a summer picnic. There are six remaining burial mounds in this park which once held historic treasures including human bones, grave offerings, tools and ornaments. Although none of the physical treasure remains the spirit of this ancient culture remains, giving a peaceful and distinctive atmosphere to this special spot.

This serene get-away in the city is quite easy to find. Considered to be part of the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood, Indian Mounds Park is just outside of downtown St. Paul. Head South on Mounds Boulevard from Interstate 94 and within moments you will find yourself winding down a precipice along the Mississippi river, overlooking the St. Paul airport and the Downtown area beyond. Parking should be no problem whatsoever, especially for those who may be interested in what is said to be the neighborhood with the largest concentration of Victorian houses in the St. Paul.

The park in total spans nearly 300 acres veined with paved trails and many exciting views of the river and the downtown areas. It also contains a host of picnic benches as well as a pavilion. Any trip to the park would be wisely accentuated with a well stocked picnic basket. Here a clever group of leisurelies may spread a blanket over the green, grassy hills in the warmth of a summer's early evening with a cooler of slightly chilled, non-alcoholic wine or sparkling juice (alcohol is not allowed in city parks), some rustic charcuterie, a little cheese and fresh bread. Relax while imbibing and watching as the shadows elongate, the Cessnas prepare for departure, and in the distance, the general buzz of city existence is subtly illustrated in the number of office buildings and street lights gently illuminating an otherwise darkening downtown sky...

For more information, call St. Paul Parks and Recreation at 651.266.6400.
Park Hours: Sunrise to 11:00 pm

...Now That's Theskini!::permalink


» send this article to a friend!

Email this entry to:

Your email address:

Message (optional):