Audio Guide to Chain of Lakes

The park is open to the public and accessible every day from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. It is located southwest of downtown Minneapolis, and you can check parking and transportation details on the official Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board website.

Access to the parks, trails, and rest areas at Chain of Lakes is completely free. However, if you want to enjoy activities such as renting kayaks, canoes, or bicycles, specific fees apply through providers such as Wheel Fun Rentals.

We suggest setting aside between 2 and 4 hours to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace and explore at least one of the main lakes, such as Bde Maka Ska or Lake Harriet. If you plan to cycle the full lake circuit or stop for a meal, consider spending half a day.

It is the jewel of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway park system and the main reason why Minneapolis is known as the "City of Lakes." Culturally, the restoration of the Indigenous name Bde Maka Ska stands out, honoring the Dakota heritage of the region.

Summer, from June to August, is the liveliest season for water sports and outdoor concerts. However, autumn offers an incredible visual spectacle with changing leaf colors, and winter allows for unique activities such as ice skating on the frozen lakes.

Yes, Chain of Lakes offers excellent accessibility thanks to its miles of flat, paved trails. There is a clear separation between pedestrian paths, ideal for wheelchairs and strollers, and bike lanes, ensuring safety and comfort.

You are very close to the vibrant Uptown neighborhood and the famous Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. For a complete cultural experience, we recommend visiting the nearby Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia), one of the region’s most important museums.

Check the schedule for the Lake Harriet Bandshell so you can catch free outdoor music or movies. Bring water and comfortable shoes, as the distances can be deceptive if you decide to walk around several lakes.