The city of Minneapolis has loads of intriguing and exhilarating things to do. Unfortunately, some of these activities can cost its citizens a pretty penny. Fortunately, the city has a hefty offering of free activities as well. Sometimes it’s overwhelming to find something to do, but that’s where we come in. To experience the best that Minneapolis has to offer without spending a single cent, you absolutely must make a visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, also known as Mia.
The best things in life are free. Mia opened its doors to the public in 1915 and over a hundred years later, it remains a Minneapolis focal point for truly inspiring art dating from an ancient world to today. There are over 89,000 permanent objects within the museum, and Mia is kind enough to post thoughtful questions near many pieces, so you can enjoy your art and grow from it too. Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405.
This sculpture located on the lawn of Mia, represents Eros - the Greek god of attraction. You may be more familiar with his Roman counterpart, Cupid. The sculpture is your first taste of what this museum has to offer, and let's remind you that you can see all of this for free.
Every year in April, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts hosts an event called "Art In Bloom" wherein florists curate bouquets to complement pieces of art within the museum. The event happens over the course of one weekend, and is a necessary free activity for any Minneapolitan.
When you think of Georgia O'Keefe, images of stunning floral paintings may come to mind. O'Keefe was much more versatile than you may have assumed, and painted a variety of landscapes, many inspired by her time spent in the southwest United States. This piece was completed in 1956 and is called "Pedernal."
How many other places in the world can you view an original painting by Vincent Van Gogh and not have to pay a single cent? Our guess is not many. This piece is entitled "Olive Trees," and was completed in 1889, one year before Van Gogh's death. The colors of the painting are so vibrant and you can see the impact of every single brush stroke. Minneapolis is so lucky to have this piece.
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is mindful to feature work from people from all over the world with differing narratives. The museum's flow is cohesive and impressive and it's hard to believe that we have access to all of this incredible artwork for free. This piece is called "Las vendadoras de flores" and was created by Alfredo Ramos Martinez in the 1930s.
This is wholeheartedly our favorite piece in the entire museum. If you've been looking for a free activity, just viewing this magnificent sculpture is like hitting the jackpot. The sculpture is entitled "The Veiled Lady." Roffealo Monti's exquisite sculpture shows great artistry. It appears as if the woman has a real transparent cloth over her face, rather than it all being chiseled ever so delicately. You must see this piece within your lifetime.
This piece of a Japanese Shinto god was created somewhere between the 12th and 13th Centuries. It isn't anywhere near some of the oldest pieces in the museum, but it is so inspiring to see how art from every part of the world stays with us over time.
If you have been looking for awe-inspiring free activities in Minneapolis, know that the Minneapolis Institute of Art is definitively the best place to visit. Have you been to Mia? Tell us about your experience and your favorite pieces! We would love to know.
