Minneapolis offers visitors a vibrant arts scene, award-winning parks and lakes, exciting sports and entertainment, and much more. This midwestern city has something for everyone, no matter your interests or the season.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Visit Museums | Explore art, history, and cultural museums for diverse educational experiences. |
| Enjoy Parks and Lakes | Experience outdoor activities at local parks and around the city’s numerous lakes. |
| Attend Theater Performances | Catch live performances in the city known for its vibrant theater scene. |
| Explore the Mississippi Riverfront | Walk, bike, or picnic along the scenic riverfront areas. |
| Dine at Local Restaurants | Savor meals from a wide range of cuisines at various eateries. |
| Participate in Festivals | Join in on seasonal festivals and community events throughout the year. |
| Shop at Unique Stores | Find unique items and souvenirs at local boutiques and markets. |
| Engage in Sports Activities | Take part in or watch sporting events, including biking and marathon runs. |
| Visit Historic Sites | Explore the city’s history through its well-preserved sites and buildings. |
| Enjoy Nightlife | Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife at bars, clubs, and live music venues. |
| Take Art Classes | Engage in creative workshops and art classes offered around the city. |
| Explore Nature Centers | Learn about local wildlife and natural landscapes at nature centers. |
When exploring the Twin Cities, make sure to add these top things to do in Minneapolis to your itinerary.
Walk Along the Stone Arch Bridge
Name and Location: The Stone Arch Bridge is a historic pedestrian bridge located in downtown Minneapolis, spanning the Mississippi River.
History and Significance: Built in 1883, it is a marvel of engineering and a symbol of the city’s industrial heritage. It’s now a pedestrian bridge and a popular landmark.
What to Expect: Visitors can take leisurely walks or bike rides across the bridge while enjoying panoramic views of the river and the city skyline. It’s a picturesque spot for photos.
Visitor Information: Accessible year-round, and it’s a great place to appreciate the city’s history and natural beauty.
The iconic Stone Arch Bridge is one of the most photographed attractions in Minneapolis. This former railroad bridge crosses the Mississippi River, providing pedestrians and bicyclists scenic river valley views. Take a relaxing stroll along the bridge and stop at lookout points like the Saint Anthony Falls to see the only major waterfall on the Mississippi. The views of downtown Minneapolis, river barges, and passing trains make the Stone Arch Bridge a must-see.
Spend an Afternoon at Minnehaha Regional Park
Name and Location: Minnehaha Regional Park is located in Minneapolis and is known for its stunning waterfall and natural beauty.
History and Significance: The park has been a popular destination for over a century, attracting visitors with its breathtaking waterfall and scenic landscapes.
What to Expect: Visitors can hike through lush trails, admire the majestic Minnehaha Falls, have picnics, and explore the park’s historic sites.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, and it’s an ideal place for nature lovers and families.
Minnehaha Regional Park offers beautiful natural scenery just minutes from downtown. The park’s gorgeous 53-foot Minnehaha Falls provides a serene and relaxing backdrop for picnics and photography. Follow walking paths along the creek down to the Mississippi River or climb to the top of the Limestone cliffs overlooking the river valley. The park also features limestone caves to explore, areas for biking and rock climbing, and a dog park.
Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Mall of America
Name and Location: The Mall of America is located in Bloomington, a suburb of Minneapolis, and is one of the largest shopping malls in the United States.
History and Significance: Opened in 1992, it offers an unparalleled shopping and entertainment experience, with over 500 stores and numerous attractions.
What to Expect: Visitors can shop for a wide range of products, dine at diverse restaurants, and enjoy attractions like an indoor amusement park and aquarium.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, and it’s a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone.
As one of the most visited shopping centers in the world, no visit to the Twin Cities is complete without braving the vast Mall of America. With over 520 stores, this megamall also hosts theme parks, an aquarium, mini golf courses, and endless dining options. Shop brands like Louis Vuitton, Nordstrom, and Apple or catch a movie in the AMC Theater. You could easily spend days inside this 4.87 million square foot attraction.
Catch a Show at First Avenue
Name and Location: First Avenue is a legendary music venue located in downtown Minneapolis, renowned for hosting iconic concerts.
History and Significance: Established in 1970, it has played a pivotal role in the city’s music scene and has hosted legendary artists.
What to Expect: Visitors can attend live music shows spanning various genres in an intimate and historic setting. It’s a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
Visitor Information: Check the venue’s website for upcoming shows and ticket information.
Dubbed “the best rock club in America,” First Avenue serves as Minneapolis’ most iconic music venue. Many music legends graced the stage over the past 50 years, from Prince to Nirvana, The Ramones, Eminem, and more. Though primarily a concert venue, First Ave also hosts events like DJ dance nights, karaoke, and private parties. Even if you can’t catch a show, make sure to grab a drink at this historic club.
Wander the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Name and Location: The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is located adjacent to the Walker Art Center and features a stunning collection of outdoor sculptures.
History and Significance: Established in 1988, it showcases contemporary and modern artworks in a picturesque garden setting.
What to Expect: Visitors can stroll among sculptures, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry, and appreciate the fusion of art and nature.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, with no admission fee, making it a delightful place for art lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Part of the acclaimed Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden displays 40+ contemporary sculptures in an urban green space setting. The centerpiece remains ‘Spoonbridge and Cherry’ fountain by Claes Oldenburg, resembling a giant spoon topped with a cherry. Grab a selfie with the iconic pop art sculpture then continue exploring works from Alexander Calder, Sol LeWitt, Robert Indiana and others. The garden connects directly to the Walker Art Center if you want to continue the art appreciation indoors.
Cheer on the Minnesota Twins
Name and Location: The Minnesota Twins are a Major League Baseball team, and their home games are played at Target Field in downtown Minneapolis.
History and Significance: The team has a rich baseball history, and Target Field is known for its modern amenities and fan-friendly experience.
What to Expect: Visitors can watch exciting baseball games, enjoy ballpark food, and soak up the lively atmosphere of America’s pastime.
Visitor Information: Check the Twins’ schedule for home games and ticket availability.
The Minnesota Twins have played professional baseball at Target Field in downtown Minneapolis since 2010. Watching a home game is a classic Minneapolis experience. Catch fast fly balls racing through the outfield, the mini pear apple going off for home runs, and the polarized panel roof technology that keeps fans comfortable in any type of weather. Enjoy the open concourse design in between inning snacks like walleye fish tacos, Kramarczuk’s sausages, or fresh mini donuts.
Tour Paisley Park, Prince’s Iconic Studio
Name and Location: Paisley Park is located in Chanhassen, near Minneapolis, and was the private estate and recording studio of the legendary musician Prince.
History and Significance: It holds a significant place in music history and was Prince’s creative sanctuary. Tours offer insights into his life and work.
What to Expect: Visitors can take guided tours, explore Prince’s creative space, and view artifacts and memorabilia related to his career.
Visitor Information: Tours are available, but it’s recommended to check the website for booking and tour details.
Take an exclusive tour inside Prince’s elaborate Paisley Park estate and studio where the icon recorded more than 30 albums. Walk through the wardrobe archives to see some of Prince’s iconic custom-made outfits and follow the purple star siphon carpets to the main studio spaces. Exhibits showcase Prince’s concert memorabilia and flamboyant style mixed with his handwritten notes and lyrics still left up around the studio after his passing. Hardcore Prince fans or casual admirers will all appreciate this VIP glimpse into his creative world.
Explore Art at Weisman Art Museum
Name and Location: The Weisman Art Museum is situated on the campus of the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, featuring a diverse art collection.
History and Significance: Opened in 1934, it is known for its striking architecture and houses artworks spanning various periods and styles.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore art exhibitions, attend events, and appreciate the museum’s distinctive design by architect Frank Gehry.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, with free admission, making it accessible to art enthusiasts and the curious alike.
Located on the University of Minnesota campus along the banks of the Mississippi River, this contemporary art museum houses an impressive collection of 20th and 21st century artists. Designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry, the unique stainless steel exterior even stands as a work of abstract art. Inside, explore artworks across styles and genres from Cuba, Africa, South Asia and American Indian artists along with photography, architecture models, ceramics, and paintings. The museum connects to outdoor sculpture gardens with additional pieces from artists like Auguste Rodin.
Go for a Bike Ride on the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Name and Location: The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is a network of interconnected parkways and trails that encircle Minneapolis, offering scenic bike rides and walks.
History and Significance: Established over a century ago, it showcases the city’s commitment to preserving natural beauty and providing recreational spaces.
What to Expect: Visitors can bike, walk, or jog along the byway, enjoying picturesque views of lakes, parks, and the Mississippi River.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, and it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking an active adventure.
The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway lives up to its name with 51 miles of paths circling waterways, parks, and neighborhoods across Minneapolis. Made up of interconnected trails and parkways, the byway provides a great thoroughfare across the city exclusively for walkers, joggers, rollerbladers and bikers. Routes meander along lakes, the Mississippi River, wooded areas, and the downtown skyline, offering fantastic sightseeing opportunities. Or challenge your endurance biking the entire loop over a long summer day.
See a Play at Guthrie Theater
Name and Location: The Guthrie Theater is a renowned regional theater located in Minneapolis, known for its exceptional theatrical productions.
History and Significance: Founded in 1963, it has earned a reputation for staging classic and contemporary plays in a striking modern building overlooking the river.
What to Expect: Visitors can attend captivating performances, including classics, new works, and adaptations, in a state-of-the-art theater.
Visitor Information: Check the theater’s website for play schedules, ticket information, and upcoming shows.
Towering along the Mississippi River banks, the distinct Guthrie Theater building remains an architectural staple on the Minneapolis skyline. This regional playhouse puts on an impressive season of classic shows, Broadway hits, world premieres and touring productions on its three stages. Architecture tours let you explore behind the scenes spaces like costume and set design workshops. Make time to catch a Tony Award-winning show at this Minneapolis icon.
Hang Out in Northeast Minneapolis’ Art District
Name and Location: Northeast Minneapolis is known for its vibrant art district, featuring numerous galleries, studios, and creative spaces.
History and Significance: The district has evolved into a hub for artists, hosting open studio events and art festivals throughout the year.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore art galleries, meet local artists, and immerse themselves in the thriving arts scene of the city.
Visitor Information: The art district is accessible year-round, with various events and exhibitions to explore.
Northeast Minneapolis serves as the city’s hub for arts, food, and entertainment with charming cafes, eclectic bars, performance venues, and acclaimed restaurants. Explore city mural artworks then pop into studios, galleries, breweries, distilleries and craft shops that fill converted warehouses of the Art District. Don’t miss the Food Building food hall and the final resting place for Bob Dylan’s childhood home tucked in a corner alley. Spend an afternoon sampling the best of this trendy neighborhood.
Relax on the Shores of Lake Calhoun
Name and Location: Lake Calhoun, also known as Bde Maka Ska, is a picturesque urban lake located in Minneapolis, offering recreational opportunities.
History and Significance: The lake has been a beloved destination for generations, known for its scenic beauty and water-based activities.
What to Expect: Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, go swimming, kayaking, or enjoy leisurely walks and picnics around the lake.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, and it’s a tranquil spot to unwind in the heart of the city.
Escape from downtown to the laidback lakeside vibes of Lake Calhoun. Part of the city’s renowned Chain of Lakes, Lake Calhoun offers refreshing waters for boating, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, and sailing during summer. In colder months, trade water sports for ice skating, hockey, and curling on the frozen lake surface. Land lovers can rent cyclones to cruise scenic parkways or enjoy a picnic overlooking downtown views. Local restaurants and lively bars surround Lake Calhoun for easy post-adventure refueling.
With award-winning theater, music venues that launched legends, world-class museums, stunning nature, and vibrant multicultural dining and drinking, Minneapolis offers an incredibly rich and diverse travel experience. Use this list of top things to do to help guide your Twin Cities explorations. Whether catching a baseball game downtown or biking along the river, Minneapolis delivers quintessential Midwestern hospitality paired with dynamic arts and culture.