Things to do in Minneapolis

Faith

From Faith's guidebook

Giant 4-level mall with hundreds of stores, plus restaurants, a theme park, cinema & aquarium. They also have luggage storage and its directly next to the airport.

Lance

From Lance's guidebook

The largest mall in the country. People fly from around the world to shop here. Over 500 stores, 50 sit-down & fast-food restaurants, and memorable tourist attractions (Nickelodeon Universe, Sea Life Aquarium, American Girl store...) + NO SALES TAX on clothing or shoes in Minnesota! You can spend the entire day here if you aren't careful.

Brian

From Brian's guidebook

Mall of America® is located in Bloomington, Minnesota—only 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, Mall of America features—520 stores, 50 restaurants and attractions galore, including Nickelodeon Universe®, the nation's largest indoor theme park, and the American Girl store. Plus, there's no sales tax on clothing or shoes!

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

Cheering on the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium is one of the city’s top sports experiences. From Lowry Hill East, it’s about a 10–15 minute drive or an easy bus ride downtown. The stadium itself is state-of-the-art, with a striking glass roof and great views from every seat. My Tip: Arrive early to explore the fan zone and grab food inside, the local craft beer and walleye options are guest favorites.

Alexandra

From Alexandra's guidebook

U.S. Bank Stadium is not just a location, but an epicenter of excitement, opportunity, and Minnesota pride. U.S. Bank Stadium's multi-purpose design allows for hosting major national and international events that create economic, fiscal, and social benefits to the region. It is home of the Vikings and hosts a variety of concerts and shows every year!

Jason

From Jason's guidebook

Distance: ~30 min walk / 8 min drive Typical Ticket Price: NFL games: ~$50–180+ Concerts & events vary Stadium tours: ~$20–30 A stunning, modern stadium known for its striking design and huge glass roof. Home of the Minnesota Vikings and a major venue for concerts and large-scale events.

Jason

From Jason's guidebook

(10–12 minutes drive) Estimated Ticket Price: $15–$60 for games; $20–$40 for tours Home of the Minnesota Twins, this open-air ballpark offers a lively atmosphere, great food stalls, and skyline views—perfect for baseball fans and summer concerts.

Wally

From Wally's guidebook

Home to the Minnesota Twins baseball team as well as major outdoor concerts

Kenna

From Kenna's guidebook

Catch a Twins game if you can. Don’t miss the Turkey To Go sandwich.

Karine

From Karine's guidebook

Timberwolves and The Lynx play here. Also, a concert venue.

John-Lukas

From John-Lukas's guidebook

Watch a Timberwolves game or go to a concert! The Target center always has something entertaining to offer!

Gurinder Bir

From Gurinder Bir's guidebook

Home of the Minnesota Timberwolves, one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA.

Lewis Listings

From Lewis Listings's guidebook

Allianz Field, located in St. Paul, is a must-visit for soccer enthusiasts and sports fans. As the home of Minnesota United FC, this state-of-the-art stadium is renowned for its sleek design and incredible match-day atmosphere. The intimate seating ensures you’re close to the action, and the energy of the crowd makes every game an unforgettable experience. Beyond soccer, the stadium is surrounded by lively neighborhoods, offering great dining and entertainment options, making it a perfect spot to explore during your visit.

Beth

From Beth's guidebook

Pro soccer (MN United Football Club) in a relatively new stadium. Recommend parking in neighborhood to the east and north of stadium. Best seats, IMHO, are the ones up high so you can watch the plays develop.

Sam

From Sam's guidebook

Come watch the Loons play in their new stadium walking distance from you!

Erika

From Erika's guidebook

Free zoo (small donation suggested) open both winter and summer. Kids love this zoo, as you can easily see most of the animals close up. The conservatory feels like a tropical paradise in the cold winters. It’s a good alternative if you want to escape winter, but can’t get to Hawaii or Florida. Try to find the sloth that lives there…you can typically find him slowly moving through the trees.

Dennis

From Dennis's guidebook

Como Park & Zoo is free/takes optional donations for entry. Great variety of local and exotic animals as well as a beautiful arboretum.

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

Minnesota’s oldest zoo houses more than 60 species, an outdoor music venue and the beautiful Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. This free community zoo (donations are encouraged) is quaint enough to stroll through, yet big enough to see many exotic animals. Make a day of it and visit the adjacent Como Town Amusement Park, an outdoor, family-friendly amusement park, pack a picnic and dine under one of the many amazing trees spread throughout the 384-acre park. You can also bring a suit and towel and head over to the Como Regional Pool. See if you’re able to ride the new zip line all the way to the finish before making your splash.

Dominic & Andrea

From Dominic & Andrea's guidebook

Prince's estate and production complex...now turned into a museum and exhibition. Visitors will see artifacts from Prince's personal archives, including iconic concert wardrobe, awards, musical instruments, artwork, motorcycles, rare music and video recordings.

Brooke

From Brooke's guidebook

Prince fans must make a stop at his home and studio, which has been distilled into a museum. Splurge and go for the VIP tickets.

Rachel

From Rachel's guidebook

Paisley Park is Prince's extraordinary estate and production complex in Chanhassen, MN. Fans have the unprecedented opportunity to experience first-hand what it was like for Prince to create, produce and perform inside this private sanctuary and remarkable production complex.

Allison

From Allison's guidebook

Get inspired. Get in free. Gallery admission is free from 5PM-9PM every Thursday night.

Karen

From Karen's guidebook

Less than a mile from the house the Walker is a can't miss for contemporary art lovers. In the summer enjoy a round of mini golf on the roof. Afterwards walk across the street for a stroll threw the sculpture garden. Where else can you see a cheery on a spoon sculpture?

Aaron

From Aaron's guidebook

Walker Art Center and Gift Shop (725 Vineland) - One of the best multidisciplinary contemporary art centers in the United States. Museum is currently open Thursday through Sunday. The gift shop doesn’t require admission and has an amazing collection of art books, gifts, and other cool things. The Walker often has an artist-designed mini golf course on the grounds June through September.

Heather

From Heather's guidebook

Minnesota’s largest art museum with a diverse collection of more than 100,000 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Free general admission every day; special exhibits may require tickets and time reservations.

Lara

From Lara's guidebook

Within walking distance from us, enjoy free admission at one of the largest art galleries in the US, with over 90,000 works of art across seven major collections: Arts of Africa & the Americas; Contemporary Art; Decorative Arts, Textiles & Sculpture; Asian Art; Paintings; Photography and New Media; and Prints and Drawings. In addition, the MIA often hosts interesting special exhibitions.

Anna

From Anna's guidebook

(MIA) - wow..huge and FREE! Ancient Egypt to Modern Art. Paid a ton of money for a similar museum in Chicago. Attention Minnesota Spring visitors! Typically on the last weekend of May, there is an Art in Bloom event. It is absolutely spectacular. And…completely FREE! Many different florists and artists, inspired by the MIA exhibition art pieces, create one of a kind flower arrangement. Highly recommend. Bring a camera.

Lance

From Lance's guidebook

The Science Museum of Minnesota is well-known for its hands-on approach to science learning and entertainment. It features the popular Experiment Gallery, an Egyptian mummy, an authentic Mississippi River towboat, a convertible-dome Omnitheater and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Paul, the 70,000-square-foot Science Museum of Minnesota is designed to spark a love of science in people of all ages. Learn how we can change the world at the Future Earth exhibit or study anatomy in the Human Body Gallery. Discover one of only four real mounted Triceratops in the Dinosaurs & Fossils Gallery, build math muscle at the Math Moves exhibit, or extract wheat germ DNA in the Cell Lab. Grab a seat and explore all the wonders of our nation’s National Parks in the state-of-the-art Omnitheater, a giant dome screen offering a variety of films every day. For some live science action, view one of the museum’s daily theater performances on topics ranging from fermentation to Charles Darwin’s bulldog. Indeed, this is a place for curious minds as it is dedicated to topics like paleontology, physical science, technology, the human body, and peoples and cultures of the Mississippi River.

Deborah

From Deborah's guidebook

The Science of Museum of Minnesota makes learning about science an entertaining and interactive experience. No matter where your interest lies, there's always something that will catch your eye. Plus, it has an awesome Omnitheater. Parents may want to consider getting a membership, as it's a great day activity for kids, and you can visit multiple times a year for a lower cost. But the Science Museum isn't just for kids. It also hosts monthly "Social Science" events that allow adults to come into the museum, socialize, listen to music, and, yes, drink beer. The museum also hosts the "Beaker and Brush" discussions that focus on the intersection of science and art.

Lisa & Allen

From Lisa & Allen's guidebook

History of the flour industry told through interactive exhibits in the rebuilt ruins of an old mill. Did you know that Minneapolis was once the biggest flour producer in the world?

Jean

From Jean's guidebook

Where Minneapolis began. Go the Museum then walk out and over the Stone Arch Bridge. If it is a Saturday, go to the Mill City Farmers Market next to the Guthrie Theater and then stop for brunch/lunch at Spoonriver restaurant!

Shelly

From Shelly's guidebook

The Mill City Museum was built within the Washburn A Mill and chronicles the flour milling industry. The Mill was built in 1880 and was the largest of its kind at that time. A devastating fire in 1991 left the structure in ruins. The present day museum has been built on the ruins and features an eight-story glass facade, giving the building a contrasting historic and modern look. Exhibits recount Minneapolis' status as a world leader in flour production from 1880 to 1930.

Neuchee

From Neuchee's guidebook

✅ Recommended for: Local history & immersive exhibits. A beautiful, modern museum exploring Minnesota’s past through interactive displays, music, and cultural stories—great for adults and older kids.

Linda

From Linda's guidebook

Just off the freeway in St. Paul, this museum is the crown jewel of the Minnesota Historical Society's many museums. It offers a panorama of Minnesota history, music, a lovely cafe, and shop. In my opinion, it is one of the best places for lively kids to visit, offering great indoor interactive exhibits, with thoughtful spaces for kids to let off energy when weather keeps them inside. I've seen groups of kids spend over half an hour deeply immersed in working on the Hormel Spam assembly line!

Karen

From Karen's guidebook

Want to know more about the great state of Minnesota? Traverse the river to St. Paul for a museum dedicated to the history of our state. They also create and host wonderful traveling exhibits.

Kathleen

From Kathleen's guidebook

Canterbury Park is a horse racing track. It hosts races early May thru Labor Day, Thursday-Sunday. Canterbury Park is 21 miles from our home.

Jayne

From Jayne's guidebook

If you have never been to a horse race, here's your chance. Open in spring, summer and fall. Fun and if you have never been to a horse track, this a is great first time horse track to visit.

Portia & Mike

From Portia & Mike's guidebook

Consider attending a race or other event at Canterbury! Check out the schedule, in addition to horses, they race beagles, ostrich, have snow mobile races & more!

Jody

From Jody's guidebook

There's an ongoing debate about which restaurant first served Minnesota's now-famous Juicy Lucy, but there's no question that the "Jucy Lucy" you get at Matt's Bar is the definitive version. The Juicy Lucy is just a simple cheeseburger with the cheese stuffed inside the patty rather than served on top, though plenty of Minneapolis restaurants try to dress it up as something its not. The OG burger you'll get here is greasy, straightforward and far better than its fancied-up imitators.

Dennis

From Dennis's guidebook

Circa-1954, cash-only beer & burger joint celebrated for its cheese-stuffed patty, the Jucy Lucy. Classic Minneapolis stop!

Erik

From Erik's guidebook

Matt's Bar and Grill is a historic Minneapolis landmark, famous for inventing the "Jucy Lucy," a burger with cheese melted inside the meat patty, which originated in 1954. Known for its dive-bar atmosphere, it's a popular spot for its signature burger, which has been featured on TV shows and in publications, and it now also offers catering and a food truck. Matt's Bar has been visited by celebrities like Barrack Obama and Mick Jagger

Judy Kramer

From Judy Kramer's guidebook

If you're looking for a more unique and local shopping experience, head to the Midtown Global Market, where nearly 50 vendors sell food and trinkets ranging from local produce to Moroccan cuisine, Mexican pastries and Asian spices.

Paulina

From Paulina's guidebook

Food halls are the latest foodie trend to hit Minnesota. Taste your way around and shop for local goods at Keg and Case Market in St. Paul or Midtown Global Market, Malcolm Yards and Eat Street Crossing in Minneapolis.

Miyoshi

From Miyoshi's guidebook

Many different types of local store shops under one roof. Local artists, ethnic clothing, foods from different cultures

Heather

From Heather's guidebook

Located in the historic Turnblad Mansion and the adjacent Nelson Cultural Center, the museum offers an interesting view of Minneapolis and Minnesota history and how it was influenced by Swedish and Nordic immigrants and culture. The mansion is particularly lovely when decorated for the Christmas season, usually from November through January. FIKA Café serves Nordic-inspired dishes with both indoor and patio dining, and the gift shop offers a wide variety of Scandinavian-curated items.

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

Minnesota has always had a large population of Scandinavians, so it’s only right to learn about the culture and eat the food, both of which you can do at the 1908 Turnblad mansion: an enormous, French Chateau-esque structure once home to Swedish immigrants. Inside its walls resides The American Swedish Institute, a museum and cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Sweden and the Swedish-American population. With a large display of art, an extensive library collection and seasonal exhibits, this Minnesota and National Register of Historic Places landmark is full of artifacts and information highlighting contemporary and historical Swedish culture. New exhibits like Amp Up! The Hagstrom Guitar Sensation and Swedes Rock! delve into Sweden’s musical history while past exhibits have had scientific and holiday themes. Stop by the museum store for unique trinkets or dine in FIKA, the onsite cafe, offering award-winning Nordic-inspired cuisine.

Megan

From Megan's guidebook

I love a visit to the American Swedish Institute. There is always a rotating exhibit along with the mansion attached to the back of the museum. It's really fun to tour and learn the history of the Swedish community in Minneapolis. The place is transformed around Christmas time and if you are in town during the Winter Solstice try and get tickets to visit. Its magical.

Erik

From Erik's guidebook

Up-Down Minneapolis is a popular 21+ arcade bar located in the Lyn-Lake neighborhood (3012 Lyndale Ave S) featuring over 70 classic 80s/90s arcade games, pinball, and skee-ball, all costing 25 cents per play. It is known for its nostalgic atmosphere, 60+ local craft beers on tap, and in-house pizza slices.

Nataly

From Nataly's guidebook

Fun bar that has 60 tap beers, pizza slices, famous for their old-school pinball & video games.

Jeff & Sarah

From Jeff & Sarah's guidebook

Up-down features more than 50 arcade games from the ‘80s and ‘90s, pinball machines, four classic skee-ball alleys, Nintendo 64 console gaming, life-size jenga and connect four. All games cost just 25 cents. The drink menu includes an extensive craft beer selection with over 60 beers on tap and even more bottles and cans, as well as house-made pizza by the slice with unique toppings.

Erik

From Erik's guidebook

Icehouse is a popular live music venue and restaurant in Minneapolis, known for its intimate, industrial-chic setting that hosts a diverse range of musical acts, from jazz and indie to hip-hop, alongside a full American cuisine menu and craft cocktails.

Lara

From Lara's guidebook

Five blocks away from our house, this New York-style bar offers specialty cocktails and delicious food, while featuring live music on an intimate stage with velvet curtains.

Peter

From Peter's guidebook

One of the hippest bars/restaurants/music venues in town. Any night of the week, you will find some excellent live music. The cocktails are top notch, and the food is undeniable. A must-visit.

Emily

From Emily's guidebook

Lake Harriet is one of the lakes on the chain of lakes - approximately 15 miles of walk and bike paths connecting Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet. Adventuring on any part of this path makes for a beautiful day outdoors. In addition, Lake Harriet has a bandshell with many concerts and events throughout the year, and a gorgeous rose garden you can walk through.

Molly

From Molly's guidebook

Lake Harriet is part of a connected chain of lakes in the heart of South/Southwest Minneapolis. There are miles of paved paths around all the lakes. Lake Harriet is a good starting point as there is a bandshell, ice cream shop, seasonal trolley, rose and japanese gardens all on or just off the lake. It's a great place to connect with locals and observe Minneapolis people "in their natural habitat."

Sam

From Sam's guidebook

1.5 miles west. The jewel of Minneapolis. A perfect three-mile walking/biking loop. In summer, catch a free concert at the Bandshell or rent a kayak.

Aaron

From Aaron's guidebook

Rent kayaks or giant paddle-swans, swim (or ice skate). Walk/bike around the lake on safe, separate designated paths. Home of the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships, a real sight to behold each January!

Cha-Jung

From Cha-Jung's guidebook

“Hard to beat Lake Nokomis in a city with several fabulous lakes, rivers, falls, and trail systems. Lake Nokomis offers swimming beaches, a naturescape garden, fishing dock, walking/running trails, great bird watching, and canoe, kayak, bike, boat, and paddle board rentals through Wheel Fun Rentals. Magical in any season.”

Dottie

From Dottie's guidebook

A lovely lake about a 15-minute walk from the Tiny House. Nokomis has a small and large beach, and a walking path and a bike path. In the summer you can rent paddle boats, canoes, and bikes. It's about 3 miles to bike or walk the paths along the lake.

Chris

From Chris's guidebook

A walk around Lake of the Isles or any of the other lakes nearby is one of the highlights of Minneapolis! A walk around Lake of the Isles takes about 45 minutes - an hour. Perfect after brunch or in the evening for sunset! Lake of the Isles is calmer and has fewer people most of the time, but if you want to see folks and be seen, visit Lake Bde Make Ska nearby!

Aaron

From Aaron's guidebook

Lake of the Isles (Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska too). Minneapolis has been hailed as having the best park system in the United States, which is a fitting distinction for a city whose founders planned it so that every resident would live within six blocks of a park. In any season, Lake of the Isles is lovely and provides a three mile biking and walking trail. Enjoy glimpses of urban wildlife, people watching, and beautiful residential architecture surrounding the lake. In the winter a great place for ice skating and cross country skiing. Lake of the Isles is the closest of the chains of lakes to the Airbnb, and is connected via channels to Cedar Lake, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet.

Kent

From Kent's guidebook

One of the Chain of Lakes in Uptown Minneapolis, Lake of the Isles is the most scenic and serene, featuring an outstanding array of turn-of-the-century architecture, 2.7 mile walking and biking paths, and numerous spots to stop, sit, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Perfect for a picnic, watching the sunset, or just hanging out with a good book.

Shannon

From Shannon's guidebook

About a 20-minute drive south from the Hathaway House are the “Chain of Lakes” which includes Bde Maka Ska, formerly Lake Calhoun. Drive down, park your car and walk around the lake and you could rent a bike there as well. You can rent paddle boats, kayaks and more in the summer. In winter people ice fish and ski on the lake.

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

While most people think of the lake as a warm-weather destination, winter enthusiasts in Minnesota have learned to make the most of its beauty year-round. In winter, Bde Maka Ska transforms into a hub for seasonal adventures — you’ll see ice fishing houses dotting the frozen surface, winter bikers cruising the snow-packed trails, and cross-country skiers gliding across the lake. It’s a unique way to experience Minneapolis outdoors, even in the coldest months.

Jeffrey

From Jeffrey's guidebook

Beautiful lake to walk around. Boats available to rent at the park.

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park has something for everyone—including the hikers who want to escape the buzz of the city but also want to end up at a cool urban eatery afterward. Starting at the Minnehaha Falls picnic area, the trail drops visitors into rolling, bucolic wonderland that includes over 10-miles of trails and handsome views of the 53-foot-tall Minnehaha waterfall. Even better, you’ll end up right where you started, at the crux of Minnehaha Falls and the adjacent Sea Salt Eatery. The crawfish po’boy is always worth the wait.

Josh

From Josh's guidebook

Incredible waterfall and a great place to do some moderate hiking. You can hike all the way down to the mighty Mississippi river! Bonus - there's a fantastic restaurant in the park (See Salt Eatery) with great food and they also serve alcoholic beverages ... all of this can be enjoyed on their large patio!

Caitlin

From Caitlin's guidebook

You have to see this 53-foot waterfall in-person! Set out for a picnic or a hike on the Minnehaha Park grounds to see the falls and Minnehaha Creek. Check the Minneapolis Parks site for the Music in the Park schedule at the bandshell. Food for sale at Sea Salt, open April through October. Pay Lots available.

Steven

From Steven's guidebook

Scenic lake 1.5 miles from King Cottage. Enjoy the playground, beaches, sand volleyball, boating, 3.1 mile walk or bike ride around the lake, beautiful view of Minneapolis skyline.

Kirsten

From Kirsten's guidebook

Closest to Uptown, a public gathering space with food, bathrooms, a sailing school, and rentals of canoe, kayak, and paddle boards. Expect a crowd on a nice day: summer is short! There are also beaches on the North end (with a playground adjacent) and South end (bigger, more popular), a volleyball court on the southwest side, and a newer children’s playground on the east side (about 3 blocks from the pavilion).

Gary

From Gary's guidebook

The walking and biking lake path where Mary Tyler Moore swung her arms in the opening credits four decades ago. Still the best, most Minneapolis thing you can possibly do, and second only to Mall of America in annual visitors. Pack your walking shoes and go around the lake. Winter, spring, summer or fall, you won't regret it. Lake Bde Maka Ska is 3 miles, Lake of the Isles 2.6. Head to Barbette after for a romantic toast.

Emily

From Emily's guidebook

Only 20 minutes away, this town has so many great stores, restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront to picnic next to. Check out the juicery, The Goodery, and one of our favorite stops : Tremblay's Candy Store. Lolo's American Kitchen has a delicious menu. The vibe at Domacin Wine Bar is worth stopping for a glass when in town. Valley Bookstore, Midtown Antiques, and River Market Community Co-op are fun visits!

Caroline

From Caroline's guidebook

Stillwater is considered the Birthplace of Minnesota and voted one of America’s Most Picturesque Towns by USA Today Travel. Located on the MN/WI border, visit this rivertown’s historic downtown district year-round for an abundance of things to do. Stay overnight to experience a thriving foodie scene with 20+ patios or rooftops, 50+ boutiques from fashion to vintage upcycled home decor, wineries, breweries, art, paddlewheel river cruises, historic trolley tours, winter events and summer festivals. You will be inspired by the beauty of the St. Croix River Valley and preserved architecture of the historic mansions and Main Street. Stillwater, Minnesota has been voted as: Best American Towns for Fall Colors, Best U.S. Towns for Antiquing, Best Twin Cities Day Trips, Best Minnesota Weekend Getaway, Most Romantic Cities, Best Small Town Food Scenes and Best Place to Take Twin Cities Out of Town Guests!

Eric And Molly

From Eric And Molly's guidebook

Looking for a day trip outside of the City? Experience the natural beauty of the St. Croix River, bluffs, and historic architecture while cruising on a boat, taking a trolley tour, or exploring on foot or by bike. Discover the 100+ independently owned shops and restaurants along historic Main Street or try any of the City’s 50 group experience ideas from candle making to golf to kayaking or spas. Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall you’ll find fun festivals, live music, and culinary classes in a photographer' s dream destination.

Sarah

From Sarah's guidebook

The North Loop, also known as the Warehouse District, is a trendy neighborhood in downtown Minneapolis known for its vibrant mix of historic architecture, stylish boutiques, craft breweries, and acclaimed restaurants. Once an industrial hub, it’s now a lively destination perfect for foodies, art lovers, and anyone looking to explore downtown. Make sure you check out these favorites: MartinPatrick3 (Unique shopping) FRGMNT Coffee - North Loop (Local Coffee Roaster) James & Mary Laurie Bookseller (Sweet bookshop) Graze Food Hall (Lots of good food options all in one) Flora Room (Bar with speakeasy vibes) Pryes Brewing Company (MN Craft Brewery) Spoon and Stable (French-inspired Menu) Billy Sushi (Sushi and Sake) Bellecour Bakery (These pastries are so good) There are so many good food options in this neighborhood, just walking around you will find many more! Cheers

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

North Loop will fill your arms and have you looking stunning from head to toe. Shinola, the iconic Detroit-based watch brand and Filson, the Seattle-based provider of bags and sportswear, are located next to each other. MartinPatrick3 sells debonair bowties, old-school cufflinks and other goods for the modern, well-dressed man, while Askov Finlayson offers superbly constructed, timeless men’s pieces, including ones under their own brand plus ones like Faribault Woolen Mill, Red Wing Shoes and Barbour. For the ladies, Grethen House sells upscale clothing and accessories by cutting edge designers, D.NOLO provides quality, fashion-forward pieces, and Statement Boutique offers affordable, stylish jewelry. If you’re in the market for home goods, you’ll want to stop at The Foundry, which sells carefully designed and collected bed, bath, kitchen and tabletop objects, among other items.

Lara

From Lara's guidebook

Also known as the Warehouse District, the North Loop is a vibrant neighborhood known for its cool start-up vibe, innovative restaurants, hip bars and gay nightspots. Converted warehouses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries contain indie fashion and design shops, and the Minneapolis Farmers Market sells produce, locally made snacks and candy. Minnesota Twins baseball fans head to Target Field on game days.

Brent

From Brent's guidebook

Northeast Minneapolis: A Hip and Historic Haven Northeast Minneapolis, or "Northeaster" as locals affectionately call it, is a vibrant neighborhood known for its artistic flair, industrial charm, and thriving food scene. A Taste of the Northeast Elevated Comfort Food: Hazel's Northeast offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious all-day menu. Craft Beer and Small Plates: The Sample Room is perfect for trying different beers and sharing tasty bites. Classic American Pub: Stanley's Northeast Bar Room is a local favorite for burgers, tacos, and weekend brunch. Mexican Flavors: Centro offers a lively atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine. Seafood Delights: The Smack Shack is a must-visit for fresh seafood and a bustling vibe. Shopping and Exploring Northeast is a treasure trove for those who love unique finds. Vintage and Handmade: Explore the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District for one-of-a-kind items. Home Goods and Decor: Restore is a popular destination for repurposed furniture and home accessories. Brewery Tours: Visit local breweries like Indeed Brewing Company or Surly Brewing Co. Green Spaces: Enjoy the outdoors at Boom Island Park or the Mississippi River Greenway. Live Music: Catch a show at the historic First Avenue or 7th Street Entry. Northeast Minneapolis offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern cool. Its diverse offerings, from delicious food to exciting nightlife, make it a must-visit destination.

Lara

From Lara's guidebook

Cool, hip, artsy neighborhood known for its breweries, historic bars, and art galleries. This blue collar neighborhood with heavy Polish and German influence is contoured by the Mississippi River, which lends it a cozy river town feel. Be sure to check out some unique local art at one of the many studios in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, which was recently chosen as the #1 Arts District in the country by USA Today. Many studios are open to the public on Saturdays. Grab some fresh and delicious fish and chips at The Anchor Fish and Chips, and then stroll down the street to take in some delicious craft beer at Dangerous Man Brewing Company.

Miguel

From Miguel's guidebook

Central Avenue is the place to go if you want every variety of restaurant from Ethiopian to Ecuadoran to Indian to Halal. Located in an area popular with artists. In addition to the restaurants, you'll find a variety of ethnic groceries for Middle Eastern, Indian and Latin American foods.

Kathryn Nordberg

From Kathryn Nordberg's guidebook

Located just southwest of downtown Minneapolis, this eclectic neighborhood caters to a younger crowd, whether they are taking a seat in a trendy restaurant before seeing an indie flick or working away in local coffee houses. And there are shops to please this entire mix of people that frequent the streets. In the center of it all is Calhoun Square, found at the intersection of Lake Street and Hennepin Avenue, where inside you’ll find retailers like CB2, H&M, Francesca’s Collections, Blush by Kay, Atmosfere, Timberland and Kitchen Window. Outside the square’s doors are nationally recognized retailers such as Apple, The North Face, Goorin Brothers Hat Shop and John Fluevog Shoes, cementing that intersection as the dominant retail center. Plenty of other shops fill the surrounding streets, though. There’s Local Motion, which sells locally designed clothing as well hand picked collections from Los Angeles, New York and Europe; Cliché, where you’ll find hip clothes and accessories; and Magers and Quinn, an independent bookstore selling hard-to-find editions as well as current titles.

Brian

From Brian's guidebook

Uptown is the center of arts and nightlife in Minneapolis. This is a South Minneapolis neighborhood that is very residential, and a mix of old and gentrified areas. But it’s definitely a walking and biking neighborhood since parking can be hard to come by. If you’re looking for a good cup of coffee, restaurant or bar you will want to check out Hennepin, Lyndale or Lake St. Nicollet Ave is also known as “Eat Street” and has a lot of great restaurants along that strip (Vietnamese, American, Malaysian, and Mexican in particular). Uptown often has festivals, so check the local listings as there’s almost always events. Given the current COVID times, there may be less than normal. Uptown borders the Kenwood and SW neighborhoods of Minneapolis, separated by the 4 main lakes that are all connected (Bde Maka Ska, Harriet, Cedar, and Lake of the Isles). They are very popular with walkers & runners. Some favorites: -Quang’s: Great bowls of pho -Hoban: Korean BBQ. Very busy, so try to get a reservation -Spyhouse Coffee -The Lowry: Bar & restaurant with a great happy hour -Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream : long lines, great ice cream -Tao Organic Cafe & Herbery -Roat Osha: Great thai restaurant -Moto-i : Japanese fusion that makes their own sake -Walk the lakes!

Miguel

From Miguel's guidebook

Especially good for a night out with lots of bar and restaurant options and little boutique, hip stores.

Jackie

From Jackie's guidebook

Just a short drive away and the place to be if you want to be where the action is. From restaurants to dancing and unbelievable rooftops - you're bound to find a spot to relax with friends and enjoy the vibrancy of Uptown!

Aaron

From Aaron's guidebook

Loring Park: Minneapolis’ central park, across the street from the Sculpture Garden. The park has a small pond, flower gardens, shuffleboard and basketball courts. Cross the Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge, Minneapolis’ most artistic bridge, to take in the engraved poetry. Free canoeing and ice skating have been made available in previous years.

Kirsten

From Kirsten's guidebook

A mini-Central Park with pond, gardens, ice rink, basketball, tennis, horseshoes, fountains, bike & walk paths, surrounded by restaurants, coffee, and linked to the Walker Sculpture Garden & Nicollet

Bryan

From Bryan's guidebook

Loring Park – A leafy, walkable downtown Minneapolis green space centered around a pond, walking/bike paths, gardens, tennis courts, a lake, and the iconic “Berger Fountain” (the dandelion-shaped fountain). It’s peaceful enough for a relaxing stroll or picnic, and also hosts major festivals and events — plus it’s just steps from arts, culture, and dining near the city core.

Karine

From Karine's guidebook

Now known as Grand Casino Arena! The Wild and Frost both play here, as well as tons of concerts!

Dennis

From Dennis's guidebook

Take in a MN Wild game or possibly even the prestigious MN state high school hockey tournament!

Brenda

From Brenda's guidebook

The Xcel Center has large sporting events and music concerts.