The City of Lakes. And Rooftops. And Festivals.

Just a short trip from Chicago, Minneapolis is where sparkling lakes, rooftop cocktails, and culture-packed weekends come together.

This summer mix things up with a weekend in Minneapolis, where sparkling lakes meet skyline views, patios spill onto every corner, and festivals fill the calendar. Just a short trip from Chicago, Minneapolis offers everything you love about summer: scenic bike rides, waterfront hangs, rooftop cocktails, and a nationally acclaimed arts and food scene. Whether you're here for concerts and craft beer or just want to unwind by the water, we’ve gathered everything you need for an unforgettable summer escape.

Getting here from Chicago

Minneapolis is closer than you think, and getting here is simple. Road trip it in about 6 hours up I-94 (stop at a couple of cheese shops while you cruise through Wisconsin), or ditch the car and hop on Amtrak from Union Station for a chill, no-stress ride that drops you in Downtown St. Paul, just 10 miles from Minneapolis.

Want to maximize your weekend? Nonstop flights from O’Hare or Midway get you here in under 90 minutes. Once you land, light rail or a quick rideshare gets you to the lakes, rooftops, breweries - all of it. However you get here, Minneapolis is closer than you think, and totally worth the trip.

Start Here: Your Chill Summer Weekend in Minneapolis

Looking for lake breezes, patio drinks, and zero pressure to over plan? We got you. Here’s how to spend a weekend in Minneapolis that feels like summer should – easy and fun.

Lake Life & Outdoor Chill

Whether you're on a bike, in a kayak, or on a beach towel with iced coffee, Minneapolis knows how to do outdoors right.

Easy Summer Fun

You came to relax, not check off a to-do list. These picks are low-effort, high-reward.

Top Summer Events

Time your trip around something extra fun. Here are a few iconic events worth the mileage.

Eat & Drink Outdoors

Global flavors. Local favorites. All served al fresco. From lakeside snacks to rooftop dinners, Minneapolis is made for summer dining.

Plan Your Stay

All the essentials, none of the guesswork.

Hotels

The best rooms you’ll barely stay in

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Neighborhoods

Explore neighborhoods as unique as their names

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Explore the Cultural Districts

The Minneapolis Cultural Districts is a city initiative designed to prevent the displacement of residents in gentrifying areas while at the same time supporting the unique cultural history of the neighborhoods within these areas.

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