A summer 2021 Lilac Way tour is the perfect escape, and it’s free! Stop in at Graeser Park, Rock Island and restored Lilac Park—all located on an 8-mile stretch of Highway 100.
Bring a lunch, family and friends, and see the heroic preservation efforts of dedicated volunteers and MnDOT.
These three Insta-worthy historic Depression-era parks make for a great getaway.
Please be respectful of fellow park visitors. COVID updates
Graeser Park | Robbinsdale, MN
Summer 2021 Update: One picnic table and three table pads were rebuilt near the rock garden. This work was completed by a team from Northern Bedrock Historic Preservation Corps. MnDOT is finalizing budgets for future stone masonry repair.
Features
- one of only two remaining beehive fireplaces (only one in its original location)
- rock garden with waterfall wall, two ponds, cone fountain and four stone benches
- overlook wall with curved ‘bandshell’ area
- recently unearthed pathways, walls and picnic table platform
- lots of parking spaces
Rock Island | St. Louis Park, MN
Summer 2021 Update: See MnDOT’s recent clearing of damaged, diseased and invasive trees and shrubs.
Features
- all that remains of the now-lost original Lilac Park on Minnetonka Boulevard
- oval pool
- 10′ footbridge to island
- handcrafted curved limestone bench
- many recently unearthed original features, including lost pathways and stone garden walls
- street parking
Lilac Park, restored | St. Louis Park, MN
Features
- beehive fireplace, saved from demolition
- five stone picnic tables
- informational signage
- 20′ dia. council ring with small fire pit (recreational permit required)
- circular walking path
- 100′ row of mature lilacs (blooms mid- to late-May)
- bike rack
- Three parking spaces, one handicap permit space plus street parking
Scroll over the gold map pins for park details and maps
