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Top picks in Minneapolis

Parks

A patch of green that offers a real escape from the city noise instead of just being a place to walk the dog.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tourist attraction

Waterfalls and easy walking paths make it perfect for park lovers. Families enjoy play areas and pedal carts, while an outdoor theatre and food court add cultural and relaxing touches. Scenic views blend nature and culture beautifully here.

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."

"I found the walking paths and trails here to be fun."

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 features 360-degree city views and paved walking paths perfect for biking or strolling. Dog-friendly areas invite pets to join, while iconic flour sign and sculptures add historical and artistic touches to a peaceful 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.

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
Wabun Picnic Area image 1
Picnic ground

Large park has spacious picnic areas with clean facilities and big pavilions. Playground offers accessible play zones and a splash pad loved by kids. Lush greenery and big trees create a quiet, relaxing atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

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.

04
Minnehaha Regional Park image 1

Powerful frozen waterfall anchors a spacious park with kid and pet friendly walking paths. Open picnic grounds and accessible bike trails blend with natural scenery. Play areas and a concert pavilion create a 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.

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
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden image 1

Large open-air park offers expansive outdoor space with prairie flowers and modern sculptures. Iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture draws visitors. Serene atmosphere with wind chimes in trees invites quiet walks and reflection.

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."

"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
Triangle Park image 1

Playground offers swings and climbing spots for kids of various ages. Natural areas with cattails and woods provide peaceful escapes and great views of Lake Nokomis. Ample parking and friendly children make it welcoming for families.

A well shaded playground offers spots for kids from little to medium age with swings and climbing areas. The eastern half features a quiet natural area with cattails and woods, providing a peaceful escape and views of Lake Nokomis.

People are saying

"This park is great for kids, with a wonderful playground."

"It's really Kid Friendly, with lots of shade for the kids."

"I loved the shade at this playground."

Good to know

1

Triangle Park has a large playground suitable for various ages.

2

The playground is well shaded, making it ideal for hot summer days.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the park.

07
Keewaydin Park image 1

Playground offers unique climbing rocks and a zip line for all ages. Shallow, clean wading pool provides a safe spot for young kids. Lively atmosphere with multiple play areas and sports fields nearby keeps the energy high.

Playgrounds feature unique climbing rocks and a zip line that appeal to all ages. A clean wading pool with consistent depth adds to the variety of activities available.

People are saying

"The parks have cool new playgrounds with zip lines and rock walls."

"The rock climbing gym here has a huge climbing rock and a zip line."

Good to know

1

The park gets busy on weekends, so arrive early for parking.

2

There isn't much off-street parking; the lot fills up fast on weekends.

3

The recreation center has bathrooms available for visitors.

08
Armatage Park image 1

Large park features baseball diamonds and a skate park for active play. Families enjoy the kiddie pool and playground areas. Open fields support basketball and soccer, while a free city ice rink adds year-round fun.

Large open fields support basketball, soccer, baseball, and frisbee activities. A skate park and free city ice rink offer diverse recreation options year-round.

People are saying

"You'll love the skate park here; it's changed a lot."

Good to know

1

Expect limited parking during busy events.

2

The park has a large free city ice rink in winter.

3

In summer, enjoy basketball, soccer, and frisbee areas.

09
Bohemian Flats Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking riverfront views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Visitors enjoy covered picnic tables and well-kept trails for walking, biking, and kayaking. Open grassy areas invite active fun like sand volleyball 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.

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.

10
BF Nelson Park image 1

Park along the Mississippi River offers beautiful trails and shaded tree cover for peaceful walks or runs. Open green spaces include a dog-friendly area and picnic spots. Free parking near downtown makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities.

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.

11
Gluek Park image 1

Huge trees like the Burr Oak create a peaceful vibe perfect for climbing and relaxing. Waterfront seating offers a serene atmosphere for quiet walks or pet time. Free disc golf and well-kept benches add simple fun without crowds or big events.

Small and peaceful, this park offers huge trees including a Burr Oak that are fun to climb. It features a free disc golf course, plenty of benches, and stays quiet and well maintained near the river.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful little park with huge, amazing trees."

"It's a peaceful and serene spot for meditation."

"It's a beautiful, lowkey, and peaceful place to read or meditate."

Good to know

1

Gluek Park is a small park with trees and benches, ideal for relaxation.

2

The park is suitable for adults looking for a quiet place.

3

There are no specific facilities for kids or organized events.

12
Boom Island Park image 1

Spacious grassy areas and picnic shelters with grills make it great for gatherings. Waterside trails and riverfront access offer peaceful walks and skyline views. Playgrounds and dog-friendly spots add to the calm, family-friendly vibe.

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."

"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.

13
Loring Park image 1

Urban park offers well-kept pond and vibrant flowers for peaceful walks. Open spaces include a dog park and playground, perfect for all ages. Benches and paths invite rest and play amid 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."

"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 offers slides and swings that spark imagination for all ages. Trails along the river provide unbeatable views and peaceful walks. Benches scattered throughout invite rest and relaxation.

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.

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
Hi-View Park image 1

Small park offers a quiet atmosphere with a wading pool and water slide for kids. Separate zones keep play safe for all ages. Basketball hoops and grilling areas add fun and variety. Views overlook downtown, making it a pleasant spot for families.

A quiet, small park with playground equipment for all ages and a wading pool plus a water slide for kids. It has separate areas for older and younger children, basketball hoops, and spots to grill.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood park, really kid friendly with separate areas for different ages."

"It's a great neighborhood park with a wading pool and playground for kids."

"It's a quiet little park with playground equipment for kids."

Good to know

1

Hi-View Park is clean and safe for families with children.

2

The park features playground equipment suitable for a wide age range.

3

It gets very busy when the pool is open during summer.

16
Lyndale Farmstead Park image 1

Spacious park offers tennis courts and a backboard for games. Natural beauty and well-maintained grounds create a pleasant atmosphere. Visitors enjoy open spaces and casual games in multiple traditional park areas.

Multiple areas offer a traditional park setting with spaciousness and natural beauty. Facilities include tennis courts and a backboard, supporting casual games and activities.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful and spacious."

Good to know

1

The park has well-maintained facilities and green spaces for relaxation.

2

Water fountains and restrooms are available throughout the park.

3

The park is great for casual games like soccer and frisbee.

17
Lynnhurst Park image 1

Park blends playground equipment for all ages with baseball fields and tennis courts. Kids enjoy a small wading pool with fountains while families picnic nearby. Walking and biking paths circle the area, making it great for active fun and relaxation.

Multiple sports courts like tennis and basketball sit close to baseball fields and a batting cage. The playground is older with worn paint and wood parts that might cause slivers, but it offers fun equipment for all ages. A small kiddie pool and a walking/biking path circle the park.

People are saying

"The parks have a fun playground and a splash pool for kids."

"I played tennis and basketball here."

"The playground here is fun and has equipment for all ages."

Good to know

1

The park has baseball fields, a playground, a kiddie pool, and tennis courts.

2

Restrooms are available but may not always be clean or unlocked.

3

The playground equipment is older and shows signs of wear.

18
Lake Harriet Regional Park image 1

Park offers scenic lake views and a massive playground for families. Visitors enjoy kayak rentals and concerts at the bandshell. Green spaces and picnic areas keep the atmosphere peaceful and fun for all ages.

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 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.

19
Mississippi Gorge Regional Park image 1

Trails wind through a gorge with breathtaking river views and varied elevations. Quiet riverside setting offers hiking and trail running along well-kept paths. Ample parking and picnic spots create a peaceful place for low-key adventure and solitude.

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 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.

20
Tower Hill Park image 1

Park offers a panoramic city view from its iconic tower and a serene green space perfect for a quick stroll. Its Halloween vibe adds unique charm, while beautiful homes nearby enhance the peaceful atmosphere.

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.

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.

21
Kenwood Park image 1

Wide open green space with neat trees and shady spots offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Families enjoy the playground and batting cages, while adults appreciate peaceful surroundings near historic houses. Plenty of street parking makes visits easy.

A quiet, wide open space with neat trees and hills offers a relaxing spot for picnics and dog walks. The park features a playground for kids, a tennis court, and a cool train to climb on, all without crowds.

People are saying

"I found the park here to be really delightful and beautiful."

"I found the playground here to be great for kids."

"It's a great, kid-friendly playground that keeps them occupied."

Good to know

1

There is ample street parking available near Kenwood Park.

2

The park offers plenty of space to spread out for a picnic.

3

The park has a decent playground suitable for young kids under 6 years old.

22
Pearl Park image 1

Spacious park boasts a well-kept outdoor pool and ice skating rink for active fun. Unique playground equipment delights elementary kids, while multiple sports courts invite basketball and tennis games. Busy, family-friendly vibe makes it perfect for community recreation.

The park features a neat playground adapted for toddlers and loved by kids. It offers a well-kept outdoor pool and rink, plus plenty of options for community sports and walks.

People are saying

"The playground here is great for kids."

"The playground here is really Kid Friendly and has a great new play-set."

"The playground here is neat and a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

The park has amenities like ice skating, basketball, and wading pools for kids.

2

The playground is well-kept and suitable for toddlers.

3

Pearl Park is better suited for elementary kids than for toddlers.

23
Powderhorn Recreation Center image 1

Recreation center offers open gym time and spaces for basketball practice. Green space features a playground and splash pool with lake views. Year-round kids activities make it a lively community spot.

Beautiful green space includes a playground area and splash pool for kids. The recreation center adds an enjoyable amenity within the park.

People are saying

"I found the park's recreation center to be really enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The recreation center offers a gym, meeting rooms, and various activities.

2

There are many activities for children available year-round.

3

Open gym time is available for everyone throughout the week.

24
Xcel Energy Water Power Park image 1

Park on a peninsula offers panoramic river views and city skyline vistas with paved paths and benches. Small, well-kept space suits brief visits and photography. Visitors also see an impressive wastewater treatment facility from multiple spots.

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.

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 seasonal—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.

25
Fuller Park image 1

Open space with a large grass area invites play and model rocket launches. Playground offers climbing structures for all ages and a full basketball court keeps sports active. Indoor pavilion provides a covered gathering spot for groups.

A large grass area and a full basketball court stand out here. The playground has climbing structures that suit both small and big kids, making it fun for all ages.

People are saying

"The parks have play structures for both small and big kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a large grass area perfect for picnics and games.

2

Restrooms are available on-site for visitor convenience.

3

The park features play structures suitable for children of all ages.

26
Hiawatha School Park image 1

Park offers a quiet setting with clean playgrounds including a kiddie pool and shaded spots. Facilities include tennis courts and ballfields, plus a community building. Neighborhood feels pleasant with easy parking.

Clean and well maintained, the park offers playgrounds for all ages including an obstacle course and a kiddie pool. It features tennis courts and ballfields, plus a building available for community use.

People are saying

"It's a really nice park and gathering space."

"I found the playground lovely and good for kids."

Good to know

1

The park features playgrounds, tennis courts, and ballfields for various activities.

2

Parking is available and generally sufficient for visitors.

3

The park is well-maintained and clean, providing a pleasant environment.

27
Wesley Park image 1

Four tennis courts with lights offer quiet play among trees. Playgrounds with sand pits attract families with young kids. Open spaces include a basketball court with adjustable hoops and baseball diamonds for varied sports.

Playgrounds feature two sand pits and equipment for young kids. Sports options include a basketball court with adjustable hoops and two baseball diamonds. A shelter and bathroom support events and visitors.

People are saying

"The park's playground has a sand pit that kids really enjoy."

"The playground here has a sand pit that kids enjoy."

Good to know

1

Wesley Park has a playground suitable for young children.

2

There are no bathroom facilities available in the park.

3

The playground features two sand pits for kids to enjoy.

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Minneapolis, Minnesota

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