Kayaking for Kids Open
Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
4.6(7,003)4.6 out of 5 stars, 7003 reviews Minneapolis, MN
About Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
This venue, despite being described as 'Kayaking for Kids', is primarily reviewed as a serene outdoor area offering beautiful views of the Mississippi River, easy hiking opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and nature appreciation. Reviews highlight scenic overlooks, specific trails like Winchell Trail, and occasional organized social events like lighted night hikes. **Crucially, none of the provided reviews mention any kayaking activities or specific programs/amenities for children.** Parents should consider this venue for general outdoor enjoyment rather than specific kid-focused activities or kayaking based on current feedback.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Parents looking for a peaceful outdoor retreat for themselves or with older children/teens who enjoy hiking and scenic views.Families seeking an easy, beautiful trail walk (e.g., Winchell Trail).Picnics or enjoying a quiet meal with a view of the Mississippi River.Attending specific, organized social events like 'lighted night hikes' with friends or family.A 'getaway' for quiet contemplation, reading, or bike rides (where permitted).
Why families love it
- Peaceful and calm atmosphere, suitable for quiet getaways and relaxation.
- Offers beautiful panoramic views of the Mississippi River, downtown Saint Paul, locks and dams (1 & 2), and Minnehaha Falls.
- Features easy hiking trails, specifically mentioned Winchell Trail.
- Hosts organized social events, such as a 'lighted night hike' often concluding with shared food like chili.
- Breathtaking scenic views of the river and urban landscape.
- Ample free parking available at some locations (e.g., scenic overlooks).
Insider tips
- Use GPS for navigation as some routes to scenic spots can be indirect.
- Consider visiting on weekdays for hiking if you prefer fewer crowds on trails like Winchell Trail.
- Bring your own lunch or snacks, as the venue provides scenic spots for eating.
- Be aware that specific kid-centric activities or kayaking are not mentioned in parent reviews; plan for general outdoor enjoyment.
- If attending night events, check seasonal recommendations, as winter might not be ideal.
Good to know before you go
- If your primary interest is 'kayaking for kids' or any specific water-based activities for children, as these are entirely absent from the reviews.
- If you require dedicated playgrounds, structured children's programs, or entertainment specifically for toddlers and young kids.
- Saturday afternoons, or peak times on Winchell Trail, if you wish to avoid crowds.
- Visiting specific scenic overlooks without GPS, as routes can be convoluted.
- The reviews provide no information whatsoever regarding kayaking activities, especially for children, despite the business description.
- Crowds
- The Winchell Trail was described as 'busy' even on a weekday.
- Food
- Outside food appears to be permitted, as reviewers mentioned it being a 'nice place to stop and eat your lunch'.
- Accessibility
- Reviews mention 'pretty easy hike' for the Winchell Trail, suggesting general accessibility for walking.
- Safety
- No specific safety features related to children's activities or kayaking are mentioned in the reviews.
What parents say
"I'm from Mississippi, so to be able to go wayyyy up here and see it and how beautiful I loved it. So peaceful and calm, a great place to sit and read or ride a bike to. Just to have a little nice getaway! I would definitely go back and sit."
6 months ago
"Did a lighted night hike. Very nice, calm. Afterwards can go in for some chilli n chill with friends or meet new friends..did the hike 2x with a friend..It is a golf area. I don't golf, ( dont recommend in the winter lol) but it was overall nice. " Friends of the Bluff" event.."
2 months ago
"Walked the winchell trail. For a weekday it was busy. Pretty easy hike. View was quite beautiful."
7 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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