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Food in parks in Minnesota

Made for those who prefer to eat their meals surrounded by open green space rather than four walls.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Bohemian Flats Park image 1
Bohemian Flats Park image 2
Bohemian Flats Park image 3
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Park along the Mississippi River offers breathtaking riverfront views and a calm, peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Wide open grassy areas, picnic shelters, and well-maintained trails support outdoor activities like walking, biking, kayaking, and sand volleyball. The space combines quiet natural beauty with active recreational options near the city skyline.

Food here stands out for its great taste and very good quality. Drinks complement the menu well, making the overall dining experience awesome.

A peaceful riverside spot with gorgeous views of the Mississippi and city skyline, this park offers covered picnic tables and easy access for walking, biking, or launching a kayak. The entire area is well maintained and features great paths along the waterfront.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous river and city skyline views."

"The parks here offer amazing, scenic river views."

"The food here was awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking along the river at Bohemian Flats Park requires payment.

2

The park offers many fishing areas for visitors.

3

Restrooms at the park are clean and well-maintained.

02
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.

Brilliant food and drink options come from the Sea Salt Cafe and restaurant, both offering amazing dishes at fair prices. The pavilion adds nice spots to enjoy food and drinks while soaking in the lively park atmosphere.

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."

"The food and drink options here are wonderful."

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.

03
The Commons image 1

Spacious green park features rolling hills, lush foliage, and skyline views in a downtown setting. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing despite city surroundings, with plenty of seating and open space. The park suits family activities and hosts events, often filling up during nearby stadium games.

Food trucks offer great variety and reasonable prices for quick lunches. Events often feature these trucks, making food options convenient and diverse.

A spacious and green park sits in the city center with lush foliage and rolling hills. It offers a clean playground, spots for picnicking, and space for events like outdoor movies near multiple restaurants.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lush foliage and rolling hills."

"I enjoyed the food at this place."

"The food trucks here are great for a quick, reasonably priced lunch."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available during events, offering a variety of options.

2

The park hosts events regularly, making it a lively spot.

3

Expect crowds during major events, especially on weekends.

04
Theodore Wirth Regional Park image 1

Large natural space offers quiet woods and extensive trails for hiking, biking, and running. Facilities include modern trail center with outdoor patio, playgrounds, and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. Atmosphere blends peaceful wilderness feel with active recreational opportunities near urban area.

Food options include simple meals, sweet potato fries, and hot chocolate served inside the park. Food service operates on site with beverages and catered items available.

Huge park offers many trails for walking, biking, and skiing. Features include a mountain biking network, a lake with beach and playground, plus golf and quiet woods close to the city.

People are saying

"This huge park has tons of room for hiking and biking."

"It's a peaceful, quiet Meditation Spot that feels like the country."

"The food here is really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at Theodore Wirth Regional Park.

2

The park has cross-country skiing trails available in winter.

3

Mountain bike trails cater to all skill levels from beginner to expert.

05
Mears Park image 1

City block-sized park offers babbling brook, water features, and large trees providing shade. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and zen with flowing water and dappled shade to lively and musical during festivals with live bands and food trucks lining the streets. Well-kept gardens and multiple stages create a vibrant community space for relaxation and events.

Food trucks and local bars offer great food with excellent customer service. Food and drinks are widely available at events, especially near music spots.

Square layout fits food trucks lining the streets. Waterfalls and benches create a soothing, zen vibe. Hosts live music and outdoor movies for a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, clean spot right in the middle of downtown."

"I loved the lively atmosphere and hot tunes at the Jazz Fest."

"The food here is great."

Good to know

1

Mears Park hosts the Twin Cities Jazz Festival annually, featuring free music performances.

2

Parking can be tricky during events, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The park is dog-friendly, making it a great place to walk pets.

06
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.

A well-equipped restaurant offers a wide variety of food with a line out the door. Sea Salt stands out as the best food option and you can grab a beer on site.

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."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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.

07
Port of Excelsior image 1

City park offers spectacular landscape views and beautiful water scenery with great green space for walking. The atmosphere stays relaxing with entertaining people around. Nearby amenities include easy access to restaurants and cruise docks.

Food here is consistently delicious and great in quality.

Great green space surrounds the lake, offering open areas for relaxation and activities. The park sits right at the Port of Excelsior, providing scenic views and easy access to the water.

People are saying

"The lake views here are amazing and beautiful."

"The food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at the Port of Excelsior, especially during events.

2

Expect heavy traffic in the area, particularly on weekends and holidays.

3

The neighborhood has a variety of great restaurants near the cruise docks.

08
Antlers Park image 1

Newly remodeled park offers beach access, large playground, and picnic areas with canopies. Loud music and a lively atmosphere fill the space, with a pavilion serving ice cream and cold beer. Plenty of outdoor seating and sand volleyball pits add to the active, social vibe.

Food options include a fresh, hand breaded fried selection with large portion sizes. The quality rivals that of Vegas, and the stand offers enough variety to satisfy different tastes.

Newly renovated with clean grounds and a wonderful playground, the park offers picnic tables and a beach area. Nearby food and drink options add to the experience, making it easy to enjoy a day outdoors.

People are saying

"The beach here is nice and clean."

"I found the parks here to be very clean and newly renovated."

"The food here is hand-breaded and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends, so arrive early.

2

The park has restrooms and food options available.

3

The swimming beach is clean and well-maintained.

09
Lake Nokomis Park image 1

Vast lakeside park with spacious beach and lush greenery offers a family-friendly and lively atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas, boat rentals, and snack shacks. Trails and quiet water create a versatile space for recreation and relaxation.

Variety of food options includes a mini food spot, food court, and BBQ. Traditional gatherings feature feast food alongside beer and snacks.

A versatile mid-size park with a huge lake offers a lively, family-friendly vibe. It features a playground near the beach, spots for barbecues, walking, jogging, and relaxing by the water.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, with amazing lake views and relaxing scenery."

"It's so kid friendly with playgrounds and swan boats by the lake."

"The food here was delicious and yummy."

Good to know

1

Trivia Mafia events occur regularly at the park, featuring beer and food.

2

Pond hockey tournaments take place during winter at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging on busy days; consider arriving early.

10
Como Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden offers a peaceful atmosphere and live music under glass. Zoo and outdoor pavilion add variety, while picnic areas support relaxed visits. Free access invites casual exploration despite limited parking.

Food prices run high but the quality stays solid. Staff serve with amazing care and the overall food experience feels good despite the cost.

Spanning a very spacious area, the park offers many shaded trails and a picturesque pond with a dock. It features a free zoo and conservatory, maintained by dedicated staff and supported by donations.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"The zoo is free, so I highly recommend donating to support it."

"The food here is amazing, especially the mini donuts."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

11
Como Park image 1

Zoo combines lush botanical walkways and peaceful lake views with well-maintained gardens and free admission. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, inviting leisurely strolls and family visits. Design shows clear care, blending natural beauty with animal exhibits.

Food options include a cute little cafรฉ and various food trucks throughout the park. Prices tend to be a little high, with proceeds supporting the zoo.

Offers a harmonious blend of gardens, zoo, and picnic grounds for families and nature lovers. Features free entry, walking paths, and a small amusement park for kids under 14.

People are saying

"I loved this little zoo; it's a family favorite."

"I loved walking through the beautiful park and seeing the animals."

"You can find numerous spots for great food and drinks."

Good to know

1

Admission to Como Park Zoo is free or available through a donation of your choice.

2

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The Bonsai festival attracts large crowds, especially on Mother's Day.

12
Excelsior Commons image 1

Lakeside park offers spacious green areas and sandy beaches with playgrounds for all ages. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, even when crowded, with plenty of spots for picnics, fishing, and watching boats. Facilities include a bandshell for live music, concession stands, and fire pits, supporting various outdoor activities.

Abundant food trucks offer a variety of options reflecting the local flavor. Prices run high, with burgers costing around $20, and ice cream is available near the entrance.

Lakeside setting offers green space for kids, fishing spots, and benches to watch boats. The park connects directly to downtown, making it easy to grab food or drinks before returning to relax or enjoy live music at the band shell.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and right on the lake."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly spot with a great playground and beach."

"The food trucks here offer a wonderful taste of Minnesota."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $3.50 per hour near the lake.

2

Expect limited parking availability, especially during events.

3

The park hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year.

13
Lake Harriet Regional Park image 1

Park surrounds a serene lake with paved walking trails and a band shell hosting concerts. Atmosphere stays relaxing and peaceful, with green spaces and a playground for families. Canoe rentals and picnic areas add to the variety of outdoor activities.

Food and drinks come with reasonable prices and a nice variety at the food stand. Service runs efficiently, and an outdoor patio offers a good spot to enjoy meals.

Beautiful lakeside setting offers scenic views and plenty of space for activities. Features include a massive playground, a bandshell for concerts, kayak rentals, and dog-friendly areas.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly park with a massive playground."

"I found the park to be beautiful and clean."

"I enjoyed the great food and drink service available."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur on Saturdays and Sundays at the bandshell.

2

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction and road closures.

3

Restroom facilities may be limited; expect porta potties during events.

14
Bde Maka Ska image 1

Scenic lake with beautiful beaches and extensive bike trails offers a calm, peaceful atmosphere ideal for walking and relaxing. Lakeside pavilion features Native art and increased seating, while water rentals and playgrounds add active options. The area combines urban nature with spaces for dining and live jazz music.

Jamaican food stands out with good, fairly priced options. Food and drinks come from a cafรฉ and food stand near the lake, offering a mix of innovative choices alongside beer and peaceful lake views.

A gorgeous lake and park area offers well cared for paths for jogging, walking, and biking. Several cute playgrounds include a teeter-totter that adds a nostalgic touch.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful scenery and the lake views here."

"The park's lake views and sunset walks are gorgeous."

"The food and drinks here are fun, innovative, and fairly priced."

Good to know

1

There are several beaches and rental options for paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks.

2

The lake has well-maintained walking and biking trails.

3

Free street parking is available nearby, but some lots require payment.

15
Harriet Island Regional Park image 1

Park offers stunning river and city views with open lawn space and live music at a bandshell. Paths remain quiet and clear, attracting an older crowd seeking calm and scenic walks. Facilities support festivals and casual gatherings with picnic areas and food vendors.

A concession area near the bandshell offers good food and beverage options including food trucks on certain days. The food is delicious, but prices for food and beer tend to be a bit high.

Great views of downtown and the Mississippi River define the park. Amenities include barbecue grills, picnic tables, a playground, and open green spaces for activities like kite flying and frisbee.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of downtown and the river."

"The fair had great food, beer, vendors, and live music."

"The parks offer beautiful views of downtown and the river."

Good to know

1

Paddleboats offer affordable midday rides and romantic sunset rides from the park.

2

Food trucks are available on select days during events at the park.

3

Parking can be confusing and limited at Harriet Island Regional Park.

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