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Dog-friendly scenic views in Minneapolis

You refuse to leave your dog behind just because you want to enjoy a scenic spot.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Minnehaha Falls image 1
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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.

Amazing views of the falls are easy to access from well-maintained trails. The park offers handicap accessible spots to enjoy the scenic nature around the falls.

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

People are saying

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

"The waterfall here is gorgeous and makes for a beautiful view."

"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.

A hill offers 360-degree views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. Sculptures and a pill-shaped structure add to the vantage points, with night lights enhancing the scene.

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.

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."

"You get great 360-degree views of Minneapolis from the top."

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
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.

Picturesque views of the falls and river appear from multiple angles, including the top and side. Walking trails and a flat park area with picnic tables and concessions offer easy access to these sights.

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.

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."

"You can easily access great scenic views of the falls from the top."

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.

04
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.

Gorgeous lake views surround walking paths and open spaces. The park offers scenic greenery and a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of room to enjoy sunsets and city sights.

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

People are saying

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

"I loved the great, beautiful lake views here."

"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.

05
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.

Lake views dominate the scenery with lush greenery in summer and colorful trees in fall. The park offers peaceful vistas year-round, making it a great spot to enjoy nature's calm.

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.

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 lake views here are beautiful and picturesque."

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.

06
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.

Breathtaking views of the Mississippi River unfold along the trails. A sandy beach offers a spot to enjoy the gorgeous scenery with every step.

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.

People are saying

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

"The Mississippi River views here are beautiful and serene."

"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.

07
Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis image 1

Hotel offers stunning city views and a warm, elegant atmosphere that blends comfort with luxury. Spa and pool areas provide a relaxing vibe with well-maintained, spacious amenities. Guests often enjoy personalized touches like welcome champagne and custom desserts, enhancing a romantic and memorable stay.

Suites offer stunning views of downtown and the city skyline. Rooms on higher floors provide amazing cityscapes, and the pool area also features nice views.

Staff provide dog beds, food and water bowls, and even toys for dogs. They follow ADA protocol carefully and prepare for service dogs with pre-shift meetings.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"You get amazing city and river views from up high."

"They're so Dog Friendly, they even provide a bowl and bed."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served on Sundays, offering a unique dining experience.

2

The hotel is a popular venue for weddings and events.

3

Expect noise during events like concerts or festivals nearby.

08
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.

Great views of the river and city skyline stand out here. Trails and open spaces offer picturesque spots for sunrise, sunset, and downtown views.

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.

People are saying

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

"You'll find awesome scenic views of the Minneapolis skyline here."

"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.

09
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.

Views include downtown skyline and lake vistas that stand out from trails and concession areas. Beaches and the lake offer beautiful scenic spots for walking and relaxing.

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

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 scenic views of the lake and downtown 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.

10
Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative image 1

Brewery offers an open, welcoming space with a river patio and family-friendly play area. Energy stays lively with pinball machines, pool tables, and live music. Community feels close-knit and inclusive, making it a popular spot for events.

Outdoor patios provide a view of the river. The space feels open with cool views that stand out since a nearby spot closed.

More than five dogs appear during visits, showing a truly dog-friendly atmosphere. Both inside and outside spaces welcome dogs, making it great for groups, families, and pets.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is massive and fantastic."

"This place is super dog friendly, both inside and out."

"The patio offers a scenic view of the river."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Weekly yoga sessions are held on Sunday mornings.

3

The brewery hosts special events like vinyl nights and pinball competitions.

11
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.

Beautiful views combine modern and historic architecture with a cityscape backdrop. A zigzagging path and a grove of chalk maples on the hill offer nice views of the park and skyline.

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.

People are saying

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

"You'll see iconic sculptures, like the Spoonbridge and Cherry."

"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.

12
Emery, Autograph Collection image 1

Lobby features original marble floors, art deco design, and visible bank vault doors, creating a unique historic atmosphere. Spacious seating areas include a full-size pool table and a lively coffee bar. Rooms offer stylish decor with modern amenities, while valet parking adds convenience.

Rooms offer spectacular city views, including sights like the IDS Tower. Comfortable beds and windows make it easy to relax while enjoying the urban landscape.

Allows up to two dogs per room with no extra deposit. Welcomes pets free of charge and maintains a very dog-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is amazing and incredibly helpful."

"The lobby's original marble and botanical garden are truly unique."

"The lobby's marble floors and pillars create a gorgeous, historic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available, but self-parking is not offered at the hotel.

2

The hotel is dog-friendly with no additional deposit required.

3

Parking across the street is easy and safe for guests.

13
The Cabana Club image 1
Restaurant

Patio overlooks a spectacular city skyline next to the river, creating a cozy and gorgeous atmosphere. Space fills with a welcoming and comfortable vibe, often enjoyed during sunsets. Creative cocktails and a variety of food choices complement the beautiful setting.

Every seat offers a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline and river. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a river-facing patio highlight the stunning cityscape and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

A dog-friendly patio offers a great spot to relax with your dog. The deck area provides a gorgeous outdoor setting for happy hour and watching games.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"You'll love the amazing river views from the patio."

"It's the best spot on Main Street for Dog Friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Butter Board is available for $10 during happy hour.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

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