Loring Park is the premier urban park
in downtown Minneapolis.
Established in 1883, Loring Park was the first public park commissioned by the newly formed Public Park Board. Originally named Central Park, Loring Park was designed by Horace Cleveland in the golden age of 19th Century progressive urban development. In 1890 the park was renamed to honor Charles Loring, the first president of the new park department.
Within its 33 acres can be found a small pond, Loring Lake, paths for walking and biking, the Garden of the Seasons, multiple flowerbeds, a dog park, playgrounds, a wading pool, tennis and basketball courts, Berger Fountain, the Performance Place Building and the Community Arts Building as well as oak trees that predate the city of Minneapolis.
Located in the central downtown neighborhood adjacent to The Walker Art Center and sculpture garden, Loring Park is the heart of a vibrant urban community. The park is the site of several large cultural and social events (Twin Cities Pride Festival and the Loring Park Art Festival) as well as offering additional programing and community sponsored events.
