A romantic landmark in the city, the 640.08 meter (2100 feet) long Stone Arch Bridge used to be a railway bridge for the Manitoba line. It is the second oldest bridge across the river. Erected in 1883 by James Hill, a railway tycoon, it spans proudly across the Mississippi river in a curve. The twenty-three arches are a sight to behold and serve as a scenic welcome for travelers to the city. Tourists love to watch the ships sail past here. Today, the bridge is open for pedestrians and bikers.
Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is a must-visit natural wonder in Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The park is home to a stunning 53-foot (16.15 meters) waterfall that cascades over layers of limestone and sandstone, creating a dramatic sight. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the trails that wind through the park, taking in the beautiful views of the falls, the surrounding woods, and the Mississippi River. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun family outing, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is a great destination to explore.
Besides the addition of stadium style seating, this comfortable neighborhood theater hasn't changed much from the glory days of the lavish single screen auditoriums. The highly polished chrome and glass concession stand, overstuffed couches in the lobby and popcorn with real butter are items you won't find in multi-screen mega complexes.
Designed for children four months to 10 years old, this museum features four permanent galleries and two others hosting traveling exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to use all of their senses to explore the many things there are to see and do. They can be in the spotlight on the sound stage, crawl through the maze of tunnels in the giant ant hill, create a thunderstorm, operate a huge crane and much more. Activities and performances by singers, dancers, jugglers and storytellers take place daily. This is truly a place where 'learn to play, play to learn' is more than just a phrase. There is free entry on every 3rd Sunday of the month.
Located at the southern end of downtown Minneapolis' Nicollet Mall, this is the home of the world-renowned Minnesota Orchestra. The hall was built in 1974 with the goal of providing as nearly perfect acoustics as technologically possible at the time. Visitors will notice the huge cubes hanging from the ceiling, which were designed and placed to deflect sound to all seats. More than 225 orchestral and community concerts are presented here each year. One of city's most popular series, the Viennese Sommerfest, takes place in July with performances, food and refreshments spilling out onto Peavey Plaza.
Opened in 1902 as a federal court building, this lavish Victorian architectural masterpiece sits facing St. Paul's Rice Park. Constructed of pink granite and red tile roofs, it boasts multiple turrets and gables along with other fanciful details. The richness continues inside with a five-story courtyard lit by a massive skylight and extravagantly appointed rooms with 20-foot ceilings, marble fireplaces and carved mahogany. Besides office space for numerous arts organizations, the Landmark Center is home to the prestigious Minnesota Museum of American Art, the Ramsey County Historical Society and the Schubert Club. The St. Paul Cafe, an excellent spot for lunch, is located on the first floor.