Address: 49 Harriet Island Road, Saint Paul, MN, 55107
Upcoming Events: Jump to Harriet Island Regional Park Events
Website: Harriet Island Regional Park
Phone: 651-292-7010
Park Hours: Sunrise to 11pm
Harriet Island Regional Park is a beautiful urban park that spreads out along St Paul’s riverfront across from downtown. “Island” is somewhat of a misnomer these days as the back channel of the island was filled in years ago.
Family fun at Harriet Island
Visitors to the park can enjoy walking paths that run close to the Mississippi River, a playground and tot lot (with a riverboat theme), and the Clarence W. Wigington Pavilion, which occasionally hosts entertainment for the public. Families coming to picnic will find grills available for use. Bring your own charcoal.
There are also several large-scale public events that take place annually on Harriet Island including the Irish Fair. Flooding in the last few years has reduced the number of public events. It used to be the city’s July 4th fireworks location, but they have been moved or cancelled in recent years. You may want to check the St. Paul website for closures before heading out to the park after heavy rains. Note that parking can be hard to find around the park – especially during events. Look for special free ride offers from MetroTransit for larger events.
Padelford Riverboat Cruises
Padelford Riverboats launch from Harriet Island Regional Park. They offers 90-minute sightseeing cruises, dinner and other specialty cruises and occasional kids cruises. See their calendar for public cruises.
5 family-friendly events at Harriet Island
- ALS Superhero 5K – Learn more about this May event in our Family Sports & Fitness event page.
- Irish Fair – Â Celebrated each August, this is one of our favorite summer festivals.
- Freedom 5K Run/Walk – Held in September, this 5K supports the Minnesota Teen Challenge organization.
- Chocoholic Frolic – This 5k/10k and KidsK features a chocolate reward at the finish line and at stops along the route. It also has a Kidzone with games and activities for children.
- Turkey Trot. Another November race. Get out and enjoy the outdoors before your Thanksgiving feast.
Depending on cooperation of the elements, St. Paul Parks & Rec often offers summer movies, music and occasional free outdoor fitness classes on Harriet Island.
Birthday Parties at Harriet Island
This may not be the most practical birthday party location as it is popular for weddings and public events. Rentable locations may book out far in advance – especially on weekends and summer months. However weekday prices are quite reasonable. Find other venues for birthday parties in our Guide to Birthday Parties for Kids.
More information
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Upcoming Family-Friendly Events
- Irish Fair of Minnesota - 08/07/2026 - 08/09/2026 - 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
- Melodies & Market on the Mississippi (FREE) - 08/19/2026 - 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
- Twin Cities Veg Fest - 09/20/2026 - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Fun Past Events We Hope to See Again
- St Paul Movies In the Park: Bad Boys (FREE) - 08/29/2025 - 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Please Note: FamilyFunTwinCities.com is an independent website run by Twin Cities families for Twin Cities families. We attempt to include the information we find most essential as parents. We make every effort to keep up with changes. However, we are not employed by or connected to this venue, and information sometimes changes without our knowledge. We recommend calling or checking the venue’s website for up-to-date information.
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