Lake Harriet Bandshell
Historic bandshell hosting free summer concerts and movies, set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Harriet.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free concerts & movies
Lake Harriet Bandshell
Best Time
Free concerts & movies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic bandshell hosting free summer concerts and movies, set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Harriet.
"A quintessential Minneapolis summer experience with free music, movies, and beautiful lakeside views."
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed!
🪑 Seating Options
Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free Concerts & Movies
Lake Harriet Bandshell
Enjoy free summer concerts and movie nights under the stars. A quintessential Minneapolis summer experience!

Scenic Lakeside Walks
Lake Harriet Path
Stroll or bike along the picturesque path encircling Lake Harriet, offering beautiful water views.

Castle-Inspired Architecture
Lake Harriet Bandshell
Admire the unique, castle-like design of the historic bandshell, recently repainted in a charming powder blue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Concert & Movie Season
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed!
🪑 Seating Options
Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies.
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Mosquitoes and bugs can be prevalent, especially in the evenings. Don't forget repellent!
🚲 Bike or Walk
Beat parking hassles by biking or walking to the bandshell, especially if staying nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Bring your own food and drinks, or grab a bite from Bread & Pickle. Coolers are allowed!
🪑 Seating Options
Benches fill up fast; bring a blanket or chair for grass seating at movies.
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Mosquitoes and bugs can be prevalent, especially in the evenings. Don't forget repellent!
🚲 Bike or Walk
Beat parking hassles by biking or walking to the bandshell, especially if staying nearby.
🎶 Check the Schedule
Free events vary. Consult the Minneapolis Parks calendar for concert and movie listings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the free summer concerts and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell, calling it a quintessential Minneapolis experience. The scenic lake views, walking paths, and family-friendly atmosphere are frequently praised. Some mention occasional crowds and the presence of bugs, but overall, it's considered a beautiful and enjoyable park.
"I had such a good time at a free yoga class here. Starting the day with a view of the sail boats in the lake was just wonderful. Grabbed an iced coffee and delicious scone at Bread and Pickle afterwards. That night I went to see a free concert in the bandshell. They were great and some people got up and danced. Having never been there before these were both such fun events and I’ll be back for more. The free yoga is 6:30am M-F, 8:00am S-S. The concerts are all free as well. It’s dog friendly and you can grab a yummy bite at Bread and Pickle. You can also take a cooler if you like. Parking can get busy so maybe so show a little early or ride your bike if that’s an option. There is a paid parking lot and street parking."
Anne Kiely
"This is a great Minneapolis park. Has a wonderful playground. It's an extremely nice picnic shelter. It offers a lot of shade to eat you little meal from Bread and Pickle. It has a busy bike path as well as a walking path. Both are paved. It's a very safe place to enjoy during the morning or early evening hours. Have fun and relax"
Clifford Stang
"Pretty great spot for brunch and walking around!! Tho there was a homeless person that I wish wasn't there cause they were smelling bad."
Julia Gross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lake Harriet Bandshell is accessible by car, bike, and public transit. Paid parking lots and street parking are available, but can fill up quickly during events. Many visitors opt to bike or walk along the scenic paths.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot and street parking available. However, it's recommended to arrive early or consider alternative transportation due to high demand during events.
Absolutely! Lake Harriet has a well-maintained bike path that makes biking to the bandshell a pleasant experience.
Several bus routes serve the Lake Harriet area. Check with Metro Transit for the most current routes and schedules that stop near the park.
The paths around Lake Harriet and the bandshell area are paved and generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, concerts and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell are typically free to attend as part of Minneapolis' 'Music & Movies in the Parks' program.
The bandshell itself is an outdoor venue and is accessible when events are scheduled. The park grounds are open from 6 am to 10 pm daily.
Movies in the Park are also free! Just bring your blanket or chairs and enjoy the show.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, including coolers. Bread & Pickle also offers food for purchase.
No, Lake Harriet Park and the bandshell area are free to enter and enjoy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The bandshell hosts a variety of free events, including live music concerts (jazz, funk, Caribbean, etc.) and outdoor movie screenings during the summer months.
For movies, many people bring blankets or low-back chairs to sit on the grass. Benches are available but can fill up quickly.
Yes, Lake Harriet is a dog-friendly park, and well-behaved dogs are generally welcome at events, though always check specific event rules.
The park features walking and biking paths, a playground, picnic areas, and Bread & Pickle for food and drinks.
Weekday mornings or early afternoons, outside of scheduled events, offer the most peaceful experience for walks or picnics.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Bread & Pickle is located right in the park and offers sandwiches, salads, and other treats. You can also bring your own picnic.
While beer is sold at the restaurant (Bread & Pickle), it's often permitted to bring your own cans of beer to events, but always check park regulations.
Bread & Pickle offers a variety of casual fare, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. They are known for delicious options like the Walleye sandwich.
Prices are generally considered reasonable for park concessions, offering good value for the quality and location.
Absolutely! Lake Harriet is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are picnic shelters and plenty of open space.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the bandshell's unique architecture, the sailboats on the lake, and the vibrant atmosphere during concerts. The surrounding park offers beautiful natural scenery.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos of the bandshell and lake.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed during concerts, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash if it's disruptive.
While personal photos are fine, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always respect private property and individuals' privacy.
The recently repainted powder-blue bandshell looks great in natural daylight. Try to get shots that include the lake or surrounding greenery for context.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for a relaxed picnic or a stroll around the lake. While dogs are allowed in the park, keep them leashed, especially around playgrounds and during crowded events. The accessibility of the paths makes it easy for families to navigate with strollers or wagons.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers & Free Event Seekers
Beyond the scheduled events, the park itself is free to explore. Enjoy walking or biking the scenic lake path, have a free picnic, or simply relax by the water. The free morning yoga classes are another excellent way to enjoy the park's amenities without spending a dime.
couples
If you're looking for a peaceful morning, the free yoga sessions offer a unique way to connect and enjoy the tranquility of the lake. The bandshell's charming architecture also makes for lovely photo opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Music & Movies in the Parks Program
Visitors can check the official Minneapolis Parks and Recreation schedule online to plan their visits. It's common for people to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics to enjoy the performances. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and festive, with many attendees enjoying the beautiful lakeside setting as a backdrop to the entertainment.
This program is a significant draw to the bandshell, transforming it into a vibrant community gathering space. It's a fantastic way to experience local talent and enjoy warm summer evenings without any cost.
Bandshell Restoration and Aesthetics
The castle-inspired architecture of the bandshell makes it a distinctive landmark. Its charming aesthetic, especially with the fresh coat of paint, provides a picturesque setting for both events and casual visits. Photographers often find the bandshell to be a compelling subject, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Beyond its visual appeal, the bandshell's functional role as a performance venue is key to its identity. The combination of its unique design and its role in community programming makes it a cherished spot in Minneapolis.
Lake Harriet Park Activities
For families, there's a well-maintained playground that provides a fun space for children to play. Additionally, the park is known for its picnic shelters and open spaces, making it an ideal location for outdoor gatherings and leisurely meals. The presence of Bread & Pickle, a local eatery within the park, adds convenience for those looking to grab a bite.
The park is also a popular spot for free yoga classes in the mornings, offering a serene start to the day with a beautiful lake view. It's a versatile space that caters to a wide range of activities, from active recreation to relaxed enjoyment of nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit