Downtown Minneapolis is visited by 30 million people annually, and there’s nothing accidental about it. It has something to offer to all sorts of tourists. Not to mention it’s only six neighborhoods combined and very much walkable. There’s amazing architecture, different kinds of museums, performance spaces, great restaurant choices, nightclubs and bars, and sports venues.
But, if this plethora of different vibe choices makes you feel overwhelmed, we’re here to help with a list of 5 things you must do when in Downtown Minneapolis, MN.
Eat and drink
As we said, Downtown is walkable, which is amazing, especially for a short visit. But we don’t want you walking around on an empty stomach. This is why one of your first stops should be some of the places that shape Minneapolis’s thrilling dining scene. We recommend tasting a Juicy Lucy burger, a must-try for cheese fans. But if that’s not your cup of tea, other types of restaurants exist—something for every taste.
After the food, you might get thirsty, so we recommend visiting some of the Minneapolis bars Downtown. Especially if you’re a fan of the prohibition era, Peaky Blinders, and all that 1930s glamour. Some of the best cocktails in the world are served in these places. And, if you prefer beer, Minneapolis is famous for its love of craft beers. That’s why Downtown, you’ll find the brewery that started the beer crafting trend.
Learn about the past
When you’re ready to walk, it’s time to learn about the past of this beautiful city. Your first stop can be the Stone Arch Bridge. This was once a railway bridge and today is reserved only for pedestrians and cyclists. Not only you’ll see a part of Minneapolis’s past, but you’ll also make some stunning Instagram-worthy pictures.
Other stops on your road to the past could include Mill City Museum and Mill Ruins Park, Gothic style City Hall building, the Mary Tyler Moore Statue, Minneapolis Skyway System, etc. At these places, you’ll learn about the city’s beginnings as well as more recent history.
See a theater show
Downtown is home to more than one theatre. However, the one that deserves the most attention is Orpheum Theater. This place is a must for a theater lover. It’s located in a historic building, and the shows and stars that performed here are part of the nation’s cultural scene and history.
Today, this is a place where you can enjoy top Broadway musicals. And if you’re lucky, maybe there will be a great concert too while you’re in town.
Enjoy the city’s sport scene
When it comes to sports, Minneapolis might not be as big of a deal as Boston or New York, but it does have some incredible sports venues and equally amazing teams. Perhaps even more importantly, the locals have a great passion for sports. We recommend you become a part of that. It’s fairly simple to enjoy sports like a local: just choose a match to watch in a Downtown sports bar. It’ll be an unforgettable experience.
Another thing any sports fan should do in Minneapolis is pay a visit to the US Bank Stadium. This is another historical place, and you can have a guided visit that will help you form a picture of how an institution like this functions. So, consider including it in your itinerary, no matter what you think about the Vikings.
Go shopping
Lastly, we recommend you enjoy a shopping spree in Downtown Minneapolis. Some of the greatest locations for shopping are the Downtown Farmers Market and, right next to it, the Nicollet mall. Here you’ll find local and worldwide-known products and also have fun in the process.
Final thoughts
Our list of the greatest things to do in Downtown Minneapolis is created with the idea to help you enjoy the absolute best of what this city has to offer. Whether you try it all or just the things that suit your personality, we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time.
