About Minnehaha Falls
An iconic and easily accessible urban nature retreat in the Twin Cities featuring a breathtaking waterfall, scenic hiking trails that lead to the Mississippi River, and seasonal dining options.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Relaxing family walks and outdoor gatheringsPicnics and casual hikingToddlers and Strollers: Ideal for the paved, flat path from the parking lot to the main waterfall viewpointOlder Kids and Teens: Great for hiking the full loop, exploring the creek, and getting closer to the water
Why families love it
- Paved and highly accessible path from the parking lot directly to the waterfall overlook
- Scenic hiking trails, including a full loop to the confluence of Minnehaha Creek and the Mississippi River
- Well-maintained picnic areas and benches throughout the park
- On-site restaurant available during the summer season
- Paved overlook path
- Full loop trail to the Mississippi River
Insider tips
- Do the full loop trail to see the confluence of the creek and the Mississippi River
- Be prepared for potential lower path closures and locked gates
- Bring payment for the parking lot, which costs around $1.50
- Visit during the summer to experience the seasonal restaurant, or in autumn for fall colors
Good to know before you go
- Planning on hiking the lower paths without checking for seasonal or safety closures first
- Unexpected closures of the lower path with locked gates
- Occasional vandalism on the bridge
- Paying for parking even when key trail sections are closed
- Crowds
- Generally peaceful and relaxing, though highly popular during peak seasons like summer and autumn
- Value
- Highly affordable outdoor activity with a nominal parking fee of $1.50, offering great value for scenic views and extensive trails.
- Food
- Picnic areas are available for bringing your own food
- Accessibility
- Paved and very accessible path from the parking lot to the main falls view
- Safety
- Locked gates to restrict access to the lower path when conditions are unsafe
What parents say
"Minnehaha Falls is an iconic Twin Cities attraction! The waterfall is beautiful in every season and the path from the lot to the view of the falls is paved and very accessible. It is really a sight to behold too. It's the sort of place that makes you feel refreshed and at peace just to see it, even when everything else might feel overwhelming. There are lots of walking paths, benches, and a tasty restaurant in the summertime. I highly recommend checking out Minnehaha Falls if you're new to the area and/or looking to enjoy what the beautiful Minnesota landscape has to offer!"
2 months ago
"Finally made it back here in 2025 after visiting and posting my photo from 2016. Has it really been 9 years???? wtf!! Still an excellent hike with a lot of paths that lead right up to the water. I personally LOVED the confluence of the Minnehaha stream with the Mississippi River and would recommend doing the FULL loop. Please enjoy this “retake” of my photo from nearly a decade ago. It was nice to come back under different circumstances"
a week ago
"Minnehaha Falls is a beautiful gem close to home, offering a perfect escape into nature. The cascading waterfall is the centerpiece, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic trails that are great for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The park is well-maintained and offers plenty of picnic areas, making it ideal for a relaxing day out. Whether you’re exploring the creek, admiring the fall colors, or just sitting by the falls, it’s a peaceful retreat that showcases the natural beauty of the area. A must-visit for nature lovers!"
4 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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