Dive into the heart of the Midwest and explore all that Minneapolis has to offer with our expertly curated itinerary! Over five days, you’ll experience the best of the city’s iconic attractions, cultural landmarks, and vibrant culinary scene. From the famous Mall of America to the picturesque Stone Arch Bridge, you’ll create unforgettable memories on your journey.
With our Minneapolis itinerary 5 days guide, you won’t have to worry about missing any must-see sights or activities. We’ll guide you through the city’s best neighborhoods, including where to stay and eat, and provide tips for navigating the city with ease. Start planning your trip to Minneapolis today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Day 1: Must-Visit Attractions in Minneapolis
Spend your first day in Minneapolis exploring its most iconic attractions. Start your day at the famous Mall of America, the largest mall in the United States. With over 500 stores and numerous entertainment options, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Next, head to the Minneapolis Institute of Art, boasting a stunning collection of over 90,000 works of art from around the world. Take a stroll around the beautiful galleries and immerse yourself in the world of art. Finally, end your day at Minnehaha Park, a beautiful park featuring a stunning waterfall, walking trails, and picnic areas. It’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Minneapolis.
In addition to these attractions, there are numerous other things to do in Minneapolis on day one. You can also visit the Nicollet Mall, an outdoor shopping area in the heart of downtown or explore the Science Museum of Minnesota, a fun and interactive museum for all ages. With so much to see and do, Day 1 in Minneapolis promises to be a memorable experience.
Day 2: Top Sights in Minneapolis
On your second day in Minneapolis, it’s time to dive deep into the city’s rich and fascinating culture by visiting some of its top sights. Start the day off at the Mill City Museum, a historic landmark that tells the story of the flour milling industry that dominated the city’s economy in the early 20th century. Explore the exhibits to learn about the history and impact of the milling industry on Minneapolis and the wider region.
After the museum, make your way to the Guthrie Theater, known for its stunning modern architecture and world-class performances. Take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s history and architecture, or catch a show to experience one of the best cultural experiences Minneapolis has to offer.
Finish the day with a walk around the picturesque Stone Arch Bridge, a beautiful arched bridge that offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Mississippi River. Take in the scenic surroundings while learning more about the bridge’s history and importance to the city over the years.
Day 3: Best Activities in Minneapolis
Get ready for some exhilarating activities on your third day in Minneapolis! This bustling city has plenty to offer, and today is all about making the most of it.
Start your day by experiencing the Chain of Lakes like never before with a biking tour around the scenic route. This activity is perfect for both locals and tourists, and it’s an excellent way to explore some of the most beautiful places in the city. Don’t forget to stop and take some photos of the stunning views!
Next, head to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a vast outdoor gallery that showcases some of the world’s most incredible sculptures. Wander through the garden, marvel at the art installations, and let your imagination run wild.
After an artsy morning, it’s time for some live music! Visit the famous First Avenue Nightclub, one of the most iconic music venues that Minneapolis has to offer. This legendary venue has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Prince to Adele.
“First Avenue is one of my favourite spots in the city. The sound quality is fantastic, and there’s always a great atmosphere. I highly recommend seeing a show here!”
– Laura, Minneapolis Resident
End your day on a high note with some delicious local cuisine at one of Minneapolis’ fantastic restaurants. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, the city has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Day 4: Explore More of Minneapolis
As your trip nears its end, take advantage of your fourth day to discover more of what Minneapolis has to offer.
Walker Art Center
Start your day at the Walker Art Center, one of the most prestigious contemporary art institutions in the country. Marvel at the extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations.
Paddleboat Cruise on Lake Harriet
Enjoy a scenic paddleboat cruise on the picturesque Lake Harriet. Admire the stunning natural beauty of this urban lake, surrounded by parks and gardens, as you glide across the water.
North Loop Neighborhood
Wrap up your day in the trendy North Loop neighborhood, where you can explore unique shops and restaurants. This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its chic boutiques, art galleries, and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon or evening.
With just one day left, your final day in Minneapolis promises to be unforgettable. Don’t miss out on any of the exciting attractions and activities that await you.
Day 5: Unmissable Experiences in Minneapolis
Your 5-day Minneapolis itinerary wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city’s unmissable highlights on your final day.
Minneapolis City Hall
Visit the historic Minneapolis City Hall, located in downtown Minneapolis. It’s an impressive building with stunning architecture, and it stands out as one of the tallest buildings in the city. Take a guided tour to learn more about its unique design and important role in Minneapolis history.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Located next to the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden showcases over 40 permanent and temporary installations of contemporary and modern art. Stroll through the garden and marvel at the incredible sculptures, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry.
Mississippi Riverfront
End your 5-day Minneapolis trip itinerary with a relaxing walk along the scenic Mississippi Riverfront. Enjoy stunning views of the river and the Minneapolis skyline as you soak up the tranquility and beauty of this popular area.
Take your time exploring these unmissable experiences in Minneapolis on your final day of the trip. It’s the perfect way to end your 5-day adventure in this vibrant and beautiful city.
Where to Stay and Eat in Minneapolis
Minneapolis has a great range of accommodation options to choose from, depending on your budget and interests. We recommend staying in Downtown Minneapolis to be within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions.
If you’re looking for a place with personality, consider the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District or the Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown. For travelers on a budget, there are several affordable hotels located near Downtown, such as the Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites.
| Hotel | Neighborhood | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District | Mill District | $250-$350/night | 4.6/5.0 |
| Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown | Downtown | $150-$250/night | 4.3/5.0 |
| Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites | Downtown | $80-$150/night | 4.2/5.0 |
As for dining options, Minneapolis is known for its diverse culinary scene. You’ll find a variety of local and international cuisines served in the city’s restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Juicy Lucy burger at the Blue Door Pub or the delicious Scandinavian pastries at the Bogart’s Doughnut Co..
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, we recommend The Bachelor Farmer. For those on a budget, The Herbivorous Butcher serves up delicious vegetarian and vegan food at affordable prices.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Door Pub | American | $10-$20/person | 4.5/5.0 |
| Bogart’s Doughnut Co. | Scandinavian | $5-$10/person | 4.3/5.0 |
| The Bachelor Farmer | Nordic | $50-$100/person | 4.4/5.0 |
| The Herbivorous Butcher | Vegetarian/Vegan | $10-$20/person | 4.6/5.0 |
Transportation and Tips for Navigating Minneapolis
Maximize your time in Minneapolis by learning how to get around easily. The city offers extensive transportation options to help you navigate the area seamlessly.
Light Rail System
The Light Rail System is a convenient way to get around the city quickly. The Blue Line runs from downtown Minneapolis to the airport and Mall of America. The Green Line connects downtown Minneapolis to downtown Saint Paul, and passes by popular attractions like the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota State Capitol. Check Metro Transit for maps, schedules, and fares.
Bus Routes
The Bus System is another option for navigating Minneapolis. There are different bus routes throughout the city, including express buses for longer trips. The Metro Transit website offers schedules and maps to help you plan your route.
Bike-Sharing Programs
Looking for an eco-friendly way to explore Minneapolis? Try the Bike-Sharing Programs. Bikes can be rented from stations throughout the city and returned at any station. Check out popular bike-sharing services like Nice Ride and Lime for rental information and rates.
Insider Tips
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your time in Minneapolis:
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
- Avoid driving during rush hour. Minneapolis traffic can be congested, especially during peak times.
- Get a CityPASS to save money on admission to top attractions.
- Don’t forget to check the weather and dress accordingly. Minneapolis can experience extreme temperatures all year-round.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing your 5-day itinerary for Minneapolis! We hope you enjoyed discovering this vibrant city and creating unforgettable memories. From iconic attractions like the Mall of America to cultural landmarks like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods, like the North Loop, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine at one of the many top-rated restaurants. And with convenient transportation options like the light rail system and bike-sharing programs, navigating the city is a breeze.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Minneapolis is a city that always has something new to offer. So start planning your next trip to Minneapolis today and discover even more of what this captivating city has to offer!
