Best Urban & City Photography Locations in Minnesota
Como Regional Park & Pavilion
This spot is one of my absolute favorites! Near the pavilion, there's a beautiful lake, a European-esque garden, and a light-wash pavilion with charming turquoise windows. You'll also find a mini waterfall and numerous paths surrounded by mature trees. Just a short drive down the block is the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, an absolutely stunning, elegant white building with expansive windows and beautiful white stone structures. The conservatory is surrounded by manicured gardens and stone paths, creating a timeless and luxurious setting. This location will make your photos look elegant and have the best glow in the evenings!
Saint Anthony Main
This location offers an amazing city skyline in the background, especially on the infamous "Minneapolis rock." It's right across from Aster Café, which is perfect if you want to capture some cute coffee shop date photos. The area features charming, colorful storefronts, gorgeous cobblestone paths, and urban buildings. Across from Flutter Bridal, there is a gorgeous white archway under the bridges, offering a modern and chic aesthetic. One of my ultimate favorite charming and fun city options!
James J. Hill Center in St. Paul
I love James J. Hill for a neutral, urban backdrop that looks expensive and historic—perfect if you plan to dress up! The James J. Hill Library is a short drive from Irvine Park and next to Rice Park, giving you an elegant city vibe with neutral outdoor tones. Sunsets at James J. Hill Library are gorgeous, and both sides of the building have unique features. The south side faces the Mississippi River and has a beautiful green area with trees, while the north side faces the iconic Landmark Center, separated by the lovely Rice Park and St. Paul Hotel.

















Minnesota State Capitol
Looking for an elevated engagement location to dress up? The State Capitol offers a stunning setting with its grand staircase and intricate archways, perfect for a classy and elegant look. If you're dreaming of a romantic, modern vibe, this location will make your photos truly stand out. Keep in mind that it’s busier during the week, so a weekend or late evening session would be ideal!
Boom Island Park
The park offers the beautiful Minneapolis skyline in the background, a wide open field, and tons of blooming flowers or fall trees. It’s a perfect blend of nature and city skyline. And it’s dog friendly!
Rice Park
Rice Park features historic Twin Cities landmarks like the Landmark Center, James J. Hill Library, and The Ordway Theater nearby. The best part is that Rice Park is still a park, so there is plenty of greenery and a gorgeous fountain. The only difficulty with this spot is that it can often be busy, especially if there is a show at The Ordway. Visiting at sunrise instead of in the evening will be your best bet!
ING Building & Minneapolis Passport Building
For breathtaking architecture in Minneapolis, the ING building is a must. It features incredibly tall white pillars, extending glass-black windows, and a beautiful waterway and fountain. Just down the block is the passport agency, with golden revolving doors, white stairs, and pillars for a classic urban look. If time allows, we can head to the Hewing Hotel for some bar or rooftop shots—just be sure to call ahead for permission which is only allowed on wqeeknights!
Foshay Observation Deck
This spot is truly breathtaking during golden hour! It's one of Minneapolis's historic buildings, featuring a stunning observation deck adorned with classic Art Deco fixtures—a rarity in a city filled with glass buildings. Perched atop the historic Foshay Hotel, it offers incredible views. Downstairs, you'll find a romantic cocktail lounge, perfect for capturing some fun bar flash shots.
Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA)
Do you love a classic vibe? MIA has the most beautiful staircase and a large, intricate door, offering a classy, elegant look. With views of nature along the edges, this location is a true showstopper in photos.
West River Parkway Courtyard
Just up the hill from Mill City Ruins is my favorite charming courtyard in Minneapolis. It’s private, well-kept, and offers lots of shade, which keeps photos looking light and bright against the light-wash stone buildings that surround it. It is gorgeous any time of year, but the best feature? The stunning floral trees in the spring!
North Loop
The Loop is home to the Minneapolis Warehouse District. It’s an urban spot with converted warehouses, picturesque alleyways, and great restaurants for an industrial vibe. We can get the fun city rooftop photos at the Hewing Hotel (we’ll just make sure to call or email to get permission only on week nights)!
Centennial Lakes Park – Edina
This park offers a variety of beautiful features for a photo session. Stroll through picturesque walking paths lined with a mix of trees, which turn into a vibrant display of color in the fall. Open grass areas, footbridges, and a mini-golf course add a fun and unique element to your session. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so your furry friend can join in!
Downtown Wayzata
One of my top recommendations for lake photography! Wayzata Beach has a stunning lakefront, wooden docks with classic pillars, and a peaceful beachfront. The surrounding park area provides lovely greenery, and it’s the perfect spot to capture golden-hour magic as the sun sets over the water.
Lake Harriet Bandshell Park – Minneapolis
A Minneapolis classic! This location is a favorite for its stunning tree-lined paths, especially in the fall. The lakeside view at sunset is breathtaking, and the bridge over the lake adds a unique touch to photos. If you’re up for an active session, you can bring a canoe, paddleboard, grab ice cream, or even fish over the bridge to add a fun, personal touch to your shoot.
Historic Downtown Carver
In the heart of Carver is an adorable, quaint historic town. Downtown Carver features beautiful, colorful building facades, a charming courthouse, fun historic light poles, and unique gondolas. Alongside the town are stunning architectural walkways along the river. My favorite local coffee shop is also here, making it the cutest place to pop in for a coffee date during your session. This spot is full of charm and perfect for photos any time of the year!