The best things to do in Minneapolis
U.S. Bank Stadium
Looking to take in some sports while you’re in town? Head over to U.S. Bank Stadium (55415) during football season to catch the Minnesota Vikings in action. Opened in 2016, this vast indoor arena packs in over 65,000 passionate fans each game. If sport isn’t your thing, it also hosts world-class concerts and other special events throughout the year.
Mall of America
Located south of Minneapolis in neighboring Bloomington (55425), the Mall of America is the biggest in the entire US. Discover over 500 stores, packed with names including Apple, Lego and Macy’s. There’s also a theme park inside, Nickelodeon Universe, the Minnesota Aquarium and the CMX Market Cinema Experience.
Guthrie Theater
Minneapolis’ cultural home is the Guthrie Theater (55415). From Shakespeare to Greek tragedy and hit musicals, outstanding productions regularly draw the crowds into this striking building. Check out their calendar of events to see what’s on during your trip or book a guided behind-the-scenes tour to see where the magic begins.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Found nearby the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (55404), the Minneapolis Institute of Art contains around 90,000 awe-inspiring works of art. Discover their permanent collection, which showcases artwork from across six continents, spanning the past 20,000 years. There’s also a carousel of thought-provoking exhibitions from new and established artists.
The best Minneapolis restaurants
Hai Hai
Experience the flavors and scents of Southeast Asian street food in Minneapolis at Hai Hai (55418). Dine for brunch or dinner at this energetic eatery. Try a Hanoi sticky rice plate for dinner, packed with ground pork, Chinese sausage, pickled vegetables and more.
Holy Land
Minneapolitans flock to Holy Land (55418) to experience a tantalizing fusion of Arabic, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Savor everything from mouthwatering falafel and award-winning hummus on the side, to wood fire-grilled chicken shawarma.
Where to stay in Minneapolis
Loews Minneapolis
If you’re visiting for a concert at the Target Center or First Avenue, or a ball game at Target Field, Loews Minneapolis is perfect for you. It’s located in the shadow of all three and offers a luxury stay, with over 250 rooms and suites.
Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown
Situated in Central Minneapolis, the Radisson Blu is one of the city’s iconic hotels. It features 350-plus contemporary rooms and is linked to the Minneapolis Skyway pedestrian walkway system, giving you easy access to the city’s biggest attractions.
Best parks in Minneapolis
Minnehaha Falls
Hidden among the leafy walkways, tranquil gardens and historical buildings of Minnehaha Park (55411) is Minnehaha Falls. These flowing waters are part of Minnehaha Creek and begin at Lake Minnetonka and end in the Mississippi River. The Falls spectacularly plunge from a 53-foot cliff edge, offering a dramatic photo opportunity from the surrounding walking trails. The more adventurous can descend into the gorge via a staircase to see the Falls from below.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Boasting 11 acres of manicured gardens and stirring artworks at the nearby Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (55403) is the perfect way to soak up some local culture. It takes many of the acclaimed sculptures found in the arts center and displays them in a glorious outdoor setting. Underground parking facilities can be found on-site too.