Bde Maka Ska
Minneapolis's largest lake, offering swimming, windsurfing, and scenic trails for biking and running.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bde Maka Ska
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Minneapolis's largest lake, offering swimming, windsurfing, and scenic trails for biking and running.
"A heavenly place to chill, walk, and cycle with a vibe you'll absolutely love."
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
New parking restrictions are in place. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid hassle.
🎶 Catch the Live Music
Check for Tuesday jazz and Friday Latin music nights for a vibrant atmosphere and dancing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bde Maka Ska Pavilion
3000 E Bde Maka Ska Pkwy
New lakeside dining, market with local BIPOC businesses, and art installations. A vibrant community hub.

Water Sports Galore
Bde Maka Ska Lake
Rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, or pedal boats for a fun day on the water. Perfect for all skill levels.

Scenic Walking & Biking Trails
Bde Maka Ska Park
Miles of paved paths offer stunning lake views, ideal for running, cycling, or a leisurely stroll.
Live Music & Dancing
Various spots around the lake
Enjoy live music, including jazz and Latin nights, with opportunities for salsa dancing on select evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Serene Experience
Embrace the Active Lifestyle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
New parking restrictions are in place. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid hassle.
🎶 Catch the Live Music
Check for Tuesday jazz and Friday Latin music nights for a vibrant atmosphere and dancing.
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and pedal boats are available for rent.
👟 Lace Up for a Run
The 6-mile loop is popular for runners. Enjoy the scenic views while you get your miles in.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
New parking restrictions are in place. Arrive early or consider alternative transport to avoid hassle.
🎶 Catch the Live Music
Check for Tuesday jazz and Friday Latin music nights for a vibrant atmosphere and dancing.
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and pedal boats are available for rent.
👟 Lace Up for a Run
The 6-mile loop is popular for runners. Enjoy the scenic views while you get your miles in.
🍽️ Dine Lakeside
Explore the new Bde Maka Ska Pavilion for dining options like Pimento on the Lake.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially if you plan to spend the day outdoors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bde Maka Ska's beautiful scenery, perfect for walking, cycling, and swimming with stunning city views. The vibrant atmosphere, especially during live music events and water sports, is a major draw. While parking can be a challenge due to new restrictions, the overall experience is highly positive.
"Lake Calhoun is a heavenly place to chill, walk and cycle"
Ersel B
"Absolutely loved the vibe of this place.
It offers really good walking trails."
Saloni Vernekar
"My favorite lake to swim in. You can always find a spot without too many people and I love that you can see the city. Very laid back and fun."
elizabeth hanna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bde Maka Ska is accessible by car, with parking available, though restrictions have been implemented.
Public transportation options, including buses, also serve the area. Many visitors enjoy biking or walking to the lake, especially if staying nearby.Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. New restrictions are in place, so it's advisable to arrive early or explore alternative transportation methods.
Absolutely! Bde Maka Ska is very bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and ample space for cycling. It's a popular route for many locals.
Walking, running, and biking are the most popular ways to explore the lake and its surroundings. You can also rent various watercraft for on-lake exploration.
While there aren't dedicated shuttle services specifically for Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis offers various ride-sharing options and public transit that can get you to the lake.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bde Maka Ska and its surrounding park areas are free to enter and enjoy.
Bde Maka Ska is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like the Pavilion may have their own hours. Live music events are typically weather permitting in the evenings.
There is no entrance fee for the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion itself. You can explore the area and enjoy the views.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park areas. The Pavilion also offers dining and market options.
The trails at Bde Maka Ska are free to use for walking, running, and biking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a wide range of activities including swimming, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, running, walking, and picnicking.
Yes, Bde Maka Ska is a popular spot for swimming, with many people enjoying the lake's clear waters and city views.
The lake offers beautiful panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline, especially during sunrise and sunset. The new Pavilion also provides interesting architectural and artistic elements for photos.
Yes, you can rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats at Bde Maka Ska.
The Bde Maka Ska Pavilion is a new facility featuring lakeside dining, a market with local BIPOC businesses, and art installations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the new Bde Maka Ska Pavilion houses Pimento on the Lake, offering lakeside dining. There's also Pimento Market with grab-and-go options.
You can find a variety of food options, including jerk cuisine at Pimento on the Lake and grab-and-go items from local BIPOC businesses at Pimento Market.
While specific menus can vary, the Pimento Market often features diverse local vendors, increasing the likelihood of finding vegetarian or vegan choices. It's best to check with the vendors directly.
Absolutely! Bde Maka Ska is a great spot for picnics. You can bring your own food and find many scenic spots to enjoy your meal.
Yes, the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion has a beer and wine wall, offering a selection of beverages to enjoy by the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a beautiful glow over the lake and city skyline.
The panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline, the new Bde Maka Ska Pavilion with its architecture and murals, and the various watercraft on the lake are all excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is subject to Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board regulations. It's essential to check their official guidelines regarding drone operation in park areas.
Capturing the vibrant live music and dancing events, especially the Latin nights, can make for dynamic and engaging photos.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide landscapes and closer details. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
🎶 Music and Dance Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Active Pursuits at Bde Maka Ska
For those looking for a more structured workout, you might see people engaging in activities like weighted vest walks, as mentioned by some visitors. The parkland surrounding the lake provides ample space for various fitness routines. Whether you're training for a marathon or just looking for a refreshing way to spend your afternoon, Bde Maka Ska offers a dynamic environment to get your heart pumping and enjoy the natural beauty of Minneapolis.
Culinary Delights at the Pavilion
Beyond the main eateries, the Pavilion also features a beer and wine wall, perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink while taking in the lake ambiance. The presence of these diverse culinary options means you can easily spend a significant portion of your day at Bde Maka Ska, enjoying both the recreational activities and the local flavors. It’s a testament to the park’s evolution into a multifaceted destination that caters to a variety of interests.
Live Music and Community Vibes
These musical gatherings are a significant draw, transforming the lakefront into a lively social hub. The weather-dependent nature of these events means checking local listings or social media is advisable. The opportunity to enjoy live performances in such a beautiful natural setting adds a unique charm to Bde Maka Ska, making it more than just a park, but a destination for entertainment and social connection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit