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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Minneapolis

Parks with a nice view

Made for those who choose their outdoor downtime based on the quality of the horizon.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Minnehaha Falls image 1
Minnehaha Falls image 2
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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.

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

Amazing views of the falls are easy to access with well-maintained trails and handicap accessible paths. The park offers beautiful scenery full of nature and clear vantage points to enjoy the falls.

People are saying

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

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

"The waterfall here is gorgeous, offering a nice view."

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.

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.

A hill offers 360-degree views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. Sculptures and a pill-shaped structure add to the beautiful views, especially at night with city lights.

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
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.

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.

Beautiful views of the falls and river surround walking trails. The scenery includes waterfalls and creekside paths visible from multiple angles.

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."

"I enjoyed the beautiful, easy-to-access view of the falls."

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
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.

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

Views include skyline vistas and the Mississippi River. Walking paths and open spaces enhance the experience with picturesque scenery.

People are saying

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

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of space."

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

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.

05
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.

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.

A zigzagging path on a hill offers nice views of the park and skyline. The scene includes a grove of chalk maples and a striking view of the Cathedral blending modern and historic architecture.

People are saying

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

"You'll get a nice view of the city skyline here."

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

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.

06
Tower Hill Park image 1

Park centers on highest natural elevation with an iconic tower offering panoramic city views. Atmosphere feels serene with a Halloween vibe and beautiful surrounding homes. Small size and limited amenities make it a quiet spot for photos and picnics.

A small, serene green space offers a great view of the city skyline from a clearing near a tower. The park is about one city block long and suits a quick, peaceful stroll in an urban setting.

Elevated spots offer stunning views of the downtown skyline and cityscape. The Witches Tower provides a rewarding vantage point after a climb, showcasing the city and sunsets clearly.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view of downtown."

"The parks here offer great views of the city skyline."

"The historical sites offer amazing hilltop views."

Good to know

1

The Witches Tower offers one of the best views of downtown Minneapolis.

2

Expect great sunset views from Tower Hill Park.

3

There is only street parking available at Tower Hill Park.

07
Bohemian Flats Park image 1

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.

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.

Breathtaking riverside views stretch across the Mississippi and city skyline. The park offers a peaceful waterfront setting perfect for walking, biking, or just enjoying the scenic cityscape.

People are saying

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

"I found the cruise to be a fun dinner date."

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

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.

08
Xcel Energy Water Power Park image 1

Park on a peninsula offers panoramic river views and city skyline vistas with numerous benches and paved paths. Visitors see an impressive wastewater treatment facility from multiple vantage points. The space is small and well-maintained, suited for brief visits rather than extended stays.

Offers an incredible view from Hennepin Island with panoramic river and city skyline sights. The park is small and well-maintained with paved paths, making it ideal for quick visits and photography.

Paved paths lead to numerous benches with panoramic views of the river and city skyline. The park offers up-close views of the Mississippi River and is well-maintained for easy access to these sights.

People are saying

"I loved the panoramic views of the river and city skyline."

"I found the park's location provided a nice view of the river and city."

"The park offers incredible views of the river and city skyline."

Good to know

1

The park is seasonalโ€”open from mid-April through October during daylight hours.

2

Parking can be limited, especially during peak visiting times.

3

The park is relatively small, making it suitable for a quick visit.

09
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.

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.

Gorgeous lake views surround walking paths and open spaces. The park offers scenic greenery and a unique atmosphere with city and sunset sights.

People are saying

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

"I loved the free summer concerts at the bandshell."

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

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.

10
Mill Ruins Park image 1

Park combines historic mill ruins with river views and urban skyline. Atmosphere stays peaceful and scenic, with sounds of rushing water and quiet paths. Visitors enjoy walking among weathered stone walls and watching landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls.

Offers a blend of history, nature, and urban scenery with well-maintained paths and lush green grass. Provides fantastic views of historic buildings and the Stone Arch Bridge, welcoming dogs and kids with engaging historical presentations.

Views include the Stone Arch Bridge, the river, and a mix of historic and modern buildings. Walking paths offer scenic sights of the city skyline and landmarks like St. Anthony Falls.

People are saying

"I loved learning about the history of the milling industry here."

"It's a nice view of the river and the Stone Arch Bridge."

"This park has gorgeous riverfront views and a great view of the Stone Arch Bridge."

Good to know

1

Parking at Mill Ruins Park requires payment at a pay station.

2

There are no restrooms available at Mill Ruins Park.

3

The park is ideal for watching the Target Aquatennial fireworks.

11
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.

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.

Gorgeous views unfold along the paths, especially near the Mississippi River. A sandy beach offers a spot to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

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 so quiet and peaceful, perfect for clearing your mind."

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.

12
Boom Island Lighthouse image 1

Park offers vast walking trails and shady picnic areas with stunning views of the Mississippi River and a gorgeous lighthouse visible from afar. The lighthouse base is overgrown and inaccessible by foot, but bridges and clear sightlines enhance the peaceful atmosphere.

Vast space offers plenty of walking and running trails. Views from the park and the bridge stand out, along with the lighthouse and a path leading to the Stone Arch Bridge.

Gorgeous views surround the lighthouse and extend across the Mississippi River. The park and bridge offer clean, clear sights that highlight the area's natural beauty.

People are saying

"I found the views of the river to be gorgeous."

"I found the views gorgeous, clean, and clear."

"The parks offer gorgeous views of the river."

Good to know

1

The lighthouse is inaccessible by foot, so plan accordingly.

2

The area around the lighthouse is overgrown, which may affect views.

3

The park and bridge nearby offer great views of the lighthouse.

13
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.

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.

Views include downtown skyline, the nearby Basilica, and access to the Walker Art Center and Sculpture Garden via a pedestrian bridge. Surrounding flowers and plants add to the scenery.

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."

"The outdoor space is a beautiful park with vibrant flowers and vegetation."

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.

14
North Loop Playground image 1

Playground sits along river walking trail with unbeatable river views. It offers varied play equipment that stimulates imagination for kids of all ages. The park features beautiful walking trails and many benches for relaxing.

A playground with slides, swings, and paths offers activities for all ages and stimulates kids' imagination. The park sits right along a river walking trail with a beautiful river view and plenty of benches.

Great views of the water stand out here. The park offers beautiful river views that are hard to beat, especially from the playground.

People are saying

"This playground is great with lots of things to do."

"It's a kid-friendly park with beautiful river views."

"This park is great with lots of fun things for kids to do."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 per hour on Saturday.

2

Bring your EpiPen if you are allergic to bee stings.

3

The playground is suitable for kids of different ages.

15
Marshall Terrace Park image 1

Small park along the Mississippi River offers views of heron rookery and water birds nesting on nearby islands. It features playground, sports courts, and picnic areas with grills, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Wooden stairs lead down to the riverbank, enhancing access to the natural setting.

Small but full of character, this park offers nature-themed playgrounds, sports courts, and riverbank access. It hosts a rookery for herons, egrets, and cormorants, making it a quiet spot for birdwatching and family activities.

Views include a Great Blue Heron rookery with herons, cormorants, and egrets nesting in island trees. The spot also offers a nice view of the Lowry Bridge lighting and the Mississippi sandbar.

People are saying

"You can see the heron rookery from these parks."

"The nature-themed playground is right by the Mississippi River."

"I loved the nice view of the heron rookery in the trees."

Good to know

1

The park has a small parking lot with limited spaces available.

2

Visitors can enjoy views of herons nesting in the nearby trees.

3

The park features a nature-themed playground suitable for children.

16
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.

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.

Beautiful views of the lake and city surround the area. Plenty of benches offer spots to relax and enjoy the private, nature-like scenery.

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.

17
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 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.

Beautiful lake views surround the park, with lush greenery in summer and colorful trees in fall. The scenery stays peaceful and inviting across seasons.

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 a beautiful place with nice views."

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.

18
Bryn Mawr Meadows Park image 1

Large city park offers great city views and extensive sports fields including baseball, basketball, and kickball. Open spaces and clean bike paths create a lively, fun environment while maintaining a generally quiet atmosphere with few people around.

A beautiful revamped park with clean bike paths, multiple sports fields, and playgrounds that kids enjoy. The park offers a great view of the city and has native wildflowers, but parking and restrooms are limited.

Views of the city stand out as great and beautiful. The park remains quiet, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The park is beautiful with a great city view."

"I loved the great view of the city here."

"The playground here is awesome and interesting for the kids."

Good to know

1

The park has clean bike paths, sports fields, playgrounds, and nature spaces.

2

There are limited parking spaces, making it hard to find a spot during busy times.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find nearby spots.

19
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.

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.

Beautiful lake views surround the area, with clear sights of the downtown skyline visible from the trails. The clean concession area offers good food alongside scenic beach and city views.

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.

20
North Mississippi Regional Park image 1

Park offers splash pad and wading pool, large playground, and picnic pavilions along scenic paths by the river. Atmosphere is generally peaceful and relaxing, with space for families and small events. Bike trails and jogging paths attract walkers and pet owners, creating a friendly, active vibe.

A huge playground and splash pad offer great fun for kids. Scenic paths and picnic spots make it ideal for family walks and relaxing by the river.

Paths wind through gorgeous views and offer river scenery that stands out. A fantastic pool and playground add to the visual appeal.

People are saying

"The parks have fantastic playgrounds with lots of options."

"It's a beautiful park with many picnic spots for families."

"I loved the nice view from the beautiful trails."

Good to know

1

The parking lot at North Mississippi Regional Park is free.

2

The park has ample picnic spots for families.

3

Restrooms have been replaced with portable toilets.

21
Father Hennepin Bluff Park image 1

Park offers stunning river views and a historic pedestrian bridge connecting to nearby trails. Atmosphere stays serene and quiet, with well-maintained paths suited for walking and biking. Wildlife sightings and scenic overlooks create a peaceful urban escape.

Peaceful urban escape with beautiful river views and well-kept grounds. Small size suits short visits, featuring picnic tables, grills, and remnants of St. Anthony Falls visible from the boardwalk.

Stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown skyline appear from multiple angles. The Stone Arch Bridge and nearby parks offer beautiful river vistas and spots for photos and picnics.

People are saying

"You'll find a nice view of the river and city skyline."

"These parks offer beautiful river views and skyline sights."

"It's a peaceful urban escape with beautiful river views."

Good to know

1

Events are held on Historic Main Street almost every weekend during the summer.

2

Parking is available on a paid hourly basis, with metered spots on Historic Main Street.

3

Daytime visits are recommended for safety, especially if traveling alone or with children.

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