Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes, even if in reality the state is home to exactly 11,842 lakes. For a significant part of the year, the land's lakes are frozen, making them perfect for ice fishing, ice skating, and makeshift hockey tournaments. Lakes in the summer, however, are a Minnesotan's best friend! Many folks flock "up north" every summer weekend to their cabin on a lake, possibly as far as three hours away. In Minneapolis-Saint Paul, we're quite lucky. You'll barely have to leave your backyard to splash in and enjoy these nine gorgeous lakes, for they're definitely some of the best lakes near Minneapolis:

1. Bde Maka Ska

In the spring of 2017, The Minneapolis Parks Board decided to reintroduce Lake Calhoun to its original name, Bde Maka Ska (pronounced be-DAY mah-kah skah), a Dakota phrase that means "white earth lake." While this brings the lake back to its roots, we can celebrate the lake for its stunning sunsets, beaches, and how easy it is to kayak around the lake. With its proximity to Uptown, Bde Maka Ska is the lake for everyone. Some would say it is the best lake in Minneapolis, but there are plenty more in contention.

If you are looking for a great walking lake near Minneapolis this is a fantastic spot. Enjoy a tour of beautiful Bde Maka Ska in Uptown Minneapolis in this video from Walking Minnesota:

2. Cedar Lake

Home of the not-so Hidden Beach, this lake is an incredible place for a Minneapolitan. It features bike paths, designated picnic areas, as well as many other amenities. Spending time at the lake, especially at Hidden Beach, will give you an idea of what Minneapolis weird is all about.

3. Lake of the Isles

This is just another part of Minneapolis' splendid chain of lakes. Lake of the Isles is located in the Kenwood neighborhood of the city and has a stately fountain for all to see. The bike and walking paths will help you see this lake from every gorgeous view. If you must, take to the water and kayak along.

4. Como Lake

Near the Como Conservatory and Como Zoo in St. Paul, this quaint lake is just one of many things the city has to offer. You can rent paddle boats to explore the water yourself or you can stroll around the lake and take in the sights.

Enjoy a walk around Como Lake in Saint Paul, MN in this video from Semper Cognita:

5. Powderhorn Lake

Powderhorn Lake sits within Powderhorn Park in South Minneapolis. The Department of Natural Resources maintains the stock of fish within the lake and you can fish at the designated fishing pier. This lake is a little underrated and deserves your love.

6. Lake Harriet

Lake Harriet has everything you'd ever need in a city lake. It has a beautiful, popular beach, rentable kayaks and paddle boats, a killer food stand or two, and a bandshell for outdoor movies and concerts. It's easy to make a whole day at Lake Harriet. Be sure to take in the elegance that is a sailboat floating along the waters. It's downright gorgeous.

7. Lake Nokomis

Lake Nokomis is the site of many winter activities, but it's just as exciting in the summer. The beach of Lake Nokomis in Minnesota has a lifeguard on duty so you and your family can always swim safely. Youth swim lessons are taught within the lake. Nokomis also holds a variety of events during the summer, including music and movies in the park.

8. Lake Phalen

Located in Saint Paul, Lake Phalen within Phalen Regional Park is filled with fun summer events year after year. One of the most prominent is the annual Dragon Festival - a festival aimed at celebrating those of Asian-Pacific ethnicity and sharing their culture and history. The event has excellent local food, many sights to see, dragon boat races, and a 5k!

9. Lake Minnetonka

A West Metro icon, Lake Minnetonka is a marvel. It's a great lake to have fun and take in all of the possibilities that Minnesota summers have to offer. Lake Minnetonka is an incredibly special and beautiful lake in the Greater Twin Cities area. It's definitely boat friendly and is home to a large number of luxury homes.

Let's take a virtual tour of Lake Minnetonka, one of the best lakes near Minneapolis, in this video from ViaTravelers:

We know that any lake you visit in Minneapolis-Saint Paul will be a wonderful experience. What's your favorite lake in the metro area and why? Share your favorite lakes near Minneapolis in the comments!

Want to know more about Minneapolis' beaches? Read our feature article about a Minneapolis beach that's unlike any other in the world!