Minneapolis is a modern city with plenty to do; museums offer both classic and contemporary art, music venues bring the latest artists to the Twin Cities, and plenty of shopping and dining options make it easy to forget that there's a natural world beyond the modern city. But one of Minneapolis' best attractions is a nature area that looks like something from Middle Earth. When you visit, you'll be taken out of the city and into a landscape that feels almost like the fantasy-filled world of Lord of the Rings. Let's take a tour of Minnehaha Falls Regional Park in Minneapolis.

A series of stone steps surrounded by lush greenery leads down to the base of the falls, where you can truly appreciate the mighty height of Minnehaha Falls.

The creek that flows into the falls starts at Lake Minnetonka and flows south, passing through beautiful woods and wetlands.

Many enjoy kayaking the usually calm creek, though the waters can occasionally be rough or rocky.

There are also hiking trails that crisscross the park, some of which lead to picturesque bridges straight out of a Tolkien novel.

One of the best times to go is in fall when the surrounding leaves are at their peak color. The falls flowing over limestone bluffs are like something out of a storybook.

Summer also brings lush greenery that you won't want to miss.

In the winter, the park becomes even more magical.

Covered in snow, the stillness that descends on this little oasis in the city is almost unreal.

If you make a trek in the winter, the frozen falls offer an otherworldly vibe. This beautiful place in Minneapolis is the perfect backdrop to a quiet winter day.

Behind the frozen falls is an even more magical sight. The bright blue of the ice has to be seen to be believed!

No matter how (or when) you enjoy this park, you're going to have an enchanting experience.

Have you ever been to Minnehaha Falls Regional Park in Minneapolis? Did you think it looked like Middle Earth? Let us know in the comments section - and don't forget to share your photos of this fantasy land with us on Instagram (@onlyinminneapolis) and the Only In Minneapolis Facebook page for a chance to see them featured!

For more Minneapolis natural beauty, check out these amazing places to watch the sun set in the Twin Cities, and don't miss some of the best state parks in Minnesota in and around Minneapolis! What is your favorite Minnesota state park? Find some of the best hiking trails near Minneapolis on AllTrails+.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/minnesota/minneapolis/amazing-state-parks-minneapolis/

Besides cool waterfalls, Minnesota is known to have a lake or two worth spending time on and around. Here are some of our favorite MN lakes:

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