Why You Should Visit St. Louis Park

A community rich in culture, restaurants, breweries, distilleries and attractions, filled with venues, nature parks, free parking and walkable neighborhoods could be called a utopia. Trish Foster, marketing director for Discover St. Louis Park, would simply call it home.

Located just west of downtown Minneapolis resides the hospitable community of St. Louis Park, an area that offers “big city amenities and charming walkable neighborhoods” according to Foster.

Just about 19 years ago, Foster settled down in the city. The amiable residents, outstanding school system, and its close relation to the metro were just a few of the wonderful things that made it a special place. It was clear that it was a great area to raise a family.

Foster soon found herself filling the role for the non-profit organization Discover St. Louis Park. In this position, she finds joy in being the voice behind the city, sharing all there is to love about her home.

“When this job posting came up, I’m like, this is the perfect role to be in because it’s representing my community in such a positive way, and it’s also a lot of fun to talk about all our cool restaurants, and our attractions, and the hotels, and everything we have to offer visitors,” Foster said.

And, after hearing all there is to do and experience in St. Louis Park, it is easy to understand her enthusiasm.

Since its establishment in 1886, St. Louis Park has grown into a diverse community with an abundance of opportunity. Boasting preeminent schools, plentiful nature parks, and a bustling art scene, the city has the capacity to fill many needs. It can be the perfect location to raise a family, stop for a weekend, or come to visit when one desires a break from life in the big city.

Due to its prime location, one can find a broad range of things to do. For more urban activities, one can enjoy window shopping the boutiques or enjoying a tasty meal at a local restaurant. If one craves time in beautiful nature, one can find comfort in one of the 51 parks. Foster encourages anyone and everyone to come visit.

“We have such a wonderful, culture rich community. I mean it is such a welcoming community…there are so many different groups here,” Foster said.

From the West End’s lively restaurants and fulfilling activities, to the countless classes that are offered, there is always something to enjoy. Foster speaks about the new 3D illusion museum,

Canvas Convergence, that allows participants to take free, unique photos in front of delightful street art. She also touches on one of her personal favorites, the Westwood Hills Nature Center.

Because of its close distance to the twin cities, many do not expect St. Louis Park to house one of the most accessible and beautiful nature parks around. Described as a “hidden gem” by Foster, The Westwood Hills Nature Center provides a peaceful environment for one to destress. There are numerous trails for one to wander through and immerse themselves in wildlife. In addition to walking the trails, one can stop in to one of the classes that are offered. Foster says that regardless of the season, the nature center is a wonderful place to come see.

“Westwood Hills Nature Center is this eco-friendly, one hundred percent sustainable nature preserve with over three miles of trails. There’s a lake they stock it with fish so you can go fishing in the summer, you can go canoeing there’s canoes you can rent. In the winter, when we have snow, you can go snowshoeing because they have snow shoes that you can check out as well,” Foster said.

The nature center is also accessible to those with physical disabilities, meaning anyone and everyone can enjoy the peaceful woodland creatures and tranquil environment. People are encouraged to host events such as weddings or graduations at the center. The nature center provides an exceptional backdrop for one’s favorite moments.

No matter the time of year one can make many memories within the inviting city of St. Louis Park. It is a place where nature lovers and city dwellers band together to make a rich environment for any and everyone.

That said, if one wishes to plan the perfect trip, the Discover St. Louis Park website details their upcoming events. Some events that one can look forward to include:

• Lions Club Egg Hunt, The ROC, St. Louis Park | March 30, 2024
• Kiwanis Club Kite Fly, Louisiana Oak Park, St. Louis Park | April 27, 2024
• Minneapolis Vintage Market, The ROC, St. Louis Park | May 11, 2024

If one plans on attending one of these events, or just wants to come for a weekend and needs lodging, St. Louis Park has many hotels to choose from. Even more, the hotels provide free parking and easy access to all the perks that the city has to offer.

St. Louis Park is one of those few special places that truly accommodate everyone. If you are from the area and want a pleasant break from routine life, consider making a visit for a day or a weekend. If you are coming from a distance and want a taste of some of the wonders of the city within a tight knit community, keep St. Louis Park in mind.

For more information regarding the city and the events, log on to their website: www.discoverstlouispark.com