Twin Cities – Minnesota’s Metropolis

Ordway and Rice Park: Just one of the theaters in the Twin Cities, The Ordway always has spectacular shows including everything from broadway musicals to orchestras, from comedians to the Blue Man Group. Before or after the show, check out Rice Park, right out in front of the theater. In the winter, the trees are all lit up with Christmas lights and there is an ice skating rink in front of the landmark center, just a block over.

Grand Avenue: This popular shopping street is known for cute boutiques, some big name brands, and delicious cafes. When I lived in St. Paul, I lived right on Grand Avenue so I am biased towards this part of town. Check out the mansions on Summit then grab a cone from Grand Ole Creamery on a hot summer day. Or stop in Cafe Latte for a delicious coffee and swing by one of the many shops nearby. 

Minnehaha Falls: This beautiful park and waterfall is a great stop during any season. In the winter, the rushing waterfall turns into an icy masterpiece. During the summer, hike around the park and along Minnehaha creek to explore the lovely nature. I’d also recommend grabbing some fish tacos at Sea Salt Eatery in the summer, or swinging over to Quixotic Coffee for a warm latte in the winter. 

Allianz Field: If you’re into soccer, check out a Minnesota United FC game at the brand new Allianz Field! Grab a local Minnesota beer from the brew hall and cheer on Minnesota’s MLS team. Get your scarf ready and warm up your singing voice because if MN United wins, the whole stadium will sing “Wonderwall” by Oasis. You can also go to the pre-game party at Surly brewing, on of Minnesota’s most famous breweries. 

Science Museum: One of my absolute favorite places growing up, this is a great museum for all ages. Adult entry tickets start at $19.95 and kids at $14.95. There is an Omnitheater with a featured picture always rotating through (tickets cost extra). Check out the many Minnesota focused exhibits, as well as the more global experiences such as seeing one of only four real triceratops on display in the world!

Keg and Case Market: This is an indoor market that has many different food vendors and restaurants. You can buy sauces, honeys, soaps, and more. The upper floor of the market is a popular brewery called Clutch Brewing.

Lowertown: This bustling, downtown area of St. Paul always has something going on. Saturday and Sunday mornings you can check out the St. Paul Farmers Market selling a variety of local produce and food. On Thursday nights in the summer, check out Music in Mears Park. There are also tons of great restaurants and bars right around this area of town, some of my favorites being Barrio, Big River Pizza, and Dark Horse Bar & Eatery. 

Midtown Global Market:I love exploring the Midtown Global Market and trying food from all over the world. This is a perfect place to meet a friend for lunch because there are endless options of delicious food, as well as groceries, handicrafts, and a brewery. The market is also located right off the Midtown Greenway bike trail, so it is easily accessible by bike if you’re coming from Downtown or Uptown.

Walker Art Center: Famously known for the sculpture garden with the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture, the Walker has indoor exhibits as well as the outdoor garden. In the summer, be sure to check out the Skyline Mini Golf for a fun and unique outdoor activity. Admission to the museum is free every Thursday night from 5-9 PM. 

Mill District: One of my favorite spots in Minneapolis, check out the Mill District and stroll over the Stone Arch Bridge. On this pedestrian bridge you will overlook the “Mighty Mississippi” while getting a lovely view of the Minneapolis skyline. You can also walk along the Mill City Ruins and stop in the Mill City Museum to learn more about the history and dangers of flour milling. I also always stop by Izzy’s Ice Cream for a sweet treat, then later go in the Guthrie Theater and head up to the Endless Bridge for another great view. 

Dinkytown: The most popular area for University of Minnesota students to live and go out, Dinkytown has a wide array of restaurants and bars to check out, right on the U of M campus. Check out the Loring for some great Italian food, as well as some spicy salsa dancing almost every Friday and Saturday night starting at 10 PM. If you’re looking for a classic burger and shake, you can’t miss Annie’s Parlour, a Dinkytown classic. Also home of arguably one of the best breakfast diners in Minneapolis, Al’s Breakfast. With one little counter with only 8 or so seats, be prepared to wait a bit to be served.

Uptown: A popular area for young adult and graduate students to live and go out, Uptown has some great bars and restaurants with the added bonus of being right on the beautiful Lake Bde Maka Ska. I love walking or running the 3 miles around the lake, or taking advantage of the warm weather by renting a paddle board or kayak to venture out on the water. There are way too many good restaurants to even try to list them, but a few of my favorites are World Street Kitchen, India Palace Uptown, Origami, or Lake & Irving.

Minneapolis Institute of Art: Full disclosure, visual art isn’t really my thing, but this is an impressive museum. The MIA has a wide variety of art from all over the world, as well as rotating exhibits. In high school, I came here to see the Terracotta Warriors. 

Mall of America: I think this would be on the top of the list for many people, but I honestly don’t like MOA very much. It is cool to see the gigantic amusement park and the myriad of stores (520 to be exact), but at the end of the day, it’s just a big mall. I go maybe once a year for a special event or to bring a friend from out of town, but it is definitely not my go-to shopping destination.