Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Dog-friendly parks in Minnesota

You want to spend your time outdoors with your dog, and you need a space that makes that possible.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Central Park image 1
Central Park image 2
Central Park image 3
View all

Park offers well-maintained walking paths and multiple playgrounds designed for children of all ages. It hosts free live music at an outdoor amphitheater and provides varied recreational activities including volleyball courts, ball fields, and picnic areas. The space feels lively yet safe, with plenty of room for dogs and wildlife sightings.

Lots of open space lets dogs roam and play freely. Dogs stay on leashes and mix well with bikers and walkers around the lake.

Lots of space to roam with your dog and multiple playgrounds for kids make this park family-friendly. Walking trails circle a lake and an outdoor amphitheatre hosts free concerts. Sand volleyball courts and picnic areas add to the variety of activities.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice walking paths and trails in the park."

"It's a great dog-friendly place with lots of space to roam."

"You can catch summer concerts at the amphitheater here."

Good to know

1

During the summer, expect free outdoor concerts and family movie nights.

2

Parking is available in the lot or across the street from the park.

3

The park features walking trails, an amphitheater, and ball fields.

02
Rice Creek North Regional Trail Corridor image 1

Wide, paved trails wind through wooded areas and marshlands, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. A large dog park with sandy surfaces and small ponds attracts many dogs and their owners. The area stays quiet and calm, making it ideal for walking, running, and biking with a good balance of sun and shade.

A large off-leash area offers plenty of room for dogs to run and splash in small ponds. The park features a sandy surface, friendly dogs and people, and ongoing upgrades to improve the space.

Large off-leash dog park offers plenty of room for dogs to run and splash in small ponds. Paved trails provide beautiful views for peaceful walks or bike rides, with friendly people and dogs around.

People are saying

"This dog park is huge, with lots of room for dogs to run."

"I thought it was the best dog park I've ever been to."

"The scenery here is beautiful and majestic."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the trailhead, making access convenient.

2

The dog park is large and popular, with sandy areas and small ponds.

3

Bring your own water for dogs, as the water is turned off for the season.

03
Thompson County Park image 1

Country park offers a large modern playground with musical elements and a fenced, carpeted play area for safer children's play. A beautiful lake sits at the center, surrounded by trees and benches, creating a peaceful, quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation and nature watching.

Open trails offer plenty of room for walking dogs and getting steps in. Stations with doggy bags help keep the area clean and welcoming for pets.

Largest playground in the area features a fenced, carpeted play space for safer fun. Walking and biking trails are easy for children and the park offers accessible grills and a pavilion for events.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a nice lake for walking."

"The playground here is beautiful and modern."

"It's a great place to walk your dog on the trails."

Good to know

1

There is a ChargePoint EV charger in the south parking lot.

2

The restrooms on site are clean.

3

The park is family-friendly with a large playground for kids.

04
Minnehaha Falls image 1
Tourist attraction

Waterfall and surrounding trails create a scenic setting with breathtaking views. Large open grounds include an outdoor theatre and public food court, supporting a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Families enjoy play areas and pedal carts, while music and art add cultural touches.

Leashed dogs enjoy walking trails and open spaces. The area welcomes pets for picnics, playground visits, and bike rides.

Beautiful waterfalls stand out in this well-maintained park. Plenty of picnic areas make it great for a relaxing day with easy walking paths.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with its wonderful waterfall."

"It's so peaceful here, with beautiful natural beauty all around."

"It's dog friendly, perfect for a walk with your pet."

Good to know

1

Entry to Minnehaha Falls is free for all visitors.

2

Parking costs $1.30 per hour and requires license plate recognition.

3

The park occasionally hosts festivals and events, so check the calendar.

05
Silverwood Park image 1

Park offers quiet natural spaces with scenic trails, sculpture and poetry gardens, and a large lake for kayaking and fishing. Visitors find it peaceful for walking, relaxing, and small gatherings. Amenities include picnic areas, a pavilion, and a modern lodge with a coffee shop.

Trails welcome dogs for walks and runs. A lake offers a spot for dogs to swim. The environment stays peaceful and open for pets and families.

Many walking trails wind through peaceful gardens and around a beautiful lake with a small island accessible by a wooden bridge. The park offers spots for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, plus picnic areas with benches and grills scattered throughout.

People are saying

"I found the park's trails perfect for a peaceful stroll."

"I loved the fun sculptures and the pathway that wraps around the area."

"It's a beautiful, dog-friendly oasis perfect for walking your pet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for two-hour periods, such as 9-11, 11-1, 1-3.

2

Arriving late blocks the next reservation period, requiring a two-hour wait.

3

The park features a cafe inside the visitor building.

06
Gold Medal Park image 1

Large urban park offers 360-degree city and river views from a prominent hill with shaded seating. Paved paths and biking trails make it easy to explore, while a dog-friendly area welcomes pets. Iconic flour sign and multiple sculptures add historical and artistic touches to a peaceful, well-maintained green space.

Dog-friendly area lets dogs run freely while plenty of paths offer good spots for walking dogs. The park has a picturesque setting with many happy dogs and families enjoying the space.

Paved walking paths and biking trails make exploring easy. The park offers amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River, with plenty of spots to sit, read, or walk dogs.

People are saying

"You get a great view of the city and river from here."

"It's a beautiful, picturesque park that's great for walking your dog."

"The park offers beautiful views of the surrounding area."

Good to know

1

The park has ample metered street parking nearby.

2

The nearest restroom is located in the Guthrie Theater.

3

There are no grilling or picnic tables allowed in the park.

07
Fish Lake Regional Park image 1

Park features beautiful tree-lined trails and a scenic lake with a clean, kid-friendly beach and watercraft rentals. Atmosphere stays peaceful and safe, attracting people for walking, swimming, and dog activities. Amenities include paved trails, a dog park, and plenty of space for relaxation.

Separate dogs' playground offers a dedicated space for pets to play. The dog park provides ample room for exercise and walking. The area is clearly pet-friendly and welcoming.

Soft sand and shallow water make the beach safe for young kids. The park offers paved trails, a dog park, and areas for swimming, kayaking, fishing, volleyball, and hiking.

People are saying

"The beach here is clean and has lots of shade."

"It's a great dog park, one of the best in the city."

"The park's beach is shallow and sandy, perfect for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

The park features a clean beach with shallow areas safe for young children.

3

Canoe rentals are available for those looking to explore the lake.

08
Northwood Park image 1

Park offers paved walking and bicycling trails winding through a suburban setting with mature trees. It feels cozy and secure, tucked away in a neighborhood with plenty of family-friendly play equipment and spaces for picnics. Wildlife like ducks and birds add to the calm, natural atmosphere.

Small dogs enjoy walking here with their owners. People show responsible pet care by picking up after their dogs. The park offers a safe space for pets and kids.

A large, clean park with paved walking and bicycling trails and a variety of play equipment for kids. Wildlife like ducks, turtles, and songbirds are common, and there are plenty of benches and picnic tables for resting.

People are saying

"It's a nice park for walking or taking the kids."

"It's a nice, safe place for kids to play."

"It's a nice place for walking dogs."

Good to know

1

Northwood Park has a playground suitable for young children.

2

The park features paved trails for walking and biking.

3

Parking is ample, but the lot is a bit far from the playground.

09
BF Nelson Park image 1

Park along the Mississippi River offers beautiful trails and open green spaces with shaded areas for relaxing. It maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere ideal for walking, running, or meditating. Free parking and proximity to downtown make it accessible for outdoor activities.

Open areas and walking paths offer plenty of space for dogs to run and enjoy the weather. Visitors should note the leash and clean-up rules posted throughout the park.

Quiet, clean park with beautiful trails and shaded tree cover along the Mississippi River. Offers walking paths, picnic spots, a dog-friendly open area, and free parking near multiple trails.

People are saying

"It's a gorgeous park with beautiful trails for walking."

"It's a nice, quiet place along the trail."

"It's a nice place for a walk with your dog."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at BF Nelson Park, but limited to 2 hours.

2

Dogs must be leashed and owners should clean up after them.

3

The park features beautiful trails along the river for walking or running.

10
Brookdale Park & Dog Park image 1

Wide open green space with a big hill and separate dog areas creates a calm, friendly atmosphere. Dogs and kids enjoy the playground and room to run, while the park stays never crowded and well maintained. Walking trails near fenced dog zones offer options for dogs that prefer less socializing.

Spacious green areas and a medium-sized dog park offer plenty of room for dogs to run and play fetch. Separate sections for small and large dogs keep play safe and enjoyable for all sizes.

Spacious green areas and a well-maintained dog park make this spot great for dogs and their owners. The park offers medium-sized open spaces for running and picnics, plus friendly dogs and a pleasant environment for kids and walking.

People are saying

"It's a great dog park where pets and people are playful."

"The dog park is a nice, spacious area for dogs to run."

"Parking available here has plenty of space for playing fetch."

Good to know

1

The dog park is free of charge and well-maintained.

2

There are separate areas for small and large dogs.

3

Parking is limited, requiring some extra walking.

11
Day Park & Earley Lake Trail image 1

Paved trails circle a sizable lake with native plants and several beaches, creating a quiet, shaded environment. A small playground and pavilion with grills offer spots for rest and meals. The area welcomes dogs and features gentle hills that add mild exercise without strain.

Walking around the lake and on the trail welcomes dogs. The area offers a dog friendly environment where dogs can enjoy the walk.

Flat, smooth paved trails circle a small lake, offering a quiet spot with a nice breeze. The park includes a playground, a pavilion with tables and grills, and welcomes dogs.

People are saying

"I took my dog for a nice mile-long walk around the lake."

"I loved the pretty, green scenery."

"The park's paved trails around the pond are clean and dry."

Good to know

1

The park has a paved trail that is about 1.5 miles long.

2

Dogs are allowed on the walking trail.

3

The trail is wheelchair accessible and mostly flat.

12
Cedar Knoll Park image 1

Small fenced-in dog park offers shady, woodsy setting with interesting terrain and multiple levels for dogs to explore. It remains hidden from the road, accessed by a path, and hosts a low number of dogs, creating a quiet atmosphere. Picnic tables provide a spot to rest amid the ample shade.

A small, fully fenced dog park with plenty of room for dogs to roam and explore. It offers shaded areas, a well-lit environment at night, and a layout with many nooks and crannies for dogs to enjoy.

A small, fully fenced dog park with shady, woodsy terrain and elevation changes offers plenty of room for small dogs to roam safely. The park has lots of shade and picnic tables but lacks lighting and requires bringing your own water and poop bags.

People are saying

"It's a nice, small dog friendly park with interesting terrain."

"It's a nice little fenced-in dog park, perfect for small dogs."

"It's a great shaded, fenced-in Dog Park."

Good to know

1

Cedar Knoll Park is a small dog park with plenty of shade.

2

The park is fully fenced, making it safe for dogs to roam.

3

Visitors should bring their own poop bags and water.

13
Minnehaha Regional Park image 1

Powerful waterfall anchors a spacious park with open picnic grounds and accessible bike paths. Peaceful atmosphere blends with natural scenery featuring bridges, creeks, and sandstone climbing spots. Play areas and a concert pavilion add to the family-friendly vibe.

Trails welcome dogs and a separate dog play area exists for off-leash fun. The park is kid and pet friendly, making it easy to bring pets along with family.

Big frozen waterfall stands out as a key feature with wonderful walking paths weaving through the park. It offers a kid and pet friendly environment with easy access to nearby trails.

People are saying

"You have to see the frozen falls at this park; it's incredible."

"It's a great kid-friendly place with fun playground areas."

"It's a great place to visit with your dog."

Good to know

1

Parking is not free; be prepared to pay.

2

There are concerts in the summer at the park.

3

Expect local art events and food stands during special occasions.

14
Whitetail Woods Regional Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained trails through forest, prairie, and lakeside with a paved path around a lake suitable for strollers and bikes. Atmosphere is quiet and peaceful with no road noise, featuring natural playgrounds and cabins nestled in trees or overlooking prairie. Facilities include a pavilion, amphitheater, and fire pit, supporting gatherings and outdoor activities.

Trails offer beautiful morning hikes and plenty of space for dog walking and running. Many dogs visit, but some areas have dog waste left behind, and there is no dedicated dog park or play yard.

Paved main trail around the lake offers easy access for strollers, bikes, and scooters. The park features natural playground areas for kids and extensive hiking paths through woods and prairie, plus a tubing hill for winter fun.

People are saying

"I found this park to be absolutely beautiful and serene."

"The nature play area is beautiful and awesome for kids."

"It's a beautiful park with many accessible walking trails."

Good to know

1

The park has great pavilions suitable for hosting parties and weddings.

2

There was ample parking available.

3

Expect limited shade on hiking trails and few benches.

Discover more

Minnesota

Area guide
Loading Map...