Parklets & Street Cafes in Minneapolis

Last week, the City of Minneapolis announced that it will be accepting applications for parklets and street cafes for the 2024 season. The program seeks to activate community corridors with engaging and fun public spaces that support local businesses.

The City owns three parklets, which exist next to curbs and usually function as parking spaces or loading zones. For the summer season, they are transformed into public spaces with seating, plantings, bike parking, and even local artwork. Last year, the City hosted a parklet next to Dancing Bear Chocolate on Thomas Avenue. This year, they are seeking applications for community groups or businesses interested in hosting three different parklets across the City.

The City is also welcoming applications for street cafes, which function similarly to parklets, except they are generally not open to the public and act as an extension of a business.

Both parklets and street cafes grew in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic as businesses sought to provide seating while also maintaining social distancing regulations. Now, many cities are considering ways to encourage and sustain outdoor dining and gathering spaces. Parklets and street cafes not only support businesses, but they also make urban spaces more livable, walkable, and create space for community interaction.