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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Central Minneapolis

Parks with nice views

You want a park that offers a view worth stopping for.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Gold Medal Park image 1
Gold Medal Park image 2
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
First Bridge Park image 1

Park occupies under-bridge space with urban and natural blend and offers stunning city skyline views. Atmosphere feels relaxing but minimal, with ample bench seating and shaded areas for brief stops. Walking path suits families and dog owners, featuring local history plaques along the route.

Small size and under-bridge space use define the park. It offers a walkway for families and dogs and views of the city skyline, but feels minimal and somewhat empty with limited greenery or engaging design.

Great scenery includes a stunning city skyline with visible skyscrapers. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere alongside these views.

People are saying

"I loved walking the trail and seeing the park by the bridge."

"I learned about the cool history at these historical sites."

"The city skyline view from here is stunning."

Good to know

1

The park has plenty of benches for seating throughout the area.

2

There are portlets available along the walking path for convenience.

3

The park features a walkway suitable for families and dog owners.

06
Franklin Steele Square image 1

Park offers beautiful downtown views and features a splash pad alongside a community garden. It sits near a busy interstate, creating a loud atmosphere. Presence of park police is notable to maintain safety.

A splash pad and playground stand out as key features. The park has restrooms and a strong police presence. Noise from a nearby busy interstate and safety concerns for children affect the atmosphere.

Views showcase the Minneapolis Skyline clearly. Franklin Steele Square offers a beautiful downtown perspective.

People are saying

"The parks have a great splash pad and playground."

"I loved the great views of downtown."

"I appreciated the nice view of downtown Minneapolis."

Good to know

1

Be cautious after dark as local troublemakers can be aggressive.

2

The park has restrooms available for public use.

3

There is limited on-street parking in the area.

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