Attractions and activities for tourists visiting Minneapolis.
1. The Minneapolis Institute of Arts""This institute is free to visit and is dedicated to exposing the general public to a variety of art and increasing art appreciation. The building was opened in 1915. In 1974, a Japanese architect was commissioned to design some additions and in the 1990s the museum was renovated and improved. There are always new exhibits to check out. It is located at 2400 Third Ave. South.
2. Nicollet Mall""A kind of "main street" for Minneapolis. This street has several small shops to browse and restaurants and cafes to check out and boasts a farmer's market and music hall. You can also take a Mary Tyler Moore tour and see all the places featured in the hit TV sitcom. Nicollet Mall is the actual location of the hat-throwing in the show's opening.
3. Lake Harriet Rose Garden""Located at 4125 East Lake Harriet Pkwy., this garden is a wonderful attraction. You can walk or bike through and view the beautiful roses and parking is free. It is the second oldest public rose garden in the United States. The best time to go (when the roses are in bloom) is between mid-June and late September.
4. Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome""Home of the Twins, Vikings and University of Minnesota football teams. Catch a game in a comfortable climate-controlled environment or take a tour of the locker rooms, field and press box. The stadium is located at 900 South 5th St.
5. River Road Trail""This is a paved bike trail that runs 6 miles between Fort Snelling State Park and downtown. It goes along the bluffs and overlooks the Mississippi river and goes by the historic milling district and the Stone Arch Bridge. It's a very scenic and enjoyable activity for the whole family.
6. Minnehaha Park""One of the city's oldest parks. Have a picnic with your family or take a nice, long walk and enjoy the scenery. The park is located at the intersection of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway.
7. Mall of America""This mall is actually located in Bloomington (a suburb) but is worth the drive if you've got the time and transportation. It's a world-famous mall with a wide variety of stores (over 500) for the whole family's shopping enjoyment. They are open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The mall is located at 60 East Broadway in Bloomington.
8. Stone Arch Bridge""This bridge is very unique, made of native granite and limestone and spanning the 2,100 feet across the Mississippi River. It is quite a sight and makes for a romantic walk in the evening. It is located at West River Road and Portland Avenue.
9. Uptown""A cool, hip and funky neighborhood with many specialty shops and restaurants. Its main hub is Lake Street and Hennepin Avenue.
10. Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum""This art museum is located on the University of Minnesota campus (333 East River Road) and features contemporary art.
These are great activities, but there's always more to do in Minneapolis. Check out local ads and ask the locals for ideas. But, whatever you choose to do, you're sure to have a great time in Minneapolis.
