2019 WALK & TALKS Series Exploring Minneapolis Parks Announced

Via an e-announcement from the Minneapolis Parks Foundation

Back by popular demand, our Walk & Talk series is especially curated with Parks Foundation supporters in mind. This year, you'll find wildlife on the wing and artistic wonders aplenty, plus get a sneak-peek of what's in store for the Central Riverfront. Groups will be led by local subject-matter and parks experts who will share with you insights into an intriguing place or topic.

Three events to choose from:

 Birdwatching in Wirth Park

May 17 • 8-10am

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Join enthusiastic birdwatcher Jamie McBride to look for and listen to spring songbirds as they travel on their annual migration. For 16 years, Jamie led naturalist programs for the Minneapolis Park Board, where he developed a deep knowledge of the wildlife in our city’s abundant natural areas and honed his skill as a guide. On this walk, you’ll be near Wirth Lake and Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary, part of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes IBA (Important Bird Area). 

RiverFirst Riverfront Tour

June 25 • 5-7pm

Get an insider’s view of how the Minneapolis Riverfront will soon transform through the most visionary parks-building effort in generations. You’ll learn about the storied history and exciting future of the Central Riverfront. Sights you’ll see include the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls, and the on-the-brink-of-construction Water Works park project.

Sculpture Garden & Loring Park Tour

July 9 • 3-5pm

Architect and art-lover Paul Bauknight will guide you on a tour he first gave as an instructor with the University of Minnesota College of Design. You’ll delve into the unique urban design that connects Nicollet Mall to Loring Park and the Sculpture Garden – establishing a world-class public space on par with those in New York and Paris. Along the way, discuss the sculpture and its role in the public commons and discover stories behind Loring Park, one of the earliest parks in the Minneapolis system.