Maple Grove Celebrates New Lions Pavilion and Playground

Maple Grove city and civic leaders celebrated the opening of the new Lions Pavilion and Playground at the Maple Grove Community Center on Monday, July 20.

The modern city asset is part of the ongoing community center renovation and expansion project.

The new playground includes age-accessible features the old playground was known for. The new pavilion, meanwhile, will become a popular gathering spot that can be rented out for family gatherings and events for up to 150 people.

“It has really come together beautifully,” said Chuck Stifter, Maple Grove’s parks and recreation director. “It’s a great spot, really adds the park feel to our community center project and campus. So we’re super fortunate to have the opportunity.”

The Maple Grove Lions provided significant financial support for the project, officials said.

One of the features at the new Lions Pavilion and Playground. The Maple Grove Lions provided financial support for the project.

The previous pavilion, which was constructed in 2002, was taken down last year to make room for a new third sheet of ice and expanded parking during phase one of the Maple Grove Community Center renovation project. The former playground was also due for replacement. The new amenities both overlook West Arbor Lake.

Next Phase of Construction

The city will now focus on the next phase of the community center renovation which is replacing the indoor and outdoor pools. Construction is scheduled to start in September.

The project includes renovating the adjoining Life Time space. That won’t happen until January 2028 after Life Time opens its new flagship club in the Minnesota Health Village of Maple Grove. 

The Maple Grove Community Center project is planned to be completed at the end of 2028.

Related: New Renderings Show Phase 2 of Maple Grove Community Center Expansion

Maple Grove