Never wanting to miss an opportunity to mark an unseen state off my bucket list, I took advantage of a $70 flight out of Asheville direct to Minneapolis. The weather this time of year is ideal for it. It was mostly in the mid 70’s the days we were there, with the lows only dropping to mid 50’s at night.
Minneapolis took me by surprise. Just thinking of it, I imagined a rather bland big city, basically located in the frozen tundra of the North. Although it is a large city, and the headquarters of many Fortune 500 companies (Target, General Mills, Valspar), the park system is top 5 in the U.S. of the 100 most populous cities, giving it more of a homey feel. Minneapolis is incredibly clean, with a seemingly low homeless population, and had plenty of lovely places to wine, dine, and explore.
The Stay
One of the best things about Minneapolis was that the hotels were so inexpensive compared to other locations. We snagged the four star Emery, Autograph Collection Hotel, right in the heart of downtown, for under $150/ night. In 1906, the same building was used as the Midland National Bank and Trust Company. The beautiful marble walls and columns were preserved, as well as the vault, and other period features. The interior is decorated in lovely, deep jewel tones. The guest rooms have a cool mid-century vibe. The bottom floor of the hotel features a beautiful picture-worthy lobby full of foliage, Spyhouse Cafe, a local coffee shop and eatery, and the Guilia restaurant, an Italian restaurant with raving reviews.
Things to See
Stone Arch Bridge
The one place I would recommend no one miss while in Minneapolis is the Stone Arch Bridge. In the 1800’s, Minneapolis was suddenly becoming a thriving mill city. With many mills located on the banks of the Mississippi River, a railway was needed to accommodate the influx of people into the city from the North and to provide a means of transportation of wheat from Canada. The bridge was completed in 1883, and is a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Today, the bridge is used by both pedestrians and bicyclists, and offers a classic view of Minneapolis, with the more modern Minneapolis skyline, Pillsbury Mill, and the Mill City Museum/ Mill Ruins Park. The walk across is a nice, small stroll, and a great way to take in the essence of the city.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Lover of art, the outdoors, and pretty city views? Completely free, one can easily waste a few hours at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. It is one of my favorite places in Minneapolis. The garden features over 40 sculptures that range from super fun, like Hahn/Cock, deep, like La soledad, or iconic, like Spoonbridge and Cherry. After you’re done exploring the 11 acre museum, grab a refreshing drink or cocktail from Cardamom, inside the Walker Art Center, which features contemporary art, and (in an unexpected twist) rooftop mini-golf.
Marjorie Mcneely Conservatory
Another completely free Minnesota attraction is the Marjorie Mcneely Conservatory. It is a Victorian-style glasshouse that is over 100 years old. It hosts a large variety of plants, covering 2 acres “under glass”, with more gardens to be found outside. My favorite part about the conservatory (other than how beautiful it is), is how it has the name and the region that each plant comes from and what each could be used for. It’s a lovely and educational experience.
Minnehaha Falls
Remember the park system being top 5 in the U.S.? Minnehaha Falls definitely contributes to that. This natural, 53-foot waterfall has played a big part of Minneapolis’ history. It was once a Native American treasure, used to power a mill in the early 1900’s, and is now one of the biggest tourist attractions of the city. It is so notable that President Lyndon B. Johnson visited in 1964, as well as President Obama in 2014 when visiting the state. At the 167 acre park centered around the falls, you can easily overlook the top of the waterfall, or take a few steps down to the base of it (super accessible.. only steps from the parking lot). The park also has a playground, a children’s wading pool, an eatery, outdoor picnic shelters, disc golf, and cart rentals. The park is a beautiful space to relax and people watch. It is very lively, but also very relaxing with all the water and natural elements.
Mall of America
Located near the airport, and about 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, you’ll find the Mall of America, the largest mall in the western hemisphere. Even if you don’t want to shop, just go here. You will be impressed by how massive it is! My favorite part about the Mall of America is its attractions. Not only do you find a plethora of shops and eateries, but it also has an aquarium, a theme park, escape rooms, old time photos, laser tag, a mirror maze, and mini golf (David kicked my butt at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf). As long as you like to have fun, there is no way you will be bored in this mall. It has everything one could ever want. If you are planning to visit, I would recommend looking at their website online and scoping out what you actually want to do/ what you would like to make time for, as arriving and then deciding may be a little overwhelming.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Butcher’s Tale
One of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had with impeccable service, The Butcher’s Tale is sure to please. The atmosphere is elegant, yet relaxed. The food was amazing. We had the oysters (topped with parmesan, butter, & lemon)as one of our appetizers as well as the shrimp croquetas. I would highly recommend both, though the oysters are to die for. David had a steak with jalapeno cornbread. I had salmon with fried green tomatoes. Their cocktails were wonderful too.
The Red Rabbit
Another eatery to note was the Red Rabbit. We were both craving Italian, and found this moderately priced dining option. We enjoyed burrata, oysters, garlic bread, and the shrimp garganelli, with a glass of wine to flush it all down. It was a wonderful, filling meal, that hit the spot!
W Minneapolis in The Foshay
This swanky hotel located in the iconic Foshay building offers a nice rooftop bar. The bar doesn’t exactly take you out on the roof, but offers beautiful views from the top of the building of the city and nice cocktails. It was the perfect place for a nightcap.
Minneapolis is a great city for a weekend getaway. I loved that there is enough to see/do, but also enough time to relax and enjoy your time without rushing from place to place. Happy travels, friends!
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