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Best of Minneapolis

Dog-friendly parks

You want to get outside, and your dog is coming along for the walk.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
Lake of the Isles Park image 1

Large park surrounds a picturesque lake with paved trails for walking and biking. Atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil despite some car noise, with separate paths for walkers and bikers enhancing the experience. Features include a dog park, kayak launch, and seasonal ice skating rink with warming house.

Lots of dog breeds roam freely around the all-size dog park by the lake. A beehive near the fences can pose a risk, as dogs and people may get stung.

Beautiful walking paths circle a pretty lake, making it ideal for strolls, biking, and runs. Open grassy areas host outdoor volleyball games, and the park welcomes dogs with easy parking access.

People are saying

"The lake here is so beautiful and peaceful."

"The lake and city views here are beautiful."

"I found the park beautiful with a pretty lake and nice scenery."

Good to know

1

The park has about 3 miles of trail around the lake.

2

There was ample street parking available.

3

The park is dog friendly.

06
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.

Open spaces offer great views of people, dogs, and sunsets. Walking dogs here feels natural with the park's pet-friendly environment.

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."

"It's dog friendly, perfect for walking your pet."

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.

07
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.

A huge field near Cedar Avenue offers plenty of space for dogs to play ball. Multiple trails around the lake provide good spots for walks with dogs, but some owners do not clean up after their pets, which can affect the experience.

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."

"It's so Dog Friendly, I loved walking my dogs on the trails."

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.

08
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden image 1

Large open-air park combines modern sculptures with serene natural elements like wind chimes in trees. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere ideal for quiet walks and reflection. Iconic pieces such as the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture stand out against views of historic architecture.

Leash dogs walk freely among the sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting. Facilities include restrooms and a water fountain with a pet drinking bowl for convenience.

A large, free park with prairie flowers and expansive outdoor space. It features the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture and ranks among the largest sculpture parks around.

People are saying

"I loved how the sculpture integrates with nature and everyday life."

"I loved how the sculpture park blended art with nature and everyday life."

"It's a beautiful, well-maintained place to walk your dog."

Good to know

1

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free to visit.

2

Parking at the adjacent lot costs $4 for the day.

3

The park is open until midnight.

09
Mississippi Gorge Regional Park image 1

Trails wind through a gorge with breathtaking river views and varied elevations. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite proximity to a busy road. Paths range from woodsy and secluded to open areas with ample parking and amenities.

Trails offer plenty of space for dog walking and running. Dogs can swim in designated areas. The park suits leisurely walks with kids and dogs alike.

Well kept and clean with a quiet riverside setting, the park offers hiking, trail running, and picnicking along walkable trails by the river. It provides a nice spot for low-key adventure and moments of solitude.

People are saying

"The views of the Mississippi River are beautiful and relaxing."

"I found the parks gorgeous and right by the river."

"It's a great place for a leisurely dog walk."

Good to know

1

There are two small parking areas available for visitors.

2

Expect some trails to be steep and narrow, which may require caution.

3

Trash and recycling bins are conveniently located throughout the park.

10
Boom Island Park image 1

Park offers spacious grassy areas and multiple shelters with built-in grills for picnics and events. Calm atmosphere blends historic bridges and river views with quiet, peaceful energy. Visitors enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and watching boats glide along the Mississippi River.

Numerous trails and paths make it easy to walk dogs or bike. Restrooms allow dogs, and the park features plenty of nature trees for a relaxing visit with pets.

Open and expansive green space offers waterside trails, riverfront access, and skyline views. Facilities include picnic tables, pavilions, playgrounds, and restrooms that allow dogs.

People are saying

"You get a gorgeous view of the Minneapolis skyline."

"The park's trails offer beautiful skyline views along the river."

"It's a beautiful spot with gorgeous views of downtown."

Good to know

1

Parking is pay-to-park, which can be limited during large events.

2

Restrooms are available, and dogs are allowed in the park.

3

The park features numerous picnic areas and water access nearby.

11
Loring Park image 1

Urban park with well-kept pond and vibrant flowers creates a peaceful refuge amid city life. Open spaces and varied courts support activities for all ages, while benches and walking paths invite relaxation. The atmosphere balances serene natural beauty with lively events and friendly wildlife.

A secluded dog park offers a safe space for dogs to run and play. Plenty of room for dog walkers and children to explore adds to the pet-friendly vibe.

Paved paths wind through the park, offering plenty of space for walking and dog play. A gorgeous pond sits at the center, surrounded by wonderful flowers and benches for resting. The park also features a dog park, a community garden, and a nice playground for kids.

People are saying

"I found the park's paved walkways perfect for walking and jogging."

"I loved the nice view of downtown and the pretty flowers."

"It's a great spot for a quiet stroll or to let dogs play."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during events.

2

Seasonal events and festivals often take place here, adding a lively community feel.

3

During winter, the park's pathways are snow-cleared, ensuring accessibility and safety.

12
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.

Paths along the lake offer great walking spots for dogs. The area welcomes dogs for both walks and swimming.

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."

"You can rent paddle boats, canoes, and sailboats for fun activities on the lake."

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

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.

13
Riverview Heights Park image 1

Trails wind through a park along the Mississippi River, featuring a small creek bridge and areas of both shade and sunlight. The river offers good fishing access, and a pair of eagles nest in nearby trees. Benches provide spots to rest amid the natural setting.

Walking and wading in the river offers dogs a fun way to explore. Many dogs roam loose, creating a lively but sometimes uncontrolled environment.

Trails run along the Mississippi River with many shaded and sunlit areas. A pair of eagles live offshore in the trees upstream, and dogs enjoy walking and wading in the river.

People are saying

"I loved Riverview Heights Park; it's beautiful in every season."

"This place is amazing and my dog loved it too."

Good to know

1

The park offers good access for fishing along the river.

2

Expect to see eagles nesting in trees near the river.

3

Shaded areas provide relief from the sun during hot days.

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