Witch's Hat Water Tower
Iconic 'Witch's Hat' water tower offering stunning Minneapolis skyline views from Prospect Park's highest point.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shaded park, great city views
Witch's Hat Water Tower
Best Time
Shaded park, great city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 'Witch's Hat' water tower offering stunning Minneapolis skyline views from Prospect Park's highest point.
"A historic landmark with a whimsical design and breathtaking city vistas."
Check Event Schedules
Your best bet for tower access is during special events like the Ice Cream Social. :ticket:
Enjoy the Park Ambiance
The surrounding park offers lovely shaded areas and picnic spots. Perfect for a relaxing break. :parkwithtrees:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Witch's Hat Exterior
Prospect Park
Iconic, whimsical water tower resembling a witch's hat. A unique architectural marvel.
Panoramic City Views
Prospect Park Hillside
Stunning vistas of the Minneapolis skyline from the highest point in the city. Breathtaking on a clear day.
Historic Prospect Park
Prospect Park
A charming, sylvan neighborhood with serpentine streets and mature trees, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Views
Event-Based Openings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Your best bet for tower access is during special events like the Ice Cream Social. :ticket:
Enjoy the Park Ambiance
The surrounding park offers lovely shaded areas and picnic spots. Perfect for a relaxing break. :parkwithtrees:
Capture Unique Photos
The tower's quirky design makes for fantastic, memorable photos. Get creative! :camerawithflash:
Walk the Neighborhood
Explore the charming, tree-lined streets around the tower for an added visual treat. :housewithgarden:
Minneapolis' Witch's Hat Water Tower: Why is the Prospect Park landmark only open once per year? | City Pages (Plus a slideshow of pics from the tower)
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Your best bet for tower access is during special events like the Ice Cream Social. :ticket:
Enjoy the Park Ambiance
The surrounding park offers lovely shaded areas and picnic spots. Perfect for a relaxing break. :parkwithtrees:
Capture Unique Photos
The tower's quirky design makes for fantastic, memorable photos. Get creative! :camerawithflash:
Walk the Neighborhood
Explore the charming, tree-lined streets around the tower for an added visual treat. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Witch's Hat Water Tower for its unique, whimsical architecture and the stunning panoramic views of Minneapolis from Prospect Park. The charming, tree-lined neighborhood surrounding the tower is also a highlight, offering a peaceful escape. While interior access is limited, the park's beauty and the tower's iconic presence make it a worthwhile visit.
"Located in a sylvan neighborhood of serpentine streets on the border of St. Paul, the Prospect Park water tower sits on the highest point in Minneapolis. It served as a working water tower for the first half of the 20th century and now rests silently as a historical monument. There isn't much to see of the tower itself; a normal person on a normal day cannot go inside, but there is a short path that goes around it and a simple grass park adjacent. The neighborhood, however, makes for a beautiful walking space filled with an eclectic mix of intriguing homes nestled among large, old trees and perennial landscaping that make you forget that you're in the middle of Minnesota's largest urban area of many millions of people. That's really the part worth seeing."
Julie Bowen
"It's a clean little escape from the surroundings good views a nice picnic area.. I would love to know more about the history of the uniquely designed water tower. It looks more like a castle With the craftsmanship put into it.
I imagine the view from up top would be amazing."
Tony Compton
"This was a great historic location foe a quick visit on a hot summer day. Most of the area is shaded, and despite the hazy day today, this stop still had a great view of downtown. Great to learn a bit of history too at the highest point in town. Wish you could go up the tower, but still had great views nonetheless."
Jeff Collins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Witch's Hat Water Tower is located in Prospect Park, Minneapolis. It's accessible by car, with parking available below the tower. Public transportation options are also available, though specific routes may vary.
Yes, parking is generally available below the tower. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on event days, as spots can fill up. :car:
If you're in the surrounding neighborhoods, walking is a pleasant option. The area features serpentine streets and mature trees, making for a scenic stroll. :walking:
The best viewpoint is from the park surrounding the tower. A short path winds around it, offering different perspectives.
The park grounds are generally accessible, but the interior of the tower is not open to the public regularly. Check for specific event accessibility details. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the park and exterior viewing of the Witch's Hat Water Tower is free. Tickets are typically only required for special events where the tower might be open for interior tours.
The park surrounding the tower is generally open during daylight hours. The tower itself is usually only accessible during specific, advertised events.
Public access inside the tower is very limited. It's historically opened for special occasions like the Pratt School Ice Cream Social. Keep an eye on local event listings.
No, Prospect Park and the Witch's Hat Water Tower are free to visit and explore. It's a public park. :moneywithwings:
The best way is to check the Prospect Park Minneapolis website or local event calendars for announcements regarding the Ice Cream Social or other potential openings.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers various angles to capture the tower's unique shape. The hillside provides a great backdrop with the city skyline.
Yes, from the park on the hillside, you can get excellent views of the Minneapolis skyline, especially on clear days.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the park and any private property nearby. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful light for photographing the tower and skyline. Golden hour is particularly stunning. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's best to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area. :drone:
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can admire the unique architecture of the tower, enjoy the panoramic views of Minneapolis from the park, and explore the charming surrounding neighborhood.
Yes, Prospect Park has picnic tables available, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or snack while enjoying the views. :picnic_table:
It served as a working water tower for Minneapolis in the first half of the 20th century and is now a historical monument. Its unique design resembles a castle.
The park itself is a beautiful, sylvan area with serpentine streets and large, old trees. The nearby neighborhood is also worth exploring for its eclectic homes.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the park and surrounding neighborhood. Dress for the weather. :athletic_shoe:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While going inside the tower is usually not an option, the park itself is the main attraction for families. The chance to see a unique landmark and enjoy a green space in the city is a win-win. Keep an eye out for special event days, like the Ice Cream Social, which can add an extra layer of fun for children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the tower itself, the charming streets of Prospect Park offer picturesque residential architecture and mature trees, providing additional photographic opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an amateur with a smartphone, the visual appeal of this location is undeniable. Remember to check for any local regulations regarding drone photography if you plan to capture aerial shots. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Urban Explorers
Urban explorers will appreciate the surrounding neighborhood's character. The serpentine streets and eclectic homes offer a glimpse into the development of Minneapolis. While interior access is limited, the tower's exterior and its prominent location on the city's highest point are significant features for anyone interested in urban landscapes and historical landmarks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of the Witch's Hat
While the tower's primary function has ceased, it remains a significant historical monument. Its unique craftsmanship and charming appearance have captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. The surrounding Prospect Park was developed to complement the tower, creating a green space that enhances its visual appeal. The park's serpentine paths and mature trees were designed to offer scenic routes and picnic spots, making the area a delightful place to explore.
Efforts are underway to potentially restore and reopen the tower for public access. Organizations like the Friends of Tower Hill Park are working to make this iconic structure accessible again, promising even better views and a deeper connection to its history. Until then, admiring its exterior and enjoying the park's ambiance remains the primary experience.
Experiencing Prospect Park and Its Views
The surrounding neighborhood is equally charming. Known for its serpentine streets and an eclectic mix of intriguing homes nestled among large, old trees, it feels like a step back in time. Walking through this area provides a peaceful escape from the urban bustle and offers a glimpse into a picturesque Minneapolis enclave. The park also boasts picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a family outing.
While interior access to the tower is rare, the exterior views and the park's serene atmosphere are well worth the visit. The combination of historical architecture, natural beauty, and expansive city vistas makes Prospect Park a unique and memorable stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit