For out of town guests, it wouldn't be a trip to Minnesota without stopping by the largest indoor mall in the world! Including 520+ stores, 60+ restaurants, a comedy club, movie theatre, and an amusement park, you'll find something for everyone. The mall is just a short drive from MSP airport and about 20 minutes outside of the city. Remember to bring your walking shoes!
Minnesota's great get together! The largest (and best) state fair in the country, the MN State Fair is one of Maya & Dre's favorite end of summer activities. Try tons of fried things on a stick, crazy flavored beers, and countless exhibits and attractions. The fair runs from August 21st to September 1st (Labor Day).
If you are looking to upgrade your stay while in Minneapolis, the Hewing is a great place to do so! Not only is it in the center of Minneapolis night life, it is where Maya & Dre got engaged! Check out their main level or rooftop bar (and hottub/sauna for guests) for drinks and snacks on perfect night out.
If you have time while you are here and hoping to get out of the city, check out Taylor's Falls Interstate Park. The park is located along the St. Croix River and is situated between the borders of Minnesota and Wisconsin. With beautiful hiking paths, scenic views, activities such as canoeing, and a great ice cream shop in town, this has been one of Maya & Dre's favorite day trip spots since they were in college.
While in town, check out where Maya works! To the public, All Square is known as a spectacular craft grilled cheese fast casual restaurant. But to many more, it is also a nonprofit organization that employs and invests in those who are formerly incarcerated or have been impacted by mass incarceration. You have got to try the Jerk and the famous fries! Tell them Maya & Dre sent you!
Parkway Pizza is a spot that Maya & Dre frequent for date nights. Just a few blocks from their home, they will often walk to dinner for some great date night deals. Parkway is staple of Minneapolis pizza chains and is home of the "Honk is you love Naz Reid" sign!
If you are hoping to try some local MN coffee while you are in town, you have to check out Minnesota's largest coffee chain, Caribou Coffee! Founded in MN, Caribou has started to spread throughout the midwest but all started here! Just enter it in your GPS and there is no doubt you will find one close to you!
If you are looking for a fun activity, hit up Elsie's for a game or two of bowling! A staple in Northeast Minneapolis, Elsie's is a quintessential dive spot and will make for a fun night out with friends. Maya & Dre have had many intense one on one match ups here and always make sure to bring friend and family to check it out when in town!
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is an 11-acre park in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is located near the Walker Art Center, which operates it in coordination with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. While it is known for its famous cherry on a spoon statue, you can explore more than 60 sculptures from the Walker’s collection in the heart of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free, open to the public, and is open from 6 am to 12 midnight every day.