I go to Lake Harriet to walk the trails around it while admiring the pretty water views,sailboats,wildlife and also see who I meet going the opposite way. Most people are friendly if you want to stop and pet their dog. It takes me about an hour to walk around medium pace. Also trails for bikers,roller bladers. If you walk counter clock wise somewhere on the southern side is a tree inhabitated by an elf.(they say) There IS a latch and a little door you can open about shoulder height. People leave notes there,and the elf writes back. Most people I don't think know about it but it's there on your right in the south portion--. There are often concerts at the stage which affords a view of the sailboats as you watch the concert. Have something to snack on or try an ice cream cone at the small building by the stage. Sit by the water and watch the ducks or ducklings near the shore. Lake Harriet has a Rose garden,and also a Trolley car ride that travels a short distance but fun. Some summer nites a big screen is blown up and they show movies which they list in advance. Also of course picnic tables,benches,barbeques throughout. If attending a concert go early especially if pops due many people reserve whole rows with blankets. I park in a neighborhood nearby and just walk down to the lake.

Many people know about the band-shell and terrific concerts. But there's also a wonderful (free) playground about 50 yards north of the bandshell. Two separate areas - one for 2-5 year olds, one for 5-12 year olds.

Really well done. If you arrive early in the am, you can park free. Otherwise there are lots that require paying.

What a fabulous park! Imagine having two young children, walking to Lake Harriet (or driving - lots of parking in a large lot or on nearby streets) & seeing not only a gorgeous lake (where motor boats are not allowed!), but also a superb playground for the kids, a bandshell with lots of seating (& shows most evenings), a trolley train that will take you on a little ride,and even a pavilion with restrooms, fast food, & ice cream! Doesn't get much better. This was my favourite spot in Minneapolis & we went three times in the week I was there! The playground was unsurpassed! My dinner from the pavilion was yummy, & I could even get a glass of wine! We played at the climbing area, ate beside the lake, watching the ducks & the sailboats, then took a trolley ride & ended the evening walking home with an ice cream cone! Brilliant. Thank you Minneapolis for such a wonderful spot.