12 Unique Things to do in Minneapolis, MN to Help you Get to Know the City of Lakes
Although it is best known as one of the Twin Cities, Minneapolis is a standout on its own in the
Midwest. From its gorgeous lakes to its diverse neighborhoods, there are so many unique things
to do in Minneapolis.
Whether you’re about to buy a home in the area, rent a house in the city, or you’re looking for an
apartment for rent in Minneapolis, MN, these local experts have helped us compile the perfect
list of activities to help you get to know the city like the back of your hand.
1. Take in the gorgeous Lake Harriet
“Living in Minneapolis means embracing every season with open arms,” shares Mycah, owner
of Mycah Bain Photography. “There’s no better way to do that than biking or taking a stroll
around nearby Lake Harriet. It’s more than just exercise - it’s a chance to feel connected to the
community, share quiet moments with loved ones, and watch the city evolve with the changing
seasons.”
2. Experience a variety of comforts with Hotel Emery
In the heart of Minneapolis, you will find Emery, Autograph Collection, a favorite spot for both
travelers and locals alike. Their gorgeous public lobby is home to both Spyhouse Coffee Bar
and Lounge and Giulia, their Northern Italian restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place
to grab your favorite hot drink or try something new like Giulia’s unique Mozzarella a Mano
experience, Emery’s is a must-add to your Minneapolis bucket list.
3. Stroll the storied shelves of Strive
Strive Bookstore is more than just a bookstore. It’s a peaceful, inclusive haven where every
story brings you closer to the community. With shelves full of works from underrepresented
voices and diverse perspectives, you’ll find an enriching experience that’s both welcoming and
thought-provoking. Whether you’re a book lover or just looking for a cozy place to unwind, this
unique thing to do in Minneapolis invites you to connect, explore, and be inspired.
4. Sip on a favorite drink while exploring Lyndale Park
Start your day at Gigi’s Cafe in the Uptown neighborhood. Fuel up on delicious coffee and
pastries before heading a few blocks southwest to the Minneapolis Peace Garden in Lyndale
Park. This garden features beautiful perennial plantings and dwarf conifers among peace rocks
from Nagasaki and Hiroshima.
5. Try your hand at weekly trivia
Tucked into the Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood is Twin City 400 Tavern, the ideal spot for
food lovers and trivia enthusiasts alike. You can test your knowledge every Tuesday for Trivia
Night while enjoying the signature dishes and drinks that make this hidden gem in Minneapolis a
favorite all week long.
6. Immerse yourself in Swedish culture
For a truly unique thing to do in Minneapolis, you have to visit the American Swedish Institute.
This renowned cultural hub offers a variety of exhibitions showcasing Nordic art, crafts, and
history with a unique museum shop and award-winning FIKA Cafe. Not to mention the historic
Turnblad Mansion, Minnesota’s only castle.
7. Get a true taste of Minneapolis at a local brewery
Utepils Brewing celebrates the lively community atmosphere of the City of Lakes. With live
music, weekly events, local food trucks, and special festivals, it’s the perfect place to experience
the essence of Minneapolis: a welcoming hub where diverse cultures and creative expressions
thrive together.
8. Elevate your adventure at the Foshay Tower
“If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Minneapolis, head downtown to check out the
Foshay Tower,” shares Kristen, travel blogger of Expedition Kristen. “Purchase a ticket to take
the elevator up to the Foshay Tower museum. Here, you can learn about the builder, Wilbur
Foshay, and the building’s interesting history during the roaring 20s. Then, head to the
observation deck for a complete 360 view of the city. On a clear day, you can see Minneapolis’s
twin city, St. Paul.”
9. Check out the iconic North Loop neighborhood
“Being a part of the North Loop neighborhood is really something special,” shares Marisa, owner
of In The Loop Coffee, a hidden gem in this Minneapolis neighborhood. “It has ‘European walk
everywhere’ vibes with fantastic eateries and coffee, each with its own unique flare. Dog friendly
and neighborhood centric, this community has its own association and holds annual meetings
that are great for getting to know the neighbors. We love going places and running into people
we know.”
10. Paint and sip your way around the Twin Cities
Add some creativity to your adventures in the area by joining an event with Paint & Sip
Minnesota by Your Bearded Artist. This unique thing to do in Minneapolis is a great opportunity
to make memories with art while exploring the city. With all the supplies you’ll need provided
and no experience necessary, you can laugh, socialize, and have fun while falling in love with
art and the city.
11. Entertain your taste buds at Wrecktangle Pizza
“If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Minneapolis, stop by Wrecktangle Pizza in the Lyn
Lake neighborhood,” shares Phil, owner of Minnesota Dairy Lab, local ice cream innovator. “They have the best Detroit-style pizza and smoked chicken wings in town. And, of course, you absolutely cannot forget the ice cream.”
12. Find your new favorite hangout at The Terminal Bar
This longtime landmark has been a classic of the Northeast neighborhood since 1932. Although
the area has changed a lot over time, The Terminal Bar has always prided itself in being the
local bar that anyone, and they mean anyone, can come to and feel right at home. Good music,
classic drinks, and pickled eggs await your visit.
Unique things to do in Minneapolis, MN: Why you shouldn’t skip the City of Lakes
Is Minneapolis a good place to live? Hopefully these local experts were able to help you decide
with this list of unique things to do in Minneapolis. The City of Lakes is truly a Midwestern gem
full of adventures waiting to be had. Whether you’re just passing through the Twin Cities,
thinking about moving to the city, or you’re trying to get to know your new home, there is truly
something for everyone here.
View full article at ApartmentGuide.com
Want to make your Game Day experience a great one? Check out this segment with our friends at Twin Cities Live for some great tips!
“The conversation was fantastic and the beer was even better.”
That’s how Ryan and Jim from the Nordeast Podcast described their recent interview with our very own Dan Justesen.
A lot of good conversations take place at the Fernweh taproom. Not all of them are recorded (which is probably a good thing in some cases), but this one was. You can listen to the whole thing right now on Soundcloud.
Ryan, Jim, and Dan talked about where to find Utepils, how we’ve managed to make the taproom feel “warm” even though it’s a giant warehouse, and why we care as much about the experience you have drinking our beer as we do about the beer itself.
Dan got to do most of the talking, but Ryan and Jim had a lot of nice things to say. Case in point:
“This does feel like one of the most well-planned out breweries. Everything is to a ‘T.’ It seems like you guys are set up to be brewing wonderful beer for a very long time in the Twin Cities.”
(That’s the plan!)
“Anybody who’s listening, definitely come down to this brewery...This is not just an everyday, run-of-the-mill brewery. This is a whole different experience.”
(We couldn’t agree more.)
