Minneapolis is a city of almost a half a million people who love their community. The rest of the country tends to not give Minneapolis much thought, and we think that’s really a shame. Just like any other metropolis, Minneapolis is full of vibrant citizens who make the city great. Here are 13 things every Minneapolitan wants the rest of the country to know:
1. Saint Paul is the capital city of Minnesota, not Minneapolis.
Many across the country have made this mistake, including a variety of broadcast journalists. We are here to remind you that Saint Paul is the capital of Minnesota. Minneapolis is Saint Paul's twin city.
2. Minneapolis and Saint Paul might be called the Twin Cities, but they are far from identical.
Of course their skylines are different, but in many ways so is the way of life. Minneapolis is a lot more fast-paced than Saint Paul and is a larger city. Minneapolis is well known for its music and theater scene, while Saint Paul is known for its conservatory, its zoo, and The Science Museum.
3. "Minnesota Nice" is a real thing and we brag about it often.
"Minnesota nice," really means "Minnesota polite." We're proud so proud of it, we have even found a way to brand it throughout the city.
4. Minneapolis is not "flyover country."
It's not a secret that many in this world think The Midwest is flyover country except for the city of Chicago. We want to tell you we are here. Minneapolis is easily one of the most underrated cities in the country, and we are waiting for the rest of the world to recognize us.
5. Not all Minneapolis sports teams are terrible!
The Twins, The Vikings, and The Timberwolves as teams might be a little underwhelming and it's easy to mock their losing streaks, but not all Minnesota sports teams are lackluster. The Minnesota Lynx have won the WNBA title in 2011, 2013, and 2015. Let's give these ladies the praise they deserve!
6. We don't actually speak like Sarah Palin.
Our voices aren't that exaggerated, we promise. And no, we can't see Russia from our house either.
7. Minneapolis' music scene is top-notch.
From outdoor music festivals in the summer, to music and movies in the park, to shows inside grand stadiums or more intimate venues, Minnesota music shines. The city has been home to Bob Dylan, Prince, The Replacements, and Semisonic, among many others. Our local music scene remains strong with performers like Dessa, Hippocampus, and Har Mar Superstar. If you love music, make Minneapolis a destination.
8. Minneapolitans are active outdoors all year round.
Yes. Minneapolitans will run races through rain, sleet, or snow. Nothing can stop hearty Minnesotans from getting their exercise and enjoying it.
9. Minneapolis' theater is some of the best in the country.
Practically any show that hits Broadway makes its way to Minneapolis. Our local theater is well produced and often world-renowned. The city of Minneapolis has more theater seats per capita than any other city in the country. We are the best spot to see a play or a musical, without paying New York prices.
10. You can survive our winters. We promise.
Minneapolis winters do look rather daunting, but anyone can survive them. As long as you remain in the skyways while downtown, you'll never freeze while getting around. Bundle up in a parka, scarf, hat, and gloves and you'll be ready to survive the great outdoors as well.
11. Minneapolis' food scene is underrated.
Minneapolis serves some of the best food in the country. Upton 43 was praised by the New York Times in 2016. Unfortunately, our growing food scene is still forgotten by many throughout the rest of the country. Come to Minneapolis and have a bite to eat. We care about our food and hope you will too.
12. The rest of the country underestimates our city and its resilience.
Minneapolis has seen a lot of tragedy. Tornadoes have hit places like North Minneapolis and have devastated communities. Violence has taken too many of our citizens. It's the cost of living in a larger city, but Minneapolis always holds together and lends a helping hand to those in need.
13. Minneapolis is a flawed city, but its diversity is what makes it beautiful.
Every resident of Minneapolis has their own life and their own narrative. They have their own reasons for loving Minneapolis. The city is not a perfect one and still has to face many of its challenges. We are confident Minneapolis will always be a city that grows rather than regresses. It's what makes our city so special.
There’s a lot that the rest of the country doesn’t know or understand about Minneapolis and we hope to amend that. Minneapolis is a great city and deserves to be appreciated by more than its citizens. If you live in Minneapolis, what do you want the rest of the country to know about the city? Let us know in the comments below.
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