Hi neighbors! It’s Mia Erickson here with your go-to guide for things to do around Inver Grove Heights. Whether you want to get out in nature, zip indoors when the weather shifts, or unwind over great food—and an even better view—there’s always something happening. Let’s jump in.
Explore the Great Outdoors
With 31 parks, IGH has plenty of space to stretch your legs, hike, bike, fish, or enjoy a picnic. The park system includes both paved and unpaved trails, playgrounds, outdoor rinks, disc golf, dog-friendly off-leash areas, basketball & volleyball courts, and more. Woods, wetlands and lakes fill the scenery. A favorite spot is Inver Wood Golf Course, spanning 275 acres, with both championship and executive courses.
If you like river views and telling good stories, head to Swing Bridge Park. The Rock Island Swing Bridge offers a walking pier out over the Mississippi, a historic landmark that connects you with the water and sky. From there you can hop onto the Mississippi River Greenway trail to bike or stroll toward St. Paul or Hastings. Pine Bend Scientific & Natural Area is also lovely for bluff-top overlooks and birdwatching.
Indoor Activities & Family Fun
Rain or shine, there are options! VMCC (Veterans Memorial Community Center) is a hub with a pool (waterslides, dumping bucket, diving boards), a fitness center, ice skating, open hockey, and regular programs for all ages.
Nowhere Entertainment is perfect for variety—mini-golf, arcade games, escape rooms, even seasonal haunted-house events keep things interesting. Bowling fans will love Drkula’s 32 Bowl & Pub with its casual vibe and lots of lanes. For low-key movie nights, the AMC Grove 16 is right here in town.
Patios, Plants & Dining Out
When you want to relax over food or drinks, these local patios shine. Mississippi Pub has river views that pair well with great brunch, and Overboard Bar & Grill adds bocce courts and a chill riverside atmosphere. Inver Grove Brewing offers craft brews and a kid-friendly menu, while Jersey’s Bar & Grill brings live music, outdoor games, and an inviting shipping container bar. B-52 Burgers & Brew has a rooftop patio you won’t forget.
Don’t miss Gertens Garden Center if you have a soft spot for greenery. It’s more than a nursery: it’s a destination for all things plants, décor and outdoor inspiration. If you want fresh air plus frequent finds, the IGH Farmers Market at VMCC brings community energy, local produce and an opportunity to support small vendors.
Weekend Itinerary Ideas
Here are some thoughts to build your own perfect weekend:
- Friday night: Dinner at a riverside patio; catch a movie or enjoy bowling & arcade games afterward.
- Saturday morning: Coffee, then trails at Swing Bridge Park or Pine Bend; lunch, maybe explore Gertens; evening live music or show.
- Sunday: VMCC swim or open skate, Farmers Market, then a relaxed meal at your favorite local spot.
Whatever you choose, there’s always a balance of nature, activity and local flavor here in Inver Grove Heights. Hope you get out and enjoy something new this weekend!