Your Travel Guide to Minneapolis, Minnesota
Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota in the summer. Click on my photos to pin on Pinterest!
Minneapolis, Minnesota is one of the best midwest travel destinations. This blog is all about what to do on your visit no matter the season. I’ll go over where to stay, where to eat, my go-to shops, my favorite things to do, and my recommended day trips from Minneapolis.
Minneapolis skyline at night
What to Expect When Visiting Minneapolis, Minnesota
I love Minneapolis, Minnesota and have been living in the area for over 10 years. This city feels both large and small, and I love that you can take a quick drive to find a lake and connect with nature. Minneapolis has it all from delicious food, beautiful museums, lively night life, and iconic Minnesota scenery.
Winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s always fun to have here. Minneapolis during the summer and fall is my favorite. The weather is gorgeous, and everyone is outside biking, having drinks on the patio, and enjoying the beautiful weather. Winter in Minneapolis on the other hand is another story. Although the winters can be pretty cold, we still find things to keep us entertained. Plus, Minneapolis is a true winter wonderland during the holidays. Here is everything I recommend you check out on your visit to Minneapolis, Minnesota no matter the season.
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The Hewing Hotel in the North Loop
Where to Stay
Use my list of recommendations below when deciding where to stay during your Minneapolis visit. My favorite spot is in the North Loop!
Hewing Hotel
Located in the heart of the North Loop, the Hewing Hotel is one of the hottest places to stay during your visit. You’ll be surrounded by great restaurants and fun night life that’s easily walkable. Plus, the Hewing Hotel has it’s own restaurant, Tullibee, and a rooftop lounge, pool, and sauna.
Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot
If you’d rather stay downtown, check out the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot. This hotel was originally built as a train depot, hence the name, and is so beautiful.
Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District
Another wonderful hotel located in downtown Minneapolis is the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District. Don’t miss their rooftop pool and spa, the Solus Spa, during your stay.
Where to Eat & Drink
You can find just about anything to eat in Minneapolis, plus, some great night life. Below is my list of recommendations all around Minneapolis for food and drinks.
Le Burger
Head to Le Burger for delicious, elevated burger and fries with an aesthetic atmosphere. Le Burger is so cute, but can get busy quick, so be prepared to wait if you’re going during the dinner rush.
Spoon and Stable
One of my favorite restaurants in Minneapolis is Spoon and Stable. The executive chef and owner, Gavin Kaysen, is a James Beard Award-Winning Chef. Every element and dish at Spoon and Stable is so beautiful and always delicious. I highly recommend dinner at Spoon and Stable.
Cocktails at Billy After Dark
Billy Sushi & Billy After Dark
If you’re looking for some fresh, authentic sushi, check out Billy Sushi in the North Loop. Afterwards, head to their speakeasy, Billy After Dark, for fun drinks with friends. Ask your servers how to access the speakeasy from inside or head to the back of Billy Sushi and look for the dinosaur neon sign and ring the bell. It’ll lead to a memorable night. Reservations are recommended.
Red Rabbit
Another great restaurant that I love is Red Rabbit in the North Loop. You’ll find incredible Italian dishes here. You can’t go wrong with Red Rabbit.
Creekside Supper Club & Lounge
A little slice of Wisconsin’s supper clubs, but just over the border. Creekside Supper Club is a fun restaurant to go to no matter what time of year, but it’s especially exciting during the holidays. They deck out the interior and transform it into a kitchsy Christmas wonderland. Plus, you’ll find all of the classic supper club treats, like relish plates and old fashioneds. Not to mention one of my favorite parts of this restaurant experience, the Patrick Swayze themed bathrooms. lol. You have to see it for yourself!
The Lowry
Grab happy hour on the patio at The Lowry. It’s near the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden if you’re looking to make a date out of it!
Matt’s Bar and Grill
Matt’s Bar & Grill is where the Juicy Lucy originated. Go try it for yourself at this old school bar and grill.
Freehouse Minneapolis
Freehouse
Freehouse is a classic gastropub in the North Loop. You can get a great meal here anytime of day. I love their french toast for brunch and cheese curds for happy hour.
Borough
The North Loop is the place to be for food and drinks. At Borough, you can expect upscale American dishes with great cocktails.
Parlour
Parlour is Borough’s cocktail bar downstairs. The two restaurants share a kitchen, so I recommend grabbing a Parlour burger at either location.
Berlin Jazz Club
If you want a live music experience with some amazing eats, head to Berlin Jazz Club. This is a great, intimate date night spot. I highly recommend it.
The Market at Malcom Yards
If you’re looking for a variety of international foods, check out The Market at Malcom Yards. This food hall is located in an old warehouse where you can choose from a large selection of cusines and choose your drinks from a self pour tap wall. They have something for everyone and is the perfect spot to meet up with friends.
World Street Kitchen
Try street food from around the world at World Street Kitchen. It’s super casual and vegan friendly. Their specialties are their Bangkok burritos and sandwiches.
Good Day Cafe
Get classic comfort food breakfast at Good Day Cafe. It’s right outside Minneapolis in Golden Valley.
Broders’ Pasta Bar
Broders’ Pasta Bar
Another delicious pasta restaurant is Broder’s Pasta Bar. The pasta is so fresh and you can watch your meal get made right on the spot. There are no reservations taken here. It’s first come, first serve. Come early or be prepared to wait during peak times.
The Copper Hen Cakery & Kitchen
The Copper Hen has an amazing brunch and dinner, but my favorite part is their desserts. Chocolate chip skillet cookie, crème brûlée, and mason jar cakes are just a few that will make your mouth water.
Nightingale
Nightingale serves small plates that are perfect for sharing. Order a few and try all their delicious dishes.
Aster Cafe
Aster Cafe is super cute and it’s so nice to sit out on their patio during the warmer months. The views are amazing and makes for a romantic evening.
Ice Skating at Sociable Cider Werks
Sociable Cider Werks
One of my favorite breweries in Minneapolis is Sociable Cider Werks. I’m more of a sweet tooth, so their ciders are right up my alley. In the winter, they set up an ice skating rink right outside the brewery. It’s such a cute date night!
Surly Brewing Co.
Surly Brewing Co. has a great atmosphere, fun events, craft brews, and New Haven-style pizza. It’s one of the most popular breweries in Minneapolis. Check out their upcoming events here!
Punch Bowl Social
A fun gastropub to visit with a group is Punch Bowl Social. They have a variety of menu options and so many fun games like bowling, dartsee, an arcade, and karaoke.
Britt’s Pub
Grab an English Pint at Britt’s Pub and wander up to their rooftop patio for some lawn bowling. So much fun!
Park Tavern
Park Tavern has a great patio for the warmer months and bowling for when it’s cold. It’s technically in St. Louis Park, but it’s close enough to Minneapolis to include in here!
Milkjam Creamery
Milkjam Creamery
Milkjam Creamery has a lot of unique ice cream concoctions to try, plus, they always offer vegan options. One of my favs is their jam bun, pictured above. So yummy!
Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream
Another great ice cream spot is Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream. They always have fun flavors that are sure to please everyone.
Glam Doll Donuts
Glam Doll Donuts
I love the aesthetic of Glam Doll Donuts, plus, they’re delicious. We like to grab some fun Valentine’s Day donuts in February. Year round, their donuts hit the spot.
Sonny’s Ice Cream Cafe
If you want to feel like you’re on a little European getaway, grab gelato or sorbet at Sonny’s Ice Cream Cafe. It’s such a cute date night spot.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Fun Outdoor Activities To Do Around Minneapolis
Take in all of the beauty around Minneapolis with these fun outdoor activities.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is one of the most iconic landmarks in Minneapolis. It’s open all year round, so don’t let a little snow stop you from touring this awesome outdoor sculpture museum.
Foshay Tower Museum & Observation Deck
Foshay Tower Museum & Observation Deck
Get a beautiful view of Minneapolis from the Foshay Tower. It’s a great photo spot. You can buy your tickets at the front desk of the W Minneapolis Hotel.
Theodore Wirth Regional Park
Theodore Wirth Regional Park is the largest park in Minneapolis and has some of the best mountain biking trails for all skill levels. If biking isn’t your thing, don’t worry, it’s a beautiful spot for a picnic or a nature walk.
Twin’s Game at Target Center Field
Watch a Twin’s Game at Target Center Field
Enjoy the sunshine and an afternoon of baseball at Target Center Field. Grab your Twin’s tickets here and don’t forget a hotdog!
Boom Island Park
Have a picnic at Boom Island Park and take in the city views along the Mississippi River. It’s a great spot to get away while staying close.
Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls and Minnehaha Park are so beautiful. It’s crazy to think that this serene piece of nature is in the middle of a city. Even in the winter, Minnehaha Falls is cool to see. It turns into a pretty ice formation.
Bde Maka Ska
Bde Maka Ska, formally known as Lake Calhoun, is popping during the summer. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or just relax by the water all while being steps from the city.
Lake of the Isles
Right next to Bde Maka Ska is another lovely lake and park. Make sure to check out both Bde Maka Ska and Lake of the Isles for some summer fun. They are all connected by channels, so you can even kayak or canoe between them all.
Lake Harriet
Another large lake that’s connected in the Chain of Lakes is Lake Harriet. You’ll often see sailboats in the summer. It’s very pretty! Check out Lake Harriet South Beach for a swimming spot.
Stone Arch Bridge
Stone Arch Bridge
Rent a bike or take a stroll along the historic Stone Arch Bridge across the Mississippi River. The views are amazing anytime of year.
Mill City Farmer’s Market
The Mill City Farmer’s Market is open year round. Grab some fresh produce and support local. It’s open Saturdays May-October and every first and third Saturday November-April.
Minnesota Gopher Football Game
Watch a Gopher Football Game
Watching college football is fun at any age. Go cheer on the Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus.
Fun Indoor Activities To Do Around Minneapolis
No matter the season, there is plenty of fun around Minneapolis inside. During the winter, or just when you want to stay inside, make sure to check out these fun activities.
Walker Art Center
Right near The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is the Walker Art Center. You’ll find so many cool contemporary art pieces here, plus fun events. Check out more here.
Bryant Lake Bowl and Theater
A fun group activity or date night is bowling at Bryant Lake Bowl and Theater. You can grab some grub and hang out in this cozy, vintage bowling alley.
Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theater offers a ton of great shows all throughout the year. Check out concerts, Broadway shows, and comedy here.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is such a lovely museum to explore. The exhibitions are always changing and there is something new to see and learn all the time.
Up-Down Minneapolis
Grab your friends and head to Up-Down Minneapolis bar and arcade for the evening. You’ll be transported back to the 80s with old school arcade games to keep you entertained all night.
Target Center
Watch the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx play at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The Target Center is also home to some amazing concerts, so keep an eye out to see who’s coming to town.
First Avenue & 7th St Entry
First Ave is such an iconic music venue. So many incredible artists have performed there, like Prince, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Green Day, and so many others. Go see the stars for yourself and book your ticket to an upcoming performance here.
Guthrie Theater
See a show at the Guthrie Theater or just go explore and see the incredible views from above. Check out the special events happening now.
Puttery
Have dinner, drinks, and a ton of fun at Puttery. They offer 18+ evenings on the weekend after 5pm, so it’s a great date night idea.
Top Golf
For a more intense game of golf, head to Top Golf just north of Minneapolis in Brooklyn Center. Make sure to reserve a spot in advance. It gets busy!
Vertical Endeavors
Try something new and get a good workout in rock climbing at Vertical Endeavors. You can get a day pass or sign up for a membership here.
Shopping Around Minneapolis
Minneapolis has some awesome shopping. Minnesota has no sales tax on clothing, so that’s an even better perk! Check out some of my favorites below.
Mall of America
Of course you have to visit the largest and most famous shopping center in the US. The Mall of America is quite the experience. Every store you need is all in one spot. Not only can you shop here, but you can visit an amusement park, an aquarium, have dinner, and so much more. You can definitely spend an entire day there.
Magers & Quinn Booksellers
Magers & Quinn Booksellers
In Uptown, check out Magers & Quinn Booksellers. It’s huge and fun to explore!
I Like You
I Like You is a super cute gift shop featuring a ton of local artists. Their shop is so colorful and fun. Be sure to take some photos!
France 44 Wines & Spirits
France 44 has a large selection of wines and spirits, plus a deli. Grab some goodies for date night and stop to get some $1 art prints from the Inciardi mini vending machine. I love mine!
Electric Fetus
If you love collecting records, stop in at the Electric Fetus. They have so many records to browse as well as a large gifting selection.
Disco Death Records & Coffee
Another fun record store is Disco Death Records & Coffee. Here, you can grab coffee and a snack while browsing.
Hunt and Gather
Hunt and Gather
Hunt and Gather is a cool, eclectic antique store. You can explore here for hours! It’s such a vibe.
Day Trips from Minneapolis, Minnesota
There are so many great travel destinations around Minneapolis, Minnesota. Read all about my favorite day trips from Minneapolis, Minnesota to get the full scoop!
Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul
Saint Paul
Saint Paul is Minneapolis’ sister city. That’s why it’s called the Twin Cities! There are so many fun activities and great eats over there. It’s just a short 20 minute drive away. Don’t miss the Minnesota State Fair, the Como Park Zoo Conservatory, or watching a Minnesota Wild hockey game. More to come. St. Paul gets it’s own travel guide coming soon!
Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo is fun no matter the season. In the fall, they have the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, which is super cool! The Minnesota Zoo has both indoor and outdoor exhibits with a ton of unique animals. It’s just outside Minneapolis in Apple Valley and perfect for some family fun!
Valleyfair
Get an adrenaline rush at Valleyfair just 30 minutes south of Minneapolis in Shakopee. They have all the classic amusement park rides, a waterpark, and fun events spring through fall.
Sunset on Lake Minnetonka
Lake Minnetonka
Just 30 minutes outside of Minneapolis is the beautiful Lake Minnetonka. Spend the day boating, relaxing on the water, and grabbing a bite to eat. If you don’t have a boat, you can rent a boat at Bay to Bay Boat Club. If you’d rather hang out at the beach, check out Wayzata Beach. Lake Minnetonka is large, so you can definitely spend all day exploring. Two fun restaurants to make stops at are Maynards and COV Wayzata. Lake Minnetonka is a pretty iconic spot in Minnesota.
Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth
Duluth is just over 2 hours away from Minneapolis and a great destination. Walk around Canal Park and take in the beautiful views of Lake Superior, visit the Great Lakes Aquarium, and have an adventure at Spirit Mountain, no matter the season! Around the holidays, make sure to stop and walk through the free Bentleyville light show. It’s magical!
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
I love Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The community is vibrant, there are so many great restaurants, fun entertainment, and beautiful natural areas along the Chippewa River. Some highlights of Eau Claire are Country Jam, floating the Chippewa River, pretty sunflower fields, and the amazing breweries like The Brewing Projekt. I wrote a whole blog all about Eau Claire, so check that out if you’re interested. It’s only 1.5 hours East of Minneapolis and perfect for a day trip.
Overall Thoughts on Minneapolis
Overall, Minneapolis is such a cool city with so much to do but still feels homey. I love how you can go out in the bustling city or head out to the lake in just minutes. If any Minneapolis residents have more recommendations, feel free to add them in the comments below. I’d love to keep exploring!
Camera used to document my travels: Canon EOS 5D Mark III & IV 35mm lens and iPhone
