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Minneapolis
Minnesota
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Visit Minneapolis
Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a vibrant urban oasis that seamlessly combines the natural beauty of lakes and parks with a bustling cityscape rich in arts, culture, and history. Known as one of the Twin Cities along with its neighbor, Saint Paul, Minneapolis offers a dynamic and diverse experience for all who visit. The city is particularly famous for its friendly atmosphere, innovative food scene, and impressive skyline, not to mention its cultural institutions like the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
One of the most distinctive features of Minneapolis is its love for the outdoors. The city's park system is consistently ranked as one of the best in America. The Chain of Lakes, a series of scenic lakes connected by picturesque bike and walking paths, provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as biking, walking, jogging, and even ice skating and cross-country skiing in the winter months. The iconic Stone Arch Bridge offers stunning views of St. Anthony Falls and is a favorite among photographers and sightseers alike.
For those who revel in cultural pursuits, Minneapolis will not disappoint. The city is home to a thriving theater scene, second only to New York City in terms of live theater per capita. The Guthrie Theater is a must-visit, known for its modern architecture and engaging productions. Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy as well, from the legendary First Avenue club, where Prince famously performed, to the classical performances of the Minnesota Orchestra. Additionally, Minneapolis's culinary scene is a delightful exploration of global flavors and farm-to-table experiences, with a range of options from cozy cafes to high-end dining experiences.
Whether you're an art aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or a culinary connoisseur, Minneapolis offers a welcoming and exhilarating environment that invites visitors to explore and enjoy its many treasures. With its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Minneapolis is a city that truly caters to a variety of interests and activities, making it a perfect destination for a memorable getaway.
Minneapolis Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
7°F
24°F
11
February
12°F
28°F
8
March
24°F
42°F
11
April
36°F
57°F
11
May
48°F
67°F
11
June
58°F
79°F
11
July
64°F
83°F
11
August
63°F
82°F
9
September
55°F
73°F
9
October
43°F
57°F
8
November
28°F
44°F
8
December
12°F
27°F
11
Need to Know Before You Go To Minneapolis
Nickname:
City of Lakes
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Chicago
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type B
Annual Visitors:
3.1 million
Primary Export:
Medical equipment and supplies
Busiest Travel Months:
August, July, June
Quietest Travel Months:
January, February, November
Find your Next Adventure in Minneapolis
Explore Minneapolis
Iconic Landmarks
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
This is one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the country, featuring more than 40 sculptures including the famous "Spoonbridge and Cherry" by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen.
Stone Arch Bridge
A former railroad bridge crossing the Mississippi River, the Stone Arch Bridge is a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the river and the Minneapolis skyline. It's a popular spot for walking and cycling.
Mill Ruins Park
Located on the Mississippi Riverfront, this park showcases the ruins of old flour mills and provides a glimpse into the industrial history of Minneapolis. It's a great place for history buffs and also offers beautiful views and paths for walking.
Walker Art Center
A contemporary art center that includes the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. The Walker is internationally recognized for its innovative presentations and collections of contemporary visual arts, performing arts, and film.
Guthrie Theater
An iconic theater known for its modern architecture and outstanding theatrical performances. The building itself is a work of art, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River from its Endless Bridge.
Foshay Tower
An art deco skyscraper built in 1929, the Foshay Tower was once the tallest building in Minneapolis. Now a hotel, the tower still retains its historical charm and offers a museum and observation deck with 360-degree views of the city.
Cultural Experiences
Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
One of the most celebrated art museums in the country, the Walker Art Center is known for its contemporary visual and performing arts. Right next door, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is famous for the iconic "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture and other impressive artworks set in a beautifully landscaped park.
The Guthrie Theater
A center for theater performance, production, education, and professional training in Minneapolis, The Guthrie Theater offers a mix of classic and contemporary plays. Its striking building, designed by Jean Nouvel, also features a cantilevered bridge ("Endless Bridge") with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)
This museum boasts a vast collection ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Its diverse collection includes more than 90,000 works of art representing 5,000 years of world history. Admission is free, making it accessible to all visitors.
First Avenue & 7th St Entry
Known as one of the longest-running independently owned and operated music clubs in the United States, First Avenue is a landmark of the Minneapolis music scene. It's famed for launching the careers of many artists, including Prince.
American Swedish Institute
This cultural center and museum dedicated to the celebration and understanding of Swedish and Swedish-American culture and heritage is housed in the historic Turnblad Mansion. The institute offers a variety of programs, exhibitions, and events that explore the Swedish experience in America.
Midtown Global Market
An internationally-themed public market with great food, cultural experiences, and unique gifts. Here, you can enjoy foods from around the world, shop for local crafts, and participate in cultural events that reflect the diverse communities of Minneapolis.
Outdoor Adventures
Biking the Chain of Lakes
Minneapolis is known for its extensive bike trail system, and one of the most scenic routes is around the city’s Chain of Lakes, which includes Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun, and Lake Harriet. This area offers beautiful paths for both cycling and walking, with stunning views and plenty of spots for picnicking or just relaxing by the water.
Canoeing or Kayaking on the Mississippi River
Experience the mighty Mississippi in a unique way by canoeing or kayaking through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. This activity offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, providing a unique perspective of Minneapolis from the water.
Hiking at Minnehaha Regional Park
This historic park is home to the beautiful Minnehaha Falls and offers several miles of hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and along the river. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely hike followed by a picnic near the falls.
Cross-Country Skiing at Theodore Wirth Park
In the winter months, Theodore Wirth Park becomes a haven for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. With trails catering to both beginners and advanced skiers, it’s a great place to enjoy the snowy season outdoors.
Ice Fishing on Lake Harriet
When the lakes freeze over, ice fishing becomes a popular activity. Lake Harriet, along with other city lakes, offers a quintessential Minnesota winter experience. Be sure to check ice conditions and local guidelines before heading out.
Rock Climbing at Taylors Falls
Just a short drive from Minneapolis, the St. Croix River valley near Taylors Falls presents excellent opportunities for outdoor rock climbing. The area features basalt cliffs that are suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers.
Off the Beaten Path
Artists’ Quarter in St. Paul
While technically in St. Paul, this historic area is close enough to Minneapolis to warrant a visit. It's a hub for artists with studios, galleries, and performance spaces. You can explore local art, catch live performances, or even participate in art-making workshops.
The Bakken Museum
Situated on the shores of Lake Calhoun, The Bakken Museum is dedicated to the history and nature of electricity and magnetism. It’s a quirky museum that offers interactive exhibits and is housed in a beautiful mansion surrounded by lush gardens.
Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park
For those traveling with pets, or who just enjoy the outdoors, this dog park offers a unique blend of wooded trails and open spaces along the Mississippi River. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day out, and you can also explore the nearby Minnehaha Falls.
Midtown Global Market
An internationally-themed public market with great food, cultural experiences, and unique gifts. It’s a vibrant spot where local immigrants showcase their culinary traditions and crafts. It’s less touristy than the more central markets and offers a glimpse into the local community's diversity.
The Trylon Cinema
This small, independent theater shows classic films, obscure foreign films, and cult favorites. It’s a great way to catch a movie you might not find in mainstream theaters and the intimate setting makes for a unique viewing experience.
Chain of Lakes
While the Chain of Lakes is fairly well-known, exploring them by bike or canoe can offer a more intimate experience of Minneapolis’ natural beauty. Rent a bike and take a ride around the scenic paths or rent a canoe and paddle around the lakes, enjoying the city from a different perspective.
Minneapolis Fun Facts
Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a plethora of interesting facts. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Minneapolis:
- City of Lakes
Minneapolis is famously known as the "City of Lakes" because it is surrounded by 22 lakes within the city limits. These include popular spots like Lake Calhoun (officially known as Bde Maka Ska), Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles.
- Skyway System
Minneapolis has the largest continuous skyway system in the world, connecting 80 city blocks over 11 miles. This allows people to walk between buildings without going outside, which is particularly useful during the harsh Minnesota winters.
- Birthplace of the Shopping Mall
The first modern indoor shopping mall in the United States, Southdale Center, opened in the Minneapolis suburb of Edina in 1956. This concept was revolutionary at the time and has since been replicated worldwide.
- Flour Milling Capital
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Minneapolis was known as the "flour milling capital of the world." The city's location along the Mississippi River, with the powerful Saint Anthony Falls, made it an ideal spot for water-powered mills.
- The "Minneapolis Sound"
Minneapolis is credited with giving rise to the "Minneapolis Sound," a hybrid of rock, pop, funk, and R&B that was popularized by artists like Prince, The Time, and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis in the 1980s.
- Innovative Parks System
The Minneapolis park system has been called one of the best-designed and best-maintained in America. The city’s parks are connected by parkways and bike paths, making it very accessible for outdoor activities.
- Cultural Hub
Minneapolis is home to a thriving arts scene, including the Walker Art Center, one of the five largest modern art museums in the U.S., and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, which houses over 90,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years.
- Theater Scene
The city boasts the second-most theater seats per capita in the U.S. after New York City. The Guthrie Theater is one of the most famous venues, known for its modern architecture and strong community involvement.
- Mary Tyler Moore Connection
Minneapolis was the setting for the popular 1970s television show "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." A statue of Mary Tyler Moore tossing her hat in the air can be found downtown, commemorating the iconic opening scene of the show.
- Invention of the Bundt Pan
The Bundt pan was invented in Minneapolis in the mid-20th century by H. David Dalquist at the request of members of the local Hadassah Society. It has since become a staple in kitchens across America.
Featured Picture Gallery
The Weisman Art Museum was Developed in 1934
Visit the Iconic Spoonbridge in Cherry at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Explore the Local Shops that Surround Dinkytown, the Center of Minneapolis Student Life
Catch a Minnesota Vikings Game at the US Bank Stadium
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