Oak Park

Imagine a green oasis spanning over 50 acres, nestled in the picturesque Souris River valley. This is Oak Park—one of the most beloved recreation spots in Minot, located in the northern part of the USA. The park is famous for its century-old oaks, ashes, and elms, which create a dense emerald canopy sheltering visitors from the city's hustle and bustle.

This natural sanctuary is more than just a woodland area; it is a nationally recognized landmark. In 2011, it earned the honorary title of America's Favorite Park, confirming its significance to both locals and tourists. The Souris River flows along the park's eastern border, while an oxbow lake within the landscape creates ideal conditions for observing North Dakota's flora and fauna.

In addition to its natural beauty, Oak Park offers modern infrastructure: from well-maintained bike trails to a unique splash pad. It is a place where opportunities for active sports and peaceful solitude among majestic trees blend harmoniously.

For those planning their visit in advance, below is the essential contact information for the park. You can always check details about seasonal events on the official website or by phone.

At Oak Park, everyone can find something to enjoy. Active lifestyle enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive network of hiking and biking trails—featuring both paved paths and dirt trails for a closer connection with nature. During the warmer months, the splash pad (a water play area) is a popular spot to cool off on a hot day, while the volleyball court is always ready for a friendly match.

The park's cultural life is also quite vibrant. In the summer, open-air concerts are held regularly as part of the Arts in the Park program. Additionally, a farmers market sets up several times a week, where you can buy fresh local produce and handmade goods, experiencing the true flavor of North Dakota.

For those who prefer quiet contemplation, Oak Park is a true paradise. Amateur birdwatchers often come here with binoculars to spot Canada geese, great blue herons, and kingfishers living by the Souris River. In winter, the park is transformed by the Christmas in the Park holiday light display, turning the wooded area into a magical, glowing forest.

The scenic Oak Park is located at 1300 4th Ave NW, Minot, ND 58703. Getting here from the city center by car is easy—a drive along 4th Avenue takes just 5–10 minutes. For the convenience of visitors, free parking is available on-site.

If you prefer public transport or a taxi, the park is an easily accessible destination, with the Souris River and the historic Oak Park Theater serving as local landmarks. Its proximity to major city thoroughfares makes it a popular spot for spontaneous outings.

For travelers arriving from further away, Minot International Airport (MOT) is only a 15-minute drive. This allows you to include a visit to the park in your itinerary even during a short stay in the city.

The history of Oak Park is closely intertwined with the development of Minot itself, which grew rapidly following the construction of the Northern Pacific Railway in the late 19th century. The park became a vital part of the urban environment, transforming the Souris River valley into a favorite recreation spot for residents.

One of the most notable moments in the park's history was in 2011. Despite a major flood that affected the region, Oak Park won the national America's Favorite Park contest hosted by Coca-Cola. The $100,000 grant received from the win funded extensive infrastructure upgrades and helped restore the area after the natural disaster.

The cultural character of the neighborhood is complemented by the nearby Oak Park Theater. This independent cinema, which opened back in 1961, evolved from a popular movie house to a billiards club and back to its original purpose. Today, like the park itself, it serves as a symbol of the local community's resilience and dedication to tradition.

To enjoy a leisurely stroll through the shaded alleys and soak in the park's atmosphere, most visitors need between 1 and 3 hours. If your goal is a quick walk along the paved paths or a brief look at the Souris River, an hour might suffice.

However, if you plan to host a family picnic, visit the farmers market, or stay for a summer evening concert, you can easily spend half a day at Oak Park. Time flies when there are so many opportunities for active recreation and nature contemplation.

The park is open daily to welcome visitors. You can come here for an early morning jog or a late evening walk before bed. The operating schedule is the same for all days of the week, including weekends and holidays:

Monday — Sunday: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

A visit to Oak Park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting locations in the city. Its proximity to dining and entertainment centers allows you to create a full day's itinerary, alternating nature walks with relaxation in cozy restaurants.