Parklets and street cafes

You can enroll to host a parklet or open a street café in the City of Minneapolis.

Public parklets in the city

Parklets are seasonal public spaces that make the city more livable and walkable. We design these low-cost portable parks for people to relax and enjoy the city. Public spaces where people can gather and interact, such as parklets, are an asset to our community. Parklets are accessible and open to all.

Learn how to apply

Parklets offer amenities such as

  • Seating
  • Plantings
  • Bike parking
  • Public art

They also create gathering spaces in denser areas of the city and public streets. Advertising and other commercial activities are not permitted in parklets.

Read the parklet program overview

Where we build parklets

Parklets are next to the curb. They're often in parking spaces or loading zones. They act as an extension of the sidewalk.

Parklet program

Who owns the parklets

Some parklets are funded and maintained by

  • Neighboring businesses
  • Residents
  • Community organizations 

The City of Minneapolis owns others.

City-owned parklets

The City of Minneapolis owns three parklets that are hosted by various businesses or organizations each year.

Past locations

In 2023, city owned parklet was hosted at the following location:

In 2022, city owned parklets were hosted at the following locations:

Street café program

A street café is a seasonal expansion of the existing sidewalk. It's used for extra restaurant or business seating.

How street cafés work in the City

Street cafés:

  • Operate as an extension of a business
  • Are located in the space next to the curb (often a parking or loading zone)
  • Can be reserved for customer use only

You must obtain a license to open a street café.

How to apply

Contact us

Kaitlyn Denten

Associate Transportation Planner
Public Works

Phone

612-673-2544

Craig Eliason

Street Cafe Program Manager
Community Planning & Economic Development

Phone

612-673-3370

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415