Minneapolis Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Safety and Getting Around
Is Minneapolis safe for tourists?
Yes, like any major city, use common sense. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Are there specific areas to avoid?
Some users mention exercising caution around certain light rail tracks, particularly near 5th and Hennepin, and the HCMC Hospital area late at night.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Biking is highly recommended. Minneapolis has a phenomenal bike trail system.
Public transit (bus and light rail) is a good option. Consider using the MetroTransit app for day passes.
Lyft and Uber are readily available.
Walking is a great way to explore specific neighborhoods, like the North Loop or the Chain of Lakes.
Is it a good idea to rent a car?
It can be helpful for exploring areas outside the downtown core. However, parking can be a challenge and some users advise against renting certain car brands.
Is the skyway system useful?
Yes, the skyways are a unique and practical way to get around downtown, especially in bad weather.
Things to Do & See
What are the must-do activities for a first-time visitor?
Walk the Stone Arch Bridge (note: check for construction closures).
Visit Minnehaha Falls.
Explore the Chain of Lakes (Bde Maka Ska, Harriet, etc.).
Check out the Mill City Museum and the Guthrie Theater’s “Endless Bridge.”
Walk or bike along the Mississippi riverfront.
What are some free attractions?
Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is free every day.
The Walker Art Center’s Sculpture Garden is a great spot.
The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory (in St. Paul) is donation-based.
Walking around the lakes and parks is, of course, free.
What museums should I visit?
Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) and the Walker Art Center are popular art museums.
The Mill City Museum provides a great look into the city’s history.
The Bell Museum of Natural History and the Science Museum (in St. Paul) are also highly-rated options.
Are there any unique or “hidden gems”?
The House of Balls is a quirky art studio.
The Gopher Way Tunnels on the University of Minnesota campus.
Franconia Sculpture Park, while a bit outside the city, is a recommended stop.
What’s the nightlife like?
The North Loop, especially along Washington Avenue, is considered a great area for nightlife with many bars and restaurants.
Uptown is also a popular spot for bars.
First Avenue is a famous concert venue.
Any tips for visiting the Mall of America?
It’s massive, so plan your visit.
Some people recommend going for the experience of its size, not necessarily for a full day of shopping.
You can find some good restaurants inside, like Twin City Grill.
What’s a good day trip from Minneapolis?
Stillwater, MN, on the St. Croix River, is often mentioned for its charming downtown and river views.
A trip along the North Shore of Lake Superior (to Duluth and Grand Marais) is a longer but highly recommended excursion.
Food & Drink
What is a “Jucy Lucy” and where should I get one?
A “Jucy Lucy” is a cheeseburger with the cheese cooked inside the meat patty.
The two main rivals are Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club. Travelers are fiercely divided on which is better, so many recommend trying both.
What are the best unique restaurants in Minneapolis?
Owamni: A highly recommended and unique restaurant serving indigenous cuisine. Many suggest it as a must-visit for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Vinai: For Hmong food.
Gai Noi: For Thai and Laotian cuisine.
Chimborazo: For Ecuadorian food.
Matt’s Bar: For the famous Jucy Lucy.
What kind of ethnic food is Minneapolis known for?
Minneapolis is known for its excellent East African (Ethiopian, Somali) and Southeast Asian (Hmong, Vietnamese, Thai, Laotian) food scenes.
Some specific recommendations include Erta Ale for Ethiopian food, and various spots along Nicollet Avenue for Vietnamese.
What are some good spots for a burger?
Matt’s Bar and The Nook are often mentioned for the Jucy Lucy.
Bulls Horn is another popular choice.
What are some good upscale dining options?
Spoon & Stable is a popular choice for consistent, high-quality food.
Demi is a high-end, tasting-menu experience from the same chef.
Alma, Bar La Grassa, and Porzana are also well-regarded.
Where can I get good pizza?
Young Joni and Rosalia are frequently mentioned.
Other popular places include Wrecktangle and Punch Pizza.
Any good food halls?
Malcolm Yards Food Hall and Graze are popular for their variety of options.
The Midtown Global Market is a great place for a quick and diverse lunch.
Where can I get a good coffee or pastry?
Isles Bun and Coffee is famous for its cinnamon rolls.
Black Walnut Bakery is a highly-rated bakery.
Various coffee shops are scattered throughout the city.
General Tips
What’s the weather like?
Minneapolis is known for its cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers.
Summer is a popular time to visit to take advantage of the parks and lakes.
What should I pack?
For summer, pack layers and comfortable shoes for walking and biking.
For winter, bundle up!
Remember that Minnesota has tax-free clothing.
Is it a good city for families?
Yes, there are many family-friendly activities like Como Park Zoo, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the rides at the Mall of America.
Any tips for sports fans?
You can catch a Twins baseball game at their “nice field.”
For soccer fans, MNUFC is the local team.
Is it worth visiting St. Paul too?
Yes, many recommend a trip to St. Paul to see the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the State Capitol. It’s easy to get between the two cities.