#MyDowntownRochMN featuring the parks of Downtown Rochester
Downtown Rochester holds an abundance of businesses, restaurants and shops which serve visitors and residents alike. However, sometimes the best form of entertainment is relaxation. Downtown is home to four major parks that double as event spaces and a great way to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Downtown police officer, Craig Jacobson, shares about his job working in the parks, as well as how he spends his time there off-duty. We’re here to give you a run-down of Downtown’s parks and how each one offers a unique touch.
If you’re looking for a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy your lunch break or visit with friends, then Central Park is the place to be. Home to the Heritage House Victorian Museum, this historical site is located on the Northwest side of First Ave. Several amenities such as picnic shelter, horseshoes, a seasonal restroom, and rentable space make this quiet park the perfect place for a family gathering or picnic. Take a seat near the beautiful fountain and read a book or join us on select Saturdays throughout the summer for Movies in the Park!
Located behind the beautiful and newly remodeled Mayo Civic Center lays Mayo Park. If you’re in need of that ‘classic park’ feel, then Mayo Park is the place for you! Sprawling greenery and paved trails near and alongside the Zumbro River make Mayo Park the perfect place to unwind. While Mayo Park is normally peaceful, it’s also home to a playground for kids to enjoy, holds an open play field where various events and programs are held, and plays host to the Down by The Riverside Summer Concert series. Mayo Park has it all!
This next spot may not seem like a park to most, but the Peace Plaza is home to events, shops, and a lush grassy area making it one of Downtown’s busiest parks. The Peace Plaza is in the heart of Downtown, between two major hotels and adjacent to the Mayo Clinic. Peace Plaza hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as Thursdays on First & 3rd, Fall Fest, SocialIce, and Dogs Downtown. As well as hosting the Games on the Grass cart, area organizations and business can also rent the outdoor plaza for private events. If you want a slice of nature in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Downtown, then the Peace Plaza is the place to be!
Soldiers Field is home to a beautiful Memorial, but it’s also a great place to hang out with friends and family due to their many amenities. If you want activities, then Soldiers Field is the perfect place for you! Offering shelters and restrooms, a playground, softball and soccer fields, and tennis and volleyball courts there is truly something for everyone! Cool off from the summer heat at the Soldiers Field Pool or grab a bite to eat from the Twisted Barrel Wood Fired Pizza truck. Soldiers Field is the perfect place to spend a day with your family.
Want more #MyDowntownRochMN stories? Check out the links below.
Individual Features
- #MyDowntownRochMN with Danae Gaio
- #MyDowntownRochMN with John and Sandy MacLaughlin
- #MyDowntownRochMN with Ahmed Makkawy
- #MyDowntownRochMN with Shane Braatz
- #MyDowntownRochMN with Amanda Golden
- #MyDowntownRochMN with Nicki de Vera
Business Features
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring Blue Sky Dental
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring Think Bank
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring Knight's Chamber
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring the First Avenue Food Court
- #MyDowntownRochMN featuring Canvas & Chardonnay
Disclaimer: the views, comments, and opinions located within this blog are those of the community individual, not those of the Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA).