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.
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.
Housing a collection of more than 100,000 objects and 500,000 documents, this is a must-stop for residents and tourists alike. The dramatic setting alone is worth the trip. Inside the History Center, past times are alive and well. 'Minnesota A to Z,' an ingenious depiction of various aspects of Minnesota life over the past 150-plus years, will jog the memories of longtime residents. Kids can climb inside a full-size boxcar and replica of a grain elevator. Changing exhibits use interactive techniques, recordings and videos to make history lessons interesting.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory opened in 1873 and is spread across 759 acres (307.16 hectares). Owned by the city, it features a large cat exhibit, a seal island, a primate facility, a zone for aquatic animals, African hoofed animals and a polar bear exhibit. It is a great place for family outings where you get to learn in a fun-filled environment. Since it is a huge space, chances are that you might miss out on some attractions which are just an added incentive to come back again. Explore their various themed gardens, take a ride on the historic carousel, or visit the children's gallery and check out their frog conservation exhibit. Don't miss out on Como Town, their amusement park, as well.
A great place to hike, bike, ski, fish, canoe, or just take in the views of nature, Fort Snelling State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Filled with trails that link the Minnehaha Park and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, other attractions here include Gun Club Lake, Snelling Lake, and Pike Island, which sits at the convergence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. The park also hosts numerous events, and one popular trail leads hikers to the historic Fort Snelling. A day-use-only park, it is best explored by a tour that begins at the park's visitor center.
The Summit Brewing Company has come a long way since it first came into business in 1986 - its beers are now some of the most popular in St. Paul. Some are seasonal (such as the Summit Maibock and the Summit Oktoberfest), while others are available all year round. You can tour the brewery from Thursday to Saturday, but reservations are required for group weekend tours.
Founded in 1870, the Minnesota Boat Club Boathouse on Raspberry Island is primarily a rowing club that encourages healthy living through the sport. Being the oldest sports organization in the state, its building was enlisted in the US National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The club also maintains a banquet hall which is available on rent for private events.
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.
This museum takes you on a modest and slightly eccentric trip back through time to when the wireless was king of mass communication. Founded by amateur radio historian Joseph Pavek, the museum is home to an impressive collection of early radio equipment, crystal sets and other paraphernalia. Devoted to the preservation of audio and visual history, the museum features exhibits ranging from the earliest days of radio to the modern technology of today. Along with its unique collections of broadcasting gadgets, the Pavek Museum boasts one of the largest libraries of television and radio literature under one roof.
This complex looms large on the northeast Minneapolis landscape above the Mississippi River. The cluster of brick and limestone buildings extends an entire block. With its monolithic arches, attic arcades and protruding piers, it casts the ominous presence of a great European castle. The main building or brew house was built in 1891. In 1987, the city of Minneapolis purchased the property to preserve this historic link to its past. The facility is currently used for a variety of public functions including wine and beer tasting receptions.
The Warden's House Museum is a monumental museum site which was home to the wardens of the Minnesota Territorial Prison, also known as the Minnesota State Prison, in the past. The house stands stern on 602 North Main Street and was constructed in the year 1853. It housed as many as 13 wardens from the prison between 1853 to 1914. The building is a fine example of Italianate, Federal and the Greek Revival styles of architecture. The 14 distinctive rooms are specially decorated in a manner depicting the late 19th century and early 20th Century. There exhibits related to the lumbering industry, Stillwater prisoners, and few other items at this place.
This one thousand acre attraction located just west of Minneapolis is a gardener's paradise. It is also the perfect spot for anyone who simply wishes to visit a beautiful and peaceful place. The University of Minnesota, which owns the arboretum, conducts research here and offers a wide variety of educational programs. Several miles of walking paths weave through the gardens, with a lane along side for those who wish to drive.