Bryant Square Park

Bryant Square Park is a standout among South Minneapolis neighborhood parks because it offers more than just a playground — it delivers a seasonal feature lineup that makes it worth visiting year-round. In summer, the splash pad is the star: a free water play area that kids can run through and splash in without any planning, cost, or swimwear required (though towels and dry clothes are recommended). In winter, the park runs an outdoor skating rink with warming house, which is a genuinely lovely winter family outing.

The playground equipment is solid — better than many neighborhood parks, with structures for different age ranges and a good swing set. The adjacent open field gives bigger kids room to run. The combination of structured playground, splash/water feature, and open space means there's something for every kid in the family regardless of age difference.

The South Uptown location is a bonus. Bryant Square sits in a residential neighborhood that's walkable to some of the best casual dining in Minneapolis — Lyndale Avenue and the Lake Street corridor have everything from family-friendly pizza to the famous Matt's Bar. A park visit and lunch nearby makes for an efficient, enjoyable family morning.

Winter skating is worth highlighting specifically: the Minneapolis Parks system maintains several neighborhood rinks, and Bryant Square's rink has a warming house where you can thaw out between skates. If your kids ice skate or want to learn, this is one of the most accessible and community-feeling spots to do it in the city. Skate rentals are sometimes available through the rec system — check minneapolisparks.

org.