Inver Grove Heights offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for all ages. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, fitness buff, or someone seeking family-friendly activities, our community has something to offer.
Scenic Parks and Trails
Our city boasts 31 parks featuring scenic views, miles of paved and unpaved trails, and amenities such as playgrounds, fishing piers, and sports courts. Notable parks include:
- Swing Bridge Park: Located at 4465 66th Street E., this park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can walk out onto the 680-foot pier spanning the river or enjoy the scenic overlook. The park also features historical items like an arch, railroad tracks, and monuments. A trailhead facility connects to the Mississippi River Regional Trail, providing restrooms, water, and benches. Park hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- River Heights Park: Situated at 8780 Inver Grove Trail, this 8-acre park features a natural trail and picnic tables. The park is part of the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area and the Mississippi River Flyway, making it a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
- South Valley Park: Located at 2810 70th St E., this park offers wide walking paths, a spacious playground with swings and climbing walls, and popular activities like frisbee golf and sledding hills. The presence of goats near wooded sections adds a unique touch to the suburban setting.
Indoor Recreation
For those seeking indoor activities, the Veterans Memorial Community Center, also known as The Grove Aquatic & Fitness Center, provides a variety of options. The facility includes an indoor water park with water slides, a wading area, whirlpool, lap pool, and diving well. Additional amenities include a fitness center, aerobics/dance studio, gymnasium with a full-size basketball court, two ice arenas, and meeting rooms. Daily admission rates are $8 for individuals and $25 for families (up to 4 people).
Unique Attractions
Inver Grove Heights is home to unique attractions that cater to diverse interests:
- Nowhere Entertainment: This year-round indoor amusement center features escape rooms, mini golf, arcade games, and seasonal haunted house attractions. Located at 5300 S Robert Trail #300, it offers varying scare levels, including low-scare and no-scare options for families.
- Cuppa More Pages: Opened in 2025, this bookstore café invites guests to take or leave books, functioning as a life-sized Little Free Library. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while discovering new reads.
With its diverse parks, indoor facilities, and unique attractions, Inver Grove Heights offers a vibrant array of activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, enjoying indoor recreation, or discovering local attractions, there’s always something to do in our community.
