The Rock Island Swing Bridge gives Inver Grove Heights a clear historical connection to the Mississippi River: built in 1894, it was a two-level bridge with rail traffic on the upper level and vehicle traffic on the lower level. A 670-foot-long walkway stretches across the river. Those looking to include construction history and a connection to the Mississippi in their choice of places to visit will find two specific points of interest at the bridge.
Bridge, lights and trail access
At Swing Bridge Park, the bridge is equipped with color-changing LED lights and features light shows every evening year-round. Since the lighting program may change, check current information if you plan to attend the show on a specific evening. The park also has a trailhead with access to the Mississippi River Regional Trail. Bicycle repair stations, restrooms, water and benches are also part of the park’s amenities. For a bike ride, the trail access and repair stations can be useful points of reference; benches and water can also be factored into your plans. Amenities may change. If you rely on a particular facility, check current information in advance.
Choose parks by landscape and trail options
North Valley Park is a densely wooded, 58-acre area in the center of Inver Grove Heights. Marianna Ranch encompasses 64 acres of protected land and offers 9,681 feet of paved trails. The two sites can be distinguished by their woodland character, protected status and trail surfaces. If paved trails are important to you, Marianna Ranch is a specific option; North Valley Park is a densely wooded park in the center of town. Harmon Park Reserve offers another biking option, with 22,294 feet of mountain bike trails. Trail conditions may vary, so it’s worth checking for updates before your ride.
The sites and activities also differ when it comes to the water: River Front Park is on the banks of the Mississippi River. Access for fishing at Seidls Lake is through a neighborhood park. The Mississippi connection at River Front Park and lake fishing access are therefore different starting points for planning; this does not imply a specific connection between the two locations.
More activities and a September festival
Heritage Village Park has an inclusive playground designed for children and adults of all ages and abilities to play together. The Veterans Memorial Community Center has an indoor water park. These offerings focus on different things than park trails or riverfronts: the emphasis here is on playing together and an indoor water park.
South Valley Park has a public archery range with ground-level lanes, elevated platforms and targets at various distances. Since the rules for public use may change, check them before your visit. Arbor Pointe Golf Club is a 9-hole executive golf course with a par of 31 in Inver Grove Heights. If golf is part of your travel plans, the number of holes and par provide a specific point of reference when choosing this option over the parks and other activities.
Inver Grove Heights Days is celebrated every September. The family-oriented events draw visitors from surrounding communities; dates and programs vary. If the festival is the reason for your stay, check the exact dates for the year of your trip. This lets you plan your timing around an actual event date rather than only the general September period.
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