Best attractions and places to see around Arden Hills include a variety of natural features, recreational opportunities, and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its numerous lakes, including Lake Johanna and Lake Josephine, alongside 14 city parks and over 22 miles of multi-use trails. Cultural enrichment is offered through venues like Bethel University's Benson Great Hall and the historic Flaherty's Arden Bowl. These elements combine to offer diverse outdoor activities and points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Walking or biking the iconic Stone Arch Bridge is a must-do while in Minneapolis. The path of the bridge offers stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River. The bridge itself is a beautiful stone masterpiece.
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This section of the Mississippi River Trail features a causeway that runs directly along the river, providing a pleasant ride with scenic river views, the city skyline in the background, and surrounding trees creating a charming and peaceful atmosphere.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek, and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which takes place each July.
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This lake was originally a wetland that was expanded when the surrounding park was developed. It is fed by storm sewer water run off, which for years resulted in algae blooms in the summer which produced a not-so-pleasant smell. However, recent efforts to improve the water quality, such as replacing invasive species with native plants and other filtration systems have greatly reduced the amount of algae blooms.
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Lake Phalen drains into the Mississippi River via Phalen Creek and it is the centerpiece of Phalen Regional Park. The lake is popular with all sorts of water sports enthusiasts and one of the highlights is the annual Dragon Boat Festival which take place each July.
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Minneapolis' Saint Anthony Falls is located near Gold Medal Park.
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Arden Hills is rich in natural beauty, featuring no less than 11 lakes, including Lake Johanna, Island Lake, and Lake Josephine, which offer public beaches and boat landings. You can also visit 14 city parks, Tony Schmidt Regional Park, and Lake Josephine County Park. The Crepeau Nature Preserve provides 12.5 acres with trails for nature immersion. For a unique experience, explore the 300-acre Marsden March on the AHATS property.
Yes, for cultural enrichment, you can visit Bethel University's Benson Great Hall, which hosts concerts and plays. A unique historical point of interest is Flaherty's Arden Bowl, established in 1938, making it the oldest family-owned bowling business in the country. While not directly in Arden Hills, the nearby Saint-Anthony-Falls offers a significant historical site related to Minneapolis's industrial past.
Many attractions around Arden Hills are suitable for families. Como Lake and Lake Phalen are both family-friendly lakes, perfect for water activities and enjoying the outdoors. The Mississippi River Trail is also family-friendly, offering pleasant rides with scenic views. Additionally, Flaherty's Arden Bowl provides bowling and arcade games for family entertainment.
Arden Hills boasts over 22 miles of multi-use trails. For cycling, the Mississippi River Trail offers a scenic causeway directly along the river. You can find various cycling routes, including the Mississippi River and Rice Creek West Trail Loop, by exploring the Cycling around Arden Hills guide. For hiking, easy trails like Snail Lake Trail and Rice Creek Loop Trail are available, detailed in the Easy hikes around Arden Hills guide.
Yes, the iconic Stone Arch Bridge is wheelchair accessible, offering stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River. While specific information on other accessible trails within Arden Hills is limited, many city parks and paved multi-use trails are generally suitable for various mobility levels.
For breathtaking views, the Stone Arch Bridge is a must-visit, providing panoramic vistas of the Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Trail also offers scenic river views, especially from its causeway section. Additionally, the highest point in Ramsey County, a geologic kame over 1,100 feet high, is located within the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) property, offering potential scenic overlooks.
Absolutely! Arden Hills has several running opportunities. You can find moderate running loops from the AHATS Wildlife Observation Area, Bethel University, and Long Lake Park. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Arden Hills guide.
The warmer months, from late spring through early autumn, are ideal for enjoying Arden Hills' numerous lakes, parks, and trails. This period allows for water sports, hiking, and cycling in comfortable conditions. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides opportunities for activities like cross-country skiing or ice skating on frozen lakes, though specific facilities should be checked seasonally.
Arden Hills is home to 11 lakes, with Lake Johanna, Island Lake, and Lake Josephine offering public beaches and boat landings, making them excellent choices for water sports and recreation. Lake Phalen is also very popular with water sports enthusiasts and hosts an annual Dragon Boat Festival each July.
With its abundance of natural spaces, including lakes, parks, and preserves like Crepeau Nature Preserve and Marsden March, Arden Hills offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot various bird species, waterfowl around the lakes, and small mammals in the wooded and natural areas. The AHATS Wildlife Observation Area is specifically designed for this purpose.
The Mississippi River Trail is noted as dog-friendly, providing a great option for walks with your canine companion. Many of Arden Hills' city parks and multi-use trails generally welcome leashed dogs, but it's always a good idea to check specific park regulations for any restrictions or designated off-leash areas.
Most city parks and regional parks in Arden Hills offer designated parking areas. While specific details for each location vary, parking is generally available and often free at public parks. For popular attractions like the Stone Arch Bridge, nearby parking garages or street parking may be available, sometimes for a fee.


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