Lake Harriet Bandshell - diagram
1 / 10

Lake Harriet Bandshell

4.8
·3k reviews·Minneapolis, United States

Historic bandshell hosting free summer concerts and movies, set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Harriet.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free concerts & movies

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Lake Harriet Bandshell - diagram

Lake Harriet Bandshell

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free concerts & movies

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic bandshell hosting free summer concerts and movies, set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Harriet.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"A quintessential Minneapolis summer experience with free music, movies, and beautiful lakeside views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed!

🪑 Seating Options

Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Concerts & Movies

Free Concerts & Movies

Lake Harriet Bandshell

Enjoy free summer concerts and movie nights under the stars. A quintessential Minneapolis summer experience!

Instagram+1
Scenic Lakeside Walks

Scenic Lakeside Walks

Lake Harriet Path

Stroll or bike along the picturesque path encircling Lake Harriet, offering beautiful water views.

TikTokReddit
Castle-Inspired Architecture

Castle-Inspired Architecture

Lake Harriet Bandshell

Admire the unique, castle-like design of the historic bandshell, recently repainted in a charming powder blue.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Concert & Movie Season

Summer brings free concerts and movies to the bandshell. Check the schedule for 'Music & Movies in the Parks' to catch live performances and outdoor film screenings. Arrive early for good spots, especially on weekends. Instagram

Parking & Accessibility

Parking can be challenging, especially during popular events. Consider arriving early, biking, or using public transport. The bandshell and surrounding paths are generally accessible. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Free concerts & movies
Crowd
High
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Yoga & market vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Less crowded walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The prettiest neighborhood ❤️ #hotgirlwalk #housegirlwalk
@rachelhansonhomes
2.1K likes • 34.7K views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed! InstagramReddit

🪑 Seating Options

Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies. Reddit

Join us for music at the Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis🎶 #lakeharrietbandshell #lakeharriet #minneapolis #musicinthepark #afghanhound
@severus.snoot
961 likes • 16K views
Summer vibes are in full swing! ☀️ 🌳 Grab a blanket, some snacks and get excited for this year’s lineup of free outdoor concerts and movies in the parks! ✨200+ outdoor concerts at eight park venues ✨ 60+ movie nights at various parks - all summer long! ✨and it’s all free!! Tap the link in our bio for the full Minneapolis Music & Movies in the Parks schedule. #minneapolis #mn #free #thingstod...
meetminneapolis
2.9K likes • 75.9K views

🦟 Bug Spray is Key

Mosquitoes and bugs can be prevalent, especially in the evenings. Don't forget repellent! Reddit

🚲 Bike or Walk

Beat parking hassles by biking or walking to the bandshell, especially if staying nearby. TikTokReddit

Tonight was the last night of music at the Lake Harriet Bandshell this year. The summer performances were capped off by BATO! BATO!, Breck School’s marimba band, and Socaholix, a Caribbean dance band. On this Labor Day, thank you to all of the @minneapolisparks workers that prepare for, clean, plan, and make the whole music and movies series happen in our parks every summer. It adds so much to o...
southwestvoices_
100 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed! InstagramReddit

🪑 Seating Options

Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies. Reddit

🦟 Bug Spray is Key

Mosquitoes and bugs can be prevalent, especially in the evenings. Don't forget repellent! Reddit

🚲 Bike or Walk

Beat parking hassles by biking or walking to the bandshell, especially if staying nearby. TikTokReddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

Free events vary. Consult the Minneapolis Parks calendar for concert and movie listings. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the free summer concerts and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell, calling it a quintessential Minneapolis experience. The scenic lake views, walking paths, and family-friendly atmosphere are frequently praised. Some mention occasional crowds and the presence of bugs, but overall, it's considered a beautiful and enjoyable park.

"I had such a good time at a free yoga class here. Starting the day with a view of the sail boats in the lake was just wonderful. Grabbed an iced coffee and delicious scone at Bread and Pickle afterwards. That night I went to see a free concert in the bandshell. They were great and some people got up and danced. Having never been there before these were both such fun events and I’ll be back for more. The free yoga is 6:30am M-F, 8:00am S-S. The concerts are all free as well. It’s dog friendly and you can grab a yummy bite at Bread and Pickle. You can also take a cooler if you like. Parking can get busy so maybe so show a little early or ride your bike if that’s an option. There is a paid parking lot and street parking."

Anne Kiely

"This is a great Minneapolis park. Has a wonderful playground. It's an extremely nice picnic shelter. It offers a lot of shade to eat you little meal from Bread and Pickle. It has a busy bike path as well as a walking path. Both are paved. It's a very safe place to enjoy during the morning or early evening hours. Have fun and relax"

Clifford Stang

"Pretty great spot for brunch and walking around!! Tho there was a homeless person that I wish wasn't there cause they were smelling bad."

Julia Gross

What People Like

Free concerts and movies
Beautiful lake views
Scenic walking paths

What People Dislike

Crowded parking
Bugs and mosquitoes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lake Harriet Bandshell is accessible by car, bike, and public transit. Paid parking lots and street parking are available, but can fill up quickly during events. Many visitors opt to bike or walk along the scenic paths. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is a paid parking lot and street parking available. However, it's recommended to arrive early or consider alternative transportation due to high demand during events. Reddit

Absolutely! Lake Harriet has a well-maintained bike path that makes biking to the bandshell a pleasant experience. TikTok

Several bus routes serve the Lake Harriet area. Check with Metro Transit for the most current routes and schedules that stop near the park. Reddit

The paths around Lake Harriet and the bandshell area are paved and generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, concerts and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell are typically free to attend as part of Minneapolis' 'Music & Movies in the Parks' program. Instagram

The bandshell itself is an outdoor venue and is accessible when events are scheduled. The park grounds are open from 6 am to 10 pm daily. Reddit

Movies in the Park are also free! Just bring your blanket or chairs and enjoy the show. Reddit

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, including coolers. Bread & Pickle also offers food for purchase. Reddit

No, Lake Harriet Park and the bandshell area are free to enter and enjoy. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The bandshell hosts a variety of free events, including live music concerts (jazz, funk, Caribbean, etc.) and outdoor movie screenings during the summer months. Instagram+1

For movies, many people bring blankets or low-back chairs to sit on the grass. Benches are available but can fill up quickly. Reddit

Yes, Lake Harriet is a dog-friendly park, and well-behaved dogs are generally welcome at events, though always check specific event rules. Reddit

The park features walking and biking paths, a playground, picnic areas, and Bread & Pickle for food and drinks. Reddit

Weekday mornings or early afternoons, outside of scheduled events, offer the most peaceful experience for walks or picnics. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Bread & Pickle is located right in the park and offers sandwiches, salads, and other treats. You can also bring your own picnic. InstagramReddit

While beer is sold at the restaurant (Bread & Pickle), it's often permitted to bring your own cans of beer to events, but always check park regulations. Reddit

Bread & Pickle offers a variety of casual fare, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. They are known for delicious options like the Walleye sandwich. Reddit

Prices are generally considered reasonable for park concessions, offering good value for the quality and location. Reddit

Absolutely! Lake Harriet is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are picnic shelters and plenty of open space. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the bandshell's unique architecture, the sailboats on the lake, and the vibrant atmosphere during concerts. The surrounding park offers beautiful natural scenery. Instagram+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos of the bandshell and lake. Instagram

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed during concerts, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash if it's disruptive. Instagram

While personal photos are fine, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always respect private property and individuals' privacy. Instagram

The recently repainted powder-blue bandshell looks great in natural daylight. Try to get shots that include the lake or surrounding greenery for context. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Harriet Bandshell and its surrounding park are fantastic for families. The playground is a big hit with children, and the paved paths are perfect for strollers or little ones learning to ride bikes. Reddit During summer, the free Movies in the Park are a wonderful, low-cost evening activity. Pack a picnic from Bread & Pickle or bring your own snacks to keep everyone happy. Reddit

Consider visiting during the day for a relaxed picnic or a stroll around the lake. While dogs are allowed in the park, keep them leashed, especially around playgrounds and during crowded events. The accessibility of the paths makes it easy for families to navigate with strollers or wagons. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers & Free Event Seekers

This is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers! The Lake Harriet Bandshell is renowned for its free summer concerts and movie nights. Instagram These events offer high-quality entertainment without any cost, making it a prime destination for those looking to save money. Reddit

Beyond the scheduled events, the park itself is free to explore. Enjoy walking or biking the scenic lake path, have a free picnic, or simply relax by the water. The free morning yoga classes are another excellent way to enjoy the park's amenities without spending a dime. Reddit

couples

For a romantic outing, consider a summer evening concert at the bandshell, perhaps with a picnic basket from Bread & Pickle. Instagram+1 The lakeside setting provides a beautiful and relaxed ambiance. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride around Lake Harriet, especially during the golden hours for stunning sunset views. Instagram

If you're looking for a peaceful morning, the free yoga sessions offer a unique way to connect and enjoy the tranquility of the lake. The bandshell's charming architecture also makes for lovely photo opportunities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Music & Movies in the Parks Program

The Lake Harriet Bandshell is a central hub for Minneapolis' beloved Music & Movies in the Parks program. Throughout the summer, this initiative offers a packed schedule of free entertainment for the community. From lively jazz and funk bands to family-friendly movie screenings, there's something for everyone. The program aims to bring arts and culture directly into local parks, making it accessible to all residents. Instagram+1

Visitors can check the official Minneapolis Parks and Recreation schedule online to plan their visits. It's common for people to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics to enjoy the performances. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and festive, with many attendees enjoying the beautiful lakeside setting as a backdrop to the entertainment. Reddit

This program is a significant draw to the bandshell, transforming it into a vibrant community gathering space. It's a fantastic way to experience local talent and enjoy warm summer evenings without any cost. Instagram

Bandshell Restoration and Aesthetics

The Lake Harriet Bandshell has undergone significant restoration efforts, including a recent repainting in 2023. After community input and debate, the bandshell was repainted in a powder-blue hue, aiming to return it closer to its original shade. This renovation not only preserved the historic structure but also enhanced its visual appeal. Instagram+1

The castle-inspired architecture of the bandshell makes it a distinctive landmark. Its charming aesthetic, especially with the fresh coat of paint, provides a picturesque setting for both events and casual visits. Photographers often find the bandshell to be a compelling subject, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Beyond its visual appeal, the bandshell's functional role as a performance venue is key to its identity. The combination of its unique design and its role in community programming makes it a cherished spot in Minneapolis. Instagram

Lake Harriet Park Activities

Lake Harriet itself offers a wealth of recreational opportunities beyond the bandshell's events. The park features a popular paved path that encircles the entire lake, perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. This path provides stunning views of the water, sailboats, and the surrounding greenery, making it a favorite for locals seeking exercise and scenic beauty. TikTokReddit

For families, there's a well-maintained playground that provides a fun space for children to play. Additionally, the park is known for its picnic shelters and open spaces, making it an ideal location for outdoor gatherings and leisurely meals. The presence of Bread & Pickle, a local eatery within the park, adds convenience for those looking to grab a bite. Reddit

The park is also a popular spot for free yoga classes in the mornings, offering a serene start to the day with a beautiful lake view. It's a versatile space that caters to a wide range of activities, from active recreation to relaxed enjoyment of nature. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2