1. Learn about some military history

Head to Fort Snelling from 10am to 4pm to explore the grounds and discover the story behind this historic location. Learn stories of the military fort and its surrounding area, home to a wide history that includes Native peoples, trade, soldiers and veterans, enslaved people, immigrants, and the changing landscape.

Check out the Minnesota Air National Guard Museum to explore one of the largest displays of military aircraft in the five state area. You'll see fighters, cargo planes, helicopters and utility aircraft used by the U.S. military. Get a close up of ejection seats, flight simulators, jet engines and weaponry from WWI to the present. Be sure to schedule your tour at least 10 days in advance.

2. Honor and remember those who have sacrificed for our country at Lakewood Cemetery

Visit Lakewood Cemetery for a special Memorial Day ceremony. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 25 from 10:30 to 11:15am. Following the ceremony, stick around the grounds for music, refreshments, and activities for the whole family including a new Welcome Center, Trolley Tours and a Flower Tent.

The grounds will be open from 8am to 8 pm. Memorial Day events are free and open to the public.

3. Visit a Park

Whether you're looking for a nature getaway, an urban escape, or a romantic walk, Minneapolis has got a park for you. Known for our accessible and abundant park system, you're never more than six blocks from a park at any given point in the city! Bring a good book or tune into our favorite Minneapolis playlists and enjoy some quality time with Mother Nature at some of our favorite parks this Memorial Day Weekend.

4. Go on an adventure at Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls is one of the oldest and most striking sights in Minneapolis. The crash of the water and the cool air rising from the basin with the contrast of the urban setting make it one of the most popular destinations in the city. Peer over the ledge at the start of the 53-foot waterfall or take the staircase down to the bottom to explore from a different angle.

There’s plenty to do around Minnehaha once you’re done appreciating the views. Take a stroll through Minnehaha Park and bring some snacks to set up lunch at one of their picnic tables. Even easier, dine at the seasonal restaurant right next door to the Falls. Well-known for stand-out tacos and seafood, Sea Salt is always a favorite.

5. Explore Minneapolis on two wheels with our bike share program

As one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, Minneapolis is a hot spot for traveling on two wheels. The best part about it is you don’t even need to own your own bike! Our bike share program makes it easy to get outside and take a spin around town. Grab a bike at one of the blue city bike racks around town, rent a bike from a local bike shop, or use an app (like Lime or Lyft) to locate a bike. Either way, ditch the car this weekend and get moving! Here's how to spend a weekend exploring Minneapolis by bike.

6. Shop and taste local at a Minneapolis farmers market

Local produce, fresh ingredients and unique hand-crafted goods are what the Minneapolis Farmers Markets are all about! We’re proud to provide access to fresh, healthy food, which is why we have over 25 different farmers markets throughout the city.

7. Hike around the city

Put on your walking shoes and grab the dog collar, because we're all getting a little restless! A City by Nature through and through, Minneapolis has dozens of hiking opportunities. We're all itching to stretch our legs these days, and with the perfect scenic hiking route there's no excuse to stay inside all day. Check out some of our favorite places to hike!

8. Takeout and picnic

Perfect spring weather is calling our names. And so is a delicious meal that we don't have to cook ourselves. Support our local Minneapolis restaurants by ordering takeout and finding a nearby park to post up and dig in! We've got a few ideas for you with our favorite global flavors. Maybe you want to create your own spread. In that case, here's where to get the best picnic fixings in the city. Bring a blanket and turn on your favorite tunes while enjoying the simple satisfaction of a picnic in the grass.

9. Quench your thirst with a local craft brew

It’s no doubt that we have a passion for beer in Minneapolis. Breweries are everywhere and we can’t complain because our brew masters know what they’re doing. If you're feeling adventurous, go on a brewery crawl in Northeast. Start at Padraigs and then make your way to Bauhaus and Sociable Cider Werks (hard cider – and it’s gluten free!), and then end at Indeed. You’ll never be walking for more than 10 minutes, and you don’t have to worry about driving. If you’re looking for a bite to eat with your beverage, check out our favorite spots for brew food!

10. Catch some rays on one of our awesome patios or rooftops

As the weather gets warmer and the sun starts shining, we're eager to fill patio seats and take over rooftops. Our thirst for adventure has us always on the hunt for something a little outside the box. Enter the Minneapolis outdoor dining scene. From lakeside dining to rooftop lawn bowling, there's not an experience we won't try. Check out the most unique outdoor dining experiences the city has to offer.

11. Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. And as the month winds down this is your chance to celebrate and experience Asian culture. Minneapolis has plenty of opportunities for you to learn about the AAPI community, from special virtual events, delicious food spots, museum exhibits and more.

12. Get a Minnesota State Fair preview

Head over to the State Fair Grounds for an early preview of the Great Minnesota Get-Together. The Kickoff to Summer at the Fair returns again running right through Memorial Day weekend, May 21-24, 2026! Enjoy the State Fair food staples, live music, shopping, activities and entertainment for the whole family. Attendance is limited per day.