Great River Passage Conservancy

MISSION, VISION & PROJECTS ✨ 

Great River Passage Conservancy's mission is to revitalize our community’s relationship to the Mississippi by transforming and connecting Saint Paul’s parks and public spaces along the river. We envision a Saint Paul that is The River Capital, where we bring the river back to the center of our public life and live not just by—but with—the river.  

The Mississippi River Learning Center, River Balcony, and the East Side River District projects will transform Saint Paul’s riverfront, reveal and heal long-neglected natural and cultural spaces, and establish the river as a world-class destination close to home. Click on the "Our Projects" tab to learn more.

THE DOWNTOWN RIVERWALK 👟

For generations, the Mississippi River has been the heartbeat of Saint Paul, shaping our history and livelihoods. But today, many Saint Paul residents and visitors walk through downtown without realizing how close they are to the river that built this city. It’s time to reconnect our city with its riverfront. 

The Downtown Riverwalk will transform a two-mile loop along the Mississippi River, connecting public spaces and landmarks through signage, interpretive graphics, artwork, and places to rest.

DONATE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 💖

The Downtown Riverwalk project needs your support! Every dollar moves us closer to creating a must-visit destination that connects the community to the heart of the Mississippi River. Your contribution will fund:

      🔵 Signage to guide visitors along the scenic route

     🔵 Exhibits that highlight Saint Paul's historical and cultural ties to the river

     🔵 Resting areas and scenic overlooks to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience for all

     🔵 Art installations in the Jackson and Sibley underpasses to enliven the underpasses and provide a clearer connection to the river

Now is the time to be part of Saint Paul’s next chapter. We plan to launch the Downtown Riverwalk in the summer of 2025, creating a new way to experience the river for generations to come. Donate today, and help reconnect downtown Saint Paul to the Mississippi River!

FOLLOW THE DOWNTOWN RIVERWALK LOOP🧭

Anchored at a new trailhead of the Science Museum of Minnesota (1), residents and visitors will enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River as they descend the stairs and follow the path to Eagle Pkwy (2). At Eagle Pkwy, they will turn left and cross over Shepard Road to Upper Landing Park. At the river, they’ll turn left (3) to follow the path along the river’s edge. ⬇️

Passing through Upper Landing Park and following the river's edge, walkers will enjoy informative signage and stories about the river and the people of Saint Paul. At Sibley Street (4), walkers will turn left to pass through an underpass that leads them up to Kellogg Boulevard. ⬇️

While the city has improved the pavement connection for a designated bikeway through the underpasses at Jackson and Sibley (4), the surrounding concrete walls with peeling paint remain an eyesore. By partnering with Saint Paul's talented artistic community, we propose creating murals and light displays to transform the passageway and create a stronger visual connection to the river. ⬇️

Upon reaching Kellogg Boulevard (5), visitors will turn left again, following clear and informative signage along the Mississippi River bluff, guiding them back to the Science Museum of Minnesota (1). ⬇️

The Downtown Riverwalk is a first step toward implementing the broader River Balcony vision, and will transform a two-mile loop along the Mississippi River, connecting key public spaces and landmarks through signage, interpretive graphics, artwork, and places to rest. It’s not just a walkway; it’s a crucial part of reimagining our riverfront and celebrating our city’s rich history.

Donate now and help build the Downtown Riverwalk in Saint Paul!