Minneapolis's Most Refined Lake Experience Is Also Its Most Beloved
Why Rent On Lake Harriet
Lake Harriet is the jewel of Minneapolis’s Chain of Lakes, a 470-acre park lake surrounded by some of the city’s most gracious residential neighborhoods, including East Harriet, Linden Hills, Fulton, and Lynnhurst. Its well-established shoreline, 2.75 miles of pedestrian trail, and 2.99 miles of bike path create a lakeside promenade of consistent beauty and social vitality. A vacation rental in one of the surrounding neighborhoods gives your family access to one of urban America’s finest lake environments, steps from both natural beauty and exceptional city culture.
Sailing, Paddling, and the Lake Harriet Band Shell
Canoe, kayak, bike, boat, and paddleboard rentals through Wheel Fun Rentals make the lake accessible to guests of every age and fitness level. The Lake Harriet Yacht Club has hosted sailing regattas since 1943 and gives the lake a nautical character that feels genuinely distinguished. Free summer concerts at the Lake Harriet Band Shell are one of Minneapolis’s most beloved seasonal traditions, drawing families and neighbors to the shoreline on warm evenings in a ritual that captures everything good about lake city life.
The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, World-Class Art, and the Spoonbridge
The Chain of Lakes connects Lake Harriet to Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake, creating a water and trail network that gives guests extraordinary reach across the city’s most beautiful parkland. The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, featuring the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry, are within easy reach. The Minneapolis Institute of Art holds one of the finest permanent collections in the Midwest and is a compelling full-day cultural destination.
Why a Rental Near Lake Harriet Is the Best Base in Minneapolis
Vacation rentals and residential homes near Lake Harriet give families beautiful lake views, full kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, and immediate access to the most refined lake park environment in the Twin Cities. The surrounding neighborhoods offer exceptional independent dining, coffee, and local retail that make every evening away from the lake equally rewarding. Pet-friendly rentals are widely available. For families who want a Minneapolis stay anchored by a beautiful lake in a genuinely lovely neighborhood setting, Lake Harriet is the most satisfying answer in the city.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.85
- Max depth (ft)
- 85.3
- Elevation (ft)
- 849.74
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 2.98
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Boating
- Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Harriet has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed at Lake Harriet. You must swim only within the marked areas, and children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board monitors bacteria levels and closes the beach if it is unsafe.
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Lake Harriet is a popular destination because of its various amenities and activities. It features a bandshell with free summer concerts and movies, beaches, a fishing pier, biking and walking paths, and rentals for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The lake also has a rose garden, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
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You can catch several species of fish in Lake Harriet, Minnesota, including Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Bluegill, Crappie, Muskellunge, and Yellow Perch. The lake is also home to other species like Bullhead and Carp, although these are less abundant. Lake Harriet is managed primarily for Muskellunge and Walleye.
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Both the North Beach and the Southeast Beach at Lake Harriet are suitable for families. The North Beach has a floating swim dock, and both beaches are accessible from the walking path around the lake. However, neither beach has lifeguards on duty.
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Lake Harriet is near the cities of Minneapolis and Edina, and it borders the city of Richfield to the south. The lake is surrounded by several Minneapolis neighborhoods, including Tangletown, Kenny, and Lynnhurst. These areas are part of the larger southwest Minneapolis community.
