Things to Do in Minneapolis

Located in Minneapolis’s Whittier neighborhood on a scenic eight-acre campus, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) is a world-class fine art museum that welcomes visitors free of charge. Housed on the former site of Morrison Park, this expansive institution is home to more than 80,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of global history, offering an unforgettable journey through human creativity and culture.

Highlights:

• 80,000+ objects spanning 5,000 years of world art history
• Extensive Asian art and African, Oceanic, and American collections
• Free general admission for all visitors
• Rotating exhibits and community-focused Minnesota Artists program
• Educational programs, guided tours, and special events

Pro Tip:

Stop by the third floor for some of the museum’s most stunning Asian sculptures—and don't forget to check the calendar for special exhibit openings and artist talks.

Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
Phone: 888-642-2787

A bold hub of creativity in the heart of Minneapolis, the Walker Art Center stands as one of the nation’s premier contemporary art institutions. Recognized as one of the “Big Five” modern art museums in the U.S., the Walker offers an immersive experience across a wide range of artistic disciplines—all housed within a striking architectural landmark.

Highlights:

• One of the nation’s leading contemporary art museums
• 17-acre campus with multidisciplinary exhibitions and events
• Home to visual arts, design, film, performance, and new media
• Adjacent to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
• Architecturally renowned building with rotating exhibits

Pro Tip:

Be sure to explore the rooftop terraces and take a stroll through the Sculpture Garden—sunset is a particularly magical time to visit both.

Walker Art Center, 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Phone: 612-375-7600

Recommended Activities for Families

Set in the historic train shed of the Mill City Museum along the scenic Chicago Mall, the Mill City Farmers Market is a vibrant gathering place for local food lovers and artisan enthusiasts. This sustainable, producer-only market features goods from regional farmers, makers, and artists—all committed to eco-friendly practices and high-quality, hand-crafted products.

Highlights:

• Held in the historic Mill City Museum train shed
• Seasonal produce, artisan goods, crafts, and clothing
• Live music, chef demos, and tastings on-site
• Open Saturdays and Sundays in summer; second Saturdays in winter
• Close to top Minneapolis riverfront attractions

Pro Tip:

Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce and stick around for the chef demos—local restaurants often make surprise appearances!

Mill City Farmers Market, 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401
Phone: 612-341-7580

Located just outside Minneapolis in Apple Valley, the Minnesota Zoo has been reimagining the zoo experience since its founding in 1978. As one of the first zoos in the country to organize animals by their living environments rather than species, it offers a modern, immersive look into the natural world across six themed areas and scenic walking trails.

Highlights:

• Innovative habitats organized by ecosystems, not species
• Popular exhibits like Russia’s Grizzly Coast and Tropics Trail
• Three scenic walking trails spanning 1–2 miles each
• Interactive marine zone at Discovery Bay
• Educational and conservation programs for all ages

Pro Tip:

Plan to arrive early and explore the walking trails before the crowds—morning is when many animals are most active and easier to spot.

Minnesota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124
Phone: 952-431-9200

Unique Attractions

A Minneapolis music institution with legendary status, the First Avenue and 7th St Entry is more than a venue—it’s a cornerstone of American music history. Known for launching local heroes and hosting global icons, this iconic club helped shape the sound of the Twin Cities and continues to be a vital part of the city’s cultural heartbeat.

Highlights:

• Iconic Minneapolis venue known for legendary performances
• Launchpad for local artists and touring ground for global stars
• Nightly concerts featuring rock, hip-hop, indie, and more
• Hosts benefit shows and community music workshops
• Located in downtown Minneapolis near major attractions

Pro Tip:

Check the calendar in advance and grab tickets early—shows often sell out fast, especially when a big-name artist makes a surprise return.

First Avenue and 7th St Entry, 701 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403
Phone: 612-332-1775

With its striking stainless steel curves and bold brickwork, the Weisman Art Museum is as much a piece of art as the treasures it holds. Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and often likened to a “crumpled aluminum can,” this modern marvel sits on the campus of the University of Minnesota, overlooking the Mississippi River.

Highlights:

• Iconic architecture by Frank Gehry overlooking the Mississippi River
• American modernist masters and contemporary exhibitions
• Extensive Native American pottery and Korean furniture collections
• University of Minnesota’s teaching museum for over 80 years
• Free admission, closed Mondays and major holidays

Pro Tip:

Visit near sunset for golden-hour views of the river—and don’t skip the upper galleries for hidden gems in the contemporary collection.

Weisman Art Museum, 333 East River Road, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455
Phone: 612-625-9494

For Theater Fans

A landmark of American theater and modern architecture, the Guthrie Theater has been a cornerstone of Minneapolis’s cultural scene since its founding in 1963. Dedicated to presenting classic works and contemporary stories from diverse cultures, the Guthrie serves as a hub for theater performance, education, and professional training.

Highlights:

• Internationally renowned theater with award-winning architecture
• Three performance spaces, including the famous thrust stage
• Home to the 78-foot “Endless Bridge” with river views
• On-site dining at Sea Change and Level Five Café
• Educational programs, tours, and behind-the-scenes experiences

Pro Tip:

Don’t miss the free public access to the Endless Bridge and upper lobbies—even without a ticket, it’s one of the best views in the city.

Guthrie Theater, 818 South 2nd Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55415
Phone: 612-225-6000

A nationally acclaimed leader in family entertainment, the Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis has been inspiring young audiences through the power of performance since 1965. Originally known as The Moppet Players, the theater was founded by John Clark Donahue and has grown into one of the most respected theaters for young people in the country.

Highlights:

• Nationally recognized theater for young audiences
• Tony Award winner for Outstanding Regional Theatre
• Family-friendly classics and new original productions
• Located next to the Minneapolis Institute of Art
• Educational outreach and school programs available

Pro Tip:

Plan to visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art before or after a show—it’s right next door and makes for a perfect arts-filled day with kids.

Children's Theatre Company, 2400 3rd Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
Phone: 612-874-0400

Spend Time Outdoors

A striking reminder of Minnesota’s industrial past, the Stone Arch Bridge spans the Mississippi River at the intersection of West River Road and Portland Avenue in downtown Minneapolis. Built in 1883 by railroad tycoon James J. Hill, this historic bridge once carried trains and trade across the city and remains a powerful symbol of the railroad era.

Highlights:

• Historic 1883 railroad bridge built by James J. Hill
• Only arched stone bridge to cross the Mississippi River
• Part of the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
• Year-round access for walking, biking, and sightseeing
• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Pro Tip:

Visit at sunset for spectacular skyline views—and don’t forget your camera. It’s also a perfect launch point for exploring the Mill City Museum and Guthrie Theater nearby.

Stone Arch Bridge, West River Road & Portland Ave, Minneapolis, MN

One of the most beloved outdoor destinations in the Twin Cities, the Chain of Lakes is a stunning collection of scenic lakes connected by over 13 miles of paved pathways. Located just southwest of downtown Minneapolis, this regional park offers endless opportunities for year-round recreation and peaceful escape.

Highlights:

• Five scenic lakes with 13+ miles of paved shoreline paths
• Canoeing, kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding in summer
• Cross-country skiing, ice surfing, and hockey in winter
• Multiple picnic areas, beaches, and rental stations
• Accessible from downtown and connected to other city parks

Pro Tip:

Start your day at Lake Harriet with coffee and end with sunset at Lake of the Isles—bring a camera, every season has its own magic here.

Chain of Lakes, Multiple locations across Minneapolis