Like so many others, my connection to the 38th Street Cultural District began on May 25, 2020, when news of George Floyd’s murder started to circulate. I remember sitting in my apartment across town, watching yet another Black life taken at the hands of police, feeling gutted — angry, scared, and so deeply sad. That grief still sits with me, but over the years, it’s also been reshaped by something else: the undeniable resilience and love this community holds.

The 38th Street corridor is about more than tragedy. It’s about history, healing, and joy. It’s about resistance and rest. It’s about the people, good food, Black art, small business, and deep roots that stretch back generations.

These days, the 38th and Chicago intersection, the site of George Floyd’s killing now known as George Floyd Square, is the most recognizable landmark in the district. But the corridor runs along 38th Street for nearly 20 city blocks and is a neighborhood with rich African American history dating back to the 1930s when it became the third Black neighborhood in Minneapolis, known as Southside.

Due to restrictive housing covenants, this pocket of Minneapolis was one of the few at the time where Black people could own property. Black residents flocked to the area. From 1930 to 1970, the area became home to the Black Business District with more than 20 businesses. From 1980 to 2000, the district underwent drastic changes including the closing of Central High School in 1982, forcing families to seek education in other neighborhoods, rising Hispanic populations, and the closing of almost all the businesses in the area. But over the last 20 years, the area has transformed into a thriving hub of minority-owned businesses bringing bold flavors and unique experiences to the area.

This is how I’d spend a day in this district now — honoring the past while soaking up the life that continues to bloom here.

Start Your Day at George Floyd Square

Even years later, George Floyd Square (GFS) remains a sacred space - a place to reflect, grieve, honor, and imagine a better world. The energy there has shifted, it’s quieter now, more contemplative, but it still holds immense power. Art, offerings, protest signs, and murals continue to fill the space. This isn’t a tourist destination; it’s a community-led memorial and a call to action. Go with care. Go with intention.

Whenever I visit, I keep the words of Jeanelle Austin, a lead caretaker of the space, close:

“What’s important is that when you’re coming, remember that this is a neighborhood where people live, it’s a sacred space, it’s a place of pilgrimage.”

But perhaps even more important is what we take with us when we leave:

“It’s important that [we] learn from the imagination of how [we] can take the principles of community building back to [our] neighborhoods and practice justice in [our] communities.”

Over time, my own moments at GFS have become about presence, gratitude, and reflection. I walk through the space slowly — past the Say Their Names Cemetery, past neighbors cooking for one another, kids playing in the streets, artists painting, friends singing around campfires at the People’s Way. Dancing, storytelling, healing — it’s all alive here.

George Floyd Square has always been a place where people are prioritized over property. It's a true example of what a community can look like when it’s rooted in care, truth, and collective memory.

Next, grab a coffee at Bichota.

This Black-and-women-owned café is more than just a spot to grab a latte — it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows, bouncing off bright, colorful décor and setting the tone for a space that feels as warm as it looks. One wall is dedicated to a rotating gallery of local art to admire or even purchase.

The coffee? Some of the best in the city, hands down. My current obsession is the Capriotada — a sweet, spiced golden raisin latte. I think about it regularly. Their beans are uniquely and ethically sourced and every detail, from the drinks to the décor, feels intentional.

Bichota is also big on building community. On Thursdays, they host weekly craft nights, and there’s always something new popping up - from art shows to small business markets. If you wanna stay in the loop, make sure to follow them on Instagram, it’s the best way to keep up with their latest events and offerings.

Then, swing by Listen2Us Studio

Owned and operated by KingDemetrius Pendleton — an independent journalist, photographer, activist, and community documentarian, this space holds the power of stories that were nearly erased. Inside, you'll find walls lined with photographs from the years of uprising, each image captured through KingDemetrius’ lens and lived experience.

But this isn’t just a gallery — it’s a living archive. KingDemetrius offers guided tours of the space, sharing the backstory behind each photo and weaving in both his personal journey and the collective voice of the community. He holds narratives that never made it into mainstream media, and he’s committed to making sure those truths aren’t lost.

“There’s an importance of independent Black media,” he says. “In traditional media, we’re taught to hide our true self… in independent media, you don’t have duct tape on your mouth.” That quote captures the essence of Listen2Us: it’s a place where voices are heard, stories are honored, and the truth is non-negotiable.

Let's talk lunch plans

For me, it’s always a toss-up between Smoke in the Pit and Just Turkey. Both are Black-owned, both deliver every time. Just Turkey has been my go-to for years — the Jerk Turkey Tips are unmatched — but Smoke in the Pit’s ribs and wings? Chef’s kiss. If you’re craving something different, head over to Tacos El Kevin for street-style tacos that hit every time. You really can’t go wrong — it’s all about what you're in the mood for.

If the weather’s nice, grab your lunch to-go and post up at Phelps Field Park. It’s the perfect picnic spot, especially with the energy of the community all around you. The basketball court, designed by artist Jendayi Berry, is the centerpiece — bold, colorful, and full of motion. Whether you jump into a pick-up game or just hang back and watch, it’s a space that feels alive.

Still feeling snacky? The Seward Co-op Friendship Store is right around the corner. Pick up some local goodies and a cold drink to round out your picnic — or just wander the aisles for fun flavors and good vibes. Either way, this part of the day is all about slowing down and soaking up the heart of the neighborhood.

Honorable mention: Powderhorn Park

Technically just outside the cultural district, but it’s too close (and too essential) not to shout out. It’s the home of the annual Mayday Parade and Powderhorn Art Fair, both of which bring out some of the most vibrant, creative, freedom-loving energy you’ll ever feel in this city.

Dinner? Nicollet & 38th is where it's at

Abang Yoli is one of my favorite restaurants by one of my favorite chefs - Jamie Yoo. It’s Korean street food and the menu has zero misses but what’s really fun here is the sauce selection. My advice is to order some fried chicken, a side of fries, and one of every sauce. Looking for a different palate? Boludo offers “a taste of Buenos Aires” and is a local favorite for empanadas and pizza.

Catch a show at Pillsbury House & Theatre.

This cozy, intimate space always has something new and meaningful on stage. Many shows feature local talent, adding to the authenticity and artistry of the neighborhood. Check out their website to see what’s on stage!

End the night with a sweet little nightcap.

I love Petite León for small bites and bold cocktails. My go to is the piquillo peppers, fries, and a steak tartare with a Brawndo. Their three item dessert menu is also worth a visit - I would at least order one. Nighthawks is great for something more lowkey, think diner-style comfort food with a cool twist. If you don’t make it there for a nightcap, keep them on your list for brunch - their Rueben benedict is an absolute hit.

A few more local gems:

Finer Meats & Eats
Just a few blocks from the heart of the district, this neighborhood butcher has been serving the community for over 60 years. Whether you're grilling out or stocking up, it's a great spot to grab quality meats with friendly, old-school service.

Cinco de Mayo Mercado
A vibrant corner store full of flavor — from fresh produce and spices to grab-and-go snacks, aguas frescas, and tacos. It’s a quick stop that packs a lot of heart, and it’s beloved by locals for a reason.

Don't Miss These Annual Events

• Mayday Parade & Celebration: A beautiful explosion of puppetry, community theater, and activism.
• Powderhorn Art Fair: A summer staple where local artists, makers, and families all come together.
• Powderhorn Art Sled Rally: A whimsical, community-driven winter event where participants showcase their creativity by crafting and riding imaginative, often humorous sleds down a snowy hill in Powderhorn Park.
  

No matter how you choose to spend your time in the 38th Street Cultural District, know that it’s about more than just what you see, it’s about how you show up. Every mural, meal, and memory made here is part of a larger story — one of resilience, imagination, and collective care. This community continues to rise, dream, and redefine what’s possible, and visitors are invited to be part of that movement in meaningful ways.

As the area continues to evolve, so do conversations about its future. The City of Minneapolis has proposed transforming the autonomous zone into a permanent memorial — an effort to preserve the legacy of the Black community and honor those we’ve lost. Some believe this is a step forward, while others feel no changes should occur until the 24 demands laid out by the community are fully met.

Despite differing perspectives, there’s a shared desire to protect the spirit of the space. Brandon Williams, George Floyd’s nephew, captures it best:

“I hope it remains a place where people can come and reflect on how we got here and how we’re going to move forward. I hope people can find something positive and healing in this space, despite this tragic situation. There needs to be a permanent memorial for this story to be preserved and passed down to generations to come.”

So when you come here, come with love. Listen deeply. Move with respect. And when you leave, carry the spirit of this place with you. Because this story isn’t just Minneapolis’. It belongs to all of us.

• Butter Bakery Cafe - Serving "extraordinarily ordinary" made from scratch food for breakfast and lunch since 2006 . Don't skip the biscuits!
• Sabathani Community Center - founded in 1966 with a vision to be a vibrant leader with strong partnerships in a community where people of all ages and cultures are able to live, learn, work and play in a healthy and safe environment. Since 1979 it has settled in the former Bryant Junior High School.
• The Aliveness Project - The Aliveness Project was founded over 30 years ago as a community center for and driven by people living with HIV.
• Twin Cities Massage - Established in 2021 by Adeliah Mulli, Twin Cities Massage is in the business of facilitating pain relief and relaxation through thoughtful bodywork. Specialties here include deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy.