Minneapolis

Minnesota

United States

North America

Locals say there are two parts of downtown Minneapolis. Downtown West is full of skyscrapers, a mall, and a warehouse district. In Downtown East, you’ll find residential and commercial neighborhoods and the historic mill district.

Locals say there are two parts of downtown Minneapolis. Downtown West is full of skyscrapers, a mall, and a warehouse district. In Downtown East, you’ll find residential and commercial neighborhoods and the historic mill district. This is a walkable community, which means its attractions, venues, and restaurants are highly accessible for pedestrians. There is also an extensive public transportation system available here if you get tired of walking. Explore the downtown area’s vibrant mesh of innovative and classical architecture, cuisine, art, sports venues, and fabulous outdoor green spaces and you’ll understand why 30 million people visit here each year.
<h2>1. Get Lost in the Minneapolis Skyway System</h2>
A great travel destination is one that offers year-round fun. In downtown Minneapolis, you can easily access 140 eateries, tons of shopping venues, and the city’s finest hotels without exposing yourself to the frigid winter temperatures of Minnesota. The Skyway System is a series of covered bridges connecting 80 blocks in the city’s downtown area with 9.5 miles of second-level pathways. Getting lost inside the system is a rite of passage, say experienced skyway users. Download one of the available Skyway apps to find your way around.

[caption id="attachment_33378" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/482398500.jpg" alt="Minnesota bridges skyway " width="1200" height="805" /> jferrer / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Party in the Central Business District</h2>
If you’re looking for a thriving nightlife, head to the heart of downtown Minneapolis. You’ll find a variety of restaurants, live entertainment, and international productions, including Broadway plays, comedians, and concerts. Historically, this is Minneapolis’s hotbed for live music. Prince, Ray Charles, BB King, Nirvana, U2, REM, and other legendary musicians have performed on the clubs’ stages in the downtown district, with today’s most popular artists appearing regularly. If you’re looking for extraordinary nighttime panoramic views, head to the observation deck at the top of the W Hotel.

[caption id="attachment_33379" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/523130586.jpg" alt="central district music first avenue" width="1024" height="683" /> Scott Olson / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Explore the Historic Mill District</h2>
It was once nothing more than a business district, with few entertainment options. In recent years, developers and residents have transformed this historic Downtown East neighborhood into a bustling, energized locale for residents and visitors alike. Ice skate at the renovated Milwaukee Road Depot; if you’re a sports fan, schedule a tour through the ultra-modern athletic facility, the U.S. Bank Stadium. Plan a stop at the Guthrie Theater so you can step out on the famous Endless Bridge, and snap some photos for your Instagram. You’ll find stellar views of the Mississippi River, 50 feet above the nearby West River Parkway.

[caption id="attachment_33380" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/956298262.jpg" alt="historic district Mississippi views " width="1200" height="674" /> Gian Lorenzo Ferretti Photography / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Cross the Stone Arch Bridge</h2>
Extending 2100-feet across the Mississippi River, the Stone Arch Bridge is a historical and cultural symbol for the downtown area. A renovation project in 1980 helped rehabilitate it to a one-of-a-kind, pedestrian-and-bicycle-traffic-only bridge. The city celebrates its renovation with a weekend festival in June featuring live music, art, markets, and family-friendly events. The bridge is one of the top Instagrammable spots in the city. You’ll also capture superb views of St. Anthony Falls, the only natural waterfall on the upper Mississippi River.

[caption id="attachment_33381" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/157436030.jpg" alt="stone arch bridge" width="1200" height="800" /> jimkruger / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Relax at The Commons</h2>
The people of Minneapolis love their green spaces. The Commons is a 4.2-acre oasis of natural beauty, operated by the city, that welcomes visitors and locals alike. In summer months, bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy movie nights or concerts. Attend a free art festival, shop the weekly farmers market, play chess or Ping Pong, or indulge in an international variety of food truck fare nearby. The Commons is just across the street from the U.S. Bank Stadium, so many people hang out here before heading over for major events or just to experience game-day fervor.

[caption id="attachment_33382" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1071353060.jpg" alt="green spaces stadium commons" width="1200" height="649" /> Gian Lorenzo Ferretti Photography / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Take a Two-Wheeled Ride Through Downtown</h2>
Throughout Downtown Minneapolis, you’ll find several bike rental stations available so you can explore local history and get some exercise while you’re at it. For those who enjoy a bit more vroom in their ride, try out one of the pedal-assist electric bikes. Join in on scavenger hunts in the summer, follow a trail to find outdoor art installations, or enjoy a leisurely ride along the West River Parkway.

[caption id="attachment_33383" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/186610265.jpg" alt="downtown minneapolis bike rental " width="1200" height="800" /> YinYang / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Tour the Basilica of St. Mary</h2>
Explore the nation’s first basilica with a free tour through this Minneapolis landmark. A French architect designed the basilica and built it between 1907 and 1915. Italian-carved statues of the apostles and elaborate wrought-iron grills surround the sanctuary. The famous local artist, Thomas Gaytee, designed, created, and installed the stained-glass windows between 1924 and 1926. The colors cast a unique glow throughout the building. The basilica’s Mary Garden features a variety of herbs, flowers, and plants dedicated to St. Mary.

[caption id="attachment_33384" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/494243430.jpg" alt="landmark statues stained glass sanctuary" width="1200" height="801" /> AMB-MD / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Stroll The Light Walk in Nicollet</h2>
A years-long renovation led to this illuminated design in Nicollet, an area locals formerly called Nicollet Mall, a major shopping and entertainment section in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. The mile-long, two-block corridor of refurbished sidewalks sits in the middle of 240 locally grown trees. It features 1500 programmable LED lights, designated social areas, and year-round attractions. You can experience the Light Walk between Sixth and Eighth streets at Nicollet Center.

[caption id="attachment_33385" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/147657397.jpg" alt="stroll street nicollet mall" width="1200" height="900" /> nikitsin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Discover Your Brew of Choice</h2>
In 1987, the state of Minnesota passed a law allowing eating establishments to brew their beer on-site. Since then, the art of brewing beer has become a significant part of the local culture, with communities across the state creating their own recipes and opening up beer operations all over Minnesota. Discover a new favorite in one of the many brewpubs in the downtown area. Or, make plans to attend Winterfest, a January festival set up at the U.S. Bank Stadium that celebrates more than 100 of these special brews, along with food pairings, music, and awards.

[caption id="attachment_33386" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/488101157.jpg" alt="brewery culture beer" width="1200" height="800" /> Instants / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Experience the Bob Dylan Mural</h2>
Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra and his three-member team created a five-story tall, 160-foot wide mural on the side of a building in downtown Minneapolis in 2015. The kaleidoscope-styled mural features three photo-realistic images of Bob Dylan at three different points throughout his life. Since its creation, the mural has become one of the city’s most popular sites for social media posts.

[caption id="attachment_33387" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/485606256.jpg" alt="downtown minneapolis dylan mural" width="1024" height="683" /> Adam Bettcher / Getty Images[/caption]

Memorable Things You Must Do in Downtown Minneapolis

Located on the upper stretches of the Mississippi River in Minnesota, the city of Minneapolis has so much more to offer than the cold winter weather it’s famous for. Minneapolis is the largest city in the state and, as such, brims with amenities and attractions that locals and visitors can enjoy.

Located on the upper stretches of the Mississippi River in Minnesota, the city of Minneapolis has so much more to offer than the cold winter weather it’s famous for. Minneapolis is the largest city in the state and, as such, brims with amenities and attractions that locals and visitors can enjoy. Although a modern city, Minneapolis has many green spaces as well as a multitude of cultural venues. If you’re planning to visit this northern city anytime soon, be sure to keep the following best-loved Minneapolis attractions in mind.
<h2>1. Chain of Lakes Regional Park</h2>
Minnesota is famous for its many lakes, so when visiting Minneapolis, be sure to visit the Chain of Lakes Regional Park, which is located to the southwest of the city’s center. The five lakes of this park each have their distinctive charms. For instance, Lake Harriet is popular for its beaches and rose gardens, while Lake Calhoun is popular with boaters. During the warm season, the park is vibrant with crowds who come to enjoy outdoor performances and fests.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/172247249-1024x683.jpg" alt="minneapolis touring " width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">YinYang / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Minnehaha Regional Park</h2>
Minnehaha Regional Park is one of Minneapolis’s must-see attractions. The park is situated on the banks of the upper Mississippi. The highlight of the park is its famous 53-foot-tall Minnehaha Falls. When visiting, you’ll also want to witness and photograph the celebrated statues of Minnehaha and Hiawatha, the famed characters of the “Song of Hiawatha” written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Each year, as many as 800,000 people this park to enjoy its beautiful grounds or to enjoy an outdoor festival or music performance that are sometimes held there.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/475005794-1024x684.jpg" alt="tourist minneapolis" width="1024" height="684" /><span class="image-caption">AMB-MD / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Mall of America</h2>
The Mall of America attracts shoppers from all over the country. This mall is the largest in the nation. It’s filled with stores and shops, eateries, and special attractions. The mall is home to the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park, so if you’re visiting with kids, this attraction is a must. Additionally, the mall features the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium and the A.C.E.S. Flight Simulation Center. Located just over 10 miles from downtown Minneapolis, the mall is easy to find owing to its sheer size. Because it’s so large, you may want to set aside an entire day—or two—to explore it. Even then, you might not see it all!

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/909231828-1024x683.jpg" alt="minneapolis places to visit" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">mihailomilovanovic / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Minnesota Zoo</h2>
Young and old alike love to check out the inhabitants of the Minnesota Zoo. Encompassing 485 acres, the zoo features more than 4,700 animals, including American black bears, wolverines, Burmese pythons, red pandas, otters, crocodiles, and more. Its Discovery Bay exhibit with its multiple aquariums is especially popular with visitors who come to see its sand tiger sharks, sea dragons, and stingrays. This zoo is a sprawling venue, so be sure to wear good walking shoes when you visit.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/493484158-1024x683.jpg" alt="visiting minneapolis" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">SDecha / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Midtown Global Market</h2>
With more than fifty global vendors, the Midtown Global Market is a great place to find a souvenir from your visit to Minneapolis—and it’s far less commercial than the Mall of America. When shopping at the market, you’ll find vendors selling everything from Mediterranean olives to lacquered Asian trinkets. The market features both handicrafts and foodstuffs. It’s a great place to mingle and browse.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/849543622-1024x683.jpg" alt="visiting minneapolis" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">FamVeld / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. Guthrie Theater</h2>
The Guthrie Theater is one of the city’s most revered cultural attractions. Best known for its Shakespearian productions, the theatre also features other classic and contemporary plays. Established in 1963, the theater has been at the heart of the Minneapolis arts and culture scene. If you have time, there is also a backstage tour that you can take to learn more about its unique building and its history. Even if you can’t manage the tour, be sure to procure some tickets for a performance when you’re in town.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-5822 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/shutterstock_140430592.jpg" alt="local minneapolis" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Target Field</h2>
If you’re visiting Minneapolis during baseball season, consider grabbing some tickets to see the Minnesota Twins hit some home runs at Target Field. The Twins, of course, are a Major League Baseball team and Target Field is the stadium where they play their home games. The open-air ballpark promises a thrilling sporting experience—and it features all the snacks you’d expect like hot dogs, peanuts, and popcorn.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/696755374-1024x683.jpg" alt="travelling minneapolis" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Adam Bettcher / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Fort Snelling</h2>
As the oldest structure in the state, Fort Snelling receives many visitors each year—especially history buffs. A 19th-century frontier outpost, Fort Snelling is today, a living history museum. Tour guides dress in period costumes to explain what life was like in the early days of the settlement. During the warm season, the fort is the site of many special events including demonstrations of history and exciting competitions.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/136260660-1024x680.jpg" alt="visiting minneapolis" width="1024" height="680" /><span class="image-caption">jferrer / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Mill City Museum</h2>
If you’re interested in history or the city’s past, be sure to explore the Mill City Museum located on the west bank of the Mississippi River. The museum presents an authentic mill experience that includes interactive exhibits that will take you right back to the city’s early days. Tours are popular with visitors as well as many school groups. There’s even an onsite baking exhibit that offers cooking presentations.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/944890000-1024x649.jpg" alt="minneapolis touring" width="1024" height="649" /><span class="image-caption">Faina Gurevich / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. Minneapolis Institute of Art</h2>
Art lovers flock to the revered Minneapolis Institute of Art, of the city’s most respected cultural attractions. The institute boasts a collection that includes more than 83,000 works of art. The collection is quite expansive with items from ancient Egypt, masterworks from the Renaissance, and contemporary pieces too. The museum is located in downtown Minneapolis, so it’s convenient to reach even with public transportation. After perusing the museum’s exhibits, you might want to stop by its coffee shop and café to enjoy a snack.

<img class="attachment-large alignnone" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/09/512998135-1024x672.jpg" alt="cities minneapolis" width="1024" height="672" /><span class="image-caption">paulrommer / Getty Images</span>

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