Lake Nokomis

There are plenty of urban lakes in Minnesota that you can check off your water travel bucket list. Lake Nokomis, an oval-shaped body of water with two beaches, concessions and a restaurant, and a walking trail, is situated in the southern portion of Minneapolis. You will quickly forget that the lake is close to a city because to the lush surroundings.

The lake also contains a bike path, sports courts, a fishing pier, and a boat dock. The annual U.S. Pond Hockey Championships are held at Lake Nokomis, where the body of water is transformed into numerous ice rinks in the winter.

For a quick break from the city, explore the accessible shorelines or neighboring trails. Visit the Nokomis Naturescape Garden while you're there; it's a lovely spot on the lake's northeast edge. The four-acre garden hosts the yearly Minneapolis Monarch Festival in addition to housing beautiful plant and flower species.

Location: Minneapolis, MN