Minneapolis, MN
A chain of city lakes you can circle on foot, a serious theater scene, and skyways for the months that need them.
Best time: May to September
Best time to visit
May to September
The lakes are the city in summer, and the patios and trails run right through September. Winters are severe and long — genuinely cold, not just chilly.
Local gems
The kind of local gems Runes weaves into your plan — beyond the obvious landmarks.
- 01Chain of Lakes loop
- 02Minnehaha Falls
- 03Midtown Global Market
- 04Matt's Bar
Know before you go
Minneapolis is a design-forward, bike-obsessed city where urban density immediately gives way to pristine lakes and riverbanks. It pairs a nationally recognized arts and theater scene with a low-key, world-class culinary landscape shaped by rich immigrant communities. The city operates outdoors from spring through fall and retreats seamlessly into cozy taprooms and indoor skyways when winter hits.
Light rail efficiently connects the airport, downtown, and neighboring St. Paul, while the city's vast network of protected bike trails and the Midtown Greenway makes cycling the local favorite in warmer months. Rideshares and buses easily bridge the gaps.
- Respect the lake trails by sticking to the correct lane: pedestrians and cyclists have separate, designated paths around the Chain of Lakes.
- Use the second-story downtown Skyway system to navigate between dozens of city blocks indoors without stepping out into subzero temps or rain.
- Walk the pedestrian paths near the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls for the best panoramic skyline and river views.
- Pair a show at the Guthrie Theater with an exploratory stroll through the neighboring Mill District along the Mississippi River.
Neighborhoods to know
Converted brick warehouses packed with top-tier dining, trendy boutiques, and bustling taprooms just north of downtown.
A relaxed, creative pocket defined by working artist studios, historic dive bars, and an exceptional density of craft breweries.
A leafy, residential haven centered on Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and independent neighborhood corridors with cozy bakeries and global eats.
The cultural and historical core along the Mississippi River, home to major theaters, museums, and the climate-controlled skyway network.
What to eat
Frequently asked
When is the best time of year to visit?
Late May through October offers comfortable weather, peak lake life, and vibrant outdoor dining. Early fall brings crisp air and stunning foliage along the riverfront.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Late May through October offers comfortable weather, peak lake life, and vibrant outdoor dining. Early fall brings crisp air and stunning foliage along the riverfront.
Do you need a car to get around Minneapolis?
Yes, especially if you stick to central neighborhoods, the light rail corridor, and the bike trail network. A car is only necessary if you plan to venture far outside the city center.
How brutal are the winters for visitors?
Locals layer up and head outside for cross-country skiing, ice skating, and winter festivals, or retreat indoors to the extensive downtown skyway system and neighborhood taprooms.
Plan your trip to Minneapolis, MN
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