Two Ideal Days in Minneapolis
Minneapolis might be known for its cold winters and friendly people, but its multicultural metro area has a lot more to offer than snowplows and handshakes. It’s the birthplace of music legends like Prince and Supersonic, features numerous hiking and biking trails, and boasts a mall so large it has roller coasters inside. From world-renowned theaters and art museums to edgy breweries and music venues, the eastern half of the Twin Cities presents a vibrant multicultural experience that often surprises visitors.
If you have just a couple of days to explore the city, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Whether you’re in town for work, family, or simply to discover new sights, this hour-by-hour guide details iconic sites, historic gems, stunning vistas, and trendy hotspots in the Minneapolis area to help you unwind and maximize your visit.
Day One
2 p.m.: Check into your hotel. One of the best hotels in Minnesota, Loews Minneapolis Hotel is a luxury accommodation located near First Avenue and the Target Center, offering several mass transit options, such as the light rail. Amenities include complimentary wifi, a gym, fitness center, and spa. Family-friendly, the hotel provides free activity books for kids and even has strollers and car seats available. Pets are welcome too.
Alternatively, consider the trendy Aloft Minneapolis. This boutique hotel in the Mill District near the Guthrie offers striking views of the Mississippi River, a free nightly cocktail hour, and SPG Keyless entry for a seamless check-in experience. Like the Loews, it is also highly pet-friendly.
3 p.m.: After checking in, make your way to the Walker Art Center. The art museum features diverse galleries showcasing thousands of pieces across visual and media arts, including books, costumes, and multimedia installations.
Next, stroll through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, adjacent to the Walker Art Center. Known for its iconic installations like Spoonbridge and Cherry, the garden is free to enter and open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. Admission to the Walker Art Center typically ranges from $10 to $15 for adults.
6 p.m.: Dine at Butcher & the Boar. This renowned smokehouse and steakhouse serves up dishes crafted from local ingredients in sizable portions, perfect for sharing. Enjoy smoked meats, delicious sides, and a selection of craft beers and barrel bourbons.
8 p.m.: Catch a performance at First Avenue. This iconic live music venue is central to Minneapolis’ music scene, hosting some of the biggest names in history. Comprising two performance spaces, it caters to varying audience sizes and acts. The Mainroom is famously featured in the cult classic film Purple Rain, while the smaller 7th St Entry showcases local talent.
Day Two
9 a.m.: Start your day with brunch at Hen House Eatery. This café in downtown Minneapolis offers healthy, locally sourced breakfast options all day. From quinoa omelets to tiramisu pancakes, the menu is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
10:30 a.m.: Stroll through the Historic Mill District in Downtown East. Known for its preserved industrial flour mills along the Mississippi River, this charming area features the Mill City Museum, built upon the grounds of the former world’s largest flour mill. This museum tells the story of Minneapolis and the various industries reliant on the nearby river.
1 p.m.: Enjoy lunch at Afro Deli, known for its diverse menu inspired by African, American, and Mediterranean cuisines. This fast-casual spot prepares everything fresh and to order, with a nod to the city’s large Somali population. Don’t miss the Somali steak sandwich—a delicious fusion that’s a must-try.
3 p.m.: Walk across the Stone Arch Bridge into Downtown West. This historic bridge provides stunning views of the Mighty Mississippi and St. Anthony Falls. The pedestrian and bike path connects the east and west banks of the river, making for a scenic stroll.
5 p.m.: Early dinner options include Sanctuary, an upscale restaurant near the Guthrie Theater known for its exquisite five-course tasting menu and artfully crafted dishes. Alternatively, unwind with a more casual meal at Day Block Brewing Company, where you can enjoy craft beer and diverse thin-crust pizzas, all made from scratch.
7:30 p.m.: Before concluding your visit, experience live theater at the Guthrie Theater. This Tony award-winning venue presents a range of performances, including adaptations of classic literature and contemporary works. The annual presentation of “A Christmas Carol” brings fresh interpretations each year, making it a cherished holiday tradition.
