UPTOWN. This system of lakes and parks provides an outdoor spot in the midst of the city and is referred to by locals as simply "the Lakes." Private surroundings for swimming, fishing and canoeing are available, and joggers and in-line skaters enjoy treks around Lake Calhoun, the most urban of the lakes. Water enthusiasts find plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing, and Lake Harriet offers families an ideal place to picnic, swim, or ride the "Queen of Lakes" paddlewheel boat. Outdoor concerts are held in the bandshell during summer months.

Loring Park is Minneapolis's much smaller answer to NYC's Central Park and is among the city's most active spots. It's part of the greenway that links downtown Minneapolis, the Walker Art Center and Sculpture Garden, and the Guthrie Theater. Loring Lake is also a perfect setting for picnics, shuffleboard tournaments, horseshoes, tennis, or people-watching. In the winter, the frozen lake is ideal for ice skating.

WEST MINNEAPOLIS. Minnehaha Creek drops almost 50 feet to form beautiful Minnehaha Falls, an impressive sight year-round. Minnehaha Park, with its 193 acres, is a favorite spot for family get-togethers and company picnics. Plenty of tables and shelters, a tennis court, a recreation building, and horseshoe pits are available. Sculptures also dot the terrain, and formal gardens and hiking trails are musts for nature enthusiasts.