Top 10 Best Dog Parks in Minneapolis

Discover the best off-leash dog parks in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Complete with amenities, tips, and directions.

Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park

5399 Minnehaha Park Dr S, Minneapolis, MN 55417

The crown jewel of Minneapolis dog parks, Minnehaha spans 6.6 acres of wooded trails with a sandy beach on the Mississippi River. Dogs can splash in the water, explore woodland paths, and enjoy the natural beauty of this expansive park. It's the largest off-leash area in Minneapolis proper.

Amenities:

Sandy Beach River Swimming Access Wooded Trails Waste Stations Parking

Pro tip: Best for dogs with good recall due to the vast wooded terrain. Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. The river swimming area is a huge hit in summer!

View on Google Maps

Battle Creek Dog Park

2360 Upper Afton Rd, Maplewood, MN 55119

At 35 acres, Battle Creek is the largest off-leash dog park in the Twin Cities. Features wooded trails, ponds for swimming, and open fields perfect for fetch. The expansive space means your dog can really run and explore in a natural setting.

Amenities:

35 Acres Swimming Ponds Wooded Trails Open Fields Double-Entry Gates Waste Stations Picnic Pavilion

Pro tip: This park is completely FREE - no permit required! The ponds are great for water-loving dogs. Bring towels for the ride home.

View on Google Maps

Lake of the Isles Off-Leash Dog Park

2845 W Lake of the Isles Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55405

A beloved urban dog park spanning 1.87 acres in one of Minneapolis's most scenic neighborhoods. Features a separate small dog area and mulch footing that's easy on paws. Lights allow visits until midnight, making it perfect for after-work play sessions.

Amenities:

Small Dog Area Mulch Footing Lights Until Midnight Scenic Lake Views Benches

Pro tip: Bring your own water as there are no fountains. The evening lighting makes this a great option for late summer visits when it's cooler.

View on Google Maps

Victory Prairie Off-Leash Dog Park

4435 Thomas Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55412

A 2.5-acre fully fenced prairie-style park with mostly grass and gravel paths. The open terrain offers great visibility so you can always keep an eye on your pup. Features ADA-compliant entrance and picnic tables for relaxing.

Amenities:

2.5 Acres Fully Fenced Grass Terrain Gravel Paths Picnic Tables ADA Accessible

Pro tip: The open prairie-style terrain is ideal for dogs who prefer to run in open spaces rather than wooded areas. Bring your own water.

View on Google Maps

Bloomington Off-Leash Dog Park

1001 W 106th St, Bloomington, MN 55420

This 25-acre fenced dog park offers grassy hills, wooded areas, and a pond for swimming. The varied terrain keeps dogs entertained with plenty to explore, from open fields for fetch to shaded forest trails.

Amenities:

25 Acres Swimming Pond Grassy Hills Wooded Areas Fully Fenced

Pro tip: The pond is a major attraction for water-loving dogs. Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.

View on Google Maps

Alimagnet Dog Park

14300 Alimagnet Pkwy, Burnsville, MN 55306

A well-maintained 7-acre park with a pond, walking paths, and a heated shelter for year-round comfort. Features a separate area for small or shy dogs, making it welcoming for all temperaments.

Amenities:

7 Acres Pond Heated Shelter Small Dog Area Walking Paths Benches

Pro tip: The heated shelter is a blessing during Minnesota winters! This is one of the most comfortable parks for year-round visits.

View on Google Maps

Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park

925 Franklin Terrace, Minneapolis, MN 55406

A cozy fully-fenced neighborhood park with wood chip and gravel footing. While smaller than some options, it's big enough for good exercise while being compact enough to easily supervise your dog.

Amenities:

Fully Fenced Wood Chip Surface Gravel Paths Neighborhood Location

Pro tip: Great for quick visits when you don't have time for a larger park. The compact size makes it easier to keep track of your dog.

View on Google Maps

Loring Park Off-Leash Dog Park

1382 Willow St, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Located in the northeast section of historic Loring Park, this urban dog park features grass, boulders, a bridge, and trees. Perfect for downtown residents seeking a quick off-leash escape in the heart of the city.

Amenities:

Grass Areas Boulders Bridge Feature Trees Downtown Location

Pro tip: A great option for downtown Minneapolis residents. The park has character with its boulder and bridge features.

View on Google Maps

St. Anthony Parkway Off-Leash Dog Park

3939 St Anthony Pkwy NE, Minneapolis, MN 55421

A 2-acre park with mulch ground cover in a peaceful Northeast Minneapolis setting. Fully fenced and well-maintained, it's a neighborhood favorite for regular off-leash exercise.

Amenities:

2 Acres Mulch Ground Cover Fully Fenced Waste Stations

Pro tip: The mulch surface is gentle on paws. A reliable neighborhood park that's never too crowded.

View on Google Maps

#10

Unleashed Hounds and Hops

212 N 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401

A unique indoor/outdoor dog park experience in the North Loop featuring 7,000 sq ft indoor and 6,000 sq ft outdoor play areas. Plus a restaurant and bar for owners! Great for winter visits when outdoor parks are too cold.

Amenities:

Indoor Play Area Outdoor Area Restaurant & Bar Climate Controlled Events & Activities

Pro tip: Membership-based with day passes available. Perfect for Minnesota winters when outdoor parks are too cold. Book ahead for popular weekend times.

View on Google Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best dog parks in Minneapolis?

The top dog parks in Minneapolis include Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park (the largest at 6.6 acres with river access), Lake of the Isles Off-Leash Dog Park, Victory Prairie Off-Leash Dog Park, Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park, and Loring Park Off-Leash Dog Park. Each offers unique features from wooded trails to open prairie terrain.

Are Minneapolis dog parks free?

Most Minneapolis off-leash dog parks require an annual or daily permit, which can be purchased through Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board at minneapolisparks.org. Some parks in the greater Twin Cities area, like Battle Creek Dog Park in Maplewood, are free to use.

What are the dog park hours in Minneapolis?

Most Minneapolis off-leash dog parks are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though some parks like Lake of the Isles are open until midnight. Hours may vary by season, so check minneapolisparks.org for specific park hours.

Do I need to license my dog to use Minneapolis dog parks?

Yes, dogs using Minneapolis off-leash parks must be licensed with the city and have current rabies vaccinations. You'll also need to purchase an off-leash dog park permit from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

Ready to Visit?

Check out our tips for a great dog park experience!

View Dog Park Tips