A Horticulturist's Dream

Haven't you heard? Minneapolis is ripe for the picking. If you're looking for flowers and fauna, there's no better place to be. Take some tips, then take a stroll through our lush metro area.

Morning
As soon as the rooster crows, head to Lake Harriet, a pearl within the city’s Chain of Lakes, to catch a glimpse of the beaming sunrise. Follow the pedestrian paths around the lake to Lyndale Park Rose Garden, where you will find more than 100 varietals of roses. After sauntering through the garden, head west to the Harriet Band Shell to catch live music and soak in the natural landscape (along with the buzzing city life).

Hungry yet? Head to the quaint Linden Hills neighborhood, laced with earthy boutiques, shops and restaurants. Grab a cappuccino or latte at Zumbro or Sebastian Joe’s to wet your whistle.

Afternoon
Next, take a drive out to the ‘burbs. Don’t worry—you’re in for a treat. Make your way to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Run by the University of Minnesota, the Arboretum features thousands of acres of gardens with annual and perennial displays. And—to boot—get your heart pumpin’ with 12.5 miles of garden paths and hiking trails while passing by the Arboretum’s 5,000 plant species.

For lunch, eat within the Arboretum’s main house, where you can find healthy soups, salads and sandwiches. If you have time, hit up the Walker Art Center’s Sculpture Garden where you will see not only world-renowned sculptures like the Spoonbridge and Cherry, but also a beautiful greenhouse and lush greenscape.