Known as the “City of Lakes,” Minneapolis, Minnesota possesses a surprisingly rich history made up of technological innovation, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Founded in 1849, the city arose at the junction of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers. The site developed rapidly as timber and flour milling industries set up shop and attracted thousands of recent immigrants to the Americas who were looking for steady work. Learn about the indigenous cultures that inhabited the land Minneapolis exists on for millennia and take in the natural wonders of the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Falls. The distinct neighborhoods, historical significance, and accessible transportation options of Minneapolis make a visit to this underrated U.S. city well-worth the effort. Contact Gray Line Worldwide for more information today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a remarkable 11-acre outdoor park that features over 40 artistic installations. Opened in 1988, this site is also one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the United States. Renowned artists from across the globe have contributed to its works, including Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen with their classic Spoonbridge and Cherry. This whimsical design does double duty as a fountain with water that juts out of the cherry’s stem. Technically an outdoor extension of the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a unique place to pass some time with loved ones.
The Walker Art Center is a prominent contemporary art museum located in Minneapolis’ Lowry Hill neighborhood. Established in 1879 by lumber baron Thomas Barlow Walker, the attraction originally started out as a private art gallery in his home. Significant expansions and renovations throughout the intervening decades resulted in the center being named a public institution in 1940. Now, more than 700,000 people visit the Walker Art Center on an annual basis, and the institution houses a diverse collection of over 13,000 art pieces. Rotating exhibitions and engaging educational programs remain popular for locals as well as visitors, and performance art programs at the museum are always a delight.
Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Mill City Museum is a captivating site built within the ruins of the historic Washburn A Mill, which was once known for its innovative flour milling techniques. A region dubbed the “Flour Milling Capital of the World,” Minneapolis saw the construction of this particular mill in 1874. After a devastating 1878 fire and complete reconstruction in 1880, the Washburn A Mill became the largest and most advanced flour mill in the world. Operational until 1965, the now converted museum space includes eight stories of displays, the ride-like Flour Tower, and hands-on wheat grinding, bread baking, and experimentation activities.
Minnehaha Falls is a stunning 53-foot waterfall nestled inside Minnehaha Regional Park. This cherished landscape situated at the junction of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway overlooks the Mississippi River and comprises lush parkland, limestone bluffs, and numerous walking trails. Diverse flora and fauna attract more than 850,000 visitors a year. The park’s highlight is undoubtedly the Minnehaha Falls themselves, particularly during spring-time melts when runoff swells the falls to dramatic and powerful cascades. Minnehaha Falls is relatively easy to get to via a short walk down stairs or sloped pathways. Pack a picnic lunch and have a relaxing afternoon enjoying the great outdoors in Minneapolis!
A military fortification established in the 1820s, Historic Fort Snelling sits at the strategic confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. This critical location cemented U.S. sovereignty in the region and deterred British forces from overtaking major trade routes. The fort also represents the complex relationships between Native American groups and descendants of Europeans who participated in the lucrative fur trade. In fact, Fort Snelling was a major point of conflict during the Dakota War of 1862. Today, guests can engage in guided tours, watch reenactments of daily life in the 19th-century, and participate in various living history programs.
A striking building located in St. Paul, the Minnesota State Capitol is the primary seat of government for the state. Constructed in 1905, the Capitol features a dome — impressively, the second-largest self-supported one of its kind in the world —with ornate architectural details in the Beaux-Arts and Renaissance Revival styles. Designed by Cass Gilbert, the existing building was inspired by the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City. The construction process required over 20 types of stone sourced from various locations, and interior artwork represents the work of prominent artists from the early 20th century. Guided tours are available most days of the week, and visitors can access the Capitol building from Wabasha Hill, a gorgeous overlook above downtown St. Paul.
A truly majestic architectural masterpiece, the Cathedral of Saint Paul is one of the largest in the United States at 306.5 feet tall. Its dome reaches 120 feet in diameter, which makes it a striking part of the cityscape. French architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray incorporated design elements from several French churches when building the American cathedral. As a result, the cathedral’s impressive dome is supported by four massive piers decorated with mosaics representing the cardinal virtues of Catholicism. Gorgeous stained glass windows tell the story of Christ’s resurrection, and the 1927 Ernest Skinner organ is worth the guided tour all on its own.
Located in downtown Minneapolis, the Nicollet Mall spans a 12-block area along the Avenue of the same name. This lively atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and public art installations is a popular place for residents and visitors to spend time. With a mix of international brands and independent boutiques, the Nicollet Mall offers plenty of souvenir-buying options. Depending on when you visit, you might be able to experience one of the many street performances or seasonal celebrations sponsored at the location (the Holidazzle Parade in winter is a particular standout). Finally, don’t miss a photo opp next to the Mary Tyler Moore statue, particularly since the groundbreaking television show was set in Minneapolis.
Opened in 1963, the Guthrie Theater is well-known for its innovative stage productions and incredible exterior architecture. Its opening show was a modern-dress version of Hamlet directed by Sir Tyrone Guthrie with the intention of creating a regional theater program focused on classic and contemporary plays. One of the establishment’s most distinctive features is the 178-foot “Endless Bridge,” a cantilevered walkway extending out from the building with magnificent views of the Mississippi River. Inside, three separate stages showcase diverse performances featuring actors from all over the world. Before visiting, make sure to check the Guthrie Theater’s upcoming schedule to book a performance!
On the St. Paul side of the Mississippi River, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a great family-friendly destination teeming with wildlife, beautiful gardens, and educational experiences for all ages. Home to over 60 species of animals, some of the most popular points of interest feature polar bears, tigers, gorillas, and penguins. Rotating exhibits showcase special themes and keep activities at the zoo fresh for returning visitors. The Leonard Wilkening Children’s Gallery is an especially great place for parents to rest while their children play in the hands-on interactive environment. The best part? The zoo offers free admission to everyone (although voluntary donations are encouraged)!
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It was a wonderful tour. Just the right amount of time and the right combination of on the bus and walking for us. Very good driver and fun, informative tour guide.
This was a wonderful overview of the two cities, with knowledgeable commentary by our guide, Donna, and outstanding driving by Steve, who ably coped with road blocks. Whoever planned the itinerary did a great job, and the visit to the Guthrie Theater was a plus. Minneapolis and S...
excellent tour. Great guide and great driver. They went over and above to make sure we enjoyed the tour