- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
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Why Visit Minneapolis
Minneapolis rose from its flour milling empire, powered by St. Anthony Falls on the Mississippi. The iconic Stone Arch Bridge stands as a testament to this industrial past. Modern marvels like the Frank Gehry-designed Weisman Art Museum and the Guthrie Theater dot the skyline. The city's extensive skyway system connects 80 city blocks, a unique architectural response to our climate and a key feature among the top attractions in Minneapolis.
The city's "Chain of Lakes" offers 13 miles of paved shoreline paths for year-round use. Explore the 51-foot Minnehaha Falls, which freezes into a dramatic ice cave in winter. The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway connects parks across 50 miles, perfect for cycling. When visiting Minneapolis, kayaking the Mississippi River offers a unique urban-to-wildlife perspective, including views of nesting eagles near the city center.
Beyond hotdish, what is Minneapolis famous for? The Jucy Lucy, a molten cheese-stuffed burger whose origin is a fierce local rivalry. Savor walleye, our state fish, often served pan-fried. The city's Scandinavian heritage appears in dishes like lefse, especially during holidays. Our vibrant craft beer scene and the diverse eateries along Nicollet Avenue's "Eat Street" define the local food culture.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild temperatures, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm, peak tourist season
- Wintercold, potential for snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #LightLayers
- #RainJacket
- #Sunscreen
- #TravelUmbrella
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 days with side trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is the official language
- #MallOfAmerica
- #MinnehahaPark
- #WalkerArtCenter
- #MinneapolisInstituteOfArts
- #StoneArchBridge
- #LakeCalhoun
- Explore the Mill City Museum
- Stroll the Walker Sculpture Garden
- Attend a show at the Guthrie Theater
- Relax at the Chain of Lakes
- Discover local breweries on a tour
Recommended Hotels in Minneapolis by Experience
Things to do in Minneapolis
Discover
Exploring Minneapolis reveals a cityscape blending nature and art. See Minnehaha Falls, stroll the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, and discover contemporary works at the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden's Spoonbridge and Cherry.
Experience
Bike the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, catch a show at the Guthrie Theater, or browse the Mill City Farmers Market. Seasonal fun includes the Aquatennial summer festival and the winter Holidazzle, offering unique events for every visitor.
Minnehaha Regional Park
Urban park featuring a stunning 53-foot waterfall.
Stone Arch Bridge
Historic railroad bridge offering views of St. Anthony Falls.
Walker Art Center
Leading contemporary art museum with performing arts.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Urban park with the "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture.
Guthrie Theater
Famed theater with a cantilevered "Endless Bridge" lobby.
Mill City Museum
Museum in a former flour mill ruin on the riverfront.
Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
An interconnected series of parks and paths for cycling.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Minneapolis, fly into Minneapolis-Saint Paul Int'l (MSP). The train to Minneapolis, METRO's Blue Line, connects the airport to city center in ~25 min for about $2. A Minneapolis shuttle bus or taxi offers alternative ground transport.
Getting Around
Efficient public transport in Minneapolis includes the METRO light rail and a vast bus system. Purchase fares via the Metro Transit app or a Go-To Card; all-day passes provide unlimited rides. For short trips, use the Nice Ride bike-share system.
Local Essentials
Essential Minneapolis travel tips for first-timers: be mindful of winter snow emergency parking rules when driving in Minneapolis. Use the downtown skyway system to navigate between buildings indoors. Most establishments prefer credit cards over cash.
Where to Stay in Minneapolis
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
To taste authentic food Minneapolis, explore its icons: the cheese-stuffed Jucy Lucy and craft beers. The city's food scene has a strong farm-to-table ethos. You'll eat well from food trucks and fine dining rooms alike.
Enjoy
Dine at Spoon and Stable for a refined vibe-book ahead. Among the best bars in Minneapolis is Surly Brewing-check events. Or try French Meadow Bakery for a cozy, organic meal-patio seating.
Spoon and Stable
Acclaimed dishes in a stunningly renovated old stable.
Matt's Bar
The legendary, no-frills birthplace of the Jucy Lucy.
Pizzeria Lola
Wood-fired pizzas with creative, high-quality toppings.
Bar La Grassa
Bustling spot for inventive fresh pastas. Reserve ahead.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Minneapolis's heritage through events like the Aquatennial, celebrating the city's lakes since 1940. Must-see cultural festivities include the Mayday Parade with its unique puppets and the Ukrainian Festival of Minnesota.
Enjoy
Discover modern Minneapolis attractions with a thriving creative scene. Enjoy indie rock and multimedia art at numerous venues. Key things to do include Art-A-Whirl, the country's largest open studio tour.
Art-A-Whirl
Largest US open studio tour in May with over 1,000 artists.
Twin Cities Pride Festival
One of the nation's largest free LGBTQ+ Pride festivals in June.
Aquatennial
Official civic celebration of Minneapolis with July fireworks.
Stone Arch Bridge Festival
June art and music festival on the Mississippi River waterfront.
Minnesota Fringe Festival
August uncensored performing arts festival with diverse shows.
SoMi Art Fair
Juried art fair in August with live music and demonstrations.
A welcoming and green city
Minneapolis is such a clean and friendly city. The park system is fantastic, perfect for walking and biking. The views from the Stone Arch Bridge are great. So much green space right in the middle of everything. A really pleasant place to explore on foot.
Impressive Art Scene
The arts scene is really impressive. The Walker Art Center was a highlight, and the sculpture garden is iconic. It's not just big museums either; there are cool smaller galleries everywhere. A great destination for anyone into modern art and culture.
Cool neighborhoods and good food
Minneapolis has a cool neighborhood feel. Spent a lot of time in the North Loop, with its brick warehouses and unique shops. The food scene is solid; you have to try a Juicy Lucy while you're there. It's a city with a lot of character in its areas.
Winter Done Right
People here really know how to do winter! Saw lots of folks ice skating and cross-country skiing on the frozen Chain of Lakes. It was great to see a city that fully embraces the cold season with so many outdoor activities. Dress warmly and join in.
Great City for Music Lovers
The music history here is incredible. You can feel it when you walk past places like First Avenue. Caught a great show while I was in town. Lots of venues for live music, from big stages to small bars. Good selection of craft breweries to check out, too.
Stunning Nature in the City
I was so impressed by how much nature is accessible right in the city. Seeing Minnehaha Falls completely frozen over was a spectacular sight. It's amazing to have such a powerful waterfall just a short trip from downtown. A beautiful blend of city and nature.