El Rio Vista Recreation Center: A Community Hub at Wellstone in Saint Paul

Nestled within the Wellstone Community Center at 179 Robie St. E., Saint Paul, MN 55107, El Rio Vista Recreation Center is a dynamic facility offering a wide range of programs, activities, and amenities for residents of all ages. From educational youth programs and sports to fitness memberships and rental spaces for events, El Rio Vista is a cornerstone of the Saint Paul community. Whether you're looking for after-school activities, a place to stay active, or a venue for your next event, El Rio Vista has you covered.


El Rio Vista Recreation Center: A Community Hub at Wellstone in Saint Paul


El Rio Vista Recreation Center in Saint Paul
El Rio Vista Recreation Center in Saint Paul
Source: stpaul.gov


Year-Round Activities and Programs for All Ages

El Rio Vista Recreation Center provides an extensive lineup of year-round activities, programs, and events designed to engage the entire community. With offerings for children, teens, adults, and families, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below, we explore the exciting opportunities available at El Rio Vista.


Rec Check: Free After-School and Summer Fun

Rec Check is a free after-school and summer program for youth in grades 1–5 who live or attend school in Saint Paul. Offered at various recreation centers, including El Rio Vista, this program provides a safe and enriching environment where children can participate in educational and recreational activities. Additional programming is available on no-school days, ensuring kids have a fun and productive place to go year-round.

Learn more about El Rio Vista’s Rec Check program and how to register by visiting the Rec Check page. For other youth recreation programs offered at nearby sites, check out the S'more Fun and Recreation for Preschoolers pages, though note that these specific programs are not available at El Rio Vista.


Drop-In Activities for Fun and Fitness

El Rio Vista offers a variety of drop-in activities to suit different interests, ages, and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a casual workout, family-friendly playtime, or a competitive game, there’s an activity for you. Popular drop-in options include:

  • Open Gym: Perfect for pickup games and casual sports.
  • Tot Time: A fun and safe space for young children to play and explore.
  • Pickleball: Enjoy this popular sport with dedicated court times.

For detailed schedules and further information, visit the individual activity pages on the El Rio Vista Recreation Center website or browse all activities at Parks & Rec Activities.








Sports and Fitness at El Rio Vista

El Rio Vista Recreation Center is a premier destination for sports and fitness enthusiasts in Saint Paul. With programs for both youth and adults, as well as affordable fitness center memberships, staying active is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.


Youth and Adult Sports Registration

Through the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Municipal Athletics program, El Rio Vista offers a variety of athletic opportunities for all ages and abilities. From soccer and baseball to football and softball, there are programs to suit every interest. Whether you’re a young athlete developing your skills or an adult looking to join a league, El Rio Vista has you covered.

Register for youth sports on the Youth Sports Registration page or explore adult leagues on the Adult Sports Registration page.


Affordable Fitness Center Memberships

For just $30 per year, adults who live or work in Saint Paul can access El Rio Vista’s state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as fitness rooms at 13 other Saint Paul recreation centers. The fitness center features modern equipment for cardio, strength training, and more. Additionally, El Rio Vista offers a unique walking track for those looking for a low-impact way to stay active.

Take a virtual tour of the El Rio Vista Fitness Room and Walking Track to see the facilities, and visit the Fitness Center Memberships page for hours, membership details, and a full list of locations.







Amenities and Rental Information

El Rio Vista Recreation Center, located within the Wellstone Community Center, offers an impressive array of indoor and outdoor amenities, making it a versatile venue for recreation, sports, and events.


Indoor and Outdoor Amenities

El Rio Vista’s facilities are designed to accommodate a wide range of activities and events. Here’s a look at what’s available:

Indoor Amenities

  • Dance Studio
  • Fitness Center
  • (2) Gyms (Large)
  • Meeting Room (Small)
  • Lounge Room (Small)
  • Locker Rooms
  • Teaching Kitchen
  • Theater
  • Walking Track

Outdoor Amenities (Gilbert de la O Fields)

  • Baseball Field (MLB All-Star Park)
  • Football Field (Artificial Turf)
  • Soccer Field (Artificial Turf)
  • (2) Softball Fields (Artificial Turf)

Rentals and Reservations

El Rio Vista is an ideal venue for hosting parties, meetings, and community events. The facility offers rental spaces, including meeting rooms, gyms, and outdoor fields (Gilbert de la O Fields). For field reservations, contact the center at (651) 789-3692. For room rentals, call (651) 789-2542 or submit a Room Rental Request Form. For more details on rental rates, terms, and conditions, visit the Recreation Center Rentals page.

Explore the facility before booking by taking a virtual tour.







Community Programs and Services

El Rio Vista is more than just a recreation center—it’s a place where the community comes together through meaningful programs and services.


Free Meals Program

El Rio Vista participates in the Free Meals Program, providing nutritious meals to youth aged 18 and under, as well as individuals over 19 who participate in public or nonprofit private school programs for persons with disabilities. This initiative ensures that everyone has access to healthy food while enjoying the center’s activities. Visit the Free Meals Program page for eligibility details and schedules.


Volunteer Opportunities

Saint Paul Parks and Recreation relies on volunteers to support its programs and services. At El Rio Vista, you can make a difference by coaching youth sports, mentoring children, or assisting with community events. Whether you’re looking for a one-time opportunity or a long-term commitment, there’s a volunteer role for you. Learn more on the Volunteer page.








Take a Virtual Tour of El Rio Vista

Curious about what El Rio Vista has to offer? The virtual tour allows you to explore the facility from anywhere. Use the arrows to navigate through rooms, click the photo icon to jump to specific locations, or view the center’s location on a map with the world icon. This interactive experience is a great way to get familiar with El Rio Vista’s amenities.






Contact El Rio Vista Recreation Center

Ready to join the fun? Contact El Rio Vista Recreation Center for more information about programs, rentals, or memberships:

  • Address: 179 Robie St. E., Saint Paul, MN 55107
  • Phone: (651) 789-3692

Stay updated on events and activities by visiting the El Rio Vista Recreation Center website.






Why Visit El Rio Vista Recreation Center?

El Rio Vista Recreation Center, located within the Wellstone Community Center, is a vibrant hub for recreation, fitness, and community engagement in Saint Paul. With affordable programs, top-notch facilities, and a commitment to inclusivity, El Rio Vista offers something for everyone. Whether you’re signing up for a sports league, exploring fitness options, or planning an event, El Rio Vista is the place to be. Register for activities, take a virtual tour, or contact the center today to discover all that El Rio Vista has to offer!





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