There are few places that combine skyline views, towering trees, and romantic golden hour light quite like Harriet Island in St. Paul, Minnesota. This Harriet Island St. Paul engagement session was straight out of a fairytale, and I could not be more obsessed with how it all turned out. If you’re looking for a location that brings charm, city views, and riverside serenity all in one package, go ahead and put this one at the top of your list.

Let’s talk about the couple first. These two showed up looking like the main characters in the dreamiest rom-com ever written. She wore the most flowy, pastel-lavender floral dress, and he kept it classic and comfy in soft earth tones that blended beautifully with the setting. The instant they started laughing together, I knew this shoot was going to be something special. And spoiler: it was.

A Little Harriet Island History

So why is Harriet Island such a local favorite? For starters, it’s got some real history. Named after Harriet Bishop, St. Paul’s first public school teacher and a true trailblazer, the island was originally a health resort in the late 1800s before becoming the gorgeous public park it is today. Located right along the Mississippi River with the downtown St. Paul skyline just across the water, it’s a spot that blends natural beauty with urban charm.

You get these beautiful open fields, massive cottonwood trees, scenic walking paths, and river views that sparkle at just the right time of day. Plus, the tree canopy and riverside breezes make it feel peaceful even when the city is buzzing nearby.

Why Harriet Island Is a Hidden Gem for Engagement Photos

What makes Harriet Island such a stunning backdrop for engagement sessions? Let’s break it down:

• The light. This park is an absolute golden hour dream. The way the sun filters through the trees and dances across the water is pure magic.
• Variety of scenery. From tree-lined paths and river overlooks to grassy fields and wide walkways, every corner of this park offers a new vibe.
• Downtown backdrop. You can snag those romantic nature shots and then pivot for skyline views, all without moving your car.
• Easy access. It’s right in the city but doesn’t feel overly crowded or busy. Plus, it’s easy to navigate and find quiet pockets to shoot in.
• Seasonal beauty. Whether you’re surrounded by summer greenery or catching early autumn color, the natural beauty here is reliable and photo-ready.

Let’s Talk About This Session

The energy between these two was soft, playful, and full of genuine connection. They held hands. They danced a little in the sunlight. He made her laugh nonstop, and she looked at him like he was her whole world. That’s the kind of love you feel just by being near it.

We started near the big tree at the center of the lawn — the one that looks like it’s been there since Harriet Bishop herself roamed the park. The sun peeked out from behind the branches, creating this stunning glow that lit them up perfectly. I barely had to direct a thing. They just fell into each other’s rhythm, and I got to capture the quiet little moments that tell the whole story.

Then we moved down the walking path along the water, where the city skyline popped into view. With just a few light breezes and the soft rustle of leaves around them, they embraced, twirled, and shared those in-between moments that feel so real and intimate. If you’re into classic romance with a relaxed vibe, this is what you’re looking for.

Tips for Your Own Harriet Island Engagement Session

If this park has officially made your location list, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Shoot around golden hour. The light is unreal in the hour before sunset.
• Keep it comfy. It’s a park, so there’s walking involved. Wear shoes you can move in.
• Plan a weekday evening. Weekends can get a little busy with events and crowds.
• Bring one outfit change. The park is large enough to support a mix of looks — casual and a little fancier both work here.
• Hydrate. Especially in the warmer months. A walk by the water sounds romantic until you’re sweating halfway through your shoot.

Favorite Highlights From This Harriet Island Session

There was a moment when the sun hit just right, filtering through the tree leaves like nature’s spotlight. He leaned in to kiss her, and she smiled just before their lips touched. That photo? It’s one of those that gives you chills.

Another favorite? Watching her floral dress swirl around her as they spun under the tree. Simple, joyful movement that turned into the most elegant photo without any effort. That’s what you get when the environment and the couple are perfectly in sync.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re planning an engagement session in St. Paul, Harriet Island should absolutely be on your radar. It’s romantic, it’s versatile, and it gives you those timeless, storybook vibes without feeling too staged or stuffy. Plus, it’s easy to get to, and with the right photographer (hi, it’s me), it becomes the perfect canvas for capturing your love story.

So if your dream session includes sunlight through the trees, riverside strolls, and a backdrop that quietly stuns, let’s make it happen at Harriet Island. Head to willowandrove.com or message me on Instagram @willowandrove to start planning your own dreamy, down-to-earth session.