Peavey Plaza - a bench in a park
1 / 10

Peavey Plaza

4.6
·219 reviews·Minneapolis, United States

An urban oasis with captivating water features and a vibrant stage for community events and performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Warm afternoons

Perfect for splashing and relaxing

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Peavey Plaza - a bench in a park

Peavey Plaza

Best Time

Warm afternoons

Perfect for splashing and relaxing

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An urban oasis with captivating water features and a vibrant stage for community events and performances.

4.6
(219 reviews)

"A beautiful spot to visit on a warm day, with fountains so well designed, I could look at them for hours."

Vertical photo
TIP

Splash Zone Fun! :woman_running_water:

Wade in the shallow pools on warm days; it's a highlight for many!

Catch a Free Show! :musical_score:

Look out for impromptu performances or scheduled concerts.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Water Features

Interactive Water Features

Throughout the plaza

Shallow pools and cascading waterfalls create a captivating urban oasis. Wade in or simply admire the stunning design.

Live Performances

Live Performances

Main plaza area

Experience spontaneous violin and dance shows or scheduled concerts. A dynamic backdrop for artistic expression.

TikTok
Architectural Design

Architectural Design

Entire plaza

Admire the innovative landscape architecture, creating a unique and engaging public space.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Water Features

Peavey Plaza's iconic water features are a major draw. On warm days, wading in the shallow pools is encouraged, offering a unique urban oasis experience. Be mindful of signage regarding restricted areas and potential hazards.

Check for Events & Performances

This vibrant plaza frequently hosts concerts and events. Checking the schedule beforehand can enhance your visit, offering opportunities to enjoy live music or dance performances in a beautiful setting. TikTok

Best Times

When
Warm afternoons
Why
Perfect for splashing and relaxing
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Enjoy live music & performances
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

MINIGUIA SAN BLAS.🌴 . Ahí te van unos TIPS PARA VISITAR SAN BLAS NAYARIT.🏝️🐚 ▸Sin duda, debes empezar por la PLAZA PRINCIPAL que aunque pequeña, esta recién remodelada y quedó preciosa.  ▸Después, dirígete al MUELLE PESQUERO a conocer la emblemática estatua de “La Loca de San Blas”,. ▸Llega al MUELLE DE MATANCHEN. Este muelle mide unos 200 m y se ha convertido en un ícono de San Blas. ▸Lánzate a L...
@santosrecorre
9.3K likes • 316.4K views

Splash Zone Fun! :woman_running_water:

Wade in the shallow pools on warm days; it's a highlight for many! InstagramReddit

Catch a Free Show! :musical_score:

Look out for impromptu performances or scheduled concerts. TikTok

Don’t miss this unique violin and dance performance in Peavey Plaza, Minneapolis, MN. #minneapolismn #minneapolisminnesota #twincities #exploremn
@kristeninmn
7.7K likes • 82.2K views
Peavey Plaza piano #5. A sad 0/10. RIP #minnesota #minneapolis #downtown
chandlerjarvis123
68 likes • 1.3K views

Bring a Picnic :sandwich:

Ideal spot for lunch with food trucks nearby. Instagram

Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll want to explore and potentially wade, so wear appropriate footwear.

How to top off a night of 2,000 people eating dinner on Nicollet? Walk through the art work on Peavey Plaza’s splash pool
rtrybak
106 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Splash Zone Fun! :woman_running_water:

Wade in the shallow pools on warm days; it's a highlight for many! InstagramReddit

Catch a Free Show! :musical_score:

Look out for impromptu performances or scheduled concerts. TikTok

Bring a Picnic :sandwich:

Ideal spot for lunch with food trucks nearby. Instagram

Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll want to explore and potentially wade, so wear appropriate footwear.

Check Event Schedule :calendar:

Maximize your visit by attending a Peavey Plaza event. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(219 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Peavey Plaza is widely praised as a beautiful and engaging urban oasis, particularly for its interactive water features that invite wading and play. Visitors appreciate its innovative design and its role as a vibrant community space for relaxation and events. However, some reviews mention concerns regarding safety and the presence of individuals experiencing mental health crises, which have occasionally impacted the experience.

"A beautiful spot to visit on a warm day. We stopped as part of our bicycle ride through the surrounding area. Took off our shoes and waded through the water. The fountains are so well designed, and waterfalls so captivating that I could look at them for ours. Such a treasure for the community.

There was an incident that did cast a cloud over the experience. There was a person, that seemed to be having a mental health crisis. (Did not look homeless, but who knows). They had been wading into the fountain area (which are off limits, but not great signage), and happen to cut their foot on something. Alerting the security personnel only caused them to chastise the individual, but did not provide any medical assistant, or call for other resources. We had a first-aid kit and were able to render some help. Not sure what happened after we left.

After reading some of the other negative reviews, it appears that their have been issues with homeless people in the area. Not sure what the answer is, but you simply can't have injured people, bleeding in public spaces, especially in areas where others are sharing that space. Kind of sad :("

Scott W

"Cool area to just chill at or splash in the water with kids. The water is probably 1/8th of an inch deep. Somehow seems to be perfectly still even with the "waterfalls" on along the sides. Gives the impression that you're walking on water if you decide to step in.

There is a makeshift restroom nearby. I didn't feel unsafe while I was here. There's a lot of people walking around."

Rasikanand Harvind

"I was so pleased to return to Mpls and find they’ve renovated Peavey Plaza fountain so people can now enjoy splashing in it—and many children and adults were partaking on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Love the architecture and the fun!"

Ambior Sidney

What People Like

Beautiful water features
Interactive wading pools
Vibrant event space

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Occasional disturbances

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Peavey Plaza is centrally located in downtown Minneapolis, easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and light rail. It's also a popular stop for cyclists exploring the city. Parking is available in nearby garages. Instagram

Yes, Peavey Plaza is situated along Nicollet Mall, a major transit corridor in Minneapolis, making it very convenient to reach via bus. Instagram

Absolutely! Peavey Plaza is a great destination for cyclists, with bike racks often available nearby. It's a scenic spot to incorporate into a city bike tour. Reddit

The Hilton Minneapolis is a short walk from Peavey Plaza, making it an easily accessible attraction for hotel guests. Reddit

Yes, several parking garages are located within walking distance of Peavey Plaza, offering convenient options for visitors driving into downtown Minneapolis.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Peavey Plaza is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy. Instagram

Peavey Plaza is generally open to the public during daylight hours. Specific hours may vary depending on events or seasonal maintenance.

There is no admission fee to enjoy the water features at Peavey Plaza. They are a free amenity for the public. Reddit

While wading is encouraged, be aware of any posted signage regarding restricted areas or safety guidelines. Reddit

Typically, dogs are allowed in Minneapolis parks on a leash, but it's always best to check local park regulations for the most current information.

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

You can relax by the water features, enjoy impromptu or scheduled performances, have a picnic, or simply admire the unique architecture. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the shallow water features are designed for people to wade in and enjoy, especially on warm days. Reddit

Absolutely! Kids love splashing in the shallow water features, making it a fun and engaging spot for families. Reddit

There are makeshift restrooms nearby, and the plaza is generally well-maintained. Reddit

Peavey Plaza hosts a variety of events, including concerts, dance performances, and other community gatherings. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the dynamic water features, the surrounding architecture, and any live performances. The interplay of water and light offers great photographic opportunities. Instagram

The plaza's lighting can create interesting effects at night, but daytime offers the best conditions for capturing the water features and overall ambiance.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the plaza's expanse, while a zoom lens can be useful for photographing performers. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water. Instagram

The illusion of walking on water created by the still pools and the architectural lines offer unique perspectives for photographers. Reddit

Drone usage in urban public spaces is often restricted. It's essential to check FAA regulations and local ordinances before flying a drone over Peavey Plaza.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Peavey Plaza is a fantastic spot for families. The shallow water features are a huge hit with children, offering a safe and fun way to cool off and play on warm days. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy while parents relax. Reddit

Bring a change of clothes and towels for the little ones, as they'll likely want to splash around. The plaza is also a good place for a picnic, with nearby food truck options, making it an easy and enjoyable outing for the whole family. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers & Shoppers

If you're exploring downtown Minneapolis, Peavey Plaza is a must-visit. It's conveniently located along Nicollet Mall, making it a perfect stop during a shopping trip or a break from sightseeing. Instagram

Take a moment to relax by the water features, enjoy a quick lunch from a nearby vendor, or simply appreciate the urban landscape architecture. It's an easily accessible and refreshing addition to any day trip itinerary.

🎶 Music & Art Lovers

Peavey Plaza is a dynamic venue for arts and culture. Keep an eye out for scheduled concerts and performances, or you might even stumble upon impromptu musical acts. TikTokInstagram

The plaza's unique design also serves as a beautiful backdrop for photography and appreciating urban art installations. It's a place where creativity flourishes in the heart of the city.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Water: Peavey Plaza's Aquatic Design

Peavey Plaza is renowned for its innovative water features, designed by M. Paul Friedberg. These aren't just decorative; they are integral to the plaza's identity, offering a playful and interactive experience for visitors. The shallow pools create a unique visual effect, making it seem as though one is walking on water, a sensation highly praised by visitors. Reddit

The design encourages engagement, with many people, including children, wading in the water on warm days. This interactive element transforms the plaza into a dynamic urban oasis, a welcome respite in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. The cascading waterfalls add a soothing auditory element, complementing the visual spectacle. Instagram+1

While the water features are a major draw, it's important to be aware of the environment. Some reviews mention incidents that highlight the need for clear signage and adequate safety measures. However, the overall sentiment is that these water elements are a significant asset, contributing to the plaza's charm and appeal as a community gathering space. Reddit

Peavey Plaza as a Community Hub

More than just a plaza, Peavey Plaza serves as a vibrant community hub, frequently hosting a variety of events and performances. From spontaneous musical interludes to scheduled concerts and dance performances, the plaza provides a unique stage for local artists and a lively atmosphere for attendees. TikTokInstagram

Its central location along Nicollet Mall makes it an accessible and popular spot for both locals and tourists. It's an ideal place for a lunch break, a casual meetup, or simply to soak in the city's energy. The plaza's design fosters a sense of community, encouraging people to gather and enjoy the public space together. Instagram

While the plaza is a beloved spot, some discussions touch upon challenges related to public spaces, such as ensuring safety and comfort for all visitors. However, the consistent praise for its beauty, interactive elements, and role as a venue for events underscores its importance as a cherished downtown destination. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2