Spring in the Twin Cities is pure magic. After months of snow and gray skies, the landscape bursts into life with colorful blooms, lush greenery, and soft golden light—perfect for capturing stunning outdoor portraits. Whether you're planning a family session, maternity shoot, or just want updated spring photos, finding the right backdrop makes all the difference.
Luckily, the Twin Cities is full of breathtaking locations that come alive in the spring. From charming city parks to tucked-away gardens, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect spots. Below, I’m sharing five of the best spring photo locations in the Twin Cities that offer a mix of urban charm, blooming trees, and natural beauty—ideal for any photo session.
Minnehaha Falls Park – The Iconic Spring Backdrop
Why It’s Great:
If you’re looking for a classic Minneapolis setting with a mix of natural beauty and architectural interest, Minnehaha Falls Park is a must. The 50-foot waterfall is the star of the show, but in spring, the surrounding trees and gardens come to life, adding even more charm to the landscape.
Best Time for Photos:
Early morning or golden hour (just before sunset) gives you the best lighting without the midday crowds. If you go in the morning, you’ll also catch the mist rising from the falls, which adds a dreamy effect to your images.
Spring Blooms & Scenery:
- Blossoming crabapple and cherry trees
- Lush greenery along the trails
- Soft floral touches in the Longfellow Gardens nearby
Best Background Elements:
- The cascading waterfall
- Rustic stone bridges and staircases
- Winding trails for natural, candid shots
If you want a blend of urban and nature in your photos, Minnehaha Falls is a fantastic choice.
Como Park – A Floral Wonderland
Why It’s Great:
Como Park in St. Paul is a springtime dream, offering multiple stunning spots in one location. From the blooming gardens to the classic columns of the Como Pavilion, this spot gives you endless variety for your session.
Best Time for Photos:
Late afternoon provides the most flattering light, especially near the gardens where the sunlight filters through the petals.
Spring Blooms & Scenery:
- Vibrant tulips and daffodils in the formal gardens
- Cherry blossoms near Lake Como
- Magnolia trees near the conservatory
Best Background Elements:
- The charming footbridge over the lake
- Classic stone pathways lined with flowers
- The Como Conservatory’s glass windows, which reflect the soft spring colors
Como Park is perfect if you want a mix of floral beauty and timeless elegance in your photos.
Boom Island Park – Urban Meets Nature
Why It’s Great:
If you want a Minneapolis cityscape in the background but still crave soft, natural elements, Boom Island Park is the answer. Situated along the Mississippi River, this location offers open fields, blooming trees, and a killer skyline view.
Best Time for Photos:
Golden hour (sunset) is ideal because the city lights start to glow, adding depth and warmth to your images.
Spring Blooms & Scenery:
- Fresh green willows swaying near the river
- Delicate cherry blossoms lining the paths
- Bright yellow wildflowers scattered throughout the fields
Best Background Elements:
- Minneapolis skyline peeking through the trees
- Wooden boardwalks for modern, editorial-style portraits
- The river adding soft reflections for a dreamy effect
Boom Island Park gives you a unique mix of urban sophistication and fresh spring greenery, making it a go-to for engagement, maternity, or family sessions.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – A Photographer’s Paradise
Why It’s Great:
If you want unparalleled floral variety and a peaceful, curated garden setting, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska is unbeatable. With over 1,200 acres of gardens, trails, and blooming trees, this location offers endless backdrops for any type of photo session.
Best Time for Photos:
Mornings are best to avoid crowds, and the soft light filtering through the trees adds a gorgeous glow to portraits.
Spring Blooms & Scenery:
- Rows of cherry blossoms in peak bloom
- Vibrant tulip beds
- Magnolia trees with soft pink and white petals
- Rolling green hills perfect for family sessions
Best Background Elements:
- A stunning Japanese Garden with stone bridges
- Tree-lined paths that create a natural frame around portraits
- Open fields with wildflowers for a whimsical touch
The Arboretum is ideal for anyone looking for romantic, dreamy spring photo locations in the Twin Cities with a polished, botanical feel.
Rice Park – A Hidden Gem in the City
Why It’s Great:
Right in the heart of downtown St. Paul, Rice Park is a charming, European-inspired setting with historic architecture and delicate spring blooms. It’s one of those spots that feels both intimate and grand, perfect for timeless, elegant photos.
Best Time for Photos:
Early morning works best here—the soft light enhances the historic buildings, and the quiet atmosphere gives your session a relaxed, intimate feel.
Spring Blooms & Scenery:
- Gorgeous magnolia and crabapple trees
- Classic fountains and sculptures surrounded by fresh greenery
- Vintage-style lampposts that add character to your shots
Best Background Elements:
- The iconic Landmark Center in the background
- Blooming trees that frame the classic park benches
- Old-world architecture that adds a romantic, timeless quality
Rice Park is an underrated gem for spring portraits, offering both architectural elegance and natural beauty in one setting.
Spring in the Twin Cities is the perfect time for photos, and these five locations offer a mix of nature, city vibes, and blooming trees that make any portrait session shine. Whether you're drawn to the dramatic waterfalls of Minnehaha, the urban-meets-nature feel of Boom Island, or the dreamy blossoms at the Arboretum, each spot has something special to offer.
Where’s your favorite place to take spring photos in the Twin Cities? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Michele is a professional family photographer based in Minneapolis with over 15 years of experience capturing timeless portraits. Known for her clean, natural style, she specializes in creating stunning, light-filled images that highlight the beauty of every season. Michele’s expertise in location scouting ensures her clients have access to the best spring photo locations in the Twin Cities, from blooming gardens to scenic urban backdrops. Whether photographing families, newborns, or motherhood sessions, she is dedicated to making every session effortless and memorable.
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