Bde Maka Ska

Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun) is the lake that Minneapolis families build their summers around. It's the largest lake in the Chain of Lakes system, and the north beach is hands-down one of the best free beach days you can have in the Twin Cities.

The north beach is where you want to go with kids. The sand is real sand (not gravel), and the water stays shallow for a good 30-40 feet out. Toddlers can wade in up to their knees without you having a heart attack.

There's no lifeguard on duty, so you're on your own for supervision, but the gradual slope makes it manageable. South beach exists but it's rockier and more popular with the college crowd.

For bigger kids, the rentals are the main draw. Wheel Fun Rentals operates out of the pavilion and rents kayaks (~$20/hr), stand-up paddleboards (~$25/hr), and those goofy pedal boats that kids absolutely love (~$30/hr for a 4-person). On a Saturday in July, expect a wait. Weekday mornings you can walk right up.

The 3.1-mile paved trail around the lake is dead flat and wide enough for strollers, bikes, and scooters side by side. It connects to Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake via the Chain of Lakes path, so you can turn it into a longer ride if your kids have the legs for it. The Harriet bandshell is about a mile south and does free concerts in summer — easy add-on.

Parking is free but competitive on weekends. The lots off West Lake Street and East Calhoun Parkway fill by 10am on hot days. Street parking along the parkway is your backup. There are restrooms at both pavilions — they're maintained but basic.

Tin Fish at the north end serves solid fried fish, tacos, and kid baskets. Expect to spend ~$40 for a family of 4. Or just pack a cooler and claim a spot on the grass. There are grills available first-come-first-served if you want to make an afternoon of it.

One thing to know: the lake does get algae blooms in late summer (usually August). The Minneapolis Park Board posts warnings at the beach when levels are high. Check before you go if you're planning a late-season trip.