May Dip: Lake Hiawatha's Lesser-Known Charms

Juni Park — Seward, Minneapolis
Korean-American UX designer, outdoors obsessive, the person your friend group texts when nobody can agree on what to do Saturday.

Alright, Minneapolis. It’s May. The leaves are finally popping, the air smells like damp earth and possibility, and we’re all collectively sighing in relief that the whole “wearing six layers just to get the mail” thing is behind us for a few glorious months. This is prime time to shake off any lingering winter sluggishness and rediscover some local outdoor spots before the full summer crowds descend.

I’m talking about a place that’s part of our beloved park system but often gets overshadowed by its flashier neighbors. Today, we’re heading to Lake Hiawatha Park in South Minneapolis. It’s a perfect, low-key spot for a spring morning or afternoon that won't break the bank and offers a real sense of place.

Why Lake Hiawatha in May?

Lake Hiawatha isn't just another pretty lake. It's a key part of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed, which means you'll see the creek flowing right through it, fresh from Lake Harriet and making its way toward Minnehaha Falls. In May, this area is bursting with new life. The trees are a brilliant, almost neon green, the birds are going absolutely wild, and the general vibe is one of quiet reawakening.

What I love about Hiawatha this time of year is that it feels wonderfully local. It's a neighborhood park, a place where people walk their dogs, push strollers, or meet up for a round of golf on the city course. It's not usually packed with tourists, and it has a timeless charm thanks to some excellent WPA-era stonework and structures around the lake.

The Walk Itself: A Loop and a Creek

The loop around Lake Hiawatha is roughly one mile, making it a perfect length for a leisurely stroll without feeling like a major expedition. The paved path is smooth and mostly flat, making it accessible for just about anyone. As you walk, keep an eye out for:

• Minnehaha Creek: You'll cross bridges over the creek both entering and exiting the lake. Take a moment to watch the water flow and listen to the birds. It's surprisingly peaceful for being in the middle of the city.
• WPA Architecture: Look for the sturdy stone bridges and retaining walls, especially on the north side of the lake. These structures have a classic, enduring quality.
• Golf Course Greens: The Lake Hiawatha Golf Course wraps around part of the lake. Even if you're not a golfer, the expanse of green is a nice contrast to the water and trees.
• Birdlife: May is prime migration season! You're likely to spot ducks, geese, and various songbirds. I've even seen herons patiently fishing in the shallows.

This is definitely a walk for regular sneakers. Yes, I own Yaktrax, no I don't like it either, but we've thankfully graduated from that particular winter accessory.

Beyond the Loop: Neighborhood Bites

A good walk deserves a good treat. And because we're in the Twin Cities, there's always a fantastic local spot nearby that isn't a chain. Just a few blocks west of Lake Hiawatha, on 42nd Street, you'll find **Savory Bakehouse** (2610 E 42nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55406).

This place is a neighborhood gem. It's cozy, unpretentious, and their pastries are legitimately delicious. It's the kind of spot where you can grab a coffee, a scone, or one of their savory hand pies (I'm a big fan of the veggie ones) and feel like you've really earned it after your walk. They've got a small selection of breakfast and lunch items too, if you're looking for something more substantial. It's been a steady presence in the neighborhood for years, which means it's reliable and beloved, but not plastered all over every 'hot new spot' list.

From the park, it's an easy 5-10 minute walk west on 44th St, then a turn north on 26th Ave, or cut through the residential streets. Perfect for a post-walk refuel.

The Practical Stuff (Because I'm Your Organized Friend)

• Lake Hiawatha Park: 2701 E 44th St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
• Savory Bakehouse: 2610 E 42nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
• The park is free, obviously.
• Savory Bakehouse items typically range from $3 for a pastry to $10-15 for a coffee and a more substantial savory item. Budget-friendly for a treat!
• Good walking shoes: Comfort is key.
• A light jacket or layers: May weather can still be fickle. Sunshine one minute, breezy the next.
• Water bottle: Stay hydrated.
• Binoculars: If you're into birdwatching.
• A book or journal: Plenty of benches for a quiet break.
• You need absolute wilderness solitude. This is a city park, so you'll encounter other people.
• You're looking for an intense workout. It's a gentle walk, not a strenuous hike.
• You're only interested in the trendiest new spots. This is more about appreciating a classic neighborhood standby.

Skip this if:

What to Bring:

Cost:

Where:

Getting There (My Car-Free Guide)

As someone who doesn't own a car, I've got your transit options covered:

• By Bus: The Metro Transit Route 22 runs along 46th St E, with stops just a couple of blocks south of the park. The Route 9 runs along 38th St E, which is a bit more of a walk but still very doable. Check the Metro Transit website for current schedules.
• By Bike: Lake Hiawatha Park has direct access to the Minnehaha Parkway bike trail system, making it incredibly easy to reach if you're coming from anywhere along the parkway. There are also good, safe neighborhood streets for biking. A Nice Ride station is typically located near the Lake Hiawatha Recreation Center entrance if you need a bike.
• On Foot: If you live in Seward (like me!), Standish, Cooper, or Longfellow, it's a very pleasant walk. From the 38th Street Light Rail Station on the Blue Line, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the north side of the park.
• Driving: Street parking is generally available on the residential streets surrounding the park, especially on the east and south sides. It's free, but can fill up near the recreation center on busy weekend afternoons. Savory Bakehouse has limited street parking on 42nd St.

So, there you have it. A perfect May outing. Enjoy the simplicity of spring, a bit of Minneapolis history, and a delicious treat. Sometimes the best adventures are just around the corner, waiting for you to notice them.

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Photo by Josh Sorenson on Pexels