Lake Park

In a city sandwiched between the Mississippi River and towering bluffs, a lakeside park in its interior doesn't sound that exciting. Yet Lake Winona and Lake Park, which nearly encircles the long body of water, add a final touch that makes the city so beautiful. The lake sits on the city's southern border, in the shadow of Sugar Loaf Bluff, with the Huff Street Dike segmenting its western third. A 5-mile recreational path runs around its perimeter. Most of the amenities stretch along the lake's northern shore, adjacent to Lake Park Drive. There is a beach, rose garden with gazebo, band shell, playgrounds, Frisbee golf course, soccer and softball fields. Within the park, near the band shell, is Veterans Memorial Park. The city offers free canoe and kayak rentals during the summer; in winter, a skating rink is created.Not surprisingly, the park is a beehive of activity. But it feels like a serene oasis as well.