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Minneapolis' best

Parking near parks

You want to spend your time in the park, not searching for a spot to park your car.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Wabun Picnic Area image 1
Wabun Picnic Area image 2
Wabun Picnic Area image 3
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Picnic ground

Large park offers spacious picnic areas with multiple large pavilions and ample parking. Playground features accessible play zones and a splash pad popular with children. Lush greenery and big trees provide a quiet, relaxing atmosphere suitable for family gatherings.

Free parking is available with ample spots even on busy days. Parking near the picnic area is convenient, and spots further away remain manageable.

A well maintained picnic area offers plenty of space and clean facilities. The playground features toddler-friendly and accessible options, plus a splash pad and wade pool that kids enjoy.

People are saying

"This picnic spot has a beautiful park with a great playground."

"You'll find plenty of parking available here."

"The parks have a fantastic playground and water play area for kids."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at Wabun Picnic Area.

2

The pavilion can be reserved for group gatherings.

3

There are plenty of shaded picnic tables and restrooms.

02
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.

Free parking exists with a small lot that rarely fills up. Parking limits are set to 2 hours. No free parking is available at Boom Island.

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."

"I found free parking available here."

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.

03
Van Cleve Park image 1

Huge open fields and multiple sports courts create a versatile outdoor space. Busy atmosphere supports family activities and casual sports like skating and pick-up hockey. Proximity to a university adds to the lively, active vibe.

A parking lot sits nearby with free street parking available. Trash often collects close to the lot.

Open fields and playgrounds create a great space for kids and walking. The park includes a tennis court, basketball court, baseball fields, and a small pool for outdoor activities.

People are saying

"I played tennis and pickleball here with my friends."

"The Parks here flood to make ice rinks for skating."

"I found free street parking available."

Good to know

1

Kickball games are played on Sundays during spring and summer.

2

Free street parking is available near the park.

3

The recreation bathrooms are closed during spring but open in June.

04
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.

Two small parking areas provide ample parking. The 36th Street lot offers access to an unnamed waterfall and other park 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.

People are saying

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

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

"I found ample parking available."

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.

05
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.

Free parking exists with easy access on a Sunday afternoon. Spaces are generally available without hassle.

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."

"I found the parking inexpensive, though it did cost."

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.

06
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.

Parking is easy to find and requires payment. Rates are reasonable, especially if you arrive early for a cheap all-day option.

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."

"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.

07
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.

Free parking sits close to the falls with easy access and a short walk of about 5 to 10 minutes. Paid lots offer reasonable prices near the attraction.

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."

"Parking available; it's a quick and easy walk to the falls."

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.

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.

Easy street parking with meters is available nearby. Rates run at $0.25 per 30 minutes, making parking both cheap and hassle-free.

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."

"Parking can be tricky, but it's manageable once you find a spot."

"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.

09
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.

Ample parking surrounds the park with a dedicated parking lot available. Parking fees are low, and some areas offer free parking.

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."

"There was ample parking available."

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.

10
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.

Parking costs stay very low here. A cheap lot offers easy access.

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."

"Parking is available in a paid lot and on the street."

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.

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.

Lots of free street parking surrounds the area, making it easy to find a spot. A paid parking lot offers a convenient alternative with plenty of spaces.

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."

"Parking Available: plenty of paid and free spots."

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
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.

Easy parking exists with an inexpensive paid lot and a parking pay station. Parking becomes more difficult on weekends, and the only picnic tables sit right next to the parking area.

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.

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.

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.

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."

"Parking is available and it's a peaceful refuge from the city bustle."

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
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.

Paid parking lots sit close to the lake with reasonable prices and easy access for loading gear. Free street parking offers parallel spots nearby, and the north lot includes a DIY skatepark.

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."

"You can find paid or free street parking nearby."

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
East River Flats Park image 1

Park offers a calm atmosphere with a big, clean space along the river. It features electric vehicle charging spots and has an acceptable river view. Parking can be challenging during school hours but is generally manageable.

Parking offers convenience but requires payment for picnics. Availability drops during school hours, making it harder to find a spot.

A big, calm park along the river offers a beautiful view and space for activities like running and Taiji. The terrain is not very flat, and the park stays clean, but it lacks restrooms.

People are saying

"I loved walking along the river at these parks."

"I found walking the path here to be very peaceful and calm."

"I found the parking available here to be convenient."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be hard to find during school hours.

2

There is a fee for parking at East River Flats Park.

3

The park is large, making it great for outdoor activities.

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