minnesotamascotSo you’re in the Twin Cities, huh? Brace yourself for an urban paradise filled with adventure and lots of attractions to explore. With a population of over 400,000 people, Minneapolis, Minnesota, brims with culture, action, and entertainment. Whether it’s biking along the Mississippi River or taking a dip at Lake Calhoun, you’ve got no shortage of things to do here. In this blog post, discover the top 10 favorite attractions of both locals and tourists that’ll give you a taste of how fabulous Minneapolis can be!
1. Minneapolis Institute of Art
Nothing’s more fun than going on a day trip to an art museum! Located in the heart of Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must-visit for any lover of creativity. With four floors and several permanent galleries dedicated to showing off a wide range of mind-opening collections, you can spend hours here admiring all kinds of pieces from around the world and from different eras. The MIA also hosts special exhibits from time to time, so there’s always something new to see.
2. Children’s Theatre Company
Don’t know where to take the kids on during the weekend? The Children’s Theatre Company is the perfect choice for the fam. This long-established theater is well known throughout Minnesota as one of the best places to see entertaining and educational performances. The CTC regularly puts up new productions on stage, including plays, musicals, improv shows, variety shows…you name it.
3. Theodore Wirth Regional Park
What’s even better than taking in the beauty of nature? Promise. You won’t get enough of the adventure you’re going to have through Theodore Wirth Regional Park. Embark on a hike among guided trails, covered paths, thickets of trees, flowers, ponds, and wildlife. With over 60 miles worth of area to explore, there’s something here for everyone to discover and enjoy. Just remember to wear good shoes; this park has some steep hills. And don’t forget your camera because with all these beautiful sights around every corner it’d be a shame not to take pictures while you’re here!
4. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
If you’re looking for an excellent place to spend an afternoon outside, look no further than the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Located right next door to MIA, this garden will bring you into contact with some of the world’s best modern art without having to pay anything extra. The giant spoon and cherry sculpture crafted by Claes Oldenburg is one of the most famous works chucked there. You can also find several other iconic pieces around the park. Never miss a single day to appreciate such unique creations.
5. Chain of Lakes Regional Park
Seeking a breathtaking waterfront? Search no further than Chain of Lakes Regional Park, a 300-acre park with six interconnected lakes perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding area has lots to offer, too, from dining options to picnic areas and chill biking trails, so you can easily spend a whole day here hanging out or admiring the view.
6. Vertical Endeavors
If you’re always looking for new ways to have some fun and try something different, Vertical Endeavors is a great place to visit. This indoor rock climbing facility features enormous structures that reach up to almost 60 ft. and over 15 courses with varying degrees of difficulty. The gym also offers memberships if you decide this sport is one you’d like to do regularly. Climbing can be very rewarding both physically and emotionally, so it’s worth checking out at least once in your life.
7. Target Field
Sports is a great way to get in touch with your inner child and release all of that pent-up energy. And what better place than Minneapolis’ own Target Field? Home to the city’s beloved Minnesota Twins, this ballpark is a great spot for catching an exciting game or cheering on your team from any one of its seats! Whether you’re into baseball or not, it’s still a fun experience because who doesn’t love going out and having a good time at the stadium. Besides sports events, there are also concerts held here almost every month, so make sure to check their website before heading over.
8. Minnehaha Regional Park
Nestled southwest of the Twin Cities, Minnehaha Regional Park boasts 170 acres of gorgeous green space. This is the perfect place for a day trip or an afternoon get-together with friends and family. You’ll find several trails, bridges, waterfalls, fountains, and more as you explore this lush green oasis in the middle of a big city. Fishing along the shores is allowed, so if letting the line loose your thing, then by all means – bring those poles to see what bites.
9. The Escape Game
If you love mystery and the adrenaline rush from jump scares, then The Escape Game is the place to be. With multiple locations in Minneapolis, there are tons of exciting scenarios for players like you to try out and experience with their friends! They have everything from prison breaks to mysteries about ancient Egypt. The best thing? You’ll never know what’s coming next. Plus, the game’s attention to detail will surely keep your heart racing, making it a surprise for every match.
10. Bottle and Bottega Minneapolis
Visiting a pottery is always a fun experience, and Bottle & Bottega Minneapolis is no exception. You’ll love creating your very own masterpiece while appreciating the works of art in the exhibits. They have all kinds of classes that you can participate in. It’s more than just an art display, though. This place is a welcoming part of town where you can always unwind.
Explore Minneapolis
This article only touches on a few parts of Minneapolis. If you want to learn and discover more adventures, go and check out the city for yourself!