Chain of Lakes

Uptown is a convenient jump-off point to the Chain of Lakes - ie Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet and Cedar Lake. It seems all of Minneapolis is out frolicking by the water - not surprising, really, since this is known as the 'city of lakes.' Paved cycling paths (which double as cross-country ski trails in winter) meander around the four lakes, where you can go boating in summer or ice-skating in winter.

The Lake Calhoun kiosk (base of Lake St) rents canoes, kayaks and paddleboats for around US$15 per hour. Thomas Beach, also on Lake Calhoun, is popular for swimming.