For the Outdoorsy…
If your idea of fun involves fresh air, scenic views, and maybe a little adventure, you’re in luck — the Twin Cities are full of beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve got an hour or a full day, here are some great ways to enjoy the great outdoors while you’re here for the wedding.
Chain of Lakes (Minneapolis)
The heart of the city’s park system — walk, bike, or paddle your way around Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bikes, and there are plenty of spots to grab a picnic.
Minnehaha Falls
One of the most iconic natural sights in Minneapolis — a gorgeous 53-foot waterfall right in the city. Walk the trails, dip your toes in the creek on a hot day, and grab some fried seafood at Sea Salt Eatery nearby.
Mississippi Riverfront
Follow the riverfront trails in either Minneapolis or St. Paul for sweeping views of the Mississippi. In Minneapolis, St. Anthony Main is a great starting point for a stroll past historic buildings and the Stone Arch Bridge.
Como Park & Conservatory
In St. Paul, Como Park offers gardens, lakes, walking paths, and the beautiful glass-domed conservatory. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon, and admission is free (though donations are appreciated). Como Zoo is also free and right next door.
Fort Snelling State Park
Just minutes from the airport, this state park has miles of trails along the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. A peaceful escape into nature without leaving the metro.
Theodore Wirth Regional Park
On the edge of Minneapolis, Theodore Wirth offers wooded trails, mountain biking, disc golf, and in warmer months, a great swimming beach at Wirth Lake.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
A tucked-away gem in St. Paul — follow the trails through wooded areas and find the small, serene waterfall that gives the park its name.
Afton State Park
Features scenic bluffs with stunning views of the St. Croix River and offers trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It also provides river access for fishing and canoeing.
William O'Brien State Park
Known for its beautiful hardwood forests and colorful wildflowers, the park has riverfront camping, canoeing, historic sites and picnic areas.
Willow River State Park
Located in Hudson, Wis., Willow River is known for its stunning 40-foot waterfall. The park offers scenic hiking trails through forests and along the Willow River, perfect for nature walks and wildlife viewing.
Kinnickinnic State Park
Located in River Falls, Wis., Kinnickinnic has the crystal-clear Kinnickinnic River, one of the best trout streams in the Midwest. The park offers beautiful hiking trails through forested hills and along the riverbanks, perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and nature photography.