Things To Do
NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS
Creative, cozy, and full of our favorite places—it’s where we call home. Diane’s Place is the hottest brunch spot in Northeast Mpls—book early! We love the Hmong sausage and sesame balls. Oro by Nixta, just around the corner, has a corn-forward Mexican menu; Laurel loves the pollo quesadilla and Alex swears by the Primer Jaripeo. Book 60 days out or try walking in at 5. Vinai is our neighborhood favorite and a NYT Best Restaurant of 2024—don’t miss the flourless lava cake (Oro is right across the street!). Rosalia Pizza is new to the area and already serving the best pizza in town. The 1029 Bar is the ultimate Midwest dive—right across from our place. Northrop King Building is a warehouse-turned-art hub. Studios/galleries open 10-4pm Saturdays. St. Anthony Main is a charming, historic riverfront with cobblestones, cafés, and Stone Arch Bridge views—some buildings date back to the 1850s. Aster Cafe is the best patio in town and a quick walk across the river from downtown.
NORTH LOOP
Trendy, walkable, and great for shopping, sipping, and people-watching. MartinPatrick 3 is a very fun local luxury department store for men and women. Parc Shop is Laurel's favorite little boutique that looks like it belongs in Brooklyn.
MILL DISTRICT & DOWNTOWN EAST
Historic meets modern, with river views and a dose of arts and culture. Minneapolis is known for its vibrant theater scene, and the Guthrie Theater is a must if you extend your stay—A Doll’s House will be running from mid-September to mid-October. Right outside the Guthrie, the Mill City Farmers Market runs Saturdays from 8 AM–1 PM with local crafts, produce, and food trucks lining the promenade. Next door is the Mill City Museum, built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill. Book lovers, pop into FRGMNT/Open Book for coffee while browsing their book selection. For dinner, Owamni is a can’t-miss Indigenous restaurant by The Sioux Chef, focused on decolonized Native cuisine and culture—it’s wildly popular, so book early and enjoy a post-meal stroll through Mill Ruins Park.
UNIVERSITY AREA
Leafy, intellectual, and perfect for a quiet stroll or a thoughtful museum visit on campus. If you want to take a long walk Saturday morning, Café Alma is the perfect destination. Hop across the bridge, grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Alma and then head east along the river. The Weisman Art Museum, part of the University of Minnesota, is a cool, modern art museum in a shiny Frank Gehry-designed building that overlooks the Mississippi River.
SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS
Lush, laid-back, and full of local gems and classic outdoor spots. The Electric Fetus is a legendary indie record store—full of vinyl, CDs, gifts, and good vibes—just a few blocks from the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The Chain of Lakes is a group of connected lakes in Minneapolis that’s great for walking, biking, or just hanging out. You can start at Bde Maka Ska to rent a canoe or paddleboard, then check out the lakes by water or follow the trails that connect them. Minnehaha Falls is the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend hike. After you're done, grab fish tacos at Sea Salt Eatery!
LORING PARK/LOWRY HILL
Charming, artsy, and a great place to slow down and soak in the city. The Walker Art Center is a contemporary art museum with sprawling sculpture garden, home to the famous Cherry Spoon! While there, make sure to head to the roof for skyline mini golf! Minneapolis Trolley Tours are a great option if you're looking for a relaxed way to see the city!