Things to Do in Minneapolis

The first notable thing to do in Minneapolis that ranks on our list is to explore the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. The museum is sheltering more than 90,000 works of art that span more than 5,000 years. Whether you're interested in ancient Egyptian artifacts or European masterpieces by artists such as Titian and Monet, this museum has what you need to get your cultural satisfaction. Thanks to the kids' scavenger hunt offered by the museum, you can also visit the museum with your kids. Along with the impressive collection of art, travelers are also complimentary of the museum's other offerings, including the museum store and Agra Culture Kitchen & Press eatery. Located south of the downtown area, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is open Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry is free in the museum, but if you want to explore special exhibits, it costs extra. 

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is the ideal place to enjoy an outdoor stroll in the city to see artwork on the streets. It is part of the Walker Art Center, but the outdoor exhibits of the place make it a beloved attraction among tourists. With its approximately 60 sculptures, some are interactive, drawing millions of travelers. Visitor favorites include Spoonbridge and Cherry – a massive spoon and cherry sculpture in the center of the park – and artist Robert Indiana's Love sculpture. The expansive outdoor things to do in Minneapolis offer plenty of space to walk around in the fresh air, and there are benches dispersed across the grounds if you'd like to sit and admire your surroundings. Don’t forget to click your Insta-worthy pictures of the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture. 

Do you know what to do in Minneapolis in a day? Then you can visit the Mill City Museum, which gives you a glimpse of the city’s rich flour milling history. Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River and housed in what was once the largest flour mill in the world, the museum recreates an authentic mill experience with equipment, railroad cars, and family-friendly hands-on exhibits demonstrating milling techniques. Don’t forget to check out the Baking Lab for live demonstrations, the Flour Tower for insight into life in the mills, and the observation deck for city views. If you're here on a Saturday, peruse the Mill City Market for local finds. The entry fees to the museum are $12 for adults, $10 for students, and $8 for children from 5 to 17. Kids of 4 or younger can enter for free. 

No trip to Minneapolis, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, will be complete without exploring the famous chain of lakes. Each of the five bodies of water that encompass the Chain of Lakes byway district has something different to offer: Lake Harriet features live music during the summer, not to mention a bird sanctuary, rose gardens, and two family-friendly beaches, while Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun) draws a more active crowd with plenty of activities to do in Minneapolis, MN such as boating, biking and jogging scenic paths. Though less famous, the Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake are great backdrops for a picnic or a stroll. If you visit during the summer, you'll find various sporting and live music events at the Chain of Lakes, particularly during July's Aquatennial festival. 

Nestled just across the river from downtown, Northeast Minneapolis is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its thriving arts community and diverse culinary scene. From cozy cafes and trendy eateries to bustling breweries and artisanal bakeries, this neighborhood is a foodie's paradise waiting to be explored. Visitors to Northeast Minneapolis can sample a variety of cuisines from around the world, with options ranging from authentic Mexican fare at local taquerias to inventive fusion dishes at upscale restaurants. The neighborhood's historic buildings and industrial charm provide a unique backdrop for dining experiences, whether enjoying a leisurely brunch on a sunny patio or savoring a multi-course meal in a converted warehouse space. In addition to its dining options, Northeast Minneapolis is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and taprooms scattered throughout the neighborhood. 

Venture into the North Loop, a trendy neighborhood known for its hip vibe and thriving culinary scene. Spending an afternoon exploring the neighborhood's chic boutiques and art galleries, then indulging in a gourmet meal at one of the area's acclaimed eateries, is one of the most popular activities in Minneapolis. Food enthusiasts will delight in the North Loop's thriving culinary scene, which boasts an array of award-winning eateries, cozy cafes, and artisanal bakeries serving everything from gourmet burgers to farm-to-table fare. Meanwhile, art lovers will appreciate the neighborhood's numerous galleries and studios, which showcase the works of local and international artists. Take the chance to sample locally sourced cuisine at Spoon and Stable, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant helmed by celebrated chef Gavin Kaysen.