The Minneapolis Model Sailboat Pond | People’s Plaza – Minneapolis
For six summer days, the fountains at People’s Plaza become Minnesota’s 10,000+1st lake. Pick a boat, catch the wind, and race it across the water, right between City Hall and the Government Center.
The Minneapolis Model Sailboat Pond will transform the fountains at People’s Plaza into a living, moving public attraction. Inspired by the beloved sailboats of Luxembourg Gardens in Paris, this charming family activity is sure to become a new Minneapolis summer tradition. Water, wind, and more than 20 colorful sailboats will bring Minnesota’s “10,000 lakes and one more” to life between City Hall and the Hennepin County Government Center.
Whether you’re racing a boat, cheering from the fountain’s edge, or simply enjoying a beautiful summer afternoon downtown, there’s something magical about watching the wind do the work.
Reserve your time! $5 for 30 minutes
Boats are provided, just bring yourself. Perfect for kids, families, grandparents, lunch-breakers, and anyone after a uniquely Minneapolis summer afternoon.
People’s Plaza (between Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Government Center)
352 S 5th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415
STEP 01
Choose your boat
Pick up a numbered sailboat from our crew at the fountain’s edge. It’s yours for the next half hour.
STEP 02
Launch it
Set it on the water and hand it over to the wind. No remotes, no engines, just sails and a good gust.
Chase the wind
Walk the rim, give it a nudge with a pole, and guide your boat home before the next captain takes the helm.
