Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota and one of the most underrated destinations in the entire United States. It sits along the Mississippi River, surrounded by beautiful lakes, parks, and a buzzing downtown. People call it the “City of Lakes” for a reason. It is vibrant, diverse, and full of life all year round.
If you have never been, you might be surprised by just how much this city has to offer. Minneapolis has a world-class arts scene, incredible food, a legendary music history, and outdoor spaces that rival any city in the country. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, there is no shortage of things to do in Minneapolis no matter what season you visit.
From iconic landmarks and unique neighborhoods to hidden gems and lively nightlife, this guide covers the very best things to do in Minneapolis. Whether you are visiting for the first time or looking for fresh ideas, keep reading because this city is going to impress you.
Explore the Great Outdoors: Lakes, Falls, and Parks
One of the most beloved things to do in Minneapolis is simply getting outside. The city is blessed with an extraordinary park system, and every resident lives within six blocks of a city park. That is not a coincidence. Minneapolis takes its green spaces seriously, and visitors are the lucky ones who get to enjoy them.
Minnehaha Falls is the crown jewel of the outdoor scene. This stunning 53-foot waterfall sits right in the middle of the city and flows before eventually meeting the Mississippi River. It was even immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous poem “Song of Hiawatha.” In summer, the trails below the falls are lush and beautiful. In winter, the falls freeze into a dramatic wall of ice that is truly breathtaking. It is one of the most unique things to do in Minneapolis no matter the season.
The Chain of Lakes is another must-visit outdoor area. This collection of connected lakes includes Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet. Bde Maka Ska is the largest and is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing in the warmer months. In winter, the frozen lakes become popular spots for ice skating and peaceful walks through the snow. For the best things to do in Minneapolis in winter, a stroll around these lakes on a crisp snowy day is hard to beat.
Minneapolis is also one of the most bike-friendly cities in America. The Midtown Greenway is a dedicated cycling corridor that runs through the heart of the city. The Chain of Lakes bike trail and the West River Parkway are also top choices. Renting a bike and cruising through the city is one of the most enjoyable and unique things to do in Minneapolis for active travelers.
Discover World-Class Arts, Culture, and Museums
Minneapolis punches well above its weight when it comes to arts and culture. The Twin Cities are second only to New York City in live theater per capita. That tells you a lot about the creative energy that flows through this city. There are so many things to do in Minneapolis for culture lovers that you could easily fill several days.
The Guthrie Theater is a landmark for performing arts. Even if you are not attending a show, you can visit the building and head up to the “Endless Bridge,” a cantilever that juts out over the street and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and St. Anthony Falls. It is one of the more unusual and free things to do in the Minneapolis area today. For history buffs, the Mill City Museum is built directly into the ruins of a former flour mill and tells the fascinating story of how Minneapolis once became the flour milling capital of the world.
The American Swedish Institute is another hidden gem. Housed in a stunning historic mansion, it celebrates the Scandinavian heritage of Minnesota and hosts rotating exhibitions on Nordic art, design, and culture. Minneapolis is also home to the Museum of Russian Art, the Bakken Museum (dedicated to electricity and its role in medicine), and the Somali Museum of Minnesota, reflecting the city’s rich and diverse immigrant communities.
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Taste the Flavors: Food, Craft Beer, and Local Eats
Minneapolis has grown into a genuinely exciting food city. From beloved local institutions to innovative new restaurants, there are so many delicious things to do in Minneapolis for food lovers. The culinary scene here reflects the diversity of the city itself.
One dish you absolutely cannot leave without trying is the Jucy Lucy from Matt’s Bar. This is not your ordinary burger. The Jucy Lucy is a hamburger with the cheese cooked inside the patty, creating a gooey, molten center. Matt’s Bar is a classic Minneapolis dive bar, but it is famous enough that President Obama visited during a 2014 trip to the city. The place often has a line out the door. Be patient. It is worth every second of the wait. Just be careful on your first bite because that cheese is seriously hot.
The Midtown Global Market is another food destination that perfectly captures the spirit of Minneapolis. Located in the Midtown neighborhood, this vibrant market hall is filled with vendors serving food from all over the world. Think Mexican, Vietnamese, Moroccan, Scandinavian, and Middle Eastern all under one roof. It is colorful, affordable, and a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours grazing and exploring. It is easily one of the best things to do in Minneapolis for travelers who love street food and global flavors.
Experience the Music Scene and Iconic Landmarks
Minneapolis has a musical legacy that is hard to match for a city its size. It is the hometown of both Bob Dylan and Prince, two of the most celebrated musicians in American history. That alone makes it a special place for music lovers. And there are so many things to do in Minneapolis that are tied to this incredible musical heritage.
First Avenue is the legendary music venue in downtown Minneapolis where Prince filmed his movie “Purple Rain.” The building is covered in stars honoring artists who have performed there, including a gold star for Prince. Catching a live show at First Avenue is one of the most memorable things to do in Minneapolis at night. The city has a thriving live music culture, with countless venues hosting everything from indie bands to jazz acts to hip-hop shows.
Walking across it at sunset is one of the most romantic and scenic things to do in Minneapolis. While you are in the area, explore St. Anthony Main on the east bank of the river for great restaurants, the historic riverfront, and access to Water Power Park.
Minneapolis also boasts something truly unique: the largest skyway system in the world. Over 69 city blocks and 11 miles of enclosed walkways connect downtown buildings, allowing you to explore the city in comfortable, climate-controlled conditions. This is especially useful in winter and one of the most practical and unique things to do in Minneapolis in winter when temperatures plummet. You can even take a guided skyway walking tour to learn about the city’s history as you go.
Weekend Fun, Shopping, and Black Friday in Minneapolis
If you are looking for things to do in Minneapolis this weekend, the city has you covered in every direction. The Uptown neighborhood is one of the best areas for shopping, eating, and people-watching. With a mix of local boutiques, national brands, and quirky independent shops along Hennepin Avenue, it is a great spot to spend a few hours. One very useful local tip: Minnesota does not charge sales tax on clothing and shoes, which makes shopping here even more appealing.
For things to do in Minneapolis on Black Friday, the Mall of America in nearby Bloomington is the obvious answer. It is the largest shopping mall in the United States by number of stores, with over 520 shops, a full amusement park called Nickelodeon Universe, an aquarium called Sea Life, and dozens of restaurants. Black Friday at the Mall of America is a massive event with deals and entertainment throughout the day. Even outside of the holiday shopping season, it is one of the top attractions in the entire Minneapolis area and well worth a visit.
Beyond shopping, Minneapolis this weekend might also mean catching a game at Target Field to cheer on the Minnesota Twins, or heading to US Bank Stadium to watch the Minnesota Vikings. Sports are a huge part of the culture here, and attending a live game is one of the most energetic and exciting things to do in the Minneapolis area today. The stadiums themselves are impressive and packed with great food options and views of the downtown skyline.
Minneapolis at Night: The City That Comes Alive After Dark
When the sun goes down, Minneapolis keeps the energy going. There are plenty of exciting things to do in Minneapolis at night that go beyond just bar hopping. The city has a rich nightlife that spans live music, theater, comedy, rooftop bars, and waterfront dining.
The Warehouse District in downtown Minneapolis is the heartbeat of the nightlife scene. Bars, clubs, and restaurants line the streets, and the area buzzes with energy on weekend nights. The rooftop bar at the Hewing Hotel is one of the most stylish spots in the city, with views over the downtown skyline that are hard to beat. For a more laid-back evening, grab a seat at one of the many bars in Northeast Minneapolis, affectionately called “Nordeast” by locals. This neighborhood has a creative, artsy vibe and is packed with craft brewery taprooms, coffee shops, and local restaurants.
For something truly unusual to add to your list of things to do in Minneapolis at night or during the day, visit Orfield Laboratories. This unassuming building in the Seward neighborhood is certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the quietest place on earth. Its anechoic chamber absorbs 99.99% of all sound. Tours are available and include time inside the chamber, where you can hear your own heartbeat and the movement of blood through your veins. It is one of the most unique things to do in Minneapolis and a story you will be telling for years.
Why Minneapolis Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
Minneapolis is a city that surprises people. Many visitors come expecting a cold, quiet Midwestern town and leave completely blown away by how vibrant, diverse, and exciting it is. There are genuinely world-class things to do in Minneapolis across every category, whether you love art, food, music, nature, or nightlife.
The city is welcoming, walkable, and endlessly interesting. The people are friendly. The food scene is creative. The parks are stunning. And the live music and arts culture is unlike anything you would expect from a city of its size. From the frozen beauty of Minnehaha Falls in winter to the buzzing patios around Bde Maka Ska in summer, Minneapolis is a destination that rewards you every single time you visit.
If you are planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Minneapolis, the honest answer is that the hardest part will be fitting everything in. Start with the essentials: the falls, the sculpture garden, a Jucy Lucy, and a cold Grain Belt at a local bar. Then let the city take you wherever it wants to go. You will not be disappointed.
Conclusion
Minneapolis is a city that truly has something for everyone. You can walk around beautiful lakes, explore world-class museums, enjoy live music, and eat unforgettable food all in one trip. The mix of nature and city life makes it special. No matter the season, there are always exciting things to see and do.
What makes Minneapolis stand out is its energy and creativity. The people are friendly, the neighborhoods are unique, and every visit feels different. Whether you stay for a weekend or a full week, you will leave with great memories and a reason to come back.
FAQs
1. What is Minneapolis best known for?
Minneapolis is known for its lakes, music history, arts scene, and the famous Jucy Lucy burger.
2. When is the best time to visit Minneapolis?
Summer is popular for outdoor activities, but winter is beautiful and less crowded.
3. Is Minneapolis good for families?
Yes, the city offers parks, museums, sports games, and family-friendly attractions.
4. What food should I try in Minneapolis?
Try a Jucy Lucy burger, local craft beer, and food from the Midtown Global Market.
5. How many days do I need in Minneapolis?
Two to three days is perfect for highlights, but longer stays let you explore more.
