9 Tourist Spots in Minneapolis | A Cultural Town Where Nature and Science Blend Together

Minneapolis is a city in the state of Minnesota, United States. It is not only a highly developed city, but also a beautiful one where the artificial aspects are well-equipped, blending seamlessly with nature, such as lakes and forests. Additionally, there is a strong interest in the cultural aspects, like the arts, which can be seen throughout the city.

1. Minnehaha Falls

The Minnehaha Creek, which flows into the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, meets at Minnehaha Regional Park, a popular spot easily accessible from the city. This park is a gathering place for both locals and tourists.

Spanning over 190 acres, the park features four picnic areas, picnic shelters with kitchens and restrooms, and a large dog park. It is a lively spot year-round, with people enjoying outdoor sports like cycling and volleyball, as well as picnicking with family. Tourists can also visit the John H. Stevens House Museum or the historic Princess Depot in the park.

The highlight of this park is the tourist spot Minnehaha Falls. This stunning waterfall, about 16 meters high, plunges down beautiful rocky terrain, and up close, it’s quite impressive. In spring and summer, it’s even more beautiful with fresh greenery, and in winter, if the conditions are right, visitors can enter behind the falls to witness a mystical blue world.

2. Walker Art Center

The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is a famous landmark known for its modern architecture and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden located on its north side.
The spacious and lush garden enriches the daily lives of Minneapolis residents. It’s a perfect place for a little exercise or to enjoy nature. The creative 3D objects in the garden evoke a sense of playfulness.

The Walker Art Center is a facility dedicated to modern art, featuring collections of paintings, sculptures, and photographs by European and American artists. With various styles on display, there’s sure to be something that appeals to everyone. Inside the center, there are dining options and a gift shop where you can find art-inspired tableware and small items, so be sure not to miss it.

3. Weisman Art Museum

The Weisman Art Museum, located at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, is a globally famous landmark, designed by architect Frank Gehry. Its uniquely designed exterior is striking and hard to miss.

The museum's permanent collection consists of over 25,000 pieces. It features American art from the early 20th century, black-and-white patterned Mimble pieces, and an extensive collection of traditional Korean furniture. It's especially recommended for tourists interested in ceramics, with a rich collection spanning from ancient to modern times.

The University of Minnesota also offers an excellent public art program, and you can find sculptures both around the university campus and throughout the building. Be sure to take the time to explore and enjoy the work.

4. Minneapolis Institute of Art

While the Walker Art Center is a spot for modern art, the Minneapolis Institute of Art boasts a wide collection spanning from ancient to contemporary art. It covers various media, including decorative arts, textiles, and architecture, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

The collection's cultural diversity is impressive, with art from Europe, the Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia, China, Korea, and Japan. The museum is especially known for its extensive collection of Asian art. Visitors can see Buddhist sculptures, samurai armor, and folding screens. It's incredible to think that a woodblock print of Mount Fuji by Katsushika Hokusai is housed in Minneapolis. Enjoy your art tour.

5. Mill City Museum

The popular Mill City Museum in Minneapolis is housed in a unique building with a double structure. The outer part is a historic flour mill building. After the building was destroyed in a fire in 1991, the new structure was incorporated into the remaining ruins. The eight-story glass tower is a trademark, reminding visitors of the era when Minneapolis was a global leader in wheat production.

Visitors can explore the exhibition areas, watch shows or films about milling, or go to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Minneapolis and the Mississippi River. At night, the interior of the building, with the old mill illuminated, creates a charming and beautiful atmosphere.

Inside the building, there is a café and gift shop, making it an ideal spot to buy Minneapolis souvenirs. Be sure to stop by when visiting Mill City.

6. American Swedish Institute

The American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis is located in the historic Turnblad Mansion, a building that looks like an old castle. It feels like stepping into a different era. Many tourists take photos in front of this stunning mansion as a souvenir of their visit.

The Turnblad Mansion was the private residence of Swan Turnblad, the owner and publisher of the largest Swedish-language newspaper in the United States. He was inspired by the chateau style he saw in France during a family trip to Europe and spent about five years completing this grand mansion, which was later donated to the institute in 1929.

The interior, like the exterior, is richly decorated with beautiful wood carvings, including fireplaces, stair railings, and balconies. The mansion houses over 7,000 pieces of Swedish art and cultural collections. When in Minneapolis, be sure to explore this beautiful mansion.

7. Minneapolis Skyway System

Minneapolis has its own version of this system called the "Minneapolis Skyway System." In a city where winter temperatures often drop below zero, this network of enclosed walkways connects many of the city's buildings. This unique system has attracted the attention of tourists.

The Skyway system links not only office buildings, government offices, and banks within 69 blocks, but also hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment districts that are frequented by tourists. Built in the 1960s by real estate developers, the system expanded to meet local demand. If you visit Minneapolis, take the time to explore while shopping or dining along the Skyway.

8. Cathedral of Saint Mary

The Cathedral of Saint Mary is a popular tourist spot located on the west side of Minneapolis, near Rolling Park.

The church’s beauty is the secret to its popularity. Designed by French architect Emmanuel Masqueray, the building was constructed using the finest marble and crafted by skilled sculptors. The altar was handmade in an Italian studio.

The intricate carvings on the exterior are impressive, and inside, the beautiful stone statues of saints and the vibrant stained glass are truly breathtaking. Spend a moment in this stunning and sacred church as part of your Minneapolis sightseeing experience.

9. Grand Rounds Scenic Byway

The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is perfect for tourists who want to explore Minneapolis by bike.

This approximately 80km byway is a shared path for both pedestrians and cyclists. Connecting parks, it was designed for the convenience of both Minneapolis residents and visitors. The route passes through lakes, forests, beautiful riverbanks, as well as gardens, playgrounds, golf courses, and picnic areas. Tourists can rent bikes at a mountain bike rental shop to find a comfortable ride.

The byway starts from downtown Minneapolis, runs along the Mississippi River, and passes through Minnehaha Park, Lake Nokomis, Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun, and Cedar Lake, collectively known as the "Minneapolis Lakes Chain." After passing through golf courses, you can ride along the beautiful Victory Memorial Drive with lush green lawns on both sides, then return to the Mississippi River and end back downtown.

◎ Summary

Minneapolis is a beautifully maintained and clean city. In addition to the sightseeing spots introduced here, places like the beautiful buildings and gardens of Lakewood Cemetery and the historic architecture of Minneapolis City Hall are also highly rated.

Additionally, the nearby city of Saint Paul, known as the "Twin City" of Minneapolis, offers many attractions, including the Minnesota Zoo, the Minnesota Science Museum, and the Minnesota Children's Museum. Be sure to visit both Minneapolis and Saint Paul for a full sightseeing experience.

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9 Tourist Spots in Minneapolis | A Cultural Town Where Nature and Science Blend Together