Amid summer’s hottest temperatures, these spots are perfect places to cool off. From thrilling waterparks to quiet places, here are a few to check out.
Bde Maka Ska 32nd Street Beach
Where: 3200 E. Calhoun Parkway, Minneapolis
There are a variety of beaches across the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis, but Bde Maka Skas 32nd Street Beach is known for its scenic skyline views and its wide stretch of sand is perfect for beach volleyball or tanning. There’s no shortage of water-related activities either—visitors can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard at the nearby Wheel Fun Rentals.
Courtesy of Bunker Beach Water Park
Bunker Beach Water Park
Where: 701 County Parkway, Coon Rapids
Just outside the Twin Cities in Coon Rapids, Bunker Beach Water Park offers fun for everyone. The park includes a wave pool, lazy river, lagoon, adventure pool, rock-climbing wall, and an aquatic obstacle course. With concessions and shaded cabanas, it’s the ideal destination for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax.
Cedar Lake Point Beach
Where: 2101 Cedar Lake Parkway, Minneapolis
Surrounded by green foliage, Cedar Lake Point Beach is shady, scenic, and great for beating the heat. Visitors can canoe, fish, swim, or stroll through the woods on nearby trails. Tucked in the trees, this beach is a quiet place to escape without leaving the Twin Cities.
Elm Creek Park Reserve Swim Pond
Where: 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove
Elm Creek Swim Pond is a pristine swimming pond with chlorinated water and a sandy-bottom beach. The swimming hole is lifeguard-monitored, family-friendly, and features changing areas, concessions, and restroom facilities.
Courtesy of Three Rivers Park District
French Regional Park
Where: 12605 Rockford Road, Plymouth
French Regional Park’s beach is a hidden gem just 20 minutes from Minneapolis on Medicine Lake in Plymouth. The sandy swimming area is complemented by picnic sites, a play area, and shady trails.
Courtesy of French Regional Park
Highland Park Aquatic Center
Where: 1840 Edgcumbe Road, St. Paul
Located in the heart of St. Paul, Highland Park Aquatic Center is a landmark waterpark destination and a popular spot for kids and families. The center features an Olympic-size lap pool, a splash pad, a children’s activity pool, an aquatic climbing wall, slides, and one-meter diving boards.
Courtesy of the City of St. Paul
Lake Minnetonka Swim Pond
Where: 4610 County Road 44, Minnetrista
With clean, clear water and a perfect beach for relaxing, Lake Minnetonka Swim Pond is an idyllic spot for a sunny day. Just outside the Twin Cities in Minnetrista, this swimming hole is surrounded by sandy beach and filled with chlorinated, filtered water. The area is monitored by lifeguards, and visitors can use large beach umbrellas for shade on a hot day.
Courtesy of Three Rivers Park District
Lake Nokomis Main Beach
Where: 5001 Lake Nokomis Parkway W., Minneapolis
With two beaches and a location in the heart of the Twin Cities, Lake Nokomis is a great place to relax and cool off on a hot day. For a bite to eat after swimming, visitors can stop by The Painted Turtle. This local favorite serves ice cream, beverages, and tasty beach eats.
Shady Oak Beach
Where: 5200 Shady Oak Road, Minnetonka
Shady Oak Beach offers more than just a place to swim. The 85-acre recreational area includes a sandy beach, multi-age playground area, high dives, locker rooms, concessions, and sand volleyball, as well as canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals.
Courtesy of the City of Hopkins
Snelling Lake Beach
Where: Fort Snelling State Park, 101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul
Snelling Lake Beach runs along the east shore of Snelling Lake in Saint Paul. The beach is monitored by a lifeguard from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the lake is the perfect family-friendly spot for a hot summer day. The lake’s calm, shallow waters and sandy shoreline make it ideal for young kids and relaxed wading.
