Last updated on September 27th, 2025 at 05:26 pm
Are you seeking unique things to do in Minneapolis that go beyond the basics? You may be visiting this part of the United States for the first time, or returning to see the city from a different angle. Either way, Minneapolis is packed with activities worth your time. This guide covers the best things to do, from well-known landmarks to hidden gems, urban adventures to quiet escapes.
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Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis: Artistic & Cultural Must-Sees
1. Explore the Walker Art Center & the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
If you love art with a twist, the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden are must-visit spots in the city.
Be sure to check out the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry, a quirky, giant sculpture that showcases Minneapolis’s fun and creative side.
Between the exciting indoor exhibits at the Walker Art Center and the beautiful outdoor sculptures at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, you’ll find a great mix of culture and nature that feels truly special and uniquely Minneapolis.
Tip: Use this self-guided audio tour to explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
2. Glimpse Into the Future at the Weisman Art Museum
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Weisman Art Museum is a great place to visit. The futuristic design of the building is a striking sight right on the Mississippi River.
Inside the museum, you’ll find an ever-changing lineup of exhibits featuring talented local artists alongside big international names. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit!
3. Delight in the Guthrie Theater and Endless Bridge
The Guthrie Theater, situated near St. Anthony Falls, is a premier destination for world-class performances.
Beyond catching a show at the theater, you can also participate in backstage tours, which are offered on Friday and Saturday mornings. You will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes to see the stages, costume and prop shops, and learn about the building’s architecture.
But more than just an event venue, visiting The Guthrie Theater is also a great way to take in scenic views from its Amber Box and Endless Bridge.
The Endless Bridge is more than just a bridge; it’s an observation deck shaped like a theater stage, featuring steps for both sitting and standing. Here you can enjoy beautiful views of the Mississippi River, St. Anthony Falls, the Stone Arch Bridge, and the historic river valley
FYI: The Guthrie is a fantastic spot for photos and soaking in the scenery, even if you’re not attending a show. You can experience the Endless Bridge and Amber Box without an admission ticket to the Guthrie Theater.
4. Venture Out To Minneapolis’ Only Castle
The American Swedish Institute is a museum set in a castle-like mansion, and is a great spot for history buffs and design lovers to explore.
Bonus: Stop by the on-site FIKA, one of the city’s best-kept cafés, for delicious food with a Nordic flair.
5. Tour Mill Ruins Park and Mill City Museum
Visit Mill Ruins Park to explore the fascinating ruins of Minneapolis’ historic flour mills.
The park combines history, nature, and urban scenery along the Mississippi River, with walking paths that let you see the remains of mill foundations, canals, and old railroad trestles.
The nearby Mill City Museum is built into the ruins of the Washburn “A” Mill, which was once the world’s largest flour mill.
The museum has interactive exhibits that tell the story of Minneapolis’ flour milling boom, the power of St. Anthony Falls, and the city’s transformation.
Tip: Explore the Mill City Museum’s story at your own pace with this smartphone Minneapolis walking guide app.
Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis: Outdoor Experiences
6. Marvel at the Iconic Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Park is a public space worth checking out. There are beautiful trails, picnic and relaxation spots, a sandy beach, plenty of green spaces, and the main feature: the 53-foot Minnehaha Falls.
FYI: Minnehaha Falls holds spiritual significance to the culture of the Dakota people (the original stewards of the land). The site was historically a sacred gathering place for ceremonies and storytelling.
When you visit, you can enjoy amazing views from above or take the stairs down to the base for a closer look at the roaring falls.
Tip: Enhance your Minnehaha experience with this self-guided audio guide, available for download to your smartphone. You can stop, start, and pause as you need, exploring at your own pace. No WiFi connection is required once downloaded.
7. Admire the Natural Beauty of Uninhabited Islands
Lake of the Isles has two small wooded islands, Mike’s Island and Raspberry Island. Both are protected wildlife refuges containing very old trees and virgin woods.
To preserve the habitats, these islands are not accessible to the public. Landing on them is prohibited with clear signage around the lake. However, you can enjoy their natural beauty and spot local wildlife from the surrounding walking and biking trails that encircle the lake.
Tip: Lake of the Isles is also a great spot to soak in views of the Minneapolis skyline.
Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis: Guided Tours
8. Learn About Minneapolis’ Culture with a Local Guide
Explore Minneapolis on a guided walking tour led by a local who shares insights into the city’s culture, legends, and unique character.
Learn why Minneapolis is known for its bike-friendly culture and natural beauty.
9. Immerse Yourself in the City on a Walking Art Tour
Unearth downtown Minneapolis’ hidden gems, scenic sights, and flavors on a guided walking art tour.
Stroll from the Guthrie Theatre to the Foshay Tower, enjoy skyline views at Gold Medal Park, walk the Stone Arch Bridge, and explore Nicollet Mall’s dining, bars, and shopping.
10. Deep Dive Into the Past on a Historic Walking Tour
Set off on a private, personalized walking tour of Minneapolis to explore the city’s rich history and landmarks at your own pace.
Your guide will share stories from the past 300 years, including tales of railroad tycoon James J. Hill, as you visit sites like the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park, and the Mississippi River.
11. Roll Through Minneapolis on a Street Trolley Tour
Discover Minneapolis from a unique vantage point on a historic street trolley tour. The tour features live commentary as you travel through the city’s five original districts.
This guided ride is a fun and history-rich introduction to the city, covering more sights than a walking tour.
It’s a great option for people with mobility limitations, if you are short on time, or if you simply want to relax and let someone else do the driving as you take in the city’s scenery.
12. Discover the Mississippi River’s History via Audio Tour
Plunge into the history of the Mississippi River at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour narrated by award-winning storyteller Frank Bures.
Virtually journey from Nicollet Island to Gold Medal Park, crossing landmarks like the Hennepin Avenue and Stone Arch Bridges, while uncovering 12,000 years of river history.
Hear stories about St. Anthony Falls, Spirit Island, Guinness paddling records, the Grain Belt Sign, and even Frank’s own near-death experience in the river.
Tip: You will have unlimited access to the audio before and after your booking, allowing you to enjoy the tour in person or virtually from the comfort of your own home.
13. Walk Through the Largest Skyway System in the World
Experience Minneapolis on a 2.5-hour walking tour of the city’s famous Skyway system, which is the largest continuous network of enclosed bridges in the world.
The Skyway system spans over 9 miles and connects 80 downtown blocks, offering a unique way to explore the city’s architecture, history, and hidden gems while staying comfortable in any weather.
Tip: Expect to walk up to two miles with breaks, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis: Water Activities
14. Sail Along the Mississippi River
Set sail on the Minneapolis Queen paddle-wheeler from Bohemian Flats and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River.
Take in views of the downtown skyline, St. Anthony Falls, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and the striking 35W Bridge, while gliding past the University of Minnesota’s riverfront.
As you admire the stunning sights and city landmarks, you will learn about Minneapolis’ rich history through an engaging narrated tour.
15. Get Cruising on Lake Minnetonka
Take off from the Port of Excelsior for a 90-minute narrated cruise on Lake Minnetonka aboard a comfortable yacht.
Soak in views of elegant estates, charming cottages, and historic yacht clubs while learning about the lake’s rich history.
Relax on deck with stunning scenery all around, and enjoy snacks and drinks available for purchase from the full-service cash bar.
Unique Things to do in Minneapolis: Urban Views & Landmarks
16. Visit the Only Stone Arch Bridge Over Mississippi River
The Stone Arch Bridge is a must-see when in Minneapolis. It is a historic railway turned pedestrian bridge that has unbeatable views of the downtown skyline, the Mississippi River, and St. Anthony Falls.
Walking or biking across the bridge allows you to enjoy the great urban riverfront scenery and learn about the area’s history through nearby interpretive signs.
17. Ascend the One-Time Tallest Building in Minnesota
The Foshay Tower was once the tallest building in the state of Minnesota when it opened in 1929. It stands 447 feet tall with 32 floors and features a design inspired by the Washington Monument.
Today, the building operates as the W Minneapolis – The Foshay Hotel and includes an open-air observation deck with 360° views of the city. What better way to soak in the city’s scenic sights than from this deck?
FYI: The Foshay Tower also has a mini museum inside that showcases the building’s history and construction.
18. Wander Through Boom Island Park
If you’re looking for a quieter, lesser-known, yet great spot, Boom Island Park is a hidden gem located near Northeast Minneapolis.
The park has scenic walking and biking trails, picnic areas with grills, a playground, a boat launch for kayaking, and the Boom Island lighthouse.
Boom Island Park also has an observation platform perfect for quiet sunset views, stunning river views, and picturesque skyline photo opportunities. It’s a good place to relax or take a break from downtown crowds.
Unique Things to do in Minneapolis: Entertainment & Adventure
19. Step Back Into Time at Bryant Lake Bowl
Bryant Lake Bowl is a quirky local hangout that evokes a nostalgic yet lively vibe.
It is a unique mix of vintage bowling alley on classic 1950s wooden lanes, scratch-made food from a locally sourced menu, and live entertainment in a cozy 90-seat cabaret theater.
20. Peek into an Icon’s Life at First Avenue
First Avenue is a legendary music venue in downtown Minneapolis. It is a cultural icon with deep roots in the city’s music scene.
Fun Fact: First Avenue was once the preferred stage of the celebrated artist Prince, as well as the filming location for his movie, Purple Rain.
For a deeper dive into Minneapolis through the story of Prince, try this self-guided audio tour, which you can enjoy at your own pace. Simply download the tour to your smartphone and explore whenever you’re ready; no WiFi required
Your tour will start on Nicollet Avenue and end at the iconic First Avenue. The route features landmarks like the 100-foot Prince mural and the Music Wall.
FYI: First Avenue also has multiple performance spaces where you can enjoy live music.
21. Navigate Through an Outdoor Escape Room
Participate in an interactive clue-solving adventure through Downtown Minneapolis and the Mill District, via a combination of an escape room and urban exploration.
Follow a storyline as you hunt for clues hidden in murals, statues, and landmarks, solving puzzles and cracking codes to reveal your next destination.
FYI: The game takes about two hours, but you can set your own pace and use hints as needed.
22. Immerse Yourself in a Scavenger Hunt
Explore downtown Minneapolis with a smartphone-powered scavenger hunt that mixes trivia, puzzles, and challenges for you and your group.
Play together or compete against one another as you discover the city’s landmarks, including Mill City Museum, City Hall, and the Foshay Tower.
Earn points, snap fun challenge photos to keep after the game, and uncover fascinating facts about Minneapolis’ history, art, and culture along the way.
23. Soar to New Heights on an Indoor Skydiving Adventure
Take flight at iFLY Minneapolis, where a state-of-the-art wind tunnel lets you safely defy gravity on a simulated skydive.
The professional instructors will guide you as you learn to control your body in the air using different positions.
You will enjoy a two-minute freefall that feels like skydiving, only longer and at a fraction of the cost of a tandem jump!
Check out our iFLY Dallas Review for details about what to expect on an indoor skydiving adventure.
Unique Things to do in Minneapolis: Shopping & Dining
24. Shop at the Largest Mall in the United States
The Mall of America is not in Minneapolis proper (it is in the next-door city of Bloomington); however, it still deserves a mention in this roundup.
It is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the U.S., with over 500 stores, 60 restaurants, and exciting attractions including Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor amusement park, SEA LIFE aquarium, mini-golf, and more.
FYI: Expect state tax-free shopping when you purchase clothing or footwear at the Mall of America.
When visiting the Mall of America, we recommend stopping by the Museum of Illusions for a sensory adventure. It is chock-full of interactive exhibits where you can defy gravity, change your size, walk through a giant kaleidoscope, and discover how the brain perceives reality through holograms, illusion rooms, and installations.
Check out our Museum of Illusions Dallas review to get an idea of what to expect in Minneapolis.
25. Traverse a Pedestrian-Friendly Mall
Nicollet Mall is a unique, pedestrian-friendly street in downtown Minneapolis where only buses, taxis, and emergency vehicles are allowed.
The pedestrian walkways are a great spot to explore as they are lined with shops, restaurants, public art, and outdoor seating.
Nicollet Mall connects to the world’s largest skyway system, letting you walk indoors to many places at any time of year.
26. Join a Secret Food Tour of Minneapolis
Sign up for a Secret Food Tour of Minneapolis guided by a local food enthusiast.
You will uncover the city’s hidden culinary gems, bold flavors, and overall delicious food in two historic, trendsetting neighborhoods.
You’ll explore the North Loop’s transformed warehouses filled with bakeries, gastropubs, and award-winning restaurants before crossing the Stone Arch Bridge into St. Anthony, where innovative chefs redefine Midwestern cuisine.
Along the way, taste dishes influenced by Scandinavian roots, immigrant traditions, and Indigenous heritage.
By the end of the tour, you will have a full stomach and a deeper appreciation of Minneapolis’ evolving food scene!
27. Sip on Local Brews at an All-Inclusive Craft Brewery Tour
Discover Minneapolis’ impressive brewpub scene on a guided small-group brewery tour with unlimited craft beer tastings.
Choose an afternoon or evening departure and enjoy snacks provided as you ride by minibus to local favorite breweries. Expect all-you-can-drink samples at each brewery stop.
Unique Things to do in Minneapolis: Miscellaneous
28. Capture Memories on a Professional Photoshoot
What better way to memorialize your time in Minneapolis than with a professional photoshoot?
On this scenic journey, you’ll visit both iconic landmarks and hidden gems that most visitors never see.
While you soak in the beauty of the city, your moments will be captured by a professional photographer. You’ll also receive insider tips to enhance your travel experience and uncover Minneapolis’ best-kept secrets.
How to Spend 36 Hours in Minneapolis
If you are short on time but still want to make the most of your visit to Minneapolis, check out our 36 Hours in Minneapolis Travel Guide.
Final Thoughts About Unique Things to Do in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a great city full of surprises that invites you to look a little closer.
You might find yourself savoring craft beer in a cozy taproom, pausing to admire the power of Minnehaha Falls, or wandering across the Stone Arch Bridge as the sun sets over the skyline.
Each experience reveals another layer of the city’s personality, rooted in creativity, culture, and nature. Hidden gems mix seamlessly with iconic landmarks, giving you plenty of reasons to keep exploring at your own pace.
No matter how you spend your time in Minneapolis, you’ll leave with lasting memories, new stories to tell, and the feeling that there’s always more waiting for you here.
Happy Travels!
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2 thoughts on “28 Unique Things to do in Minneapolis, MN”
Museum of Illusions. That will be my first stop next time for sure 😊
Great choice! 😊