Twin Cities Photography Guide
Discover the best photo spots and photography tips for capturing Twin Cities's unique landscapes
Explore Twin Cities
The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul form the cultural and economic heart of Minnesota. Originally home to Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, the area developed around Fort Snelling at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Today, the region offers photographers a stunning mix of urban skylines, historic architecture, vibrant arts scenes, and extensive park systems interwoven with lakes and rivers. The distinct cultural identities of the two cities provide diverse photographic opportunities throughout the year.
Best Season
spring and fall
Best Time of Day
sunrise and sunset
Photo Opportunities
6 Locations
Weather
Photography Tips for Twin Cities
The Minneapolis skyline looks most dramatic from the Stone Arch Bridge or Boom Island Park, especially during blue hour.
- Michael Smith, Professional Photographer
For reflection shots of the skyline, visit Bde Maka Ska or Lake of the Isles on a calm day.
- Sarah Johnson, Local Photographer
Minnehaha Falls photographs beautifully in all seasons, but winter transforms it into dramatic ice formations.
- David Wilson, Nature Photographer
The Guthrie Theater's Endless Bridge offers unique perspectives of the Mississippi River and the Minneapolis Mill District.
- Elizabeth Wright, Architectural Photographer
St. Paul's Cathedral Hill area provides excellent opportunities for historical architecture photography, especially in morning light.
- Thomas Anderson, Urban Photographer
Must-Visit Photo Locations
Photography FAQ for Twin Cities
Where can I capture the best skyline photos in Minneapolis?
The Stone Arch Bridge, Boom Island Park, and the Endless Bridge at the Guthrie Theater offer excellent vantage points for Minneapolis skyline photography.
Are tripods allowed at indoor locations like the Capitol or Cathedral?
Policies vary, but tripods are generally allowed at the Minnesota State Capitol during regular hours. The Cathedral of Saint Paul may have restrictions during services or events, so check ahead.
What is the best time of year to photograph Twin Cities parks?
Mid-October offers peak fall colors, making it ideal for park photography. Spring blooms in May are also excellent, especially at the Como Park Conservatory and Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
What makes Minneapolis and St. Paul different for photography?
Minneapolis offers more modern urban architecture, extensive lake systems, and industrial history, while St. Paul features more historical architecture, government buildings, and Victorian-era neighborhoods like Summit Avenue.
Where can I photograph the Mississippi River?
The Stone Arch Bridge area offers industrial-historical views, Boom Island provides skyline views with the river, and the Mississippi River Boulevard in St. Paul offers more natural river scenes with bluffs and forests.
