As a Minneapolis engagement photographer, I absolutely love shooting sessions along St. Anthony Main.
This historic and romantic part of the city has everything. Charming cobblestone streets, skyline views, cozy date-night spots, and tons of natural beauty. Whether you’re planning an engagement session or a proposal, St. Anthony Main is full of magic.
Best Engagement Photo Locations in St. Anthony Main
Main Street Cobblestones
St. Anthony Main’s cobblestone road instantly adds texture, character, and a timeless feel to any engagement session. The street is lined with historic brick buildings and string lights, creating a cozy and romantic city vibe. It’s perfect for walking shots, dips, twirls, and editorial portraits that feel like a scene from a movie.
Father Hennepin Bluff Park
This green space is tucked just behind the main strip and offers trails, tall trees, and quiet corners that feel like you’ve escaped the city – even though the skyline is still peeking through. It’s a favorite for couples who want a touch of nature in their session, especially in the fall when the leaves pop.
Historic Theater Storefronts
The old St. Anthony Main theater signs and surrounding storefronts give a classic, urban backdrop that photographs beautifully. Whether you’re going for a vintage vibe or something fun and modern, these facades bring character and charm to your gallery.
Minneapolis Skyline Viewpoint (Across from Aster Café)
This spot might just be the most iconic angle of downtown Minneapolis. Located just across from Aster Café, it offers an open view of the skyline with the Mississippi River in the foreground — a perfect moment for those wide, dramatic portraits at golden hour. It’s one of those “only in Minneapolis” views that couples (and photographers) love.
Under the Main Street Bridge
This lesser-known spot creates beautifully diffused light and moody textures, especially with the stonework and subtle industrial feel. It’s a great spot to sneak in editorial portraits that feel a little more dramatic and unique – plus it’s usually quiet and private.
Make It a Date: Fun Engagement Session Ideas in St. Anthony Main
Your engagement session doesn’t have to feel like a stiff photo shoot — especially in a spot like St. Anthony Main. With so many cute things to do nearby, it’s the perfect place to turn your session into a real date. The more fun you’re having, the better your photos will be!
Grab Ice Cream from Wilde Café or Milkjam
Kick things off with a sweet treat. Ice cream cones make for the cutest candids (and give you something to do with your hands). Wilde Café has that classic Minneapolis charm, and there are usually spots nearby with great light for playful, cozy shots.
Catch a Movie at the St. Anthony Main Theatre
Want your engagement session to feel like a rom-com? Start or end your session with a shot under the marquee, or stroll past the historic theater as golden hour hits. It adds a nostalgic, downtown vibe to your gallery — plus, it’s a fun way to make a night of it.
Have Dinner at Aster Café
Aster Café is one of the most romantic spots in the city, with twinkle lights, views of the skyline, and cozy patio seating. Whether you grab a real reservation or just use the sidewalk café vibe for a few photos, it instantly adds elegance and warmth to your session.
Walk the Riverfront Trail
The trail that runs along the Mississippi has so many photo-worthy little nooks — benches, bridges, lamp posts, and skyline views. It’s great for capturing movement and connection as you walk hand-in-hand, laugh together, and take in the views. Feels more like a stroll than a posed shoot.
Bring Champagne or a Picnic Blanket
Want to make things extra personal? Pack a mini picnic with a blanket and champagne or sparkling water. It adds personality to your gallery and gives you space to pause, connect, and celebrate. Bonus: you’ll love those clinking-glass shots later.
Tips for Your St. Anthony Main Engagement Session
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to having fun, looking amazing, and making the most of your session. Here are a few of my go-to tips to help you feel prepared and relaxed on the day:
Plan for a Weeknight
St. Anthony Main gets busy on weekends – especially in spring and fall. I recommend scheduling your session on a weekday evening when the streets and trails are quieter. It gives us more freedom to shoot without distractions and catch that soft golden hour light.
Bring a Backup Pair of Shoes
The cobblestone streets are beautiful but not exactly heel-friendly. If you’re wearing dressier shoes, toss a comfy pair in your bag to switch between locations. You’ll thank yourself during the walking shots!
Leave Early! Traffic Can Be a Surprise
Downtown traffic can sneak up on you, especially during rush hour or summer events. Aim to leave 15–20 minutes earlier than you think you need to. It’ll give you a chance to find parking, shake off the stress, and start your session feeling calm and excited, not rushed.
Mix It Up with Two Outfits
I always suggest two outfits- one dressy, one casual. The variety gives you a more complete gallery and lets you show off different sides of your style. Just make sure both outfits fit the setting and feel like you.
Parking Tip
There’s a ramp near the St. Anthony Main Theatre and some metered street parking available along Main Street. Arrive about 10–15 minutes early so you’re not rushing, especially during peak times. I also love parking at the Nicollet Island Inn right at the back. The parking space is usually empty and it’s free!
Photo Highlights from St. Anthony Main Engagement Session
From golden light over the river to cozy strolls on cobblestone streets, this session shows off everything I love about St. Anthony Main. These two leaned into the fun, turned their shoot into a real date night, and brought all the joy and connection that makes engagement photos shine.
Scroll through some of my favorite images from this evening and get inspired for your own Minneapolis engagement session.
Meet Your Minneapolis Engagement Photographer
Hi, I’m Heidi – a Minneapolis engagement photographer who believes your photo session should feel like you. Whether that means sipping coffee by the river, dressing up for skyline views, or laughing your way through the cobblestones of St. Anthony Main, I’ll guide you the whole way so you feel confident and relaxed.
If you’re planning an engagement session and want timeless, joy-filled photos that tell your story – I’d love to chat! You reach out by clicking the button below! If you’d like to see other engagement sessions I’ve done check out these blogs below!
Excelsior Ice Cream Engagement Session – Joe + V
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Engagement
Wayzata Engagement Session on Lake Minnetonka
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