Minneapolis 4th of July Fireworks & Events Guide

Wondering what’s happening this holiday weekend in Minneapolis? Explore all your 4th of July options in one place!

Last Updated: 6/28/24

Where are the best places to view the fireworks in Minneapolis?

The Downtown Riverfront fireworks, known as Red White & Boom will go off at 10 pm on July 4th. Nothing beats the views of the sparkling lights over the river, so find a bridge, a park, or a rooftop restaurant where you can see all of the beautiful displays! Here are our top 8 picks for where to watch. See below for more details on each:

PLEASE NOTE: The sound of fireworks may trigger the nervous system of dogs and other pets with hearing sensitivity, causing them to become anxious or afraid. If you intend to bring your dog to an outdoor Minneapolis celebration, make sure they are on a leash and close by during the fireworks display to ensure that they do not run away.

1. Stone Arch Bridge

This is the absolute best place to see the skies. Watching fireworks on the Stone Arch Bridge is like watching history, as the bridge is a link to the rich past of Minneapolis. You’ll be right above the Mississippi River and right below the action. Get here early though, it fills up quick! Make it a day downtown and plan pre-firework activities!

*Note: The St. Anthony Main side of the Stone Arch Bridge will be closed through spring 2025 to allow construction crews to begin preservation work.

2. Gold Medal Park

One of the most underrated spots in downtown Minneapolis, Gold Medal Park offers a more traditional viewing experience. Throw a blanket on the grass, toss a ball around and gaze up at the fireworks while you lie down and relax.

INSIDER TIP: “Bring bug spray.”

3. Bde Maka Ska

Parks are great, and buildings are very cool places to get closer to the fireworks. But, if you want a more chill 4th of July experience, Bde Maka Ska is where you want to be. Grill out, play some volleyball, kayak/paddle on the lake and sit on the beach while you get a great view of the downtown fireworks. Make a night of it! Hang out in Uptown before and after the fireworks show for more entertainment and cuisine.

Note: Dogs are allowed everywhere but the beaches

4. Hennepin Avenue Bridge

With the Mississippi rolling through Minneapolis, bridges are a necessity here, and sometimes they are useful for more than just crossing! The Hennepin Avenue Bridge is a perfect location to snag a phenomenal view of the fireworks display. Just like Nicollet Island, situated just under the bridge, this is a great spot to conveniently hit up various Minneapolis hot spots both before and after the show. Whether you go to Northeast, the North Loop and Warehouse District or Downtown, there is a place for you at either end of this bridge. Take the Light Rail downtown or park nearby and walk to the bridge for an easy and favorable Fourth of July.

5. Nicollet Island

Located between Downtown and Northeast Minneapolis, Nicollet Island is the perfect green space to unfold a blanket and lie back on the grass to watch fireworks. A beautiful garden, picnic area, and walking path make this a great place to spend the day relaxing before the night's celebrations. Situated right under the Hennepin Avenue Bridge, restaurants are abundant on both sides of the river. Grab a bite to eat in Northeast for dinner and head over to Downtown for drinks after! Nicollet Island is the perfect spot to experience the right dose of relaxation and celebration this holiday!

6. Restaurant Rooftops

A lot of people don’t generally think of restaurants as prime places to watch fireworks, but we say, “Why not?!” You’re up in the air, you’ll have a great view AND there are people that will serve you food and drinks. Check out more about Minneapolis' best rooftops in the city to try before and after the fireworks show!

Photo Credit: John Yuccas

7. Sparkles & Splash Fireworks Kayak Experience

Imagine viewing fireworks from a kayak, just below St. Anthony Falls. Make it a reality with Paddle Bridge on the Fourth of July for Red, White and Boom. Enjoy the fireworks on the Mississippi River in the historic Mill District. You'll be out on the water from 8:30pm – 10:30pm. Book tickets now.

8. Windows at Marquette Firework Pop Up Lounge

Head up to the 50th floor of Windows at Marquette for a 4th of July Panoramic Fireworks Viewing. Guests will enjoy 360-degree views of the fireworks over Downtown Minneapolis from the 50th floor of the IDS Center, with lounge provisions including: Classic 4th of July Food, Cocktails, Mocktails and Themed Beverages for purchase. The event takes place from 8:30pm - 11pm. Please RSVP by July 1. Event is Complimentary - Food & Drinks Available for Purchase.

More 4th of July Related Events in Minneapolis

Independence Day Eve Celebration

July 3, 2024
7:30pm-9:00pm
Lake Harriett Bandshell

Free concert by The Band That Fell to Earth, a David Bowie tribute band. Concert is open to all ages.

Learn More

Red, White & Boom

July 4, 2024
Starting at 6:00pm
Water Works and Stone Arch Bridge parking lot, West side of the Mississippi River

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is thrilled to announce the return of Red, White & Boom!, our beloved Fourth of July event, taking place on the Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront in 2024. Join us for an unforgettable evening of festivities, music, food, and fireworks as we celebrate America’s Independence Day in grand style.

Learn More

Taste of MN

July 6-7, 2024
11:00am-8:00pm
Downtown Minneapolis

From the traditional to the trendsetting, Minnesota features an incredible mix of dishes, communities, and experiences just waiting for you to discover them. And now, Taste of Minnesota is back to help you connect to the neighbors and flavors that make our home a destination for food lovers all over the world.

Featuring what’s next in eats, beats, and more, Taste is your ticket to a one-of-a-kind event that uncovers what’s delicious, what’s exciting, and what deserves your attention from across the entire state.

Learn More