Old St. Paul at Irving Park

     

Saint Paul of the late 1800’s had two main areas of development; the lower and upper landings along the Mississippi River. Irving Park was located just up the hill from the old Upper Landing area. It was home to the monied residents of the time. By the 1970’s the area was becoming dilapidated and being lost to time and development.  It was saved as an historic preservation area at that time and allows for a visit to the past. The area provides a glimpse into an era when the river ran supreme and architectural influences came from outside the upper midwest. I always feel I’m a bit further south in the U.S. when I visit Irving Park because of the architecture of the district and layout of the park itself. I’m not always a fan of historic preservation but this is one area that seems to have been worth preserving.

     

ActionCyclist

Loring Greenway

The Loring Greenway was one of my favorite routes from my first MN apartment to Nicollet Mall back in the 90’s.  I could get straight to the pedestrian mall via all parkland.  Loring Greenway is a pleasant pedestrian/cycle path between Loring Park and Nicollet Mall/Minneapolis Convention Center.  From Loring Park the path is located across Willow Street from what I refer to as the dandelion fountain.  The greenway snakes between tall buildings and past gardens and fountains with ample room for stopping and relaxing.  The path most often serves as a quiet direct route between the bustle of Nicollet Mall and the bustle of one of the most used parks in the city.  Whatever purpose you put it to, it is an enjoyable place to visit.