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 café 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. Don’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 cafés 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 café known for its inclusivity and great atmosphere.

evening
:

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

day 10
Active Minneapolis
morning
:

Begin your morning with a bike rental and explore the city’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