Extend Your Stay in Minneapolis

Dive into a variety of exciting things to do while staying in Minneapolis before or after Tourism Academy. The Twin Cities are bursting with premier cultural institutions, renowned dining destinations, incredible shopping, and lush outdoor spaces. Discover these unforgettable experiences during your extended trip.

Stroll Through Museums

Whether you’re a history buff, a sculpture enthusiast, or a die-hard fan of Prince, Minneapolis has a fascinating museum for you. Get lost in the city’s arts and culture at these museums:

• American Swedish Institute | Explore the Nordic heritage of Minneapolis at the American Swedish Institute, featuring the Turnblad Mansion, art galleries, exhibits, and café.
• The Bakken Museum | Discover the intersection of science, technology, and humanities through interactive exhibits.
• First Avenue | Catch a show or take a tour at Prince’s preferred venue for performances and the setting for his movie Purple Rain.
• Mill City Museum | Built within the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, this museum highlights the city’s flour milling history
• Minneapolis Institute of Art | Features works of art from around the world, spanning 5,000 years.
• Minnesota History Center | Immerse yourself in Minnesota history through interactive exhibits.
• Paisley Park | Tour Prince’s home and recording studio in suburban Minneapolis.
• Science Museum of Minnesota | Learn about Earth's natural history in downtown Saint Paul.
• Walker Art Center | This museum & Sculpture Garden is one of the most visited modern and contemporary art museums in the country.

Unwind in Outdoor Spaces

In June, Minneapolis’ parks and trails come alive with blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, and active wildlife, offering the perfect setting for outdoor exploration. With a park always within six blocks, it’s easy to find a spot to relax or get active near Tourism Academy. Rent a bike and ride along scenic paths, or picnic under the shade. Here are some of the popular nature destinations in Minneapolis:

• Chain of Lakes | Follow 15 miles of scenic trails that connect five stunning lakes, perfect for biking, walking, or just taking in the views.
• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory | Open year-round, the zoo is home to more than 60 different species, exhibits, an amusement park, conservatory and paved trails.
• Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden & Bird Sanctuary | Great spot for birdwatching and admiring native wildflowers. In June, lady’s-slippers, native irises, and cardinal flowers are in bloom.
• Harriet Alexander Nature Center | Boardwalks and trails weave through 52 acres of wetlands, marshes, and forested habitats in Roseville’s Central Park.
• Lyndale Park Rose Garden | More than 60,000 blooming roses in every color imaginable during summer at the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.
• Midtown Greenway | Ride or walk the 5.5-mile Midtown Greenway, a former railroad corridor transformed into a popular bike and pedestrian path.
• Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | Spanning more than 1,200 acres the arboretum is home to 32 different gardens, 48 plant collections and over 5,000 plant species.
• Minnehaha Falls | Stroll through Minnehaha Park and admire a 53-foot waterfall in the city.
• Theodore Wirth Regional Park | Located West of Downtown Minneapolis, this is the largest park in the Minneapolis park system with over 740 acres of land.

Attend Twin Cities' Pride

Extend your stay in Minneapolis to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Twin Cities' Pride weekend. Celebrate at the Pride Festival with live performances, vendors, and food. Cheer on the exciting parade, and join unforgettable parties that stretch beyond your time at Tourism Academy.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Looking for local goods and souvenirs? Minneapolis is home to a variety of boutiques and shopping districts including North Loop in the Warehouse District and Downtown. Peruse through some of the top stores, malls and markets in the Twin Cities:

• Electric Fetus | With its unforgettable name and a lasting impact on Minneapolis' music scene, this record shop is a must-visit for any music enthusiast.
• Hmongtown Marketplace | Large and vibrant market with vendors fresh produce and food, cultural treasures, and colorful Hmong clothing and jewelry in Saint Paul.
• I Like You | Located in Minneapolis and St. Paul, these stores feature unique gifts made by over 300 independent artisans.
• Mall of America | The largest mall in America featuring over 520 stores, 50 restaurants, and a full theme park.
• Midtown Global Market | A bustling market with a wide variety of restaurants, boutiques, services, and stalls selling apparel and crafts.
• Minnesota Makers | Shop for locally made souvenirs and gifts at this store showcasing more than 150 Minnesota artists.

Make Your Way to Top-Rated Restaurants

Embark on a culinary journey in Minneapolis. Savor the legendary Juicy Lucy, a burger bursting with melted cheese, served at various spots each adding their own twist to the original recipe. Complement your foodie experience by exploring Eat Street, a 17-block stretch of Nicollet Avenue known for its incredible selection of international dining options. For more places to eat, check out our recommendations for restaurants near the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot.

Create a Sports-Filled Day

If you’re in the Twin Cities the weekend before TA, head to Target Field to watch the Minnesota Twins square off against the Milwaukee Brewers. Then, join us on Monday to cheer on the Twins as they take on the Seattle Mariners. Wrap up your sports experience with a tour of U.S. Bank Stadium, where Minnesota Vikings history comes to life

For more recommendations on exciting activities, visit www.minneapolis.org.