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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for splashing and relaxing
Peavey Plaza
Best Time
Perfect for splashing and relaxing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An urban oasis with captivating water features and a vibrant stage for community events and performances.
"A beautiful spot to visit on a warm day, with fountains so well designed, I could look at them for hours."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Architectural Design
Entire plaza
Admire the innovative landscape architecture, creating a unique and engaging public space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water Features
Check for Events & Performances
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Bring a Picnic :sandwich:
Ideal spot for lunch with food trucks nearby.
Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll want to explore and potentially wade, so wear appropriate footwear.
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!
Catch a Free Show! :musical_score:
Look out for impromptu performances or scheduled concerts.
Bring a Picnic :sandwich:
Ideal spot for lunch with food trucks nearby.
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.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Peavey Plaza is situated along Nicollet Mall, a major transit corridor in Minneapolis, making it very convenient to reach via bus.
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.
The Hilton Minneapolis is a short walk from Peavey Plaza, making it an easily accessible attraction for hotel guests.
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.
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.
While wading is encouraged, be aware of any posted signage regarding restricted areas or safety guidelines.
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.
Yes, the shallow water features are designed for people to wade in and enjoy, especially on warm days.
Absolutely! Kids love splashing in the shallow water features, making it a fun and engaging spot for families.
There are makeshift restrooms nearby, and the plaza is generally well-maintained.
Peavey Plaza hosts a variety of events, including concerts, dance performances, and other community gatherings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dynamic water features, the surrounding architecture, and any live performances. The interplay of water and light offers great photographic opportunities.
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.
The illusion of walking on water created by the still pools and the architectural lines offer unique perspectives for photographers.
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
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.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Shoppers
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
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
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.
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.
Peavey Plaza as a Community Hub
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit