Como Park551

The big attractions in Como Park get a lot of attention - and rightly so. The fabulous free zoo and conservatory, and the amusement park and carousel make it a virtual wonderland for families. But the park has simpler pleasures to offer, too.

For starters, there's the Como Lakeside Pavilion at the north end of Como Lake. Park visitors can rent canoes and paddleboats there in season, purchase snacks and meals, and enjoy free music and theatrical performances all summer. Enjoy a stroll on the trail ringing the lake before or after a performance; at about a mile and a half, it's a good distance for tiring out little legs on a summer evening. Call 651.266.6400 for information about performances.

The park has numerous picnic facilities for large and small groups, from grassy areas, tables and firepits to shelters with electricity and food-prep areas. Call 651.632.5111 for information on permits for large gatherings. Public restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park, in the main buildings and scattered outbuildings.

The Como Golf Course (5,980-yards; par 70) includes a clubhouse and pro shop. In winter, it turns into a beginning ski and snowboard area, and also offers equipment rental and about three miles of groomed intermediate cross country trails. Call 651.488.9673 for more information.

An outdoor public pool (651.489.2811) at Horton Avenue and Lexington Parkway features open swim times, swimming lessons, and a wading pool. Tennis courts are located near the pool. East of that area, anglers can vie for bass and walleye from a fishing pier at the southern end of the lake.

As if the park didn't have enough attractions, the Putt'er There Miniature Golf Course is open Memorial Day through Labor Day (Mon-Sat 10am-8:30pm; Sun 12n-8:30pm), and weekends through Halloween, weather-permitting. Call 651.488.0277 for mini-golf information.

The park's Historic Streetcar Station at 1224 North Lexington Parkway houses an interpretive museum with exhibits exploring the history of streetcars in the Twin Cities, and is a popular - and lovely - site for weddings. The museum is open to the public on Sundays from 12n to 4pm.