Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers its residents numerous activities and a variety of weather to enjoy. The summer high is 84° F, while the winter low is 7° F. Despite needing a different wardrobe every six months, Minneapolis‘ park and recreation system has done an exceptional job creating activities at lakes that anyone can enjoy. Visitors can take a dip into the water in the summer or skate on the ice during the winter. Current residents and those planning a move to Minneapolis can learn about the best lakes in the area and their amenities below.

Lake Harriet

Lake Harriet is one of the most popular lakes in the Minneapolis area. With two beaches, North Beach and Southeast Beach, visitors can find ample locations to set up their beach blankets and prepare for a day of fun in the sun. Visitors are more than welcome to bring their own food, but a visit to the Break & Pickle restaurant at the Pavilion is well worth every penny.

In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors can canoe, kayak, bike, boat, and paddle board during their visit. Those who do not have their own water vessels or do not want to deal with transporting them to the lake can rent them upon arrival. Better still, those who own a boat can store it on Lake Harriet with the purchase of a permit.

Lake Harriet has seen quite a history over the years. In the early 1960s, the lake was home to a speed skating track. Furthermore, the 1963 speed skating trials for the United States Olympic team were held on these very waters.

Lakes of the Isles

Lakes of the Isles is an engineered, man-made lake. Created in the early 1900s by dredging a shallow lake and marsh complex, the city of Minneapolis created a lake that was surrounded by parkland. The lake is now 120 acres, but it is not as large or deep as it used to be. Improvement efforts have been regularly implemented since 2001 to protect the lake from shifting. A flood in 1997 and a wind storm in 1998 had devastating effects that took nearly a decade to resolve.

This lake can quickly become crowded on the weekends throughout the year. Whether it is to enjoy time in the water or get on the ice, it is best for visitors to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

Bde Maka Ska

Bde Maka Ska (pronounced “b-day ma-KHA skah”) covers over 500 acres of lake and parkland. It boasts three beaches, 32nd Street Beach, North Beach, and Thomas Beach, for visitors to spend their time. Bde Maka Ska only became the official name of the lake in 2018.

Some amenities may be closer or farther to each beach. It is best for visitors to decide what they want to do before taking the time to set up their chairs, umbrella, and towels.

Visitors are encouraged to use their favorite non-motorized water vessel. Canoe, kayak, bike, boat, and paddle board rentals are available during summer. After spending time on the water, Lola On The Lake offers delicious bites at an affordable price.

Lake Nokomis

Lake Nokomis is located in Lake Nokomis Park. The lake features 50th Street Beach and Main Beach. With over 200 acres of water, visitors can enjoy using their own or rented water vessels.

This popular lake welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Anyone who wants a good spot is encouraged to arrive early in the morning.

Lake Nokomis was named the Best Place to Get Away From It All Without Leaving Town by City Pages’ “Best of the Twin Cities” in 2008.

Como Lake

Como Lake is a smaller lake in the Como Regional Park. It offers 1.67 miles of trails around the lake itself. The lake’s amenities include a beach, boat launch, fishing pier, and trails.

Visitors may fish at the pier on the south end of the lake. Those who wish to take their boat with an electric trolling motor on the lake to fish are permitted to do so. However, no boat trailers are allowed in the parking lot.

Powderhorn Lake

Powderhorn Lake is a 12-acre lake in one of Minneapolis’ largest parks. Water quality restoration projects have regularly been implemented since 1890 to keep the aquatic environment healthy. People can swim in the lake or rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards. The lake is available for use from sunrise to sunset each day.

Powderhorn Lake boasts numerous year-round and seasonal amenities, such as sport fields, a garden, an ice skating rink, a picnic area, restrooms, and a wading pool, giving people an array of things to do during their visit.

Enjoy the Best Lakes in Minneapolis

When one thinks of a day at the lake, it usually doesn’t entail more than water, wind, and sunshine. However, Minneapolis’ lakes are different. Each lake on this list offers numerous amenities that adjust with the area’s summer and winter temperatures. When the pool at your condo or townhome isn’t enough for your desire to get out on the water, there’s no better city than Minneapolis for you to enjoy a day on the lake or to relax from a lakefront property.

If Minneapolis is the city for you, contact Kris Lindahl Real Estate at 1-(855) 967-7653 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your dream home today.