The Minnehaha Depot: Minneapolis’s “Princess” of the Rails

The Minnehaha Depot: Minneapolis’s “Princess” of the Rails

Just steps from the iconic Minnehaha Falls, nestled along the parkway in south Minneapolis, stands a small but unforgettable piece of Minnesota rail history: the Minnehaha Depot. Painted bright yellow and adorned with delicate Victorian woodwork, it’s easy to see why this charming station earned its nickname—“The Princess Depot.”

Built in 1875, the Minnehaha Depot was once a vital link in the Milwaukee Road rail network. For decades, it served as a bustling stop for travelers heading to the scenic Minnehaha Falls area or commuting between Minneapolis and surrounding communities. With the rise of leisure travel in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the depot played a key role in making the falls and nearby parklands accessible to everyday Minnesotans.

Though regular passenger service ended in the 1960s, the Minnehaha Depot lives on as a beautifully preserved historic site, maintained by the Minnesota Transportation Museum and the Minnesota Historical Society. It offers visitors a rare glimpse into what rail travel once looked and felt like—complete with period signage, architecture, and interpretive displays.

🚂 Want to experience this living piece of rail history in person?
Our Minnesota Railroad Tour includes a visit to the Minnehaha Depot, where you’ll learn about its fascinating past and the railroad legacy that helped shape Minneapolis.

👉 Visit our website to learn more and reserve your spot on the tour!