Minnehaha Falls, MN
Driving distance from Minneapolis city center: 5 miles
Is a photo permit needed? I’ve got you covered. I purchase an annual membership that includes the required photography permit, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Best time to visit the park: Evening
Dog friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible parking: Yes
WHY I LOVE THIS LOCATION:
Minnehaha falls and the surrounding park area is my top spot for outdoor photo locations in Minneapolis. It’s very central, making it easy to get to from most areas and suburbs of the city. With facilities in the park, including wheelchair accessible parking and viewpoints, it’s also suitable for anyone in your family with mobility issues.
The falls themselves appear very remote – despite only being a short walk from parking. It’s a beautiful spot year round, with gardens in spring, lush forests in summer, vibrant fall colors and snow covered trees in winter. The water, secret gardens, pergolas, lush greenery and open space leaves lots of room to play and explore, making candid moments effortless.
As a bonus, you can stop by the Sea Salt Eatery on your way home. If your kids work well on incentives, their ice cream is a nice way to award good behavior during the shoot! And for yourselves, a nice glass of wine or cold beer. It rounds out the perfect family outing.
SEE MORE: Minnehaha Falls family shoot in secret gardens
Arneson Acres, MN
Driving distance from Minneapolis city center: 12 miles
Is a permit needed to shoot here? No.
Best time to visit the park: early morning or golden hour
Dog friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible parking: Yes
WHY I LOVE THIS LOCATION:
Arneson Acres is also a great outdoor photo location in Minneapolis due to its central location and manicured gardens. Recently, a new peace garden has been added in the back of the park with additional brick paths and benches.
As a warning though, this location tends to be crowded with photographers. Since it is a smaller park and has no permit system, it’s a popular location for all types of photography. If you prefer a quieter and more intimate experience, this one may not be ideal for you.
SEE MORE: Arneson Acres family shoot
Peace Gardens by Lake Harriet, MN
Driving distance from Minneapolis city center: 5 miles
Is a permit needed to shoot here? Yes.
Best time to visit the park: Anytime, great winter location
Dog friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible parking: Yes
WHY I LOVE THIS LOCATION:
I love the Peace Gardens because it’s basically two outdoor photo locations in one. The Rose Gardens are right across the street! In spring and summer, the flowers attract butterflies and falling cherry and apple blossom petals are everywhere. In zen garden fashion, there are large stones and boulders everywhere, making it a fun natural playground for your kids. There’s lots of places to play a game of hide and seek, or plan a family picnic.
As fall colors give way to snow, I especially recommend this one for winter sessions. The manicured gardens and bonzai-like pines remain unique and vibrant, even in colder months.
SEE MORE: Family photo session at the Peace Gardens, Minneapolis
Richardson Nature Center, Bloomington, MN
Driving distance from Minneapolis city center: 15 miles
Is a permit needed to shoot here? Yes, read more here at the Three Rivers Parks website
Best time to visit the park: Evening, fall
Dog friendly: Yes
Wheelchair accessible parking: Yes
WHY I LOVE THIS LOCATION:
I especially love this outdoor location due to its size. No matter how busy, or what the weather is, there is always a way to find a beautiful, quiet spot. In all my years shooting here, I’ve discovered many hidden gems within this big park that I can share with you.
There are great photo locations right near the parking area, or further along the kid friendly hiking trails. With the forests, ponds and grassy fields, you’re likely to spot lots of insects, birds and wildlife as well. The nature center itself is built with interactive exhibits, so your kids can play and learn about all they see.
Ultimately, this location is great for families with young kids who love being immersed in nature.
READ MORE: Family photo session at the Minneapolis Richardson Nature Center
Westwood Hills Nature Center, St. Louis Park, MN
Driving distance from Minneapolis city center: 10 miles
Is a permit needed to shoot here? No
Best time to visit the park: Anytime
Dog friendly: No
Wheelchair accessible parking: Yes
WHY I LOVE THIS LOCATION:
You would never guess that Westwood Hills is in the middle of the city. It’s an expansive nature preserve teeming with wildlife and framed by well kept trails. You’re likely to see a range of animals here, from wild turkeys and swans to chipmunks, deer and even turtles. The wooden walking paths and boardwalks over the water are gorgeous for photos.
Similar to the Richardson Nature Center, you’ll find an interactive education center and playground here as well. It’s another great location for families who bond best outdoors. Of all these outdoor photo locations in Minneapolis, you’re most likely to see wildlife here.
The only downside is dogs are not allowed.
FAQs for outdoor photo locations in Minneapolis
What types of places need photography permits in Minneapolis?
Most parks managed by the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board require photography permits for professional sessions. Some photographers, like me, have annual or seasonal permits that cover the session, while others may ask you to secure the permit yourself—so it’s always a good idea to clarify!
That said, there are also many stunning outdoor locations in Minneapolis that don’t require permits. I’d be happy to help you choose the perfect spot for your session, whether it’s in a park or another beautiful setting.
What if the weather is bad during our shoot?
If the weather is truly uncooperative or unsafe, I’ll work with you to reschedule your session—your safety and comfort come first! But if it’s just a light summer rain, I say embrace it! Rainy weather can make for some of the most fun and memorable photos, with umbrellas, yellow boots, and kids splashing through puddles. Plus, overcast skies provide beautifully soft, flattering light. Let’s make the most of whatever Mother Nature throws our way!
What if our kids don’t cooperate?
I count on it! Kids are kids, and those perfectly staged family photos? They only take a few minutes. The rest of the time, I encourage them to play, explore, and just be themselves—that’s where the magic happens. You’ll likely treasure those authentic, personality-filled photos even more.
I even wrote a blog all about capturing kids’ unique personalities during sessions. Check it out here for a peek into my approach!
Hiring a family photographer for these outdoor photo locations in Minneapolis
Hi, I’m Megan! I’m a Minneapolis family photographer, focused on lighthearted and fun-focused family sessions. If you would love your family photos taken at one of these locations, reach out to me HERE!!
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