Girlfriends Guide to Minneapolis

Welcome to lake‑life heaven, because in Minnesota, the water isn’t just scenery, it’s a whole personality. The state may be called the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but Minneapolis holds its own with more than 22 lakes inside city limits, creating a rich, year‑round lake culture that practically begs you to get outside and explore.

The shining star? The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, a gorgeous 600‑acre urban playground made up of five beloved lakes (Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake) all connected by peaceful channels, walking paths, and biking trails.
Spend the day any way you choose. Rent a canoe or kayak and glide across the water. Walk or bike along the 15 miles of shoreline paths. Settle into a lakeside picnic spot with friends. And the best part? All of this is just 10 minutes from downtown, making it one of the easiest, and prettiest, group outings in the city.

Spotlight on Bde Maka Ska
The largest link in the chain and translating to “White Earth Lake” in the Dakota language, Bde Maka Ska is a full‑on lake day dream. Expect three beaches, watersport rentals, and plenty of grassy space perfect for lounging with a blanket, a book, or your favorite snacks.

When hunger hits, don’t miss Pimento on the Lake, serving bold Jamaican flavors right by the water Spring-Fall. Before you leave, stop into Pimento Market, home to products from more than 20 BIPOC‑owned businesses, a beautiful reflection of Minneapolis’ vibrant community.

Spotlight on Lake Harriet
Lake Harriet is straight out of a postcard with its iconic Bandshell, stunning historic mansions that line the shore, and the gorgeous public gardens just steps away. Make time to wander the Lyndale Park Rose Garden just north of the lake, at 1.5 acres, it’s the second‑oldest public rose garden in the U.S. and features more than 3,000 plants in over 100 rose varieties. It’s dreamy, fragrant, and absolutely worth the detour.

Art lovers, get ready, this museum is the kind of place you wander into for “just an hour” and suddenly realize you’ve spent the whole afternoon exploring. The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is one of the city’s cultural gems, offering free admission and a jaw‑dropping collection of more than 90,000 works spanning 5,000 years of global history.

From European masterpieces to vibrant Asian art to bold contemporary pieces, Mia’s galleries take you on a world tour without ever leaving Minneapolis. With 20,000 years of creativity under one roof, there’s absolutely no rush, this is a place to stroll, linger, and let your curiosity lead the way.

When you’re ready to recharge, swing by Agra‑Culture Café for soups, sandwiches, and a cozy break before diving back in.
Insider tip: If your girls’ trip lands in April, don’t miss Art in Bloom, Mia’s beloved annual event. It’s free, open to everyone, and features stunning floral interpretations inspired by select artworks created by more than 100 florists. Expect amazing scents, gorgeous displays, free guided tours, and creative activities throughout the museum. It’s one of the prettiest times of year to visit.

If you and the girls are in the mood for a little art, fresh air, and iconic photo ops, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is the perfect spot. This free, 11‑acre urban park is run by the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, and it’s packed with more than 40 permanent and temporary artworks spread across beautiful green space. It’s open every day from 6 AM to midnight, so you can wander whenever the mood strikes.

The star of the show is Spoonbridge and Cherry, the giant spoon and bright red cherry fountain that’s basically a Minneapolis icon. But the garden has plenty more to explore, from the towering 25‑foot‑tall blue rooster, to the striking Wood Row horse sculpture, plus lots of modern, abstract, and interactive pieces that make strolling through the park feel playful and inspiring. It’s artsy, chill, and totally Insta‑worthy, the ideal stop for a girls’ day in Minneapolis.

One of Minneapolis’ most breathtaking outdoor spots, Minnehaha Falls is calling your name. As one of the city’s oldest and most iconic sights, this 53‑foot waterfall is pure magic. The crash of the water, the cool mist rising from the basin, and the mix of nature right alongside the city makes it an absolute must‑see.

Start at the top for a dramatic view over the ledge, then take the staircase down to the bottom to experience the falls from a totally different angle, both are stunning and worth it. When you’re done soaking in the views, there’s plenty more to explore. Stroll through Minnehaha Park, find a shady picnic table for a snack break, or keep it simple by grabbing lunch at Sea Salt, the seasonal restaurant right next door. It’s famous for its tacos and seafood, and yes, the line can get long, so grab a cold drink and enjoy the scenery while you wait.

After you eat, hit the trails that wind out from the basin. You’ll wander past stone bridges, sandy corners of the creek, and peaceful stretches of river, all with the soothing sound of water in the background. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, fresh air, and chill vibes for a girls’ day out.

Breathtaking views, historic charm, and some of the best photo ops in Minneapolis, the Stone Arch Bridge checks every box for an unforgettable girls’ outing. This former railroad bridge stretches across the mighty Mississippi at Saint Anthony Falls and holds the title of the only stone‑arched bridge along the entire river. It’s one of Minneapolis’ most iconic landmarks, and exploring the area around it makes for the perfect mini‑adventure.

Kick things off near the Guthrie Theater, where the architecture alone is worth a look (hello, dramatic blue exterior and endless city views). Just steps away is the Mill City Museum, where you can wander the historic ruins and learn the wild story of the 1878 mill explosion. If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning, the Mill City Farmers Market is a total vibe, fresh produce, flowers, local makers, and lots of treats to fuel your walk. Then cross the Stone Arch Bridge itself for stunning views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi River rolling underneath.

On the far side, you’ll stroll right into St. Anthony Main, a charming pocket of Northeast Minneapolis and the oldest part of the city. Picture cobblestone streets, patios full of brunchers and happy‑hour crowds, and some of the best people‑watching in town.