Minneapolis often remains unmentioned on lists of the coolest cities in The United States. Minnesota is often mocked for our accents as if they are as exaggerated as in the movie Fargo and our ability to withstand the harshest winters. Minneapolis is so much more than that.
To Minneapolitans it’s a truth universally acknowledged that Minneapolis is the coolest city in the country and we are underrated as a whole. Our city is breathtakingly beautiful, an oasis for cultural enrichment, full of vibrant individuals with incredibly diverse narratives. We deserve all the love we can get. Here are 15 undeniable reasons why we love our great city and why it will always be home:
1. Our Stunning Skyline
The Minneapolis skyline is beautiful. Minneapolitans more than likely have skyline shots from at least three angles of the skyline on their Instagram feed. How else can we show pride for our masterpiece in the sky?
2. Minneapolis Is The City of Lakes Within The Land of 10,000 Lakes (Lake Harriet)
Minneapolis is home to 13 lakes and we're proud of it. Go ahead and canoe, swim, or hop on a sail boat to experience them on your own! The Chain of Lakes, featuring Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake are some of the most popular and most breathtaking in the city.
3. Home to Some of the Most Incredible Theaters In The Country
Thanks to The Hennepin Theater Trust, Minneapolis is home to very incredible theaters. Want to catch a Broadway show, but aren't able to travel to New York? The Mini Apple is here for you. Hamilton is coming to town in 2018. If Broadway isn't your style, Minneapolis hosts an abundance of theaters with many local actors. The Guthrie holds a special place in our hearts for producing downright wonderful productions. Guthrie Theater, 818 S 2nd St. Minneapolis, MN 55415
4. Chefs in Minneapolis Master Elevated Comfort Food
In a 2016 Reddit chat, renowned chef and TV personality, Anthony Bourdain, listed Minneapolis as an underrated foodie city. We couldn't agree more. Bourdain's friend and fellow adventurous foodie, Andrew Zimmern can often be spotted at restaurants within the city. No other place in the country does comfort food like Minneapolis. Our citizens need hearty food to make it through Minnesota winters, but with class. A current city favorite is Bad Waitress, which serves up creative dishes like the Flying Saucer omelette and a Spyhouse Carmella Malt. Ingredients are locally sourced and organic, and are sure to wow your taste buds. Bad Waitress, 2 E 26th St. Minneapolis, MN 55404
5. You Can't Go Anywhere in Minneapolis Without Being Reminded That Bob Dylan Lived Here
Minnesota native (even if he'd like to deny it), Bob Dylan lived in Minneapolis for awhile and we savor every whisper of his past. Dylan spent a brief stint at the University of Minnesota, leaving tracks behind in Dinkytown for Minneapolitans to marvel at and live in places where he lived. We had a mural produced in homage to Dylan 2015, only continuing in this unrequited love story.
6. Our Splendid Farmers' Markets
Practically every neighborhood in Minneapolis has a farmer's market with an abundance of gorgeous, fresh from the field food, sourced from farms within the state.
7. We Have Some of the Best Music Venues in the World
Minneapolis knows how to do live music right. Are you interested in seeing a more intimate show featuring local artists? Catch some live music at the Kitty Kat Club in Dinkytown. Have you always wanted to see a major artist when they come to town? The Target Center is the place to be. Want to experience the best rock and roll club in the city? First Avenue is right for you. The Ramones? Yeah, they've played there. So has Patti Smith, U2, Joan Jett, Iggy Pop, the Beastie Boys, and of course, Prince. First Avenue and 7th St Entry. 701 N 1st Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403
8. We Love Prince and He Loved Us Back
Prince was a Minneapolis native, and never failed to acknowledge his roots, even as he became one of the best-selling artists of all time. We love The Purple One unabashedly, and will honor his purple reign for all of eternity. His star at First Avenue is painted gold instead of silver, setting him apart from the rest.
9. Minneapolis Celebrates Diverse Food
Minneapolis has a variety of restaurants for whatever your tastes might be. Midtown Global Market features food derived from the Middle East, India, Mexico, Korea, and anything in between to satisfy your cravings. Midtown Global Market. 920 East Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407.
10. We Have a World Renowned Museum
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is a free museum in South Minneapolis showcasing some of the best art from all around the world. Head there to examine paintings by Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso and contemplate the meaning behind a lobster telephone created by Salvador Dali. Minneapolis Institute of Art. 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis Mn 55404
11. Minneapolitans Embrace Being Tourists In Their Own City
Who doesn't want to take a segway tour of their own city just for fun?
12. Summer in Minneapolis is Magical
In Minneapolis, we spend what feels like half the year in below zero temperatures. When summer hits, Minneapolitans savor every moment. The annual Basilica Block Party and Rock The Garden take place every July and draw truly gigantic crowds. Free movies and music are featured in various parks throughout the city, and rooftop bars are major hot spots. You have to be here to experience the magic.
13. Our Iconic Spoon Bridge and Cherry
Only in Minneapolis can you find a large white spoon with a gargantuan cherry spraying water out of it. The Cherry & The Spoon is Minneapolis' pride and glory.
14. We Make Minneapolis a Winter Wonderland
Instead of hibernating throughout the entire winter, Minneapolitans make the city their winter playground. Pond Hockey tournaments occur along the city's frozen lakes, citizens jump into the ice cold water for charity, and Loring Park turns into a Holidazzle festival during December. Bundle up in your snowpants and parkas to experience what Minnesotans have embraced years ago.
15. The City is Just Downright Gorgeous
No one can deny it.
Even with all these valid reasons why Minneapolis will always be home, we are certain you have more to add to the list. If you’re a bona fide Minnesotan, you should check out 13 Legitimate Signs That You Grew Up In Minnesota . Share your love for Minneapolis in the comments.
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