Minneapolis

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Minneapolis's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Downtown Minneapolis
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Walker Art Center, home to contemporary art and stunning architecture. Afterward, stroll through the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to enjoy the outdoor exhibits.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic Mill District for lunch at a local cafรฉ and explore the Mill City Museum. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the city's flour milling history and its role in the economy.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant along Nicollet Avenue, known for its vibrant food scene. Finish your night with a show at the Guthrie Theater, which offers a variety of performances.

day 2
Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the Chain of Lakes for a peaceful morning walk or bike ride around Lake Calhoun. Enjoy the scenic views and plenty of green space as you breathe in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and relax at Lake Harriet, where you can rent paddleboats or canoes. Explore the surrounding walking paths and gardens, making the most of the beautiful outdoors.

evening
:

Catch a stunning sunset over the lake before heading to a nearby restaurant for dinner. Consider trying some local cuisine at a lakeside eatery.

day 3
Culinary Tour
morning
:

Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the Midtown Global Market. Sample diverse breakfast options from various food vendors representing cultures from around the world.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour that takes you to some of the city's hidden gems, tasting dishes from food trucks and local restaurants. Experience the diversity of Minneapolis' culinary scene firsthand.

evening
:

End your day at a local brewery with a flight of craft beers and a hearty meal. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and live music often found in these establishments.

day 4
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, where you can admire an impressive collection of art from various eras. Donโ€™t forget to check out the free admission policy.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic North Loop neighborhood for boutique shops and art galleries. Stop for lunch at a local eatery that highlights Minnesota's farm-to-table movement.

evening
:

Experience a performance at the Orpheum Theatre, which offers a range of shows from Broadway to concerts. Dine at a nearby restaurant during the pre-show hours.

day 5
City Walking Tour
morning
:

Take a guided walking tour of downtown Minneapolis, learning about its architectural history and key landmarks. Enjoy the mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Central Library and then take a leisurely walk through the Nicollet Mall for shopping and lunch. Explore local shops and enjoy the vibrant urban atmosphere.

evening
:

Conclude your day by enjoying a nice dinner and live music at a venue in the area. The nightlife here is lively, with various options for entertainment.

day 6
Riverfront Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day walking along the banks of the Mississippi River at the Riverfront park. Take in the natural surroundings and the historic river bridges.

afternoon
:

Visit the Stone Arch Bridge for stunning views and photo opportunities. Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant or food stall, basking in the fresh air.

evening
:

Take a scenic riverboat cruise to see the city from a unique perspective. After your cruise, find a cozy place for dinner along the riverbank.

day 7
Day in the Parks
morning
:

Visit Theodore Wirth Park, where you can hike or bike the extensive trail system. Spend some time enjoying nature and perhaps even birdwatching.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and head to Fort Snelling State Park for a relaxing picnic by the river. Explore the historic fort and learn about the area's rich history.

evening
:

Return to Minneapolis for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Consider trying local Minneapolis dishes to finish your park-filled day.

day 8
LGBTQ+ Pride and Community
morning
:

Visit the Walker Art Center for the latest exhibitions and enjoy a morning of creativity. Engage with modern art installations that inspire and provoke thought.

afternoon
:

Delve into the artistic vibe of the Northeast Arts District, known for its galleries and studios. Grab lunch at one of the area's eclectic cafรฉs to fuel your afternoon.

evening
:

Catch a live music performance at First Avenue, a legendary venue in the city. Experience the local music scene and its vibrant energy.

day 9
LGBTQ+ Pride and Community
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Twin Cities Pride Center to learn about local LGBTQ+ history. Engage in community programs and meet friendly locals.

afternoon
:

Explore local shops in the LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhoods, discovering unique items and artwork. Stop for lunch at a popular cafรฉ known for its inclusivity and great atmosphere.

evening
:

End your day at a LGBTQ+ bar or club, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and community events. Itโ€™s the perfect way to celebrate diversity and connection.

day 10
Active Minneapolis
morning
:

Begin your morning with a bike rental and explore the cityโ€™s extensive bike trails. Enjoy cycling through picturesque parks and waterfronts.

afternoon
:

Stop by the Minneapolis Farmers Market to grab fresh produce and unique local products. Enjoy a healthy lunch made from the freshest ingredients.

evening
:

Unwind with a yoga class at a popular local studio, perfect for relaxing after an active day. Enjoy a healthy meal at a restaurant that emphasizes clean eating.

Discover Minneapolis

Read more in our Minneapolis 2024 Travel Guide.

Minneapolis Travel Guide