John & Kristen
Things To Do
Stone Arch Bridge
The best way to experience downtown Minneapolis is from the Stone Arch Bridge riverfront area. Walk, segway, or bike across the river for a captivating view of the skyline and St. Anthony Falls, the largest waterfall on the Mississippi River. Shops, theaters, and restaurants line the east bank of the river, and you can cross over to the west bank to walk among the skyscrapers. It will (hopefully!) be warm enough to stay outside, but you can always explore the skyway system to get around like a local Minneapolitan.
Bde Maka Ska
We love exploring the mix of urban life and nature near the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Rent paddleboards or swim at Bde Mka Ska, attend an outdoor concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell, and rent a bike or enjoy a stroll around Lake of the Isles.
University Of Minnesota - St. Paul Campus
Kristen and John met here in 2011 studying environmental science and living in the nearby dorm, Bailey Hall. Ten years and four degrees later, we still like going back to the St. Paul Student Center for ice cream made from the milk of local campus cows. If you are feeling brave and Midwestern, try the Sweet Corn flavor - John loves it!
Mall of America®
This place needs no introduction! It's the largest indoor mall in the country, complete with a theme park, aquarium, and hundreds of places to eat and shop.
Mill City Museum
Explore Minneapolis' history as a commerce center for the flour milling and lumber industries built around the only natural major waterfall on the Mississippi River. The museum is nestled in the ruins of an old flour mill -visit to learn more about how the museum spontaneously exploded and about the history of many popular baking brands we still use in our kitchens today.
Minnehaha Falls
Visit this beautiful waterfall to experience a popular Minneapolis park.
Wabasha Street Caves
We know "the Caves" as the best place in town for Thursday night swing dancing, but you can also visit to take a Gangster Tour and learn about their history as a center for bootlegging during the Prohibition era.
Fort Snelling State Park
A lovely state park on the Minnesota River with nice hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife.
CHS Field
The Twin Cities' minor league baseball team, the St. Paul Saints, have a great outdoor stadium with fun theme nights at every game. Perhaps you'll run into the team owner, actor Bill Murray, during the seventh inning stretch! Make a day of it and explore the Lowertown area in St. Paul.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
As undergraduate students, Kristen and John lived near Como Park and often visited the lake and conservatory.
Vertical Endeavors–Minneapolis
We went here for our first official date, our favorite rock climbing gym in Minneapolis! Day passes available for adventurous guests.
The Nook
John's favorite place to get the famous Minnesota Juicy Lucy - a hamburger with cheese on the INSIDE of the patty. After dinner, head downstairs for some bowling and a pint of Summit EPA, brewed locally in St. Paul.
Surly Brewing Co.
A pioneering local brewery that was a common haunt for University of Minnesota students, including John and Kristen, during graduate school. Stop in for some great beer, food, and expansive outdoor area. John highly recommends the Furious.
Sociable Cider Werks
Located in the Northeast Minneapolis neighborhood, where John and Kristen lived for several years. Best spot around for a wide variety of local hard ciders.
Cafe Latte
Whenever Kristen and John want to celebrate, dessert from Cafe Latte is at the top of the list. We recommend the Tres Leches cake and raspberry white chocolate scones. The menu also includes amazing soups, salads, and breads. Kristen always loves their creamy soups, and sandwiches with Sonoma Basil spread.
Finnish Bistro Coffee & Cafe
Common brunch spot for Kristen and John during their college years. The almond kringlers are incredible!
Holy Land
Featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives! This Middle Eastern restaurant and grocery store has the best shawarma and falafel around.
Marino's Deli
A Northeast Minneapolis lunchtime staple, this no-frills spot makes the best lasagna and "Sub-Marino" sandwiches around based on family recipes dating back to the 1940s.
Jasmine Thai
Kristen wanted this place on the list specifically for the pineapple curry. It is worth the trip!
Chimborazo
Right down the street from Kristen and John's old apartment, Chimborazo offers award winning Ecuadorian food. Try the vegetarian platters and the cheesy potato "llapingachos."