Minnehaha Falls

Named after a legendary Native American princess, Minnehaha Creek cascades over a cliff in these dramatic falls just minutes from the downtowns of both Minneapolis and St. Paul. A favorite place for summer picnickers, the falls are beautiful all year long. They are strongest in June after the Spring rain, but winter transforms the falls into an icy tower.

For hikers or snowshoers, take the stairs down to the base of the falls and you'll find a trail that follows Minnehaha Creek down to its confluence with the Mississippi River. This trail is most notable for its white sandstone cliffs and small caves and the shallow lower creek is a great place for families with young children to swim and explore the creeks many tiny islands and channels. On your way back up, make sure to take the rather treacherous path that leads behind the falls for a new perspective.

If you're more interested in cycling, there are bike rentals in the park above the falls. The Minnehaha trails connect to the Minneapolis Grand Rounds, a 50 mile system connecting many of the city's parks.

Try to make it for one of the many free concerts, festivals, or outdoor movies. Pack your own lunch when you go or grab some food and beer at Sea Salt, a seafood restaurant located just a few yards from the top of the falls.