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Guide to Minneapolis

Picnic spots with scenic views

A patch of grass with a view that feels like a getaway, not just a public park.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01

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.

Views include heron rookeries with Great Blue Herons nesting in island trees and sandbars. The spot also offers a nice view of the Lowry Bridge lighting and sightings of cormorants and egrets.

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

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 awesome view of the heron rookery."

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.

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 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.

People are saying

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

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

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

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
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.

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

People are saying

"You get a great view of the city and river from here."

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

"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.

04
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.

Views include multiple runways with clear sights of planes taking off and landing. The spot offers close-up looks at taxiing aircraft and de-icing operations.

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.

People are saying

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

"It's a great spot for plane watching, with views of multiple runways."

"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.

05
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.

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.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

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.

Breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and city skyline dominate the riverside park. Clean paths invite walking and biking while soaking in the peaceful waterfront scenery.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

07
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.

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.

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."

"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.

08
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.

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.

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.

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 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.

09
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.

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.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, with amazing lake views and relaxing scenery."

"The lake views here are beautiful and picturesque."

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

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.

10
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.

The spot sits at the highest point in the city, offering spectacular views of downtown and the skyline. A bench nearby provides a nice place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset over the city and university campus.

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.

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."

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

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.

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.

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

People are saying

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

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

"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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