Best Wedding Photography Spots in Minneapolis & St. Paul

Choosing the perfect setting for your wedding photos is almost as important as choosing the photographer. The right backdrop tells your story, complements your style, and adds a little magic to your gallery. Luckily, the Twin Cities are filled with incredible locations for portraits, first looks, and golden-hour moments.

As a wedding photographer, I always encourage couples to pick a location that feels personal, but it doesn’t hurt to know which spots in Minneapolis–St. Paul deliver consistently beautiful results. Here are some of my favorites:

🌉 Stone Arch Bridge & Mill Ruins Park

Why it’s great:

Iconic, urban, and timeless. With views of the skyline and river, plus the historic ruins nearby, this location blends city energy with history. It’s perfect for couples who want both classic portraits and artistic backdrops.

Pro Tip: Visit just before sunset for the best light. It can get crowded, but a little patience means you’ll walk away with stunning, dramatic images.

🌊 Minnehaha Falls

Why it’s great:

Nothing says romance like a waterfall. Minnehaha Falls is ideal for adventurous couples who want a dramatic natural backdrop just minutes from downtown.

Pro Tip: The falls look amazing year-round, lush and green in summer, fiery in autumn, and even frozen in winter. A versatile spot no matter when you’re tying the knot.

🌿 Nicollet Island Pavilion

Why it’s great:

The pavilion and surrounding grounds offer a mix of city and greenery. You can capture intimate riverside moments, wide skyline shots, and elegant portraits all within one location.

Pro Tip: This spot works especially well for couples hosting their wedding or reception nearby, it saves time and adds variety without traveling across town.

🎶 Lake Harriet Bandshell

Why it’s great:

For couples who love color and lake views, the Bandshell is a Twin Cities gem. The combination of water, bold architecture, and vibrant surroundings makes it perfect for summer weddings.

Pro Tip: Pair portraits here with a stroll along the lake. The mix of architecture, shoreline, and golden-hour light creates a diverse gallery from a single stop.

🌆 Rice Park (St. Paul)

Why it’s great:

Nestled in the heart of St. Paul, Rice Park offers a romantic, urban feel with its historic charm.

Pro Tip: In winter, the park’s holiday lights create a magical backdrop that feels straight out of a movie. For couples planning a winter wedding, this is one of the best-kept secrets in the Cities.

💒 Bonus: Backyard & Intimate Weddings

Sometimes the best spots aren’t public landmarks, they’re the meaningful places where love stories unfold. Whether it’s your own backyard, a family cabin, or a quiet park, these spaces create photos that feel personal and authentic.

Pro Tip: Don’t overlook sentimental locations. They may not be “famous,” but they’re often the ones that make your gallery feel the most like you.

Final Thoughts

Wherever we go, the goal is always the same: photos that capture you. Whether you’re drawn to the roar of Minnehaha Falls, the classic elegance of Nicollet Island, or the intimacy of your own backyard, I’ll make sure your wedding photos tell your story in the most authentic way.

Ready to plan your wedding session? [Check your date → twincitiesimagery.com/weddings]