When you visit Minneapolis, it’s almost like a two-for-one pass at a set of amusement parks. Come for a stay in Minneapolis, and get a vacation in St. Paul for free. The Twin Cities of Minnesota are a wealth of culture, art, and the great outdoors. In fact, things to do in Minneapolis span the gamut from eating at a 5-star restaurant to casting a line just outside the city to catch your own dinner. No matter the season, attractions in Minneapolis are sure to keep you entertained. Be fair warned: Winter calls for a well-insulated coat and plenty of other snow gear, but even in the coldest months a trip to Minneapolis is worth weathering the wind chill.
Areas & Neighborhoods
The neighborhoods in Minneapolis are brimming over with culture, theater, and a tremendous amount of charm. While “Minnesota Nice” sounds like a cliché, you will also find the folks here happy to have you in town. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, a trip to the Twin Cities will be filled to the brim with possibilities.
Downtown Minneapolis — Downtown is quite the hub, boasting the largest arenas in the city, including Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins™. For visitors who are not so sports-minded, the city center also has plenty of theaters, art, and places to eat.
Uptown — Head to Uptown Minneapolis for a bohemian vibe, where many independent shops and eateries have made a home. The neighborhood is just about one mile south of the downtown district, so you will still be in the thick of it when you visit. It’s in Uptown that you can also visit Lake Calhoun or the nightlife scene at Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street.
Dinkytown — Don’t miss a chance to hit up Dinkytown, the affectionate name for a neighborhood near the University of Minnesota. Some of the best Minneapolis activities take place here, especially in the evening. If you’re looking to grab a bite at a quirky diner or independent sandwich shop, this district will make you very happy.
Things to See in Minneapolis
Art and culture fanatics will find that Minneapolis is a playground with attractions like the Guthrie Theater and Orpheum Theatre. Of course, the Walker Arts Center and Science Museum of Minnesota are also full of interesting exhibits. If you want to see some of the best outdoors Minnesota has to offer, head to some of the local parkland in the summer months, such as Hiawatha Park, Minnehaha Park, and Theodore Wirth Park.
Things to Do & Attractions in Minneapolis
Once you’ve gotten your fill of history, art, and other cultural pursuits, consider learning more about the local cuisine and brew industry. Brewery tours of Minneapolis are another excellent way to explore the Twin Cities area. More fun things to do in Minneapolis include attending live music at the Target Center, canoeing along Lake of the Isles in the warmer months, and taking an historical Segway® tour of the city. During the winter, though the temperatures are quite cold, locals still enjoy using local trails for activities such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
