Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, Minneapolis owes its name to a blend of cultures, combining the Dakota word "mni," meaning water, with the Greek "polis," for city. This "City of Lakes" was officially established in 1867.
By the early 20th century, Minneapolis had transformed into the "Flour Milling Capital of the World,” producing more flour than any other place on the globe until the rise of competitors after World War I.
Today, you’ll discover that Minneapolis provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails for biking and walking just steps from bustling neighborhoods. This connection to nature is balanced by a rich arts scene, boasting world-class institutions. Want to learn more about this incredible city? See our points of interest below!
1. Minneapolis Is Known as the City of Lakes
The “City of Lakes” nickname is no exaggeration; Minneapolis boasts thirteen lakes, each contributing to a sprawling network of parks and green spaces known as the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. This 50-mile network connects lakes and neighborhoods encircling Minneapolis. Popular with cyclists and pedestrians, the Byway also offers points of access for boating and swimming.
2. Minneapolis and Its Iconic Purple Reign
You can’t mention Minneapolis without giving a nod to the global music icon Prince, who put the city (and his love of the color purple) on the worldwide map. The artist/composer, who was born in Minneapolis, remained a resident of the city until his death in 2016. To honor Prince, Pantone LLC added a new shade of purple to their color system, aptly named “Love Symbol #2.”
3. Ripe for Picking: The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden stands as one of the city's most cherished cultural landmarks. As a centerpiece of the Minneapolis arts scene, this renowned garden invites visitors to wander through its beautifully landscaped grounds, discovering dozens of works from leading contemporary artists.
At the heart of the garden is its most iconic piece, "Spoonbridge and Cherry," a whimsical sculpture that has become a beloved symbol of Minneapolis itself. This massive spoon with a bright red cherry is a favorite photo spot and a perfect example of the garden's playful yet profound collection.
4. A Bucket-List Shopping Destination: The Mall of America
While technically located in the suburb of Bloomington, the Mall of America is an undeniable icon of the Minneapolis metropolitan area and a massive tourist destination.
As one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the world, it draws millions of visitors each year—and with no sales tax on clothes and shoes, the cost savings are hard to ignore! The mall’s sheer scale is staggering, offering a vast array of retail, dining, and attractions that has cemented its place as a must-visit landmark in the United States.
5. Follow Your Own Path: Minneapolis Is Bike-Friendly
Minneapolis has earned its reputation as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States, a distinction it wears with pride. The city is crisscrossed by an extensive network of over 200 miles of on-street bikeways and off-street trails, including the nationally acclaimed Grand Rounds Scenic Byway.
The city’s infrastructure allows cyclists to navigate from urban centers to serene parklands with remarkable ease and safety, making biking an integral and accessible part of the Minneapolis experience.
6. From Peanuts to Prominence: Minneapolis—The Birthplace of Charles M. Schulz
Born in Minneapolis in 1922, Charles M. Schulz was the creative mind and artist behind the iconic “Peanuts” comic strip. His early life and experiences in the Midwest subtly shaped the world of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the gang.
“Peanuts” grew into a global phenomenon, leading to beloved animated television specials and a wide range of retail merchandise, which secured Schulz and his characters a lasting place in popular culture.
7. Minneapolis Is a City on the Ball All Year Round
Minneapolis lives and breathes athletics, boasting a team for nearly every major professional league. The city and its surrounding metro area are home to the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), and the four-time championship-winning Minnesota Lynx (WNBA).
The diverse lineup of teams keeps the energy high all year, drawing passionate fans who are known for their unwavering loyalty and loud support, whether they're cheering at a packed stadium or a local sports bar. The collective enthusiasm for these home teams is a core part of the city's identity, creating a powerful sense of community.
8. Going Above and Beyond: Minneapolis’ Skyway System
The Minneapolis Skyway System is the world’s largest contiguous system of enclosed bridges in the world, offering a comfortable and convenient way to navigate the downtown area. This miles-long network of enclosed, climate-controlled pedestrian bridges connects approximately 80 city blocks, linking office buildings, hotels, restaurants, and retail stores into one cohesive indoor ecosystem.
Functioning as a “second-level city,” the skyway allows pedestrians and commuters to move about freely, sheltered from snow, wind, and frigid temperatures. It's a remarkable piece of urban design that transforms the downtown experience, making Minneapolis a truly year-round city.
9. Minnehaha Falls: Minneapolis’ Waterfall Wonder
Minnehaha Falls is one of Minneapolis’s most treasured natural landmarks, offering a stunning glimpse of pristine beauty right within the city limits. The centerpiece is a 53-foot waterfall that cascades into a gorge, creating a scene that feels worlds away from the nearby urban bustle. As part of Minnehaha Regional Park, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery, limestone bluffs, and serene walking trails.
Minneapolis is a place where you can spend the morning kayaking on a serene lake and the afternoon exploring a world-class art museum. The city’s thoughtful design, from the climate-controlled Skyway System to its extensive network of bike paths, highlights a commitment to a well-rounded and enriching living experience.
If Minneapolis, MN sounds like the perfect place to call home, why wait? Explore neighborhoods in Minneapolis now!
