Downtown
Three stadiums, river walks, world class theaters, live music venues, hotels, shopping and dining options – you’ll never run out of things to do downtown.
Downtown Minneapolis is filled with a variety of experiences all within a walkable urban setting. The efficient public transit and well-designed streetscape make downtown a breeze to navigate - entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences are always just a short walk or ride away. From the historic charm of the Mill District to the cutting-edge performances in the theater district, every corner reveals a new facet of the city's character. Savor farm-to-table cuisine at a trendy restaurant, cheer on professional sports teams at state-of-the-art arenas, immerse yourself in the city's rich art scene at unique museums and music venues and so much more.
Downtown's Top Hits
Begin your adventure in Downtown Minneapolis by visiting the iconic Stone Arch Bridge* and taking in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and St. Anthony Falls. For a bird's-eye perspective of the city, head to the top of the Foshay Observation Deck, where you can marvel at the sprawling cityscape. If the weather isn’t cooperating, duck into the skyway, Minneapolis's elevated pedestrian walkway system full of restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping.
Sports enthusiasts can catch professional games at Target Field (Minnesota Twins), Target Center (Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx), or U.S. Bank Stadium (Minnesota Vikings), while history buffs should make time for the Mill City Museum to delve into Minneapolis' industrial past. For a tranquil escape within the urban setting, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Loring Park.
Downtown Minneapolis is a food lover's paradise, offering diverse culinary experiences. Indulge in Italian cuisine at Giulia, enjoy British fare and rooftop views at Brit's Pub, or indulge in a classic steakhouse experience at Murray's. For Japanese comfort food and incredible ramen, head to Zen Box Izakaya, or explore contemporary Laotian flavors at Gai Noi.
The arts scene is equally exciting, with the legendary First Avenue music venue at its heart. Theater enthusiasts shouldn't miss a visit to the Guthrie Theater, making sure to take in the panoramic views from its famous Amber Room. The Theater District offers a plethora of performance options, while music lovers can enjoy world-class concerts at the Minnesota Orchestra.
*Note: The downtown Minneapolis side of the Stone Arch Bridge will be closed to begin preparation work for the restoration and repairs that will occur spring through fall 2025. Access under the Portland Ave. portion of the bridge will also be closed. Pedestrians and bicyclists can still walk or bike to the middle of the bridge. For alternate views of downtown Minneapolis and to cross the river, take a walk along the 3rd Ave. Bridge.
Getting to and Around Downtown
Getting to and around Downtown Minneapolis is convenient and straightforward, thanks to the city's well-developed transportation infrastructure. If you're flying in, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is just a short 20-minute light rail ride from downtown on the Blue Line. For those driving, several major highways converge near the city center, and there are numerous parking options available.
Once downtown, navigating the area is a breeze. The Metro Transit system offers extensive bus and light rail services, with the Blue and Green Lines connecting key areas of the city. Walking is often the best way to explore downtown since many attractions are within close proximity to each other. For shorter trips or a fun way to see the sights, consider using one of the bike-share programs in the city, which offers convenient pickup and drop-off locations throughout the area.
