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Minneapolis' best

Picnics with nice views

Made for those who will only commit to a picnic if the location offers a significant visual reward.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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.

Marshall Terrace Park offers picnic tables and grills that support outdoor meals. It suits picnic lunches and group gatherings like birthday celebrations.

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.

02
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 picnic areas sit near water access and jogging trails. Gazebos offer covered spots, and large fields provide space for gatherings. Picnic areas are well-maintained and can be reserved for reunions or parties.

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."

"It's a fun place for outdoor activities and social gatherings."

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.

03
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.

Waterfront views create a dreamy setting for picnics. Open spaces invite family gatherings and casual meals outdoors.

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."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with green space and trees."

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.

04
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.

Many picnic pavilions and picnic tables spread throughout the park offer plenty of spots to relax. Paths run along the river, connecting picnic and play areas suitable for families and groups.

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.

05
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.

Many people relax under the trees and chat while enjoying picnics. The park offers a nice, open space that suits casual gatherings well.

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."

"It's a nice place to have a picnic."

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.

06
MSP Aircraft Viewing Area image 1

Open-air vista point offers up-close views of aircraft taxiing, taking off, and landing near multiple runways. The setting is quiet and lowkey with picnic tables and benches scattered around a grassy area. Visitors include families and aviation enthusiasts who enjoy the free access and ample parking.

A picnic table and benches provide a solid spot to eat. Free parking and no entry fee make it easy to visit. A porta potty is available nearby for convenience.

Amazing views of multiple runways and aircraft taking off and landing stand out here. The spot offers clear sights of planes taxiing, de-icing operations, and flights departing from runway 30L.

People are saying

"It's a blast for kids who love watching planes."

"It's a great spot to watch planes landing and taking off."

"It's awesome to sit and watch planes land and take off."

Good to know

1

The MSP Aircraft Viewing Area is free to enter.

2

There are no bathrooms available at the viewing area.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

07
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.

Picnic shelter with shade offers a comfortable spot to eat meals from nearby vendors. Picnic tables provide nice seating, and the area hosts concerts that add to the experience.

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."

"It's a beautiful, green spot for a relaxed picnic."

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.

08
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.

Covered picnic tables and nice picnic shelters sit right by the river. The spot offers a riverside stroll and views of boats passing by, making it easy to relax outdoors.

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."

"It's a peaceful riverside spot perfect for a picnic with gorgeous 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.

09
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.

Expansive picnic grounds and an indoor picnic shelter offer plenty of space. Clean restrooms and multiple picnic areas make it easy to enjoy outdoor meals surrounded by gardens, waterfalls, and 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 gorgeous place for a picnic with family."

"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.

10
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.

Well-maintained grounds offer plenty of picnic areas near a beautiful waterfall. Visitors can relax, walk, hike, and enjoy a nearby restaurant during warmer months.

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."

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

"It's a beautiful place for a family picnic."

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.

11
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.

Plenty of picnic space spreads around the park, including near the beach. Picnic areas sit alongside playgrounds and fishing docks, making it easy to mix meals with activities.

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."

"The picnic areas here are really nice and clean."

"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.

12
Prospect Park Water Tower image 1
Tourist attraction

Historic water tower with unique witch hat design stands on the highest point, offering spectacular city views. Surrounding park provides quiet, shaded picnic areas and a relaxed atmosphere. Trees partially obscure skyline, creating a private, peaceful vibe despite nearby traffic noise.

Big grassy area offers plenty of space with picnic benches and good shade. A nice spot near the Water Tower provides a dedicated picnic area.

The spot offers spectacular views of the downtown skyline from the highest point in the city. A bench near the tower provides a great vantage point to admire the cityscape, especially around sunset or sunrise.

People are saying

"I admired the great view of the city from the tower."

"It's a quiet place with a beautiful view of Minneapolis."

"It's a cute little escape with a nice picnic area."

Good to know

1

The Prospect Park Water Tower is a historic landmark built in 1913.

2

Visiting the Water Tower is free and offers great views of downtown.

3

The Water Tower is currently closed for renovations.

13
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.

Green space offers a relaxing area for picnics and walks. The spot is family and pet friendly with room for outdoor gatherings.

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."

"The Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture is a whimsical symbol of Minneapolis."

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.

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