Lake Harriet
A beloved Minneapolis gem offering scenic lake views, vibrant gardens, recreational paths, and summer concerts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Lake Harriet
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Minneapolis gem offering scenic lake views, vibrant gardens, recreational paths, and summer concerts.
"Very pleasant lake to go for a bike ride walk jog or go boating on."
🎯 Grab a Treat at Bread & Pickle
Don't miss this popular cafe for tasty bites and lakeside views!
👟 Explore the Walking Paths
Lace up for a walk or bike ride around the lake; it's a must-do!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lyndale Park Rose Garden
Adjacent to Lake Harriet
A stunning oasis of vibrant blooms and fragrant scents, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Lake Harriet Bandshell
North shore of Lake Harriet
Catch free live music performances during the summer months for a classic park experience.
Bread & Pickle Cafe
Southwest shore of Lake Harriet
Enjoy delicious food and drinks with picturesque views of the lake.
Lake Harriet Paved Paths
Circumferential
Ideal for walking, jogging, or biking, offering scenic views and access to various park amenities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Embrace the Lakeside Vibe
Don't forget comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive walking and biking paths that circle the lake. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab a Treat at Bread & Pickle
Don't miss this popular cafe for tasty bites and lakeside views!
👟 Explore the Walking Paths
Lace up for a walk or bike ride around the lake; it's a must-do!
🎶 Check for Bandshell Concerts
Free summer concerts offer a delightful evening experience.
🌸 Visit the Rose Garden
A beautiful spot for photos and a peaceful escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab a Treat at Bread & Pickle
Don't miss this popular cafe for tasty bites and lakeside views!
👟 Explore the Walking Paths
Lace up for a walk or bike ride around the lake; it's a must-do!
🎶 Check for Bandshell Concerts
Free summer concerts offer a delightful evening experience.
🌸 Visit the Rose Garden
A beautiful spot for photos and a peaceful escape.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Anglers can try their luck for muskie and other fish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Harriet is widely praised for its beautiful scenery, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the paved paths for walking and biking, the vibrant Rose Garden, and the lively summer concerts. While generally safe and pleasant, some note that the area can get busy and has become 'a little sketchy' in recent years, though still considered manageable.
"The spread-out anchored boats had the eerie effect of a graveyard, yet serene and beautiful. The food MUST be good as the line went on and on. The easy, paved walkway was kind of busy but it is a holiday weekend."
Tricia W
"Very pleasant lake to go for a bike ride walk jog or go boating on. Although within the past four years, the area has gotten a little bit sketchy, but still not too bad."
Jay Dee
"Felt mostly safe while during sunset walking from 3955 walkway to the rose garden. Beautiful view and very relaxing"
Amiri Lyle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Harriet is accessible by car, with parking available around the lake. Public transportation options, including buses, also serve the area. Many visitors enjoy biking or walking to the lake, especially if staying nearby.
Yes, there are several parking lots around Lake Harriet, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events. Consider arriving early or exploring alternative transportation.
Absolutely! Minneapolis has an extensive network of bike paths, and many connect to Lake Harriet, making it a popular destination for cyclists.
Yes, several Metro Transit bus routes stop near Lake Harriet, providing convenient access for those relying on public transportation. Check the Metro Transit website for specific route information.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking the paved paths that circle the lake. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards for a water-based exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lake Harriet and its surrounding park areas are free to enter and enjoy.
The concerts at the Lake Harriet Bandshell are typically free and open to the public, making them a great way to enjoy live music.
Lake Harriet and its parks are generally open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily. Specific facilities like the Bread & Pickle cafe have their own operating hours.
Dogs are welcome in the park areas but must be kept on a leash. They are not permitted on the beaches.
There are no fees for launching non-motorized boats like canoes or kayaks at Lake Harriet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk, bike, jog, picnic, enjoy live music at the bandshell, visit the rose garden, go boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding, and relax at the beaches.
Yes, Lake Harriet is known for fishing, with opportunities to catch species like muskie, pike, and bass.
Yes, Bread & Pickle is a popular cafe located on the southwest shore, offering food and drinks with lake views.
The Lyndale Park Rose Garden, the lake itself during sunset, and the bandshell area offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Lake Harriet has designated swimming beaches with buoys marking safe areas. Water quality is generally good, but it's always wise to check local advisories.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer distractions for capturing serene shots.
The Lyndale Park Rose Garden is a must for floral photography. The lake's skyline views, the bandshell, and the tree-lined paths also make for great shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Minneapolis parks to ensure safety and enjoyment for all visitors. It's best to check Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board regulations.
Experiment with capturing reflections in the water, especially during calm mornings. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active & Outdoorsy Visitors
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on the water, with rental options available. Anglers will also find opportunities for fishing. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Capture the skyline views of Minneapolis across the water, or the serene beauty of the lake during sunrise and sunset. The bandshell provides an architectural element, and the changing seasons offer unique perspectives. Weekday mornings are ideal for capturing tranquil shots without many people in the frame. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Harriet's Trails and Recreation
Many visitors rave about the ease of access and the beautiful views along the way. For those interested in fishing, Lake Harriet is a known spot for catching various species, including muskie and bass.
Culinary Delights and Sweet Treats
+1 It's a perfect place to refuel after a walk or bike ride, or to simply enjoy a leisurely meal with a view. The cafe's popularity is evident, with lines often extending, a testament to its quality. Beyond Bread & Pickle, the surrounding area offers other opportunities for treats. One TikTok creator even shared a Dalgona latte from a nearby spot, enjoyed while taking in the scenery of the Rose Garden and Lake Harriet.
The Enchanting Lyndale Park Rose Garden
It's a tranquil escape where visitors can wander through the beds, admire the diverse varieties, and capture stunning photographs. The garden serves as a perfect complement to the lake's natural beauty, providing a more cultivated and artistic landscape. Many visitors find it to be a peaceful and romantic spot, ideal for a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection. Its proximity to Lake Harriet makes it an easy addition to any itinerary, offering a different yet equally captivating experience of the area's natural charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit