Nicollet Island Park
A historic island oasis in the Mississippi River, offering stunning skyline views, charming 19th-century homes, and peaceful trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Nicollet Island Park
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic island oasis in the Mississippi River, offering stunning skyline views, charming 19th-century homes, and peaceful trails.
"Great little island area to add to your path for a good workout."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Trails
Gravel pathways are great for walking and biking, connecting to Boom Island and Stone Arch Bridge. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Stunning skyline and waterfall vistas make for incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Homes
North end of the island
Wander past beautifully maintained mid-19th century homes, offering a glimpse into Minneapolis's past.
Downtown Skyline Views
Along the riverfront
Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline and the majestic St. Anthony Falls.
Stone Arch Bridge Connection
South end of the island
Easily access the iconic Stone Arch Bridge and explore the vibrant St. Anthony Main area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Vibe
History & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Trails
Gravel pathways are great for walking and biking, connecting to Boom Island and Stone Arch Bridge. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Stunning skyline and waterfall vistas make for incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
📚 Dive into History
Learn about Joseph Nicollet and the island's past for a richer experience. :books:
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce; consider walking or biking if possible. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Trails
Gravel pathways are great for walking and biking, connecting to Boom Island and Stone Arch Bridge. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Stunning skyline and waterfall vistas make for incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
📚 Dive into History
Learn about Joseph Nicollet and the island's past for a richer experience. :books:
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce; consider walking or biking if possible. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Nicollet Island Park for its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and stunning city views, offering a peaceful escape within the urban core. While the gravel paths can be a drawback for accessibility, the charm of the historic homes and the picturesque riverfront make it a highly recommended spot for a stroll or bike ride.
"Great little island area to add to your path for a good workout. Gravel pathway along this area so may be inaccessible for wheelchairs in a lot of the area. I was surprised at all of the use of the island with a school being there. Cool bridges to cross getting back to the main land."
The K Green Show
"This very interesting park, encompassing a little more than half of the island, has a lot of variety in its 26 acres. The north end includes a lovely walk along the back channel from the Boom Island bridge to the rail line, and the south end includes a pavilion and amphitheater. Between the two areas is De Lasalle High School. The north end contains a small neighborhood consisting of well maintained mid-19th century homes. The island has great views of the St Anthony Dam and downtown skyline.
I highly recommend reading the National Park Service’s web page and the Wikipedia page for details about the fascinating history of the island."
Greg Zillgitt
"Nicollet Island Park,
is the only park that has residential homes and a private High School in it, and it is an island.
The Minneapolis Parks Board owns the island and leases properties back until 2082. The south side has an event space and the Nicollet Island Inn. The north side has the island’s old residential homes, condos, Park space, trails and DeLaSalle High.
You can walk or ride your bike to the island from either side of the river. Also, there are trails connecting to Boom Island Park and historic Main Street and the Stone Arch Bridge. Views of St Anthony Falls."
Minneapolis Photography
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk or bike to Nicollet Island Park from either side of the Mississippi River. Trails connect to Boom Island Park, St. Anthony Main, and the Stone Arch Bridge, making it easily accessible without a car.
Parking is limited, especially near the Nicollet Island Inn and Pavilion. It's recommended to arrive early or consider alternative transportation like biking or walking.
Yes, you can drive across the island, but parking is restricted in many areas. The island is best explored on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its charm.
While there isn't direct public transport to the island itself, many bus routes run through downtown Minneapolis, allowing you to walk or bike the short distance to the park. Check local transit schedules for routes near the Stone Arch Bridge or St. Anthony Main.
Exploring Nicollet Island by walking or biking is highly recommended. The gravel pathways offer a scenic route, and you can easily connect to other nearby attractions like Boom Island Park and the Stone Arch Bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nicollet Island Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. You can explore its trails, historic homes, and scenic viewpoints freely.
There are no general admission fees for Nicollet Island Park. However, if you plan to use facilities like the Nicollet Island Pavilion for an event, there may be rental fees.
Nicollet Island Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, like most city parks. Specific facilities like the Nicollet Island Inn or Pavilion may have their own operating hours.
Yes, the Nicollet Island Pavilion is available for event rentals. You can contact the Minneapolis Parks Foundation or relevant authorities for booking information and availability.
The historic homes on Nicollet Island are private residences or condos. While you can admire their architecture from the outside, there is no public entry fee or access to tour them.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides on the gravel paths, admire historic 19th-century homes, take in stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline and St. Anthony Falls, and connect to nearby attractions like the Stone Arch Bridge.
The gravel pathways can be challenging for wheelchairs in many areas. While some parts might be manageable, it's not considered fully wheelchair accessible.
The riverfront offers fantastic views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline and St. Anthony Falls. The historic homes also provide charming backdrops for photography. 
Yes, the island offers a great route for a workout, with its trails providing a good path for running or cycling.
The island is named after Joseph Nicollet, a French explorer and cartographer who mapped the Upper Mississippi River in the 1830s. It also features well-preserved mid-19th century homes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Nicollet Island Inn is located on the island and offers dining options. Additionally, the nearby St. Anthony Main area has several restaurants and cafes.
While there are no designated picnic areas with tables, you can find scenic spots along the riverfront to enjoy a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The St. Anthony Main area, just across the bridge, offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants.
The Nicollet Island Inn has a dining room and may offer cafe-style service. For more cafe options, explore the St. Anthony Main district.
Food truck availability can vary. It's best to check local event listings or explore the St. Anthony Main area, which might have food vendors during events.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the skyline and river. Sunrise can also be stunning, though access might be limited before park opening.
The views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline and St. Anthony Falls are iconic. The historic homes on the north end also provide charming photographic subjects.
Drone usage in Minneapolis parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check with the Minneapolis Parks Foundation and FAA guidelines before flying a drone.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of private residences.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the skyline views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a day of it by walking or biking across the Stone Arch Bridge and exploring the Mill City Museum area. This provides a mix of historical context, open space for kids to run around, and beautiful views that can captivate younger imaginations.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, pack a picnic to enjoy by the river. The nearby St. Anthony Main area offers a range of dining options, but for the most budget-friendly experience, bring your own provisions.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't forget to explore the bridges connecting the island to the mainland; they offer unique perspectives and framing opportunities. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive cityscapes and a telephoto lens to isolate details of the falls or buildings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Nicollet Island's History
The island's unique status as a park that also houses a private high school (DeLaSalle) and residential properties leased from the Minneapolis Parks Board until 2082 adds another layer to its character. This blend of public space, private living, and educational institutions creates a vibrant, albeit unusual, community. The historic homes are a particular draw, allowing visitors to imagine life in Minneapolis over a century ago.
For those interested in a deeper dive, the National Park Service's web page and the Wikipedia entry for Nicollet Island offer extensive details about its fascinating history, including its role in the development of Minneapolis. Understanding this context truly enhances the experience of walking through the park.
Capturing the Iconic Minneapolis Skyline
The best times for photography are often during the golden hour, either at sunrise or late afternoon, when the light casts a warm glow on the cityscape. The reflections on the Mississippi River can also add a magical element to your shots. Many visitors find the views from the northern end of the island particularly striking, offering a clear line of sight to the downtown core.
Beyond the skyline, don't miss the opportunity to capture the historic homes on the island, which add a unique charm and historical context to your photographs. The bridges connecting the island to the mainland also make for interesting photographic subjects, framing the urban and natural elements of the scene.
Navigating Nicollet Island: Trails and Accessibility
While the trails are generally well-maintained, it's important to note that they are primarily gravel, which can present challenges for individuals using wheelchairs or strollers. Some sections may be more accessible than others, but overall, the park is not considered fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility concerns should be prepared for uneven terrain.
For those who enjoy an active visit, the island's layout makes it an excellent spot for a workout. Runners and cyclists can enjoy a good loop, taking in the sights and sounds of the city while getting their exercise. The connectivity to other trail systems also allows for longer, more extensive routes.
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