30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Minneapolis-Saint Paul | Apr 2025

Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour in Minneapolis Image
# 1 provided by Viator.com

Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour in Minneapolis

Are you afraid of the dark? Join us for our Haunted Trolley Tour of Minneapolis! It is a spine-tingling journey to the most haunted sites in the City, aboard an historic trolley which itself is said to be haunted.

4.85 (84 reviews)

Saint Paul Gangster Tour Image
# 2 provided by Viator.com

Saint Paul Gangster Tour

The original St. Paul Gangster Tour (2 hours by Bus in comfort) reveals why Saint Paul was a center for bootlegging operations and criminal activities during the 1930s prohibition era.

4.56 (41 reviews)

Narrated Scenic Trolley Tour in Minneapolis, Minnesota Image
# 3 provided by Viator.com

Narrated Scenic Trolley Tour in Minneapolis, Minnesota

This tour is a one-of-a-kind trolley tour here in Minneapolis. There is no other Trolley in the city and this tour showcases a wide variety of locations that are historical, fun, culturally significant, and much more.

4.93 (105 reviews)

True Crime Trolley Tour in Minneapolis Image
# 4 provided by Viator.com

True Crime Trolley Tour in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, a vibrant and historic city, is renowned for its cultural landmarks, beautiful lakes, and friendly locals. But beyond the picturesque facade lies a darker side of history – one filled with mysterious and spine-chilling tales of true crime.

5.00 (12 reviews)

Twin City Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures Image
# 5 provided by Viator.com

Twin City Ghosts Tour By US Ghost Adventures

Step into the haunting streets of St. Paul with our mesmerizing ghost tour, where history and the supernatural converge! Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll explore some of the city's most haunted and historically rich sites.

4.50 (122 reviews)

Same-Day Tour Package (Historic Cave Tour & Saint Paul Gangster Tour) Image
# 6 provided by Viator.com

Same-Day Tour Package (Historic Cave Tour & Saint Paul Gangster Tour)

The package tour will give you priority seating on the bus portion of the tour, as well as a VIP photo opportunity with a 1930 Hudson Essex Gangster Car.

4.29 (14 reviews)

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour Image
# 7 provided by Viator.com

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

See the only remaining restored Gangster Era site on this historic tour of extensive caves carved into the hillside in long-abandoned mining ventures in the 1800s.

4.75 (102 reviews)

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband Image
# 8 provided by Viator.com

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Nickelodeon Universe®, the nation's largest indoor theme park, is home to seven acres of unique attractions, entertainment and dining options.

4.19 (16 reviews)

Minneapolis Afternoon Snack Image
# 9 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis Afternoon Snack

Starting in the trendy North Loop neighborhood, we visit some of the best restaurants in Minneapolis! Learn about the city over a bite to eat (or four)! From the best ranked pizza joint in the country, to classic upper midwest cuisine, and a little bit from northeast Minneapolis' eastern European heritage, this tour will leave both your brain and belly full! And don't forget to leave room for dessert!

5.00 (15 reviews)

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour Image
# 10 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

A great tour year-round, especially if you're visiting in the winter months! Minneapolis is home to the largest, contiguous skyway system in the world! Originally designed to counter the 1950s post war suburban boom by revitalizing the city's retail core, today the second story walkways connect 80 city blocks and meander more than 9 miles.

5.00 (29 reviews)

All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour Image
# 11 provided by Viator.com

All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour

Join the number 1 rated, all-you-can-drink, all-inclusive brewery tour in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Our guided tours take adventurous people interested in tasting locally produced craft beer to several of the Twin Cities' best craft breweries and taprooms.

4.94 (242 reviews)

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour Image
# 12 provided by Viator.com

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Join us on this three hour walking tour that has been specially crafted to keep you comfortable whether the temperature is below freezing or blazing hot.

5.00 (52 reviews)

Challah Baking Experience Image
# 13 provided by Viator.com

Challah Baking Experience

For thousands of years, Jewish people have brought in the Sabbath with candles, wine, and the blessing over challah -- the traditional braided bread.

5.00 (5 reviews)

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America Image
# 14 provided by Viator.com

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

The Escape Game Minneapolis is inside of the famed Mall of America, a 4-level mall with hundreds of food, shopping, and entertainment options.

4.87 (47 reviews)

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise Image
# 15 provided by Viator.com

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

On this interactive tour you will explore Minneapolis and St. St. Paul on a motorcoach with a cruise down the Mississippi River.

4.58 (26 reviews)

Mall of America®: Crayola Experience Image
# 16 provided by Viator.com

Mall of America®: Crayola Experience

Explore a world of color and creativity at Crayola Experience Mall of America. Jump between 25+ hands-on activities designed to spark your imagination.

4.00 (1 reviews)

In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis Image
# 17 provided by Viator.com

In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis

Find out how Minneapolis helped define Prince Rogers Nelson as a young musician who went on to change the world of music with this affordable walking tour.

4.26 (34 reviews)

Ticket for the Mall of America Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Image
# 18 provided by Viator.com

Ticket for the Mall of America Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf

Putt your way along 18 holes of mini golf lit up under glowing ultraviolet blacklights. Rock out to a rip-roaring soundtrack of rock anthems from the ’50s to the present day.

4.33 (3 reviews)

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour Image
# 19 provided by Viator.com

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Whether you’re new to Minnesota or have been a lifetime resident, the secrets sitting in our capital city are sure to surprise you.

5.00 (29 reviews)

Walking F. Scott Fitzgerald's St. Paul Life & Homes Private Tour (2 hrs) Image
# 20 provided by Viator.com

Walking F. Scott Fitzgerald's St. Paul Life & Homes Private Tour (2 hrs)

For 2 hours, you'll enjoy a private, guided walk in a historic, charming neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota, as you stroll past the birthplace, homes and haunts of F.

4.90 (10 reviews)

Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field Image
# 21 provided by Viator.com

Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field

Watching the Minnesota Twins play a Major League Baseball game live at Target Field is an unforgettable experience. The ballpark boasts great amenities and fantastic views of the field from every seat in the stadium.

3.67 (3 reviews)

Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Around Downtown Minneapolis Image
# 22 provided by Viator.com

Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Around Downtown Minneapolis

Let’s Roam takes the crown as the top app-led Adventure Hunt company! Wander through city streets, uncovering the finest landmarks and secret gems while tackling trivia and mastering challenges.

4.67 (3 reviews)

Minnesota’s Storied City: A Self-Guided Tour of Downtown St. Paul Image
# 23 provided by Viator.com

Minnesota’s Storied City: A Self-Guided Tour of Downtown St. Paul

Explore the rich history of St. Paul on this self-guided walking tour, starting at Rice Park in front of the Landmark Center, St.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Image
# 24 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Welcome to Minneapolis, the home of Nerf Balls, the singer and songwriter Prince, and, yes, Zubaz pants. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll stroll along the Mississippi River.

4.13 (61 reviews)

Minneapolis Past and Present Image
# 25 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis Past and Present

Walk with local guides through Minneapolis! Learn the surprising and often untold history of Minneapolis and the state it's in, from before statehood and through to the present.

4.92 (13 reviews)

Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 hrs) Image
# 26 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 hrs)

We'll connect at a location convenient for you and launch a 3-hour private riding & walking tour of Minneapolis & St. Paul that focuses on local culture, interesting history and what it's like to live today in the Twin Cities.

4.94 (34 reviews)

Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars Image
# 27 provided by Viator.com

Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars

Spend three hours exploring a curated list of four of Minneapolis’ best bars. We won’t just be drinking there, we’ll be learning the story of the bar, meeting the bartender, and trying a new drink.

4.81 (21 reviews)

Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP Image
# 28 provided by Viator.com

Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP

Why stress waiting for unreliable taxis or shuttle services from the Minneapolis (MSP) Airport? Ensure peace of mind with a private transfer to your hotel in Downtown Minneapolis or the surrounding areas.

4.00 (2 reviews)

Minneapolis Walking Art Tour - Heart of Downtown Image
# 29 provided by Viator.com

Minneapolis Walking Art Tour - Heart of Downtown

Minneapolis is a city deeply committed to the arts, with a set of core values that celebrates creativity, diversity, and community.

4.90 (10 reviews)

Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis Image
# 30 provided by Viator.com

Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis

Take a ghost tour with American Ghost Walks and learn about the haunted history of the Minneapolis. This beautiful city is full of ghost stories, and our ongoing research guarantees you hear something you’ve never heard before on each of our tours.

4.80 (5 reviews)

What activities can I do in Minneapolis-Saint Paul?

1. Visit the Mall of America: This massive shopping center is home to over 500 stores, as well as attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, and the Crayola Experience. 2. Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art: This world-class museum features a vast collection of art from around the world, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh. 3. Take a stroll around the Chain of Lakes: Minneapolis is known for its beautiful lakes, and the Chain of Lakes is a popular spot for walking, biking, and picnicking. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to enjoy the water. 4. Visit the Minnesota State Capitol: Located in Saint Paul, the State Capitol building is an architectural masterpiece. Take a guided tour to learn about the state's history and government. 5. Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota: This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits on topics like dinosaurs, human biology, and the Mississippi River. Don't miss the Omnitheater, which shows stunning nature documentaries. 6. Attend a live performance: Minneapolis-Saint Paul has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters and performance venues. Catch a show at the Guthrie Theater, Orpheum Theatre, or the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. 7. Visit the Minnesota Zoo: Located in Apple Valley, just outside of Minneapolis, the Minnesota Zoo is home to over 5,000 animals from around the world. Explore exhibits like the Tropics Trail, Discovery Bay, and the Northern Trail. 8. Explore the Mill City Museum: Located in the ruins of an old flour mill, this museum tells the story of Minneapolis' milling history. Take a tour to learn about the city's role in the flour industry and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck. 9. Take a walk across the Stone Arch Bridge: This historic bridge spans the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk or a bike ride. 10. Enjoy the local food and craft beer scene: Minneapolis-Saint Paul is known for its diverse culinary offerings and craft breweries. Explore neighborhoods like Northeast Minneapolis and Lowertown in Saint Paul to sample delicious food and locally brewed beer.

When is the best time to travel to Minneapolis-Saint Paul?

The best time to travel to Minneapolis-Saint Paul, USA is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). The city comes alive during this time with various outdoor events, festivals, and activities. However, it's important to note that summers in Minneapolis-Saint Paul can be quite humid, so be prepared for some humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Additionally, this is the peak tourist season, so you can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Minneapolis-Saint Paul during the spring or fall. The months of May and September offer pleasant temperatures, ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), and you can still enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and exploring the city's parks and lakes. Winter in Minneapolis-Saint Paul can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and occasional snowstorms. However, if you're a fan of winter sports like ice skating, skiing, or snowboarding, this could be an ideal time for you to visit. The city is well-prepared for winter activities and offers a variety of indoor attractions and events to keep you entertained. Ultimately, the best time to travel to Minneapolis-Saint Paul depends on your preferences and interests. Consider the weather, activities, and events that align with your travel plans to make the most of your trip.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Minneapolis-Saint Paul

Minneapolis-Saint Paul, often referred to as the Twin Cities, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination in the United States. Here is a glimpse into the travel culture of Minneapolis-Saint Paul: 1. Art and Theater: The Twin Cities have a thriving arts scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and performing arts centers. The Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art are renowned for their collections, while the Guthrie Theater and Orpheum Theatre host world-class performances. 2. Music: Minneapolis-Saint Paul has a rich musical heritage, particularly in the genres of rock, pop, and hip-hop. Legendary artists like Prince, Bob Dylan, and The Replacements hail from this region. The First Avenue nightclub is an iconic music venue that has hosted many famous acts. 3. Sports: The Twin Cities are known for their passionate sports culture. Home to professional teams like the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), and Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), sports fans can catch thrilling games throughout the year. The Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul is also a popular venue for hockey games and concerts. 4. Food and Drink: Minneapolis-Saint Paul has a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines and local specialties. The cities are known for their craft breweries, with a growing number of microbreweries and taprooms to explore. Food trucks are also popular, offering a variety of delicious street food options. 5. Outdoor Activities: With its picturesque lakes, parks, and trails, Minneapolis-Saint Paul is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Chain of Lakes, including Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles, offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and biking. The Mississippi River also runs through the region, providing scenic spots for hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. 6. Festivals: The Twin Cities host numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating art, music, food, and culture. The Minnesota State Fair, held in Saint Paul, is one of the largest and most popular events, attracting millions of visitors annually. The Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Aquatennial, and Holidazzle Parade are other notable events. 7. Friendly and Welcoming Atmosphere: Minneapolis-Saint Paul is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The locals, often referred to as ""Minnesota Nice,"" are known for their hospitality and willingness to help visitors. This warm and inclusive culture adds to the overall travel experience in the Twin Cities. Overall, Minneapolis-Saint Paul offers a diverse and vibrant travel culture, blending art, music, sports, outdoor activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a foodie, an art lover, a sports enthusiast, or someone who enjoys exploring the outdoors, the Twin Cities have something to offer for everyone.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Minneapolis-Saint Paul

When visiting Minneapolis-Saint Paul in the USA, there are several shopping lists and souvenirs you can consider. Here are some popular options: 1. Mall of America: Located in Bloomington, this massive shopping complex is one of the largest in the country. You can find a wide range of stores, including high-end brands, fashion retailers, electronics, and more. Consider picking up clothing, accessories, or unique items from the various stores here. 2. Local Boutiques: Minneapolis-Saint Paul is known for its vibrant local boutique scene. Explore neighborhoods like Uptown, North Loop, or Grand Avenue in St. Paul to discover unique clothing, jewelry, and home decor items created by local designers. 3. Scandinavian Gifts: Minnesota has a strong Scandinavian heritage, so you'll find many stores offering traditional Scandinavian gifts and souvenirs. Look for items like Swedish Dala horses, Norwegian sweaters, Danish porcelain, or Finnish glassware. 4. Local Art: The Twin Cities have a thriving arts community, and you can support local artists by purchasing their artwork. Visit art galleries or art fairs to find paintings, sculptures, photography, or other unique pieces that capture the essence of the region. 5. Minnesota-made Food Products: Bring home a taste of Minnesota by purchasing locally made food products. Look for wild rice, maple syrup, honey, jams, jellies, or locally brewed craft beers. You can find these items in specialty food stores or farmers' markets. 6. Sports Merchandise: If you're a sports fan, consider picking up merchandise from the local professional teams. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is home to the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), and Minnesota Wild (NHL). Show your support by buying team jerseys, hats, or other memorabilia. 7. Prince Memorabilia: As the hometown of the legendary musician Prince, Minneapolis has a strong connection to his legacy. Look for Prince-themed souvenirs, albums, or clothing items to commemorate his impact on the music world. Remember to check the COVID-19 restrictions and store hours before planning your shopping trip. Enjoy exploring the diverse shopping options in Minneapolis-Saint Paul!

Minneapolis-Saint Paul travel review

Minneapolis-Saint Paul: A Vibrant Twin City Experience Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, often referred to as the Twin Cities, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and urban charm. As the largest metropolitan area in the state of Minnesota, this dynamic destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, art lovers, foodies, and sports fanatics alike. From its picturesque lakes and parks to its thriving arts scene and world-class museums, Minneapolis-Saint Paul is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an unforgettable American experience. One of the defining features of the Twin Cities is its abundance of natural beauty. With over 10,000 lakes in the state, Minneapolis-Saint Paul boasts some of the most scenic waterways in the country. The Chain of Lakes, consisting of Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake, offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. Additionally, the Mississippi River, which flows through the heart of the cities, provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks or bike rides along its scenic trails. Beyond its natural wonders, Minneapolis-Saint Paul is also renowned for its thriving arts scene. The cities are home to numerous theaters, galleries, and performance venues that showcase a diverse range of artistic expressions. The Guthrie Theater, a Tony Award-winning institution, presents world-class productions, while the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art house impressive collections of contemporary and classical art. For music lovers, the iconic First Avenue nightclub, known for its association with Prince, offers an eclectic lineup of live performances that cater to all tastes and genres. Food enthusiasts will find themselves in culinary heaven in Minneapolis-Saint Paul. The cities boast a vibrant food scene that celebrates both local and international flavors. From farm-to-table restaurants that highlight the region's seasonal produce to global eateries serving up authentic cuisine from around the world, there is something to satisfy every palate. The cities are also known for their craft breweries and distilleries, where visitors can sample locally brewed beers and spirits while enjoying the lively atmosphere of taprooms and brewpubs. Sports fans will feel right at home in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, as the cities are home to several professional sports teams. Catching a Minnesota Vikings football game at the state-of-the-art U.S. Bank Stadium or cheering on the Minnesota Twins at Target Field is a quintessential Twin Cities experience. For basketball enthusiasts, the Target Center is the place to be, as it hosts thrilling NBA games featuring the Minnesota Timberwolves. Additionally, the Xcel Energy Center is the go-to venue for hockey lovers, as it serves as the home of the Minnesota Wild. In conclusion, Minneapolis-Saint Paul offers a vibrant and diverse travel experience that combines the beauty of nature, the richness of culture, and the excitement of urban life. Whether you're exploring the scenic lakes, immersing yourself in the arts, indulging in delicious cuisine, or cheering on your favorite sports team, the Twin Cities have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to this captivating destination in the heartland of the United States.