Highlight • Natural
Longfellow Gardens
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Longfellow Gardens is a serene natural feature nestled on the northwest side of Minnehaha Regional Park in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This tranquil 13-acre garden, situated at an elevation of approximately 245 meters, offers a peaceful escape over a land bridge above Highway 55/Hiawatha Avenue, just a short distance from the iconic Minnehaha Falls. It is celebrated for its diverse plant life, accessible walking paths, and its unique historical connection to the city's past.
Visitors consistently praise Longfellow Gardens as a hidden gem within Minneapolis, offering a calm atmosphere ideal for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. The varied plant life, including numerous trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals, provides a beautiful backdrop that changes with the seasons. Many appreciate the thoughtful design, which includes an arbor and offers glimpses of the downtown skyline, making it a favorite spot for both locals and those discovering the area for the first time.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the gardens are easily accessible, with walking paths suitable for most. The terrain is generally gentle, making it a pleasant experience for all ages. Parking is available within Minnehaha Regional Park, and the gardens are well-integrated into the park's network of trails. Given its popularity, especially on pleasant days, arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
The best time to visit Longfellow Gardens is typically from June through September, when the plants are at their most vibrant and the seasonal designs are in full bloom. This period also offers the best chance to spot local wildlife, including hummingbirds and various pollinators. The gardens are perfect for gentle walks, reading, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Its proximity to Minnehaha Falls makes it an excellent addition to any visit to this popular Minneapolis landmark.
This garden holds a rich history, named after the former Longfellow Zoological Gardens that once occupied this area. The original zoo owner, Robert "Fish" Jones, was an admirer of the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, whose famous poem "The Song of Hiawatha" made the Minnehaha area renowned. The current Longfellow Gardens, completed in 2005, continue this legacy, offering a beautiful space for reflection and connection to nature.
Hikers and nature enthusiasts on komoot can discover a variety of routes that incorporate Longfellow Gardens. Whether you're looking for a short, accessible stroll or a longer walk connecting to other parts of Minnehaha Regional Park, there are options for every preference. Explore the diverse trails and plan your visit to this charming Minneapolis destination, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and a touch of local history.
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December 21, 2023
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January 2, 2025
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Elevation 250 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Longfellow Gardens?
While the gardens are a natural space, specific regulations for dogs within Longfellow Gardens itself are not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, as it's part of Minnehaha Regional Park, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Always check local signage upon arrival for the most current pet policies.
Is Longfellow Gardens accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, the gardens feature accessible walking paths and generally gentle terrain, making them suitable for visitors using wheelchairs and strollers. This ensures that people of all mobility levels can enjoy the varied plant life and peaceful atmosphere.
Can I visit Longfellow Gardens in the winter?
While the intro highlights June through September as the best time for vibrant blooms, Longfellow Gardens can still be visited in winter. The paths remain accessible, offering a different, serene experience amidst the snow-covered landscape. It's a good spot for a quiet winter stroll, though the plant displays will naturally be less prominent.
How crowded does Longfellow Gardens get, especially on weekends?
Longfellow Gardens is considered a 'hidden gem' and offers a peaceful atmosphere. However, its proximity to the popular Minnehaha Falls means that the surrounding Minnehaha Regional Park can get busy, especially on pleasant days and weekends. To enjoy a more tranquil experience, arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended.
What kind of trails or walking paths are available, and how long are they?
Longfellow Gardens features walking paths that are generally gentle and accessible. The garden itself spans 13 acres, offering leisurely strolls within its boundaries. It's also well-integrated into the broader network of trails within Minnehaha Regional Park, allowing hikers to combine a visit with longer walks to other parts of the park, including Minnehaha Falls.
Where is the best place to park when visiting Longfellow Gardens?
Parking is available within Minnehaha Regional Park. Given the garden's popularity and its location near Minnehaha Falls, parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and on pleasant days. Arriving early is often the best strategy to secure a convenient spot.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Longfellow Gardens?
Longfellow Gardens is located within Minneapolis, a major city, so there are numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options available in the surrounding neighborhoods. Its proximity to Minnehaha Falls means you'll find some amenities catering to park visitors nearby, and a wider selection is just a short drive or public transport ride away in other parts of the city.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Longfellow Gardens?
The gardens are designed with native plants near the creek to provide wildlife habitat. Visitors have reported seeing hummingbirds, various pollinators like bumblebees and butterflies, and a variety of birds. It's a great spot for observing local fauna in a peaceful setting.
What is the historical significance of the name 'Longfellow Gardens'?
The gardens are named after the former Longfellow Zoological Gardens, which operated in this area from 1906 to 1934. The zoo owner, Robert 'Fish' Jones, was an admirer of the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, whose poem 'The Song of Hiawatha' made the Minnehaha area famous. The current gardens, completed in 2005, continue this historical legacy.
Are there any 'hidden gems' or specific viewpoints within Longfellow Gardens?
While the garden itself is often considered a 'hidden gem' within Minneapolis, visitors can discover several charming features. The garden includes an arbor, which provides a scenic backdrop and offers glimpses of the downtown skyline. The gentle slope of prairie flowers and grasses transitioning towards the 'wild' creek's edge also offers unique natural beauty and quiet spots for reflection.
How does Longfellow Gardens compare to other natural attractions in Minneapolis?
Longfellow Gardens offers a unique blend of cultivated beauty and natural tranquility. Unlike larger, more expansive parks, it provides a focused, serene garden experience with varied plant life and accessible paths. Its historical connection and proximity to Minnehaha Falls make it a distinct destination, often serving as a peaceful complement to the more bustling waterfall area.