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Lakes
Despite what the popular catch phrase states, Minnesota boasts nearly 11,850 lakes. The Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area has an astonishing 929 lakes, plus a major river running through the two cities.
Chain of Lakes
Rent a canoe or kayak. Stroll or bike along 13 miles of paved shoreline paths. Watch ice surfers skim across the surface of the lake. Just 10 minutes from downtown, the Chain of Lakes provide an idyllic backdrop for walkers, bikers, boaters and skiers.
Each lake retains its own personality and offers different attractions for visitors:
Lake Calhoun
This bustling lake is near trendy Uptown. Calhoun is the best place for meeting other friendly Minneapolitans while they bike, swim, run, inline skate, play volleyball or windsurf, among other activities.
Lake Harriet
Another popular recreational area, Lake Harriet features a spectacular bandshell and the beautiful Lyndale Park with its bird sanctuary, peace gardens and rose gardens.
Lake of the Isles
Retaining much of its natural habitat and look, Lake of the Isles is known for its two wooded islands. During the winter, enjoy ice skating and hockey. And take in the stately homes in the Kenwood, Lowry Hill and East Isles neighborhoods near the lake.
Cedar Lake
With both the Cedar Lake Trail and Kenilworth Trail connecting to it, Cedar is also immensely popular among residents. Its "Hidden Beach" is a prime area for swimming and sunbathing.
Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet are the biggest of these four connected lakes. With 6 beaches, 2 marinas, volleyball courts and a restaurant, visitors enjoy an all-season playground.
Tip
Rent inline skates, tandems, recumbent or road bikes at one of the bike shops on Lake Street and enjoy the Chain of Lakes like a local.
we-recommend
Como-Harriet Street Car
Built at the turn of the 19th century, this historic trolley once connected downtown Minneapolis with the lakes. Today the Lake Harriet-Como Streetcar runs between Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun.
Fish, Sail, or Swim
No matter how you enjoy them, Minnesota's 10,000+ lakes are yours to discover. Start exploring now.
Lake of the Isles Ice Rink
As the temperature drops, the warming hut comes out. Lake of the Isles offers some of the best ice in the city. Skate rental and hot cocoa available.
Lyndale Park Rose Garden
Designed by the same man who created the White House rose gardens and named one of the country’s top 10 places to smell the roses.
Discover More
- Explore the historic Minneapolis Riverfront
- Grab a map to Minneapolis lakes
