Minneapolis Makes A Great Vacation Destination

Izzy's Ice Cream

If you like the arts, shopping and the outdoors, you may want to consider Minneapolis for your next vacation.

Yes, Minneapolis.

Minnesota's largest city has long since moved past its roots as a shipping and milling hub for America's breadbasket and now presents its visitors with a fresh, cosmopolitan face.

Guthrie Theater
Guthrie Theater - photo meetminneapolis (flickr)

No visit to Minneapolis is complete without at least a visit to the Guthrie Theater. Even if you don't take in a show at this nationally regarded playhouse, you should at least see Jean Nouvel's stunning cobalt building and admire the Mississippi River's St. Anthony Falls from its Endless Bridge promenade. Nearby, hometown favorite Izzy's Ice Cream has opened a new store and local celebrity chef Brenda Langton serves innovative, sustainably produced cuisine at Spoonriver restaurant.

Izzy's Ice Cream
Izzy's Ice Cream

Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Minneapolis Institute of Arts - photo by EC Leatherberry(flickr)

Complete the cultural visit of your tour by paying a visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Walker Art Center or The Museum of Russian Art. All three arts institutions are highly regarded in their respective fields. The Art Institute is free and admission at the Walker and TMORA won't likely set you back more than $12 (admission prices can vary depending on when you go).

Walker Art Center
Walker Art Center - photo Mimi Mpls(flickr)
The Museum of Russian Art
The Museum of Russian Art - photo jpellgen(flickr)

If shopping of interest to you, The Mall of America, the country's largest enclosed shopping mall, is located in the suburb of Bloomington, a 10-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis. The MOA, as its known locally, features an indoor theme park and many stores not widely found elsewhere, such as Madewell and Moods of Norway.

The Mall of America
The Mall of America - jpellgen(flickr)

Finally, wrap up a long weekend by getting out of the city a little. Stillwater, a charming town on the St. Croix River, is only about half an hour away, as are Red Wing and Winona, which are both renowned for their natural beauty. These towns bristle with charming cafes, interesting shops and colorful coffee joints.