1-Day Itinerary in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Explore the best things to do in Minneapolis - St. Paul in 1 day based on recommendations from local experts.

Day 1

#1
Chain of Lakes Free

#1 in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Local Pick: Must-see Free

Described on by one resident as, "A must for visitors who wish to understand our city," no trip to the Land of 10,000 Lakes is complete without a stroll around some of the metro's most popular. Each of the five bodies of water that encompass the Chain of Lakes byway district has something different to offer: Lake Harriet features live music during the summer, not to mention a bird sanctuary, rose gardens and two family-friendly beaches, while Lake Calhoun draws a more active crowd with plenty of boat and bike rentals and paths for jogging and biking. Though not as popular, the Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake and Brownie Lake are great backdrops for a picnic or a stroll. If you visit during the summer, you'll find a plethora of sporting and live music events at the Chain of Lakes, particularly during July's Aquatennial festival.

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Parks and Gardens Type

Half Day to Full Day Time to Spend

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15-20 minutes by car

#8
Walker Art Center

#8 in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Local Pick: Recommended

Even if you're not incredibly passionate about art, a spin through the Walker Art Center is worth a few hours. It's famous for its collection of modern and contemporary art comprising paintings, sculpture and photographs from both American and European artists. One of the Walker's biggest draws is the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the largest urban sculpture garden in the country and home to the renowned Spoonbridge and Cherry (the piece has become somewhat of an iconic symbol for Minneapolis). For a spectacular view of the city, take a stroll across the nearby Irene Hixon Whitney Footbridge.

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Museums Type

2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend

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10-15 minutes by car

#2
Stone Arch Bridge Free

#2 in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Local Pick: Must-see Free

The Stone Arch Bridge is a must-see for any architecture buff. This 2,100-foot granite and limestone bridge (featuring a total of 23 arches) was constructed in 1883 and was vital to the city's development by increasing movement of people and goods into and out of Minneapolis. Designated a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1971, it is the only stone arch bridge to have ever traversed the Mississippi River. Today, you can walk or ride bikes between Father Hennepin Bluffs Park on the east bank of the river and Mill Ruins Park on the west bank. You might also visit for the bridge's impressive views of downtown Minneapolis (especially at sunset) from its perch over St. Anthony Falls.

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Parks and Gardens Type

2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend

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10 minute walk

#4
Mill City Museum

#4 in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Local Pick: Must-see

To learn more about Minneapolis' industrious past, take some time to tour the Mill City Museum. Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River and housed in what was once the largest flour mill in the world, the museum recreates an authentic mill experience with equipment, railroad cars and family-friendly hands-on exhibits demonstrating milling techniques. The museum also boasts its own baking lab for cooking demonstrations. Past visitors said the museum can be a great way to spend a cold or rainy day, but caution that the admission prices can be a bit high, especially for families. You'll also find a farmers market here — in both summer and winter — in the museum's train shed.

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Museums Type

1 to 2 hours Time to Spend

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5 minute walk

#3
Guthrie Theater

#3 in Minneapolis - St. Paul

Local Pick: Must-see

Named for founder Sir Tyrone Guthrie, the downtown theater is one of the nation's most renowned and one of the city's most beloved treasures. Opening in 1963 with a production of "Hamlet," the Guthrie Theater's repertory company has made a name for itself with its highly praised balance of classical theater and avant-garde productions. Aside from its three individual stages, the theater also boasts a full-service restaurant, two casual eateries, a cocktail lounge and some of the best views of Minneapolis from the banks of the Mississippi River.

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Entertainment and Nightlife Type

2 hours to Half Day Time to Spend