1. Marvel at the masterpieces at Minneapolis Institute of Art
With more than 89,000 unique pieces in their collection, MIA is one of the largest art museums in the United States and also considered one of the most comprehensive - some pieces are over 40,000 years old and six of the seven continents are represented (sorry, Antarctica...there just isn't much to choose from...)
MIA is located at 2400 Third Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN. and admission to the museum is FREE! The museum is open on Monday through Wednesdays & Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays & Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
2. Take the Riverboat
Take a leisurely trip down the Mississippi River aboard the Minneapolis Queen, an old fashioned paddleboat! You depart from Bohemian Flats and the ride will take you through some of the most interesting historical spots in downtown Minneapolis.
3. See a show at First Avenue
If you haven't hit a show at this legendary venue yet, you are seriously missing out. This club has been around since 1970 and this stage has seen some incredibly talented artists and musicians pass through over the years.
It's hard to miss the First Avenue building - It's painted with 531 starts in honor of many previous acts who have performed here. It's located at 701 First Ave. N Minneapolis, MN
4. Go to the Minnesota State Fair
This is less of a one-time experience as it is an annual tradition. It's one of the largest State Fairs in the entire country, and whether you are looking for thrilling rides or midway games, 4-H shows & competitions to rodeos, there is something for everyone at the Minnesota State Fair. No matter what draws you here, you simply can't leave before you've tried a new, wacky deep fried treat. Where else in the world would you find "deep fried hotdish on a stick?" (Yes, that it a real thing.)
5. Wild Rumpus Bookstore
This may be a children's bookstore, but this little shop is amazing no matter how old you are. Wild Rumpus is nothing short of magical - the whimsical design features (like the incredible mural on the ceiling) and the shop pets (including cats, chinchillas, cockatiels, and the famous chickens) bring this little shop alive. Whether you want to peruse the shelves with the kiddos or just meet the chickens, the Wild Rumpus Bookstore is sure to delight!
You'll find the Wild Rumpus Bookstore at 2720 West 43rd Street Minneapolis, MN
6. Cheer on the Twins
Let's play ball! The Minnesota Twins play right downtown at Target Field, and there is no way you should pass up a day at the ballpark. Even if you aren't a baseball fan, the experience of being in the stadium for a live game is nothing like watching one on TV. Grab some buddies, order some brews, and make new friends!
Opening day for the 2017 season is on Monday, April 8th. The Twins will face off with the Kansas City Royals at home - come cheer them on!
7. Rock The Garden
This annual summer music festival is organized by Minnesota Public Radio and the Walker Art Center. The festival has attracted some big names to perform at this popular event, which has increasingly highlighted alternative rock and indie artists over the past few years.
Rock The Garden 2017 is planned for July 22nd and will take place at the newly renovated Walker Art Center Sculpture Garden (which is reopening to the public in Spring 2017).
8. Eat at Travail Kitchen & Amusements
A dinner at Travail is part meal, part unbelievable, impossible-to-explain experience. A meal here doesn't run cheap - you buy tickets rather than reservations and there are not traditional menus. Instead, you are treated a chef's choice
9. Celebrate Aquatennial
This totally cool summer event in Minneapolis has been celebrating every July since 1940. The festival is focused on showcasing the local lakes, rivers, and streams. There are fireworks, beach games, a triathlon, and, of course, the fantastic famous Aquatennial Parade.
The upcoming Aquatennial event will take place July 19-22, 2017. Don't miss out!
10. Go to the Pride parade
Come together to show support to Minneapolis' vibrant LGBT community in Loring Park! This colorful, love-centric event is the perfect place to celebrate love and community, while also supporting friends and friends. This is a great way to allies to come and show support, celebrate diversity, and share one unforgettable experience with one unifying goal: love for all, all for love.
11. Minnesota Fringe Festival
So what is the Fringe Festival? It's hard to describe... but in the most simplest terms, it is a performance art extravaganza. The 11-day event is a showcase of an eccentric mix of styles, genres, and techniques. Hundreds of groups put on a show - although it is not a juried event - to show off their skills and delight the crowds with innovative shows and unique performances.
12. See a performance at Lake Harriet Bandshell
Throughout the warmer months, Lake Harriet puts on some fantastic concerts, performances, and events at the famous lakeside Bandshell. We all have something to look forward to - the next season of fun! Keep an eye out for their events schedule as it is updated closer to the kickoff!
13. Hang out at Midtown Global Market
The Midtown Global Market has a little bit of everything; fresh produce, unique little shops to poke around it, delicious vendors selling an eclectic blend of tasty treats, and the best people-watching you will ever see. The Market also offers tons of free classes - cooking, dancing, yoga...you name it! - and provides a seriously cool experience for those looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.
14. Take a Brewery Tour
Minnesota has grown into the microbrew scene and has become a force to be reckoned with in the competitions for best brews around. Many of the local breweries offer free tours (and, occasionally, free tastings) for beer-lovers to come and learn a little more about their favorite brewers. If you already have a few favorites, grab some buddies and start a brew tour and hit up several of your favorites to compre. Just don't forget your Designated Driver (or an Uber!) to make sure you make it back home safely.
You have a couple of new things to add to your To-Do List! If you have already experienced some of these places, there is nothing stopping you from having a whole new adventure! Make sure to visit all of these awesome spots to make sure you have the FULL Minneapolis experience
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