Activities
A Guide to the Best Experiences
Minneapolis, known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, offers a wide array of activities that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or traveling with family, the city has something to offer. This article explores the top 10 activities in Minneapolis, providing detailed information on what to do, when to visit, and how to make the most of your experience.
The Top 10 Must-Do Activities
Biking the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Overview:
The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is a 50-mile loop of trails that takes you through some of Minneapolis’ most beautiful parks and lakes. It’s perfect for cyclists of all levels.
Location: Various entry points, including Lake Harriet and Minnehaha Park
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall when the weather is ideal for biking
Contact: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board | +1 612-230-6400
History:
Developed in the early 20th century, the Grand Rounds was one of the first urban parkway systems in the U.S., designed to connect the city’s natural and cultural landmarks.
Unique Features:
Cyclists can enjoy stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline, serene lakes, and lush greenery. The trail passes by key attractions like Minnehaha Falls and the Chain of Lakes.
Amenities:
Restrooms and water fountains are available at various parks along the route. There are also bike rental shops near Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska).
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
The trail is family-friendly with plenty of rest stops and picnic areas. For adventure seekers, there are challenging sections with varying terrains.
Parking:
Available at various parks along the route, including Lake Harriet and Minnehaha Park.
Dining:
Stop by Sea Salt Eatery at Minnehaha Park for seafood or grab a bite at Bread & Pickle near Lake Harriet.
Costs and Booking Information:
The trail is free to use. No booking is required, but bike rentals range from $15 to $30 per hour.
Tips:
Start early to avoid crowds and bring sunscreen, a map, and plenty of water. Helmets are recommended for safety.
Kayaking on the Mississippi River
Overview:
Explore the mighty Mississippi River by kayak, offering a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and natural surroundings.
Location: Launch from Boom Island Park, 724 Sibley St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Best Time to Visit: Summer months when the water levels are ideal
Contact: Paddle Share | +1 612-223-5647
History:
The Mississippi River has been central to Minneapolis’ history, serving as a transportation route and a source of power for the city’s early industries.
Unique Features:
Paddling along the river, you’ll pass under the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, see the historic mills, and get up close to St. Anthony Falls.
Amenities:
Kayak rentals, life jackets, and paddles are available at the launch site. Restrooms and parking are also available.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Suitable for beginners and families with older children. Adventure seekers can take longer routes or participate in guided tours.
Parking:
Available at Boom Island Park.
Dining:
Post-paddle, head to Aster Café for a riverside meal.
Costs and Booking Information:
Kayak rentals are $30 for two hours. Advanced booking is recommended during peak season.
Tips:
Wear water-resistant clothing, bring a hat, and apply sunscreen. Always wear a life jacket, and check weather conditions before heading out.
Overview:
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is an 11-acre park featuring over 40 sculptures, including the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry.”
Location: 726 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall when the garden is in full bloom
Contact: Walker Art Center | +1 612-375-7600
History:
Opened in 1988, the Sculpture Garden is one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the country and a symbol of Minneapolis’ commitment to public art.
Unique Features:
The garden features works by renowned artists, interactive sculptures, and stunning views of the downtown skyline.
Amenities:
Restrooms are available at the Walker Art Center, which is adjacent to the garden. There’s also a gift shop and café.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Great for families with plenty of space for kids to explore. Art lovers and photographers will find it especially rewarding.
Parking:
Paid parking is available at the Walker Art Center.
Dining:
Esker Grove, located within the Walker Art Center, offers a farm-to-table dining experience.
Costs and Booking Information:
The garden is free to visit. No booking is required.
Tips:
Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience. Don’t forget your camera!
Overview:
Minnehaha Regional Park is one of the most visited parks in Minneapolis, known for its 53-foot waterfall, trails, and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Location: 4801 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer when the falls are at their most impressive
Contact: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board | +1 612-230-6400
History:
Established in 1889, the park has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, featuring in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous poem, “The Song of Hiawatha.”
Unique Features:
The park’s main attraction is Minnehaha Falls, but it also offers extensive hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, and historical sites like the John H. Stevens House.
Amenities:
Restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds are available throughout the park. There’s also a dog park and bike rentals.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Perfect for families with plenty of space for picnics and play. Adventure seekers can explore the trails that lead down to the river.
Parking:
Paid parking is available near the falls.
Dining:
Sea Salt Eatery, located within the park, is famous for its seafood dishes.
Costs and Booking Information:
The park is free to enter. No booking is required.
Tips:
Wear sturdy shoes for the trails, and bring a camera to capture the falls.
Overview:
The Mill City Museum offers a fascinating look into Minneapolis’ history as the flour milling capital of the world.
Location: 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer offers additional outdoor activities
Contact: +1 612-341-7555
History:
Built within the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, once the largest flour mill in the world, the museum tells the story of the city’s industrial past.
Unique Features:
The museum features interactive exhibits, the Flour Tower elevator show, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River from the rooftop observation deck.
Amenities:
The museum includes restrooms, a gift shop, and a café. Guided tours are available.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Great for families with interactive exhibits that engage kids. History enthusiasts will appreciate the in-depth storytelling.
Parking:
Metered parking and nearby ramps are available.
Dining:
Grab a bite at D’Amico & Sons Café located in the museum.
Costs and Booking Information:
Admission is $12 for adults, $6 for children. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.
Tips:
Allow at least two hours to fully explore the museum. The Flour Tower show is a must-see.
Overview:
The Stone Arch Bridge is a former railroad bridge that offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown Minneapolis.
Location: 100 Portland Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for the best lighting
Contact: +1 612-230-6400
History:
Built in 1883 by railroad tycoon James J. Hill, the bridge is now a pedestrian and bike path, connecting downtown Minneapolis to the historic Mill District.
Unique Features:
The bridge’s 23 arches and limestone construction make it a unique architectural marvel. It’s a popular spot for photography and leisurely strolls.
Amenities:
Restrooms are available at Mill Ruins Park nearby. The bridge is wheelchair accessible.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Family-friendly with easy access. Adventure seekers can combine the walk with a bike ride along the adjacent trails.
Parking:
Metered parking is available near Mill Ruins Park.
Dining:
Visit Aster Café, nearby, for a meal with a view of the river.
Costs and Booking Information:
Free to access. No booking required.
Tips:
Bring a camera for panoramic shots of the city and river. The bridge can get crowded on weekends, so visit during weekdays if possible.
Enjoying a Show at the Guthrie Theater
Overview:
The Guthrie Theater is a world-renowned performing arts venue known for its innovative productions and stunning architecture.
Location: 818 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Best Time to Visit: Evening for performances
Contact: +1 612-377-2224
History:
Founded in 1963 by Sir Tyrone Guthrie, the theater has become a cultural landmark in Minneapolis, offering a mix of classic and contemporary plays.
Unique Features:
The theater’s architecture, designed by Jean Nouvel, includes the Endless Bridge, a cantilevered bridge offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River.
Amenities:
The Guthrie offers three stages, a restaurant (Sea Change), and a gift shop. Guided backstage tours are available.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Families with older children will enjoy the high-quality productions. The theater is a must-visit for art lovers and adventure seekers interested in architecture.
Parking:
Paid parking is available in the adjacent ramp.
Dining/Shopping:
Sea Change restaurant offers pre-show dining options with a focus on sustainable seafood.
Costs and Booking:
Ticket prices vary by performance. Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular shows.
Tips:
Arrive early to explore the theater’s unique architecture and take in the views from the Endless Bridge. Check the schedule for special events and performances.
Canoeing on the Chain of Lakes
Overview:
The Chain of Lakes is a series of interconnected lakes in Minneapolis, offering opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Location: Various access points, including Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska) and Lake Harriet
Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities
Contact: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board | +1 612-230-6400
History:
The Chain of Lakes has been a popular recreational area since the early 1900s, known for its beautiful surroundings and outdoor activities.
Unique Features:
Paddlers can explore the calm waters of the lakes, enjoy the views of the Minneapolis skyline, and observe local wildlife.
Amenities:
Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska). Restrooms and picnic areas are also available.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Families can enjoy a leisurely paddle, while adventure seekers might opt for a more extensive exploration of the lakes.
Parking:
Paid parking is available near the lake access points.
Dining/Shopping:
After a day on the water, visit nearby restaurants like Bread & Pickle at Lake Harriet.
Costs and Booking:
Canoe rentals typically cost around $15 per hour. Rentals can be booked on-site.
Tips:
Bring a change of clothes and sunscreen. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to avoid crowds on the water.
Overview:
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is an 11-acre park that showcases more than 40 works of contemporary sculpture, including the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry.”
Location: 725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light
Contact: +1 612-375-7600
History:
Opened in 1988, the Sculpture Garden is one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the country and a collaboration between the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.
Unique Features:
The garden’s centerpiece is Claes Oldenburg’s “Spoonbridge and Cherry,” a whimsical and beloved symbol of Minneapolis.
Amenities:
The garden features walking paths, benches, and restrooms. It is adjacent to the Walker Art Center, which has a café and gift shop.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
The garden is a family-friendly destination with plenty of space to explore. Art enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate the diverse sculptures and picturesque setting.
Parking:
Paid parking is available at the Walker Art Center.
Dining/Shopping:
The Walker Art Center’s café offers light meals and coffee, and the gift shop features art-inspired items.
Costs and Booking:
Free to access. No booking required.
Tips:
Bring a camera for creative photos with the sculptures. Combine your visit with a trip to the Walker Art Center for a full day of art exploration.
Overview:
Target Field is the home of the Minnesota Twins, offering one of the best baseball experiences in Major League Baseball with stunning views of downtown Minneapolis.
Location: 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Best Time to Visit: Summer during baseball season
Contact: +1 800-338-9467
History:
Opened in 2010, Target Field has quickly become one of the most acclaimed ballparks in the MLB, known for its fan-friendly atmosphere and sustainable design.
Unique Features:
The ballpark offers panoramic views of the city skyline, local food vendors, and a variety of seating options, from the bleachers to luxury suites.
Amenities:
The stadium features a variety of concessions, a team store, and family-friendly areas like the Target Field Station.
Good for Families/Adventure Seekers:
Baseball games are a great family outing, with activities for kids and plenty of seating options. Adventure seekers can explore the stadium’s rooftop decks and unique viewing spots.
Parking:
Several parking ramps are available near the stadium, with easy access to the light rail.
Dining/Shopping:
Target Field is known for its local food options, including Kramarczuk’s sausages and Red Cow burgers. The team store offers Twins merchandise.
Costs and Booking:
Ticket prices vary by game and seating. Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular matchups.
Tips:
Arrive early to explore the stadium and grab a bite before the game. Check the schedule for special promotions, like fireworks nights and kids’ days.
