Minneapolis' 6 Best Attractions Tourists Should Never Skip

Minnesota draws those who seek adventure and rugged beauty. The state is nicknamed the "Land of 10,000 Lakes" for the many bodies of water found within its borders, but visitors will also find plenty of outdoor escapes within Minneapolis — Minnesota's largest metropolis. There's no shortage of big city thrills in Minneapolis either. In fact, many would say that this unique mix of amenities is exactly what makes the city so special. In addition to its green spaces, visitors can explore an array of cultural institutions and more in Minneapolis. Traveling to this Midwestern city soon? If you are unsure where to start, here are the six best attractions tourists should never skip.

To put this list together, we looked at rankings from sources like Tripadvisor and U.S. News & World Report. We also analyzed visitor reviews, including those from Google and Yelp, which show where tourists and locals are visiting in Minneapolis and why. A tip for prospective tourists: Minneapolis (and Minnesota, for that matter) is a destination with four seasons. Keep this in mind when planning and consider that you might be able to get more value for your money in the winter. However, come ready to face the city's arctic temperatures.

Due to its once-thriving flour industry (which first emerged in the 19th century), Minneapolis is known as "Mill City." While flour milling is no longer important to the local economy, the Mill City Museum (opened in 2003) presents immersive and interactive exhibits on the city's past. Best of all, visitors can step inside a formerly abandoned historic building, the Washburn A Mill. On the Flour Tower, for instance, visitors ride a freight elevator and listen to recorded first-hand accounts from those who lived and worked during this defining era. "The museum does a commendable job of taking something that really isn't that interesting on the surface and making it a unique and engaging experience," noted a Tripadvisor review. " I'd recommend stopping here as this is a one of a kind museum."

Galleries galore dot Minneapolis, but one stands out from the rest: House of Balls. The brainchild of artist Allen Christian, House of Balls is filled with his own eccentric sculptures. Within its walls, you'll find fascinating creations pieced together from scrap metal and other materials that otherwise would've ended up in the dump. On Google, a reviewer described it as "an amazing place and a true treasure for Minneapolis." Another visitor called it "a one of a kind experience." According to several users on the platform, there is no admission fee to enter, and you'll likely meet Christian himself. Keep in mind that it's recommended to call House of Balls to check if they are open on the day of your visit.

Minneapolis is home to one of America's best park systems. Naturally, there's a wealth of green spaces in the city, but Minnehaha Regional Park is ranked as the best in Minneapolis on Tripadvisor. Located just minutes from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, this site offers the opportunity to view Minnehaha Falls and its mighty 53-foot drop. But as explained by a reviewer on Tripadvisor, "The attraction is not just the falls (which has famous poetry written about it), but also hiking trails, swimming areas, a large pavilion, restaurant, flower gardens and picnic areas." Although this is a great spot for summer fun, it should be pointed out that Minnehaha Falls is also one of America's best winter spectacles.

Exploring Downtown Minneapolis? Check out the Stone Arch Bridge, constructed in 1883. This awe-inspiring structure allows pedestrians and cyclists to traverse the Mississippi River. It was originally used by trains, though today, it allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's seasonal scenery. On Google, where the Stone Arch Bridge has a 4.8 rating based on more than 3,000 reviews, users say that you will be met with spectacular vistas of the city and the surrounding landscape. "The walk is not difficult, with a round trip clocking in at less than a mile. A simple pleasure for sure, but definitely one of the highlights of our trip," reads a review from Google. Plus, visitors can stop at the neighboring Mill Ruins Park, another remnant of the city's days as a leading flour producer.

Tourists traveling to Minneapolis on a budget are in luck. The city's Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) is considered one of the best free museums in America. Listed as the top attraction in Minneapolis on Tripadvisor, one reviewer wrote that "you can spend hours here." MIA is housed in a Neoclassical Revival structure from the early 20th century and features a permanent collection that's spread across three floors. Here, visitors will find pieces by Vincent van Gogh, El Greco, and other notable names. "If you are in Minneapolis, or even close by, it is a MUST SEE!" said a user on Yelp, while another called it "100% one of the best things in Minnesota."

The Minneapolis Institute of Art isn't the only free attraction to include on your itinerary. About a mile from the heart of downtown, you'll find the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden — a project of the Walker Art Center. Spanning 11 acres, this green space boasts native flora, skyline views, and is one of America's most impressive sculpture parks. "The design of this park is amazing. Everything [is] spaced out with ample places to sit and enjoy your day. Picture spots for cool selfies too," reads a Yelp review. There are more than 60 pieces throughout the grounds, like Three x Four x Three, a geometric creation by late artist Sol LeWitt. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is open year-round.