The Stone Arch Bridge

Overall Rating- 3.9

Photo Aesthetic – 5 This is absolutely the best view of Minneapolis. The skyline, the river, the Mill City Ruins, all in one place? It doesn’t get any better. It is stunningly beautiful at any time of day, with sunset being my personal favorite. It is truly the most iconic Minneapolis location.

Accessibility – 4 There is a decent amount of metered (no free options) parking on the Saint Anthony Main side of the river. Finding a spot with very little walking spot can be challenging during popular summer hours, but is generally doable!

Stiletto Friendly – 4.5 Almost ideal, there is a paved bike path from your parking spot and onto the bridge! Just be careful of the grate running along the center of the bridge.

Photobombers – 2 They are truly unavoidable. There will be people in the background of your photo unless you’re here when it’s raining or it’s too cold to be outside.

Low angles are the best, fully committ to the shot and lay on your stomach to take pictures. It’s the best way to keep unwanted people out of the photo.

Lake Calhoun / Bde Maka Ska

Overall Rating- 3.9

Photo Aesthetic – 5 Lush grass and trees in the forefront and the Minneapolis skyline in the background, it’s pretty amazing. The city is decently far off in the background, but stunning regardless. The only downside is that there’s really only one potential angle for you to shoot at in order to capture the skyline. But I do promise you that single angle with leave you with a gorgeous photo. 

Accessibility – 4 I’m speaking specifically of the South West of the Lake, shooting back at Minneapolis. So accessibility is good. There’s free street parking, and it’s generally not too difficult to find a spot! 

Stiletto Friendly – 4.5 You can stay on walking paths to get there, and to shoot some photos. But the best shots require standing in the grass in order to capture the most beautiful Minneapolis views. 

Photobombers – 2 You will be either on a walking path, or right next to one. So if you’re there at popular times or on a beautiful weather day, you will most likely have to wait for walkers/runners/bikers to pass, or accept them into your photo. 

You will be either on a walking path, or right next to one. So if you’re there at popular times or on a beautiful weather day, you will most likely have to wait for walkers/runners/bikers to pass, or accept them into your photo. 

Loring Park

Overall Rating: 3.6

Photo Aesthetic – 3 There are SO many options! You can be in the trees, on paths, surrounded by flowers, wander into the sculpture garden and climb up to the absolutely beautiful connecting bridge. There’s also an adorable little alley way close with cobblestones and unique textured doors, walls, etc. It’s only losing points because there’s not much opportunity to shots including views of Minneapolis’s stunning skyline!

Accessibility – 4 The parking options are limited to metered parking, but it’s always pretty easy to find a spot!

Stiletto Friendly – 3.5 There are plenty of smooth bike paths to walk on and stay completely stiletto friendly. However, it’s generally worth it to venture into the grassy park and climb up the stairs onto the Sculpture garden’s bridge! If you’re willing to adventure a little in your heels, you open up a whole new world of photo options!

Photobombers – 4 There are generally lots of people, but lots of space of space as well! You can easily find space to be alone in order to capture a few shots uninterrupted.

The scenery here limits you to mainly tight photo shots. So take advantage of the variety! Be sure to utilize the alley by Cafe Lurcat and the bridge by the Sculpture Gardens!