Minneapolis, known as the City of Lakes, offers some of America’s most beautiful urban waterfront experiences. The city’s unique geography features the mighty Mississippi River cutting through its heart alongside numerous lakes and creeks, creating perfect settings for morning strolls, sunset walks, and everything in between.
For visitors who prioritize being close to water, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference in your Minneapolis experience. Here is a list of 20 fantastic places to stay if waterfront walks are high on your vacation agenda.
Downtown Riverfront
The heart of Minneapolis offers incredible access to the Mississippi River. Staying at hotels like the Marriott City Center or Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District puts you just steps from the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail.
These accommodations combine urban luxury with easy access to morning riverside walks, where the sun rises spectacularly over the water and the historic mill district.
Mill District Boutiques
Once the world’s flour milling capital, this historic neighborhood now houses charming boutique hotels like Hewing Hotel and Aloft Minneapolis. These properties sit within a five-minute walk of the river’s edge and the Mill Ruins Park.
The combination of industrial architecture and natural beauty creates a backdrop that feels uniquely Minneapolis, like stepping into a postcard of the city’s past and present.
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North Loop Lofts
This trendy neighborhood offers renovated warehouse accommodations just a short distance from the Mississippi. Properties like Element Minneapolis Downtown and TownePlace Suites provide contemporary comfort with easy access to the Ole Olson Park waterfront trail.
The area transforms beautifully with the seasons, offering lush green paths in summer and crystalline river views in winter.
Chain of Lakes District
For those who prefer lake walks to river strolls, accommodations near the Chain of Lakes provide endless waterfront opportunities. The Uptown Hilton Garden Inn sit within easy walking distance of Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun), and Lake Harriet.
These interconnected bodies of water create a 13-mile path system that locals consider the crown jewel of Minneapolis outdoor recreation.
Lake Nokomis Area
The less touristy but equally beautiful Lake Nokomis area offers charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Properties like The Blackbird and various Airbnb options place you right near this serene lake.
The 2.7-mile walking path offers a quieter waterfront experience compared to the more popular lakes, making it feel like you’ve discovered a local secret.
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Minnehaha Creek Corridor
Following the creek that connects Lake Minnetonka to the Mississippi, this area features quaint accommodations close to one of the city’s most picturesque waterways. Small inns and private rentals in the Longfellow neighborhood provide easy access to the 22-mile Minnehaha Creek Trail.
The path winds alongside the bubbling creek, offering surprising moments of wilderness within the urban environment.
St. Anthony Main
This charming cobblestone street area features boutique accommodations like the Nicollet Island Inn on an island in the Mississippi River. The historic character of the buildings, combined with riverfront access, creates a European feel in the heart of the Midwest.
Morning walks here offer views of the downtown skyline reflected in the water.
Boom Island Vicinity
Near the northern stretch of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, accommodations around Boom Island Park provide excellent access to waterfront paths less traveled by tourists. Properties like Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel give easy access to the quiet side of the river—the park’s peninsula juts into the Mississippi, creating nearly 360-degree water views on your morning constitutional.
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Lake Harriet Haven
The southwestern corner of Minneapolis features Lake Harriet, surrounded by some of the city’s most beautiful homes and select bed and breakfasts. Staying in this area puts you near the lake’s 2.8-mile walking path, historic bandshell, and beautiful gardens.
The peaceful atmosphere makes it feel miles away from downtown, though it’s just a short drive from the city center.
Cedar Lake Retreats
The lesser-known Cedar Lake is part of the Chain of Lakes system and offers more secluded waterfront opportunities. Vacation rentals and small inns in this area provide access to quiet beaches and walking paths.
The lake’s eastern shore features hidden docks and contemplative spots that are perfect for watching the sunrise with far fewer people than other Minneapolis lakes.
Bde Maka Ska Shoreline
The largest lake in Minneapolis offers waterfront paths with sweeping views and plenty of activity. Staying at accommodations like The Beach Club Residences or nearby Airbnbs puts you within steps of the 3.2-mile path that circles this popular lake.
Throughout the day, the area transforms from peaceful morning reflections to lively afternoon gatherings, offering different waterfront experiences depending on when you venture out.
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Wirth Lake Area
Theodore Wirth Park contains Wirth Lake and borders the city’s western edge. Accommodations in this area tend toward private rentals that offer access to the lake and the park’s extensive trail system.
The combination of forest and waterfront creates a more rustic walking experience compared to other Minneapolis lakes, feeling more like a northwoods retreat than a city park.
West River Parkway
Following the Mississippi on its western bank, this area features mid-range hotels and vacation rentals with excellent river access. Properties around the University of Minnesota area offer easy access to walking paths that follow the bluffs above the river.
These elevated paths provide panoramic views of the water and opposite shoreline that change dramatically with the seasons.
East River Flats
Across from West River Parkway, accommodations near East River Flats Park provide a different perspective of the Mississippi. Small inns and apartments in the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood place you near paths down to the water’s edge.
The unusual geography creates intimate riverside walks where the steep banks make it easy to forget you’re in a major metropolitan area.
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Powderhorn Lake Surroundings
This small lake in south Minneapolis is surrounded by a diverse neighborhood with eclectic accommodations. Guest houses and private rentals place you near the lake’s walking path and beautiful park.
The community feel of this area makes morning walks as much about encountering friendly locals as enjoying waterfront views.
Diamond Lake District
This quiet residential area in south Minneapolis features Diamond Lake and its surrounding parkland. Vacation rentals in the neighborhood provide access to peaceful water views and walking paths.
The lake’s smaller size and residential character create a sense of discovery, as many visitors to Minneapolis never make it to this hidden gem.
Northeast Arts District Riverfront
The creative Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood extends to the Mississippi River, offering unique accommodations in converted industrial spaces. Lofts and boutique hotels like The Covington Inn (a converted towboat) provide direct access to river walks with an artistic flair.
The area’s creative energy extends to its waterfront, with public art installations dotting many walking paths.
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Hiawatha Lake Vicinity
Located near the Light Rail line, accommodations surrounding Lake Hiawatha provide both waterfront access and excellent transportation options. Mid-range hotels and private rentals make this area convenient for car-free travelers who still want morning lakeside strolls.
The lake’s walking path connects to Minnehaha Creek, creating extended waterfront walking opportunities.
Loring Park Adjacent
This downtown-adjacent park features a small but charming pond with a walking path. Upscale hotels and condos like the 4 Seasons Minneapolis are within easy walking distance of this urban oasis.
The contrast between the downtown skyscrapers and the peaceful waterfront creates a uniquely metropolitan waterfront walking experience.
Bassett Creek Gateway
The often-overlooked Bassett Creek enters the Mississippi River near downtown, creating secluded waterfront walking opportunities. Newer accommodations in the North Loop neighborhood provide access to these hidden paths.
Following the creek offers a sense of urban exploration as it winds through surprising green spaces in the heart of the city.
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Endless Shores, Countless Memories
Minneapolis stands apart from many American cities with its abundance of accessible waterfront experiences, each offering its own character and charm. Whether you’re watching the Mississippi flow past historic mill ruins, circling a pristine urban lake, or discovering a hidden creek, the city provides waterfront walks for every preference.
The best accommodations aren’t just places to sleep—they’re gateways to experiencing the city’s special relationship with water. By choosing a location that speaks to your waterfront preferences, you’ll better appreciate why locals proudly call Minneapolis the City of Lakes.
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