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Minnehaha Regional Park

Grab a snack from one of the nearby cafes before heading in. It's way cheaper than the overpriced stuff inside the park. You can save a few bucks!

Don't forget to bring a camera for the falls. I missed some great shots because I was too busy just enjoying the moment. Capture those beautiful views, trust me

If you're going for a hike, I'd recommend starting early, around 8 AM. The trails are much less crowded, and you get to enjoy the views with fewer people around.
Minnehaha Waterfall

Keep your camera ready when it's sunny. You might catch a rainbow in the mist! That said, I suggest bringing a towel or an extra shirt if you get too close; I got soaked and it was kinda chilly!

Check out the trails! I almost missed them because I was just focused on the waterfall but the paths around are beautiful and totally worth the time. Wear good shoes tho, some spots can be a bit slippery.

Bring your own snacks and drinks! There’s a lovely picnic area nearby, and buying food there can get kinda expensive. Plus, it’s nice to relax by the water with a packed lunch.

Get there early, like around 8 AM. The morning light is stunning for photos and you won't have to deal with big crowds yet. Trust me, it makes everything more enjoyable.
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

If you’re planning to bike along the trails, try to go early in the morning around 8 AM to avoid crowds. I made the mistake of going later and it was packed, which made it harder to enjoy the ride.

I think the sunsets over the river are breathtaking, so try to stay until around 7 PM if you can. I caught one and it was a perfect way to end the day

I recommend exploring the Wells Fargo Place for its amazing architecture, but don’t forget to bring your camera. The views from the area are just stunning and you’ll want to capture the moments.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

I suggest bringing your own snacks or lunch... The cafe's prices were steeper than I expected, and a picnic among the flowers is such a nice experience!

I think you should grab a map when you enter. The place is huge, and I got turned around a couple of times. Knowing the areas can save you a ton of time!

For the best photo ops, go during the golden hour. I missed it and regretted not getting those dreamy sunset shots – seriously, it's worth it!
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
If you're into photography, golden hour (around 6-7 PM) is magical. The light really makes the sculptures pop, plus the crowds die down after dinner.

Pack a small lunch or snacks! There are plenty of spots to picnic around the park, and it saves you money on food. Plus, the views are gorgeous!

Bring a charged phone for a self-guided tour! I found some really cool info on a few sculptures that I wouldn’t have known otherwise.

I recommend visiting early in the morning, like around 8 AM. The park is way less crowded, and you can really take your time enjoying the sculptures without feeling rushed
Bde Maka Ska

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks, as the concessions can be overpriced. I saved a bunch of cash packing a picnic!

I think the sunsets here are incredible, so plan your day to catch one. Around 7 PM is when I saw the best views!

Check out the trail around the lake early in the morning. I went around 8 AM and it was super peaceful and less crowded!

If you want to rent a kayak or paddleboard, do it early, like before noon. The lines get long, and you’ll want to enjoy the water!
Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Don't miss the trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! They were super fun, but I recommend checking the trail conditions beforehand. Some spots were a bit rough when I went.

I suggest arriving around 9 AM on weekends to snag a good parking spot. It gets pretty busy later, especially if there’s snow! We parked far away and it was a drag walking with sleds.
Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium

My advice is to check for any online discounts before buying tickets. I saved a few bucks by booking ahead online instead of getting them at the door.

I think you should grab a snack at the cafe, but maybe skip the pizza. It was kinda pricey and not great. There are also some good spots nearby if you wanna eat out after!

I recommend visiting right when they open at 10 AM. It wasn't super packed, and you get to enjoy the exhibits without feeling rushed. Plus, the staff seemed more available to chat and answer questions.
Mill Ruins Park

I recommend visiting in the late afternoon around 4 PM for the best light and fewer crowds. The ruins look stunning during golden hour.

My advice is to wear comfy shoes! The trails are a bit uneven, and you'll want to walk around and explore the entire area without worrying about your feet.

I think it's a good idea to bring a packed lunch. There aren't many food options nearby and picnicking in the park is lovely!

If you like photography, don't miss the stone staircases and old machinery. I suggest bringing a good camera or even your phone—trust me, the pics will come out amazing!