Nestled on the west bank of the Mississippi River, Best Things to do in Brooklyn Center has cemented itself as one of the largest, most active of the northwestern suburbs. With a bustling retail sector, plenty of public park land and tons of other things to do for both residents and visitors, you’re sure to enjoy time spent here.
About Brooklyn Center
Brooklyn Center has a long and storied history as one of the original inner-ring suburbs of the Twin Cities — from its earliest years as sparse farmland to the sprawling metropolitan city it is today. All the way back in 1881, when it was known as Brooklyn Township, the area started to take its modern form, thanks to a new treaty signed with the Dakota and Sioux tribes. The first settlers there started clearing much of the land for agricultural purposes, ushering the growth of the town’s residential population and commerce community. By 1911, the township became large enough to officially become its own village, with a new name of Brooklyn Center, and in 1966 it was incorporated as a city. The suburb saw tremendous post-war growth, eventually becoming a bedroom community that saw a rising job market year after year. This attracted a bevy of families and couples searching to live the classic suburban dream. Today, the population rests well above 30,000 people, and Brooklyn Center remains a popular first-ring suburb of Minneapolis-St. Paul, with plenty of things to do and places to explore.
Things to Do in Brooklyn Center
As a well-known northwestern suburb, there’s something for everyone in the town of Brooklyn Center. Enjoy any one of the following highlights:
Food & Beverage in Brooklyn Center
- Jammin Wings: Snazzy sports bar with TVs to watch the big game, plus pool tables, live music on weekends and outdoor eating area.
- Rose Garden Asian Bistro: This peaceful spot for Chinese, Japanese and Thai fare also includes a full bar and extensive wine list.
- Ming’s Garden: A classic Chinese restaurant providing all the best with its Asian-inspired menu as well as a buffet option.
- 50’s Grill: Enjoy a blast from the past at this retro-inspired hangout that serves burgers, fries and malts, along with other classic American food.
Recreation Opportunities in Brooklyn Center
- Centennial Park: Find wide-open green space, as well as archery, baseball and softball fields, playground and pavilion shelters.
- Palmer Lake Park: Over 200 acres of explorable land at the suburb’s largest park, including a three-mile trail loop among a scenic lake and marshland.
- North Mississippi Regional Park: A large, natural retreat within the Three Rivers Park District chain. Find forested areas, diverse wildlife and natural trails along river bluffs.
- Brookdale Park & Dog Park: Quaint, quiet park with a smaller fenced-in dog area, as well as a children’s playground.
Shops & Stores in Brooklyn
- Shingle Creek Center: A diverse strip mall with a variety of stores like GameStop and Target, as well as restaurants including African Jambo and Panera Bread. The shopping center is anchored by the area’s premier event venue, Earle Brown Heritage Center, as well as Hilton Embassy Suites.
- Shingle Creek Crossing: A trendy and upbeat shopping complex with a variety of boutique and mainstream stores like Foot Locker, rue21 and Keeyla’s, as well as a Wal-Mart and fast food chains.
Entertainment Options in Brooklyn Center
- Top Golf: Bring a group of people and enjoy the night enjoying a wide range of snacks, an array of drinks and a huge high-tech driving range.
- Bowlero: Large, family-friendly bowling alley, plus pool tables and bar fare.
- Discovery Flights: Inflight Pilot Training is the number one flight school and airplane rental company in Brooklyn Center. Try a Discovery Flight and see what it’s like to fly a plane under direction of a certified flight instructor (CFI), while gaining an unforgettable view of the northwestern suburbs from 5,000 feet above the ground.
Get in touch with Inflight Pilot Training to find out more. Our team of certified flight instructors can put you on the correct path toward obtaining a pilot license. Whether you’re interested in a Discovery Flight or are ready to sign up for official lessons, we’ll help you develop a plan of action. Gain the power to take flight and experience a new way to travel — all it takes is a quick call or note to our team to get started. For additional information on Inflight training programs, contact us today or call (952) 698-3000.