1. Boom Island Park
© Jill Greer/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Want scenic skyline views with riverfront charm? Boom Island Park is a peaceful urban escape with trails, playgrounds, and access to the mighty Mississippi—right in the heart of Minneapolis.Recommended For:
Families, cyclists, walkers, city explorers, and those looking for picnic spots with a view.What I Love: ♥
Striking downtown skyline vistas, riverfront walking paths, and a boat dock for Mississippi access.- Stroll or bike along riverside paths that connect seamlessly to the nearby Heritage Trail.
- Let kids play on the family-friendly playground while you unwind with skyline and river views.
- Picnic with a view using shaded tables and grills, plus drinking fountains and restrooms on-site.
- Launch a boat or paddleboard from the dock, or relax and watch the river flow by.
Cost:
Free admission; some facilities may require reservationBest time to visit:
Spring through fall for river views, trail access, and picnic-perfect weatherLocal tips:
Use Boom Island Park as a launching point for a longer walk or bike ride along the Mississippi River trails.Distance:
Less than 10 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Boom Island Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, take Hennepin Ave to Sibley St. NE. Follow signs to Boom Island Park and its riverfront trails and boat access.Address:
724 Sibley St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413Phone: 612-230-6400
2. Brownie Lake Park
© Diana Vyshniakova/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for a serene hideaway right in the city? Brownie Lake Park is a quiet, rustic retreat for paddling, hiking, and escaping into nature—without ever leaving Minneapolis.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, solo adventurers, paddlers, hikers, and bikers looking for a peaceful urban wilderness experience.What I Love: ♥
Remote atmosphere, tree-lined trails, and a launch area for canoeing and kayaking in the city’s smallest Chain of Lakes link.- Launch a canoe or kayak from the north end of Brownie Lake and paddle surrounded by calm, wooded scenery.
- Hike or bike the rustic trails that loop around the park, ideal for a quick nature fix close to downtown.
- Relax in one of Minneapolis’ quietest parks—perfect for reflection, reading, or low-key recreation.
- Explore the western edge of Cedar Lake Parkway, where Brownie Lake Park connects to the larger Chain of Lakes system.
Cost:
Free admissionBest time to visit:
Early mornings or late afternoons for peaceful trail walks and calm paddling conditionsLocal tips:
Bring your own canoe or kayak—there’s a convenient launch and rack system for easy access on the north shore.Distance:
15 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Brownie Lake Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, take I-394 W to the Penn Ave exit. Follow signs to Cedar Lake Parkway and park near Wayzata Blvd for direct access.Address:
3201 Wayzata Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416Phone: 612-230-6400
3. Bryant Square Park
© JJIMAGE/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for a lively neighborhood park packed with activities? Bryant Square Park is a full-block recreation space that’s perfect for sports, play, performances, and summer fun.Recommended For:
Families, kids, athletes, community members, and anyone who enjoys concerts, skating, or casual outdoor fun.What I Love: ♥
The summer concert series, community vibe, and a mix of sports fields, playgrounds, and seasonal skating options.- Play at the children’s area with a wading pool, playground, and nearby Little Free Library for story time under the trees.
- Compete on the basketball court, softball and soccer fields, or glide across the ice on the hockey and skating rinks in winter.
- Relax on the lawn or at the amphitheater, where you’ll find performances like live music, movies, comedy, and dance shows.
- Gather year-round for seasonal events, social activities, and spontaneous fun at this well-loved community hub.
Cost:
Free admission; seasonal programs and rentals may have feesBest time to visit:
Summer for concerts and pool play; winter for ice skating and hot chocolate strollsLocal tips:
Check the park’s event calendar for outdoor movie nights and free summer music series at the performance plaza.Distance:
15 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Bryant Square Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, head south on Lyndale Ave and turn west onto 31st St. The park is located at the corner of 31st St and Bryant Ave S.Address:
3101 Bryant Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408Phone: 612-370-4907
Romantic Minneapolis Parks
4. Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park
© Jaimie Tuchman/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for sweeping river views and green space in the heart of Minneapolis? Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park is a 140-acre retreat filled with trails, wildlife, and riverside serenity.Recommended For:
Cyclists, birdwatchers, walkers, families, and anyone wanting to explore the Mississippi riverfront.What I Love: ♥
Scenic paved trails, migratory bird sightings, and riverside access that connects the north and south sides of the city.- Walk or bike along paved paths that link to Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park in the north and Minneapolis Park System trails in the south.
- Spot a wide variety of birds during migratory seasons as they follow the Mississippi River flyway.
- Relax at riverside picnic spots or let kids play at the well-kept playground areas.
- Host gatherings at the Riedel Farmhouse, a charming venue available for community events and private rentals.
Cost:
Free admission; event space rentals varyBest time to visit:
Spring and fall for birdwatching; summer for biking and riverside picnicsLocal tips:
Bring binoculars—this is a hotspot for seeing migratory species in action, especially near the riverbanks.Distance:
Located along the river, just minutes from downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park:
Access is available from both the east and west banks of the Mississippi River between the Plymouth Avenue North and 35W bridges. Parking and trailheads are available throughout.Address:
East and West banks of the Mississippi River between Plymouth Avenue North & 35W bridgesPhone: 612-230-6400
5. Columbia Park
© vectorfusionart/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for year-round outdoor fun with a side of scenic hills and trails? Columbia Park offers over 180 acres of adventure—from sledding and skiing to golfing and archery, right in northeast Minneapolis.Recommended For:
Families, athletes, golfers, cross-country skiers, trail lovers, and anyone who enjoys diverse outdoor recreation in every season.What I Love: ♥
The variety of amenities, from golf and playgrounds to cross-country ski trails and sledding hills—there’s something here for every season and age group.- Play on open fields, tennis courts, rugby and soccer pitches, or at the playground and picnic areas with grills.
- Ski or sled in the winter along designated trails and tubing hills perfect for snowy family fun.
- Hit the greens at the full golf course and driving range, or try your aim at the archery field.
- Explore the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and connect to St. Anthony Parkway’s walking and biking trails.
Cost:
Free park access; golf course and equipment rentals have separate feesBest time to visit:
Spring through fall for golf and field play; winter for sledding and skiingLocal tips:
The park’s rolling hills are ideal for winter tubing—bring a sled and check snow conditions before visiting!Distance:
20 minutes northeast of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Columbia Park:
From downtown, take Central Ave NE north to St. Anthony Pkwy, then turn onto Columbia Pkwy. Parking is available near the golf clubhouse and play areas.Address:
800 Columbia Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55418Phone: 612-230-6400
6. Corcoran Park
© kikovic/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for a welcoming community space in South Minneapolis? Corcoran Park offers year-round recreation, summer programs for kids, and a friendly neighborhood vibe.Recommended For:
Families, kids, community members, and anyone looking for an active, inclusive park with indoor and outdoor amenities.What I Love: ♥
The summer meals program, a community-focused rec center, and fun spaces like a volleyball court and wading pool.- Play at the wading pool, volleyball and softball fields, or the colorful playground with nearby picnic areas.
- Explore the Little Free Library or take a break at shaded benches near the drinking fountains and restrooms.
- Join in classes and programs inside the Recreation Center, which includes a gym, craft room, kitchen, and meeting spaces.
- Benefit from the summer meals program offering free snacks and weekday dinners for kids during summer months.
Cost:
Free park access; some programs and room rentals may have associated feesBest time to visit:
Summer for outdoor fun and free meals; winter for indoor rec center programs and community eventsLocal tips:
The multipurpose room is great for local gatherings—contact the rec center to reserve space for your next community event.Distance:
15 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Corcoran Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, head south on Hiawatha Ave, turn west on Lake St, then south on 20th Ave S. The park is just off the corner of 20th Ave and 34th St.Address:
3334 20th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN 55407Phone: 612-370-4919
7. Dickman Park
© supparsorn/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for a quiet neighborhood park with a thoughtfully designed play area? Dickman Park in St. Anthony West offers family-friendly recreation, shade, and accessible features just steps from Main Street.Recommended For:
Young children, families, neighborhood residents, and visitors looking for calm play and picnic space.What I Love: ♥
Two distinct playground structures by age group, a shaded wading pool, and plenty of extras like horseshoe pits and volleyball courts.- Play on age-specific playgrounds designed for toddlers (2–5) and older kids (5–12), complete with swings, seesaws, spinning elements, and a sand zone.
- Cool off in the seasonal wading pool, surrounded by trees and a shade umbrella for parents and kids alike.
- Enjoy active games on the volleyball and basketball courts, or try out the classic horseshoe pits.
- Relax with a picnic under the trees near drinking fountains, restrooms, and family-friendly seating.
Cost:
Free admissionBest time to visit:
Summer for water play and shaded afternoons; spring and fall for quieter family timeLocal tips:
The fully accessible playground surface makes this a great spot for inclusive play—perfect for families with diverse needs.Distance:
10 minutes northeast of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Dickman Park:
From downtown, take Hennepin Ave east, turn onto Main St NE, and then head north on Second St NE. The park is nestled in the St. Anthony West neighborhood.Address:
614 Second St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413Phone: 612-230-6400
Minneapolis Parks for Families
8. Father Hennepin Bluff Park
© leekris/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Looking for serene river views and downtown skyline photo ops? Father Hennepin Bluff Park is a wooded, scenic escape right by the Stone Arch Bridge—ideal for strolls, picnics, and quiet reflection.Recommended For:
Walkers, couples, photographers, history buffs, and anyone wanting river views with a forested feel in the heart of the city.What I Love: ♥
Bluffside trails, historic sights, and peaceful picnic areas just steps from downtown Minneapolis and the Mississippi River.- Stroll along forested walking paths with unique views of the Stone Arch Bridge and city skyline.
- Relax in picnic areas with grills and drinking fountains, perfect for a riverside lunch or evening sunset.
- Discover the historic connection to Father Hennepin, the first European to document nearby St. Anthony Falls.
- Enjoy live performances or peaceful moments at the open-air bandstand set into the wooded landscape.
Cost:
Free admissionBest time to visit:
Spring through fall for walking, picnicking, and catching golden-hour views over the riverLocal tips:
Bring your camera—this is one of the best photo spots in Minneapolis for skyline and river shots!Distance:
Less than 10 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Father Hennepin Bluff Park:
From downtown, cross the Stone Arch Bridge eastward by foot or bike. The park sits along Main St. SE with easy access by car, foot, or public transit.Address:
420 Main St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414Phone: 612-230-6400
9. Kenwood Park
© buharina/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Want a neighborhood park with great views and top-notch tennis? Kenwood Park is a 33-acre gem with wide lawns, sports fields, and stunning sunsets over the Chain of Lakes.Recommended For:
Families, tennis players, sunset chasers, walkers, and anyone looking for relaxed, scenic recreation near the lakes.What I Love: ♥
The iconic water tower, Minneapolis’s largest public tennis court bank, and sweeping hilltop views that make this park a local favorite.- Play on the tot lot and playground or enjoy open space perfect for tag, lounging, and casual games.
- Relax at picnic areas with grills, and enjoy restroom facilities for family-friendly convenience.
- Serve it up at the Kenwood Tennis Courts—the largest public tennis facility in the city park system.
- Catch gorgeous sunsets and partial lake views from the sloping green hills near the historic Kenwood Park Water Tower.
Cost:
Free admission; courts and community center facilities may require reservationBest time to visit:
Spring through fall for tennis, picnics, and walks; evenings for spectacular sunset viewsLocal tips:
Head to the top of the hill near the water tower just before sunset—locals say it's one of the best views in the city!Distance:
10 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Kenwood Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, take Hennepin Ave south to W Franklin Ave. Turn right and follow signs to Kenwood Parkway—parking is available near the community center.Address:
2101 W Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405Phone: 612-370-4941
10. Lake Harriet Bandshell Park
© Susan Rydberg/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Minneapolis, MNHighlights:
Craving lakeside vibes, summer concerts, and sunset sails? Lake Harriet Bandshell Park blends water, trails, and live music into one of Minneapolis’s most iconic outdoor destinations.Recommended For:
Families, music lovers, beachgoers, walkers, bikers, and anyone seeking summer fun or peaceful lake views.What I Love: ♥
Twin beaches, lakeside concerts, and the classic Como-Harriet streetcar line—all anchored by a historic bandshell and outdoor café.- Swim at one of two beaches or sunbathe along the scenic shoreline of Lake Harriet.
- Bike or hike along the trails that loop around the lake, connecting to the wider Minneapolis trail system.
- Enjoy summer performances at the bandshell as part of the Minneapolis Music and Movies in the Parks series.
- Ride the Como-Harriet Streetcar between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska for a charming step back in time.
Cost:
Free admission; concerts and streetcar rides are free or low-cost depending on the eventBest time to visit:
Summer for concerts, sailing, and swimming; fall for lakeside strolls and changing colorsLocal tips:
Grab a bite at Bread and Pickle, the lakeside café with fantastic views and a perfect post-trail snack menu.Distance:
15 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis, MNHow to Get to Lake Harriet Bandshell Park:
From downtown Minneapolis, take Lyndale Ave S to W 46th St and follow it west to W Lake Harriet Parkway. Follow signs to the bandshell parking area.Address:
4135 W Lake Harriet Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55409Phone: 612-230-6400
Plan Your Trip