Founded in the year 1851, the University of Minnesota is one of the finest educational institutions in the city. The university has various schools and colleges on its premises, each offering an array of courses in science and other streams. The university also has research centers which has promulgated several path breaking researches in different fields. To know more, do check the website.
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.
The Riverfront District in Minneapolis is a network of charming parks and landmarks along the river. Attractions include a boat dock at Boom Island, an amphitheater at Nicollet Island, and a bandstand at Father Hennepin Bluffs. There is also public art on display and a playground on Boom Island, making the Riverfront District an enriching and enjoyable destination for a day of family fun.
Swan Turnblad, a Swedish immigrant and self-made millionaire publisher, built this mansion but he and his family lived in it only a short time. Swan and his wife, Christina, found it to be too ostentatious for their tastes, so they moved to an apartment across the street. The house, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has 33 rooms furnished with antiques. After Swan's death, his family founded the American Swedish Institute and donated the house to serve as its headquarters. The museum features rotating exhibits on 150-plus years of the Swedish immigration experience.
Once the tallest building in the Midwest, the Foshay Tower now stands as a landmark towering above the Twin Cities. Built as homage to the Washington Monument, plumbing magnate, Wilbur Foshay commissioned the building in 1929. It stood as the tallest tower for over 40 years, until the IDS Tower was built in 1973. However, the birds-eye view of the city from the 31st floor observation deck and museum is truly spectacular and a must visit.
This statue in downtown Minneapolis pays tribute to the iconic Mary Tyler Moore and her popular sitcom. This bronze statue depicts Moore throwing her hat up in the air as she famously does in the show's opening credits. Previously a resident of Nicolett Street, this liberating statue is positioned at the Minneapolis Visitor Information Center, after its former space surrendered to renovation.
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.
Located on the State Capital grounds, this memorial honors Minnesotans who served in the Vietnam War. More than 1000 names are engraved in the granite memorial. These are the Americans who were either killed or missing in action as a result of the war. Pay your respects by visiting this memorial site honoring those who gave their lives in service for their country. There is a book of names nearby which gives the location of each name on the monument. The location is a little hidden, so look for the monument close to the freeway and in the center of the grounds. Parking is available on the street or in lots not designated for state business.
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.
St. Paul Union Depot, also known as SPUD, is a historic monument and landmark. It was formerly the main train station in St. Paul and is a classic example of neoclassic architecture. The classic architecture provides an interesting backdrop in the neighborhood.
The Arlington Hills Books Library, better known as Saint Paul's Public Library, is a modern, forward-looking mecca of learning in every conceivable form, be it books, movies, catalogues, classes, tutorials and even music. Housed in a beautiful building of historical significance, this remarkable library conducts interesting events throughout the year for diverse groups. Services range from WiFi access to interlibrary loans. Visit it for a tour of the building or become a member.