Minneapolis-St. Paul

The Twin Cities offer a sophisticated urban experience with excellent museums, theater, and food scenes set on beautiful Mississippi River landscape. Prince's Paisley Park, the Walker Art Center, and Stone Arch Bridge represent the region's creative energy.

Things to do

• Paisley Park Museum — Tour Prince's iconic recording studio and residence to explore the legendary musician's creative process and personal collections.
• Walker Art Center — Explore contemporary and modern art across multiple galleries, featuring works by renowned artists and innovative installations.
• Stone Arch Bridge — Walk or bike across this historic 1883 Mississippi River crossing with stunning views of St. Anthony Falls and the Minneapolis skyline.
• Minnesota History Center — Discover the region's Native American heritage, immigrant stories, and historical artifacts spanning centuries of Minnesota culture.
• SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium — Visit an indoor aquarium at the Mall of America featuring thousands of sea creatures, interactive touch pools, and underwater tunnels.
• Mississippi River Gorge — Hike scenic trails along the river's dramatic limestone bluffs within minutes of downtown Minneapolis.
• Mill City Museum — Explore Minneapolis's grain milling history in a restored 1880s flour mill overlooking the Mississippi River.

Food to try

• Jucy Lucy — A cheeseburger with melted cheese sealed inside the patty, a Minneapolis specialty found at Matt's Bar and nearby establishments.
• Walleye Pike — Minnesota's state fish, typically served pan-fried or grilled at local restaurants and sporting lodges.
• Wild Rice Soup — A creamy soup combining Minnesota wild rice with mushrooms and vegetables, reflecting the region's Native American and Scandinavian roots.
• Scandinavian Meatballs — Swedish-style meatballs served with lingonberry sauce, honoring the Twin Cities' large Scandinavian immigrant population.
• Sweet Martha's Cookies at the Minnesota State Fair — Warm, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies served at the iconic summer fair, a beloved Twin Cities tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress for Real Winters — Minneapolis winters are severe with temperatures dropping below zero; locals expect visitors to dress warmly with proper outerwear.
• Skyway System Navigation — Downtown Minneapolis has an extensive enclosed skyway network connecting buildings, allowing shopping and dining without going outside during winter.
• Prince's Cultural Legacy — Prince is deeply revered in Minneapolis; respect his memory and cultural impact when visiting Paisley Park and throughout the city.
• Outdoor Recreation Mindset — Minnesotans embrace outdoor activities year-round including biking, skiing, and water sports; locals are active despite harsh winters.