The Minneapolis Institute of Arts boasts an impressive selection of Impressionist paintings. Originally constructed in 1915, the Institute has been amazing gallery-goers with its substantial collection of over 85,000 pieces of American and European artists' works for roughly a century. Works on display here range from those by such legends as Matisse and Kandinsky to Picasso and Rodin. In addition to American and European paintings, there is also an excellent Asian collection.
Once the largest flour mill in the world, the Mill City Museum aims to showcase the ins and outs of the intricate process of milling. The flour milling industry was one of the top industries in Minneapolis and the museum will show visitors the vast history of flour production. Walkthrough the old factory and take in the sights. Don't forget to check out their classes, lectures and many other special events that take place throughout the year.
One of the country's largest and most spectacular churches, the Cathedral of St. Paul sits high on a hill (aptly known as Cathedral Hill) overlooking downtown and the Mississippi River Valley. The structure opened in 1915, although extensive interior work continued for several more years. The massive copper dome is 300 feet above the nave's floor and the walls are covered in pale Minnesota granite. A pair of carillon towers flanks the building's Summit Avenue façade and the sanctuary seats 3000 worshipers. Guided tours are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1p.
The State Capitol, considered by many to be one of the nation's most beautiful, is a spectacular structure designed by local architect Cass Gilbert. Opened in 1905, it took six years to be built, and cost USD4 million. The building, modeled after St. Peter's in Rome, features a stunning 220-foot (67-meter) marble dome and an extravagantly detailed interior. Built on a hill overlooking St. Paul, the top of the front steps yields a breathtaking view of downtown. Sheltering Minnesota Senate, Minnesota House of Representatives and the offices of the Attorney General and the Governor, the capitol harbors opulent chamber rooms and elaborate murals, while the glorious, gilded chariot lodged at the entrance presides over the area's landscape. A striking canopy of pride and poignancy, the Minnesota State Capitol is the crowning glory of Saint Paul.
This grand beaux-arts church was the nation's first basilica, taking 20 years to complete. Built during the tenure of Archbishop John Ireland, the enormous white marble building is a marvel to behold. It is 120 feet wide by 278 feet long supporting 133-foot twin towers in the front. One of the towers houses a 3000-pound bell that can be heard for miles around. Over the altar, an ornate dome rises 250 feet and the 56 rank pipe organ echoes throughout. Guided tours are offered every Sunday morning.
In close proximity to the Walker Art Center sits what many consider one of the boldest and most unique displays of art in the country, if not the entire world. Inaugurated in 1988, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a showcase for more than 40 works of art including major sculptures by George Segal, Ellsworth Kelly, Jenny Holzer, Henry Moore and Franz Lipschitz. The entrance to the 11-acre garden is bordered by Ampersand, a pair of colossal granite columns by Martin Puryear. The garden's centerpiece is the 'Spoonbridge and Cherry' sculpture and fountain by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The small conservatory is also home to a Frank Gehry-designed giant fish with scales of glass that rests on its tail.
Formerly known as the Lock and Dam No. 2, the Meeker Island Lock and Dam, is not only a place of excellent picturesque views but also an amazing place to take a day off and spend some family time. Be it a family outing, or a picnic with friends, one can thoroughly enjoy the scenic views of the dam, along e=with the trails along the dam. One can just sit and enjoy the serenity of the view at the benches or just spend family time at the picnic tables.
The Gremlin Theater is a local performing art scene that one can attend while in the city. They recreate some of the most popular productions with their team of talented artists. One of the most watched show is Talking Shakespeare.
Paikka is an events space located close to the historic neighborhood of Prospect Park. Paikka’s interior has a rustic charm with its bare brick walls. The stark white walls in the kitchen area are spruced up with aesthetically placed house plants, also extended from the ceiling that add the needed color and freshness to the room. The hall is divided into two major events room, a lounge area and a kitchen are that can overall accommodate upto 270 people.
For all those model railroad buffs out there, the Twin City Model Railroad Museum is the place to go. Miniature replicas of the American trains of the '30s, '40s, and '50s, perfect down to the last detail, chug along the tiny tracks and stations, to the delight of both young and old alike. Tour groups are also welcome.
The Christ Church Lutheran is a Longfellow landmark since 1911. Designed by Finnish-American Eliel Saarinen in the modernistic style, it was later expanded by his son Eero Saarinen. The church has several community events like bible study groups, retirees groups, youth groups. There are confirmation classes, Sunday school for children and adult classes as well. The church carries out many philanthropic activities which the community can jointly participate.