lake calhoun sailboat rental

MINNEAPOLIS SAILING CENTER SAIL IN THE CITY

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Registration for 2024 classes is now open! View our Class schedules to register.

New in 2024

MSC is now offering a Junior Explorers camp for 5 and 6-year-olds. This class gives youngsters a chance to get comfortable being on the water in a stable Ensign Keelboat.

The Family Keelboat class is back this year with classes being held on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5:30 PM for two weeks.

The Open Sailing Hours for the Membership Program will now be Daily from 10 am to Sunset. Instead of different hours on weekdays and weekends, we are simplifying the program and expanding the number of open sailing hours overall.

The Opti Intro to Race and Opti Racing Classes are now combined in the Opti Race Team class.

Setting Sail Together: Empowering Sailors Through Community Partnerships

Minneapolis Sailing Center's Community Partnership Program helps make sailing accessible for everyone in the Twin Cities area. Through field trips, classes, or our Free Sailing Sunday events, this program offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of learning to sail. MSC has partnered with over 30 organizations and hosted over 3000 participants to date.

Hear from our partners Girls Taking Action and Boys of Hope as they describe what this program means to them.

Welcome to Minneapolis Sailing Center

Sailing for all ages and abilities.

Experience the excitement of sailing on beautiful Bde Maka Ska in the heart of the city. Minneapolis Sailing Center is one of the largest sailing centers in the Midwest, offering classes for all ages and skill levels.  

We offer a variety of classes and summer camps for youth and adults.  Whether you are just starting out or have sailed the seven seas, we have a class for you.  There is nothing quite like sailing on Bde Maka Ska with the Minneapolis skyline as a backdrop for fun and learning.  Check out the new Media & Press Page to see what’s happening here at MSC.

YOUTH camps

One and two-week sailing day camps for kids ages 5-17.

ADULT CLASSES

Learn to sail and advanced sailing classes for all ages.

FAMILY CLASSes

Set sail and learn with the entire family ages 4+

community partnerships

Field trips, group outings, and classes for local community organizations.

INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP LESSONS

One-on-one private lessons or group outings.

Get access to the entire MSC fleet, and sail on your free time.

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM

Spring and fall sailing teams for grades 7-12.

Join the over 120 years of sailboat racing history on Bde Maka Ska.

SCHOLARSHIPS

MSC strives to offer our programming to all in our community. Full and partial scholarships are available upon request.

Want the unique gift that no one expects? Give the gift of learning to sail! You can add multiple classes or amounts to your purchase to create the gift certificate amount you want. MSC will contact you for any extra details and will email you a copy of the gift certificate.

Get a comfortable cotton T-Shirt to show your love for Minneapolis Sailing Center.

MSC water repellent cap with an adjustable strap. One size fits most. Choose the color that suits you.

MSC trucker hat with an adjustable strap.  One size fits most. Choose your favorite color scheme.

Twin Cities Business Listing

The natural beauty of Bde Maka Ska Park in Minneapolis includes walking trails, picnic areas, and beaches. Families can enjoy this park together anytime, but it is especially fun in the summer.

Bde Maka Ska Park (f/k/a Lake Calhoun Park) is the largest of the Chain of Lakes. The park space encompasses over 500 acres, but the lake fills 400 of those acres. It has three beaches, an archery range and three miles of biking and walking trails. The park may be the home of a future skate park if funding can be secured but it currently has a pop-up skatepark. Other family-friendly amenities include, docks and piers, space to picnic, and sports fields and courts. A new pavilion was added in the fall of 2023, which includes a restaurant with heated, outdoor seating, a performance area, and year-round restrooms. Look for indigenous art and naval artifacts when visiting. The park does not currently have a playground. The parking lot at this park is metered.

Related Articles:

• Bakken Museum, Minneapolis
• Chain of Lakes Regional Park, Minneapolis
• Lake Harriet Park, Minneapolis

10 Ideas for Family Fun at Bde Maka Ska Park

• Go Fishing . The Minnesota DNR tells us there are bluegill, crappie, tiger Muskie, northern pike, largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, carp and bullhead in this lake.
• Rent canoes, pedal boats, kayaks, or paddleboards . Wheel Fun Rentals rents out watercraft to get out on the lake. Bde Maka Ska is connected to Lake of the Isles by canal, so you can paddle around both lakes.
• Bike the Chain of Lakes . Bde Maka Ska is the largest of the Chain of Lakes. Other lakes in the chain include Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles and Lake Harriet. All of these lakes connect by bike paths. The boat dock is on the northeast side of the lake.
• Practice Archery .
• Swim . There are three beaches at this park. Two employ life guards.
• Pack a picnic or grab something at Lola on the Lake – the park’s restaurant
• Bring a ball to play field games on the soccer field;
• Play kickball on the softball diamond; or
• Play volleyball on the sand court at the beach.
• Pack the kids in a stroller for a walk.  A roughly 3-mile path for walking or biking circles the lake. Skaters also enjoy this paved trail for roller-skating.

Beaches & Recreation at Bde Maka Ska

Lifeguards are employed at Thomas Beach and 32nd Street Beach. On days when the temperature is 85 degrees or warmer at 6 p.m., lifeguard hours will be extended until 8 p.m. Bde Maka Ska North Beach has no lifeguard on duty. Guarded or not, park visitors are allowed to swim anytime during park hours – 6 am to 10 pm daily.

For this and other swimming options, explore our guide:  Splash Happy: Twin Cities Guide to Beaches, Pools, Water Parks & Splash Pads .

Bde Maka Ska Archery Range

Bde Maka Ska’s archery range is located at the SE corner of the park (3800 Richfield Rd). Ranges in Minneapolis Park are non-reservable and patrons bring their own equipment and targets. Hay bills are provided.  Here is a list of other Twin Cities archery ranges .

Pop-Up Skate Park (and Future Permanent Facilities)

A future facility for skateboarders has been approved but is currently unfunded. Read the Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet Regional Park Master Plan for more information.  In the meantime, because there has been a lot of interest, MPRB installed a pop-up, temporary skate park in a section of the north parking lot and planned to leave it through 2023.

Public Art and History

In 2019, MPRB dedicated a new gathering space and public artwork to commemorate the Dakota village led by Chief Cloud Man that was located there from 1829 to 1839. Cloud Man invited Samuel and Gideon Pond to build a cabin near his village and teach them Euro-American farming methods, starting in 1834. This began a life-long friendship between the Pond brothers, Chief Cloud Man and members of his village.

How to Pronounce Bde Maka Ska:

Useful links:.

• Get the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board’s parking app or purchase an annual patron parking permit
• Wheel Fun Rental prices .
• Register for Minneapolis Park Board Events & Activities
• Minnesota DNR Bde Maka Ska Page
• Find up-to-date beach information here .
• Bde Maka Ska Pop-Up Skatepark Project Page
• Learn about the Dakota history at Bde Maka Ska
• Lola on the Lake Menu
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The Ultimate Guide to Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun) in 2024

Are you looking for some information about one of the most beautiful and culturally significant lakes in Minneapolis, Minnesota? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Bde Maka Ska, formerly known as Lake Calhoun, is a truly breathtaking destination that offers something for everyone.

From gorgeous trails and stunning views to a wide range of outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do here. 

It has an outstanding balance of uptown city life, and stunning lake views. 

But it’s not just the natural beauty that makes this place so special – Bde Maka Ska holds a significant place in the history and culture of the indigenous Dakota people, who first called it “White Earth Lake” or Bde Maka Ska. 

Today, there are efforts to reclaim its original name and to honor and preserve the lake’s historical significance. 

Where is Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun) located? 

Bde Maka Ska, also known as Lake Calhoun, is in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is part of a chain of lakes in the city, along with the Lake of the Isles and Cedar Lake. 

The lake has a rich history and significance to the indigenous Dakota people who first called it Bde Maka Ska, meaning “White Earth Lake”. However, it was later named after John C. Calhoun, a South Carolina state leader and supporter of slavery. 

Over the years, there have been efforts to reclaim the lake’s original name. In 2018, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources officially changed the lake’s name back to Bde Maka Ska. 

Today, Bde Maka Ska is a popular spot for residents and tourists. They love walking and biking around its picturesque trails. In the summer they will canoe, paddle boarding , or fishing. The lake also offers stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline and is a beloved symbol of the city’s outdoor lifestyle.

What is the history of Bde Maka Ska? 

Bde Maka Ska is actually a beautiful and historic lake in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its name literally means “White Earth Lake” in the Dakota language, and it holds a significant place in the region’s history.

Prior to European settlement, the Dakota people lived in the area surrounding the lake, named it Bde Maka Ska. The lake was a vital part of their culture and livelihoods, and they used it for fishing, transportation, and other activities.

However, in the 1800s, settlers moved into the area. The settlers gradually pushed the Dakota people out of their land, and they renamed the lake Lake Calhoun after John C. Calhoun, a prominent political figure.

For many years, the lake was referred to as Lake Calhoun. 

Today, Bde Maka Ska is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. It serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history and the ongoing efforts to honor and recognize the traditions and contributions of indigenous peoples.

What are the best activities to do on Bde Maka Ska? 

Bde Maka Ska is one of the most popular recreational areas in Minneapolis. Locals love to run around the lake, bike and explore. Let’s dive in and explore some of the best things to do in Bde Maka Ska.

You can take a relaxing walk or bike ride around the lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. You’ll find many walking and biking trails surrounding the lake, so there’s plenty of space for everyone. Once you’re done with that, you could try your hand at fishing, as the lake is home to a wide variety of fish species such as sunfish, crappies, and bass.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. They are rental watercraft nearby. Plus, the lake is perfect for paddle boarding too!

Last, Bde Maka Ska is a hub of community events and gatherings throughout the season, with summer concerts, outdoor movies, and art exhibitions that bring people together. You can just relax on the beach and enjoy some people watching, or pack a picnic and play games with your family and friends.

There you have it, the rundown of the best activities to enjoy at Bde Maka Ska. So if you are ever in the area, visit and have fun!

Is there a fee to access Bde Maka Ska? 

There is no fee to access the lake or surrounding park areas. However, there are fees if you’d like to use the marina.

Can I swim in Bde Maka Ska? 

Yes, you can definitely swim in Bde Maka Ska! But if you’re not familiar with Bde Maka Ska, let me give you a quick rundown. 

To swim, there are designated swimming areas around the lake where it is safe to take a dip. You’ll see buoys and markers showing where the swimming area starts and ends, so be sure to stick to those areas to stay safe. \

And of course, remember to follow basic water safety rules, like never swimming alone and keeping an eye out for boats or other watercraft.

Overall, Bde Maka Ska is a wonderful place to spend a warm summer day, and swimming is just one of the many fun things you can do there. So grab your swimsuit and take a dip!

Are there any beaches on Bde Maka Ska? 

Lake Bde Maka Ska is one of the most popular lakes in Minneapolis, Minnesota. There are three offical beaches. One is at 32 street on the east side of the lake. The nother end beach and Thomas Beach on the south end.

Can I rent a boat or kayak on Bde Maka Ska? 

The lake offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating and kayaking. From what I’ve gathered, there are several companies that rent boats and kayaks in Bde Maka Ska. However, it’s always best to do some research and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the best rental experience.

The city has one company that offer rentals right on Lake Bde Maka Ska, Wheel Fun Rentals . This company offers a wide range of rentals, including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. They also rent paddle boats and pontoon boats.

If you are looking for rental space to keep your Sailboat on the lake, or use one of their canoe racks, you can do so through Minneapolis Parks .

What is the trail distance around Bde Maka Ska? 

The multi-use trail distance around Bde Maka Ska is approximately 3.2 miles or 5.15 kilometers. This trail offers an opportunity for walkers, runners, and bikers to enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding parklands. 

Where to Park around Bed Maka Ska?

If you’re looking for parking options around Bed Maka Ska (formerly known as Lake Calhoun), there are a few different options.

One option is to park in one of the surrounding neighborhoods and walk or bike to the lake. There are plenty of residential streets and side roads in the area where you can park for free without worrying about metered parking or time limits.

Another option is to park in one of the official parking lots around the lake. There are several lots located at different points around the lake, with fees ranging from $1 per hour to $1 per 30 minutes. 

These lots may be more convenient if you’re planning to spend an extended amount of time at the lake and don’t want to worry about finding street parking.

Parking can be particularly challenging during peak hours and on weekends, especially during the summer months when the lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. 

If you’re heading to Bed Maka Ska during one of these times, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to find parking.

Are there any nearby restaurants or cafes to visit after spending time at Bde Maka Ska? 

Sure, I’d be happy to help you out. Bde Maka Ska, formerly known as Lake Calhoun, is a beautiful place to spend time outdoors. There are plenty of activities to do there – from walking and jogging around the lake to renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the waters.

Now, if you’re looking for some good eats after your time at Bde Maka Ska, there are plenty of options in the surrounding area.

If you’re in the mood for a quick snack or light meal, there’s a Starbucks and Caribou Coffee nearby. For something more substantial, Urban Eatery or Brim and a relaxing atmosphere.

You might also want to check out Punch Neapolitan Pizza for some delicious wood-fired pizzas.

Whatever your flavor or appetite, you will find something to your liking in the restaurants and cafes near Bde Maka Ska. Just be sure to check the hours of operation and make any necessary reservations to secure your seat in advance.

What are some rules and regulations for using Bde Maka Ska?

The lake, which is in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is considered a sacred site by the Dakota people, who originally inhabited the area. 

Treat the lake and its surroundings with respect. This means not littering, avoiding loud and disruptive behavior. And dont parktake in activities that could damage the natural environment.

In addition, there are specific rules in place for fishing, boating, and swimming. Boaters must also follow certain safety guidelines and not create excessive waves or noise.

Swimming is allowed in designated areas only, and visitors should know any potential hazards, such as strong currents or underwater obstacles.

Overall, the key to enjoying Bde Maka Ska is to be mindful of the lake’s cultural significance and to do your part to help preserve its natural beauty and resources.

What are you waiting for?

Bde Maka Ska is a beloved spot in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a rich history. There are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, take in breathtaking views, or take part in some of the exciting water activities, Bde Maka Ska has something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your friends and family, and spend some time at this amazing spot. I highly recommend this destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. So, get ready to soak up the sun, explore the trails, and make unforgettable memories at Bde Maka Ska!

Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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Lake Calhoun, Minneapolis: The Complete Guide

Running, Boating, Dining, Events, and Hanging out at the Beach at Lake Calhoun

TripSavvy / Kaan Avci

Lake Calhoun is one of Minneapolis' largest and most popular lakes. Lake Calhoun is immediately west of the fashionable Uptown neighborhood, and as such, is popular with the beautiful people and the cool kids, fitness enthusiasts, hipster families, and those who love people-watching.

On the Water

The Calhoun Yacht Club and Minneapolis Sailing Center use the lake extensively, launching from the boat ramp and docks on the northeast side of the lake.

Also at the northeast corner, Wheel Fun Rentals has kayaks, canoes and paddle boats to rent by the hour. Lake Calhoun is connected to Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles by canals for a longer paddle.

Around the Lake

Lake Calhoun is very popular for the walker, runners and cyclists. It's no surprise. Lake Calhoun is surrounded by parkland and views of downtown Minneapolis , and while it's busy, it does offer some of the Twin Cities' best people-watching.

The trail around the lake is 3.1 miles for runners and walkers, almost exactly a 5K run, and 3.2 miles for cyclists. The trails around Calhoun connect to the trails around Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, the Midtown Greenway, and other trails around the area making it easy to incorporate into a longer run or bike ride.

Sunbathing and Hanging out at the Beach at Lake Calhoun

There are three beaches at Lake Calhoun. One is at 32nd Street on the east side of the lake. The North Beach is on the northern edge of the lake, and Thomas Beach is at Thomas Avenue in the far south of Lake Calhoun.

North Beach and 32nd Street beaches have an adjacent playground, so are popular for families. Thomas Beach is for serious sunbathers. But serious sunbathers surround the lake, spreading out towels and sun lotion on the grassy parkland around the lake. Where you lie depends on how much you want to be seen - sunbathing on the north or east side of Lake Calhoun isn't for the shy.

More Recreational Activities at Lake Calhoun

Fishing is popular at Lake Calhoun with several fish species. Of course, during the winter, when Lake Calhoun freezes over, ice fishing is popular, too. Another sport at Lake Calhoun during the winter is snow-kiting, using a large kite to ride around the lake on skis or a snowboard.

Getting to Lake Calhoun - Parking for Lake Calhoun

The east side of Lake Calhoun is Uptown Minneapolis and parking is at a premium. Some street parking exists, more the further south you go, or you can pay to park at one of the many meters or in the several Uptown Parking lots. Parking on the west side and south of the lake is more abundant and usually free.

Several Metro Transit buses serve Lake Calhoun, the Uptown Transit Center on Hennepin Avenue is less than five minutes walk away, and bike paths connect to Lake Calhoun from other lakes, and the Midtown Greenway terminates on the north shore of Lake Calhoun.

Food at Lake Calhoun

Uptown Minneapolis is just blocks away and has plenty of coffee shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.

The Bakken Museum

On the west side of the lake, The Bakken Museum has gruesome historical medical devices, electric eels, real-life horror stories and science experiments for kids and adults in a mansion surrounded by beautiful and scientific gardens. The Bakken Museum holds regular evening events at the museum and in their grounds by the lake.

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Bde Maka Ska North Beach

2707 Lake Street W Minneapolis, MN 55416

Plan Your Route

Bus, bike, drive, or walk

Phone: 612-230-6400 Email : [email protected]

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Beach hours.

6 am – 10 pm daily Ordinance PB-3-1

Lifeguard Hours

No lifeguards are on duty

Beach Water Quality Status

Learn more about the water quality of Minneapolis beaches

Bde Maka Ska North Beach

Part of: Bde Maka Ska Park

Features & Amenities

Beach rules & tips, rentals & permits, water quality.

• Biking Path
• Pay Parking Lot
• Playground/Tot Lot
• Walking Path

Good to Know

Nearby Trails and Parkways:

• Dean Parkway
• Bde Maka Ska Parkway
• Midtown Greenway

Youth Swimming Lessons offered at various locations citywide. (Parents/guardians notified of swim lesson cancellations through email.)

Eatery/Concession at the Bde Maka Ska Pavilion

Canoe/Kayak/Paddle Board/Pedal Boat/Bike Rentals and more offered offered in season through Wheel Fun Rentals

Open Swim  offered at Lake Nokomis Main Beach

Did You Know?

The Minneapolis park system has 12 beaches. View a list of all beach locations .

Beach Rules

• Do not smoke in beach areas
• An adult must accompany children under the age of 8 at all times
• Swim only within marked areas
• Do not use inflatable air mattresses, inner tubes, other inflated articles, or inflatable floatation equipment except by permit. See floatation ordinance .
• You may only use U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejackets if worn correctly
• You may use foam noodles and nerf-type balls within buoyed swimming areas
• Do not throw sand or rocks
• Do not bring glass to beach areas
• Obey lifeguards at all times
• Infants/children not yet toilet-trained must wear swim diapers
• Riding piggyback is permitted. No “Chicken fights” or rough play
• Do not enter the water when the air temperature is 65 degrees Fahrenheit or colder
• Lifeguards take safety breaks during the day at beaches
• Keep dogs and other domestic animals off the beach and out of the lake
• Do not feed waterfowl
• Alcohol consumption is only allowed in designated areas at restaurants(link) licensed to serve alcohol or for those who’ve obtained a special use permit (link). See alcohol ordinance .
• No threatening, abusive, indecent language, conduct or behavior allowed. See prohibited language and conduct ordinance .
• Do not swim across any lake or park water unless accompanied by a boat. See swimming across lake ordinance .
• Do not swim or bathe at any unauthorized beach or park water. See unauthorized beach ordinance .
• Do not swim in lakes or gather on beaches between the hours of 10 pm and 6 am. See beach hours ordinance .

High bacteria levels generally occur right after it rains, and return to normal levels within 48 hours.

• Avoid swimming after it rains
• Try not to get lake water in your mouth
• Wash your hands before eating and after changing a diaper
• Shower with soap and fresh water as soon as possible after swimming in a lake

Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmer’s itch is a temporary, harmless skin rash that occasionally affects lake users. Small, irritating red welts typically appear after swimming on hot, still summer days. Sensitive individuals may itch for several weeks. The rash is caused by a parasite that infects birds and snails. The parasite cannot live in humans.

• Briskly rub skin with a coarse towel as soon as you leave the water
• Towel dry under your swimsuit, especially around the waistband and leg openings

Naegleria fowleri

Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba found in warm freshwater and soil that can causes a very rare but often fatal brain infection.

From 2005 to 2014, 31 infections resulting from swimming in contaminated water were reported in the United States. Two of those instances happened in Minnesota.

Infections occur when water with the amoeba enters the body through the nose. You cannot be infected by swallowing contaminated water and the amoeba cannot pass through the skin. To reduce your risk, the Minnesota Department of Health recommends:

• Avoid putting your head under the water
• Hold your nose shut or use nose clips
• Avoid warm freshwater when the water temperature is high and the water level is low
• Avoid digging or stirring up the sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas

Visit the Minnesota Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites for additional information.

Increased bacteria levels mainly come from waterfowl and pet waste in yards, streets and parks that wash into lakes either directly or through the storm sewers after a heavy rain.

• Pick up after your pet
• Dispose of pet waste properly

Beach Group Use Permit : Apply for a free permit to ensure we can accommodate your birthday party or group of 10 or more at the beach.  Application

Special Event Permit : Apply for a permit to  reserve the beach  for baptisms and other special events.  Application  [PDF]

View Bde Maka Ska water quality information .

Why is There a Beach Advisory/Closure?

Bacteria Monitoring: E. coli

MPRB staff monitor bacteria levels weekly and post a closed sign at the beach and indicate the closure on the Lake Water Quality Map if:

If a beach is closed MPRB staff will re-sample and reopen the beach when bacteria levels are within state guidelines.

Blue-green Algae Monitoring: Cyanobacteria

MPRB staff monitor for blue-green algae weekly. An advisory is posted on the Lake Water Quality Map if Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) guidelines are exceeded or when blooms blow into the beach area. When at the beach, look for informational signs on blooms or yellow advisory signs.

The advisory status will end when levels are within state guidelines.

A few things to remember:

• You cannot always see or smell when water conditions are poor.
• Swimming is not recommended after a heavy rainfall because bacteria levels in the water may be high.
• People and pets should stay away from the water and avoid contact if a blue-green algae bloom is present (most often blue-green in color, but can also be reddish-purple, or brown), or the water is murky.

Park Board Announcements

There are no announcements at this time. Please check back soon.

Free sailboat rides on Lake Calhoun!

Participating is 100% free and they have nothing to sell or promote, other than meeting new people, sharing experiences and having a good time.  I took advantage of this offer a few times in the past and had a blast learning to sail and enjoying the lake.  It’s a great activity for out of town guests.

You really have to love the Twin Cities and the awesome people here!

To participate, first print/fill out out a waiver .

Weather and health permitting, rides are offered 7 days a week from afternoon until sunset, May through mid October.  Just come to the public sailing dock, at Lake Calhoun … which is at the north-east corner of the Lake: 3000 Calhoun Parkway East, Minneapolis, MN.  You might have to wait 15 minutes or so if they are out on the lake but they’ll be by soon enough to pick you up!

For more info, see their website and Facebook Page .

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And dolphins make us happy. Find out more about our cookies policy here .

Krasnodar Krai, RU Boat Rentals

• Boat Rentals

Krai de Krasnodar

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Motor Yacht Charter in Gelendzhik

Wind Surfer Lesson In Sochi

Boat Diving Trips in Gelendzhik.

Windsurf Board Rental and Lessons in Anapa

'Anastasia' Cuddy Cabin Boat Charter in Gelendzhik

'Tahiti' Sailing Gulet Charter in Gelendzhik

Motor Yacht rental in Sochi, Russia

'Victoria' Sailing Monohull Charter in Gelendzhik

Dufour 43 Sailing Monohull Charter in Gelendzhik

Top destinations nearby.

Krasnodar Krai

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CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. For Boat Rentals please visit our nearby location at Bde Maka Ska!

Lake Harriet

Minneapolis, mn.

Enjoy Being out on the Water

Conveniently located next to bandshell park, large variety of rentals, watercraft for all abilites, try a stand-up paddleboard, wheel fun rentals.

Welcome Wheel Fun Rentals at Lake Harriet: the premier bike and boat rentals destination in Minneapolis! We’re proud to outfit adventurers with the perfect vehicles to explore this beautiful lake.

Hours of Operation

All hours are weather-permitting.

The last rental goes out 1 hour prior to close.

Valid photo ID required for every rental.

Closed for the Season: Come visit us May 24th, 2025!

Mon – Fri: 10am – 9pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 9am – 9pm

Mon – Fri:  10am – 8:30pm Sat, Sun & Holidays:  9am – 8:30pm

Mon – Fri:  10am – 8pm Sat, Sun & Holidays:  9am – 8pm

7 Days a Week: 1pm – 7pm

Minnesota's Premier Bike & Water Rentals

Wheel Fun Rentals offers top of the line bikes and watercraft to be enjoyed by friends and family. Glide along the water in a kayak or race a friend on an SUP.

A Complete View of What We Rent

Explore Lake Harriet atop a stand-up paddle board or canoe and glide across the mirror-like water. If you prefer to stay on land, grab a mountain bike or cruiser bike and cruise along the many bike trails throughout the area or visit the Thomas Sadler Roberts Bird Sanctuary. With so many options, there is something for everyone!

Save 50% Off an Entire Year

Can’t get enough of us? Purchase an Annual Pass today – and save 50% for an entire year! The card pays for itself in one visit.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

Biking & Boating Buddies

Wheel Fun Rentals supports Big Brothers Big Sisters by offering free rentals to the volunteers and the children they mentor.

Here are our

Featured Rentals

At This Location

Location Info

4135 W. Lake Harriet Pkwy

[email protected]

(612) 922-9226 or (612) 799-8614

Other Nearby Locations

Bde maka ska.

Minneapolis, mn

Lake Nokomis

Minnehaha falls, veterans memorial park.

Richfield, mn

St. Paul, mn

Como Park Mini-Golf

View Full List of Locations

We Proudly Support

Operating In Partnership With

Resources of Interest

• Bread & Pickle
• Lake Harriet Ban Shell