Shelby Farms is a staggering piece of urban parkland: 4,500 acres — roughly five times the size of Central Park — on what was a county penal farm until the 1990s. The park has been methodically converted into trails, lakes, wetlands, and recreational facilities. There are over 80 kilometres of hiking and mountain biking trails, a zip line, stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals on Hyde Lake, and an equestrian center. A small herd of American bison graze in the park's western section, visible from the road.
The Greenline, a paved multi-use trail, connects Shelby Farms to Midtown and then to downtown, making it possible to cycle from the Mississippi riverfront all the way out to the park — about 12 kilometres each way. The trail passes through interesting residential neighborhoods and is a good way to see the city without a car. Shelby Farms is about 10 kilometres east of downtown; the most practical way to get there is by car or bike.