top of page

Last Updated:

2/14/24

Minneapolis, MN

Minnesota State Capitol

Below is a list of the best places I would visit on a trip to this location. My picks fit my personality and interest. Everyone has a different interest so you may not like everything I listed which is fine.  If you like a place, I recommend saving it to Google Maps for a future trip down the road. I made sure to include the address or GPS to make it easier to find.  You can find out more about me in the "About Me" section to see if we share common interests.

Breakfast

Dozen Donuts from Glam Doll Donuts, Best Donut Shop in Minneapolis Minnesota

Glam Doll Donuts

2605 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Sample of the Donut Flavors

  • Femme Fatale ( raspberry curd, vanilla icing)


  • Cookies & Cream


  • Pucker Up (lemon cream cheese, vanilla lemon drizzle)


  • Pecan Scotchie (caramel icing, candied pecans, butterscotch drizzle)


  • Showgirl (maple buttercream, caramelized bacon)


  • Bombshell (mexican hot chocolate, spiced pecans)


  • Caramel Apple Cheesecake


  • Party Time, Excellent (chocolate cookie crumble, vanilla cream brownies)

Hours

Mon to Fri 7 am - 3 pm

Sat & Sun 8 am - 4 pm

Order Online: Yes

Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes from The Uptown Diner Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

Uptown Diner

2548 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405

Sample Menu of What I Would Order

Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes: Two Buttermilk Pancakes with Sweet Pineapple, House-Made Vanilla Crème and Cinnamon Butter. 


Caramel Apple Crisp Waffle: Homemade Malted Waffle, Topped with Cooked Cinnamon Apple Chunks, Drizzled with Caramel,  Whipped Cream and Sprinkled with House-Made Granola and Cinnamon Sugar


Kamikaze French Toast: Three Slices of Thick-Cut Sourdough Bread with Blueberries, Pecans, and Bananas, Sprinkled with Cinnamon and Powdered Sugar


Catfish Breakfast: Catfish Filet Blackened, Two Farm Fresh Eggs Any Style, and House-Made Hash Browns. Choice of Bread


Carnita Benedict: Biscuit with Special Spiced Pulled Pork, Refried Black Beans, Topped with Two Poached Eggs, Smothered in Hollandaise Sauce. Topped with Pico de Gallo

Hours

Mon to Wed 7 am - 10 pm

Thu to Sat 24hrs

Sunday 7 am - 10 pm

Order Online: Yes

Activities

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Summary


The Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) is a prestigious art museum located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1883, the museum houses a vast and diverse collection of artworks spanning over 5,000 years of human history and representing cultures from around the globe.


The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, textiles, and artifacts from various periods and regions. Notable highlights include works by European masters such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Monet, as well as significant collections of Asian, African, and Native American art.


In addition to its permanent collection, the Minneapolis Institute of Art hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, making art accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The museum's commitment to cultural enrichment, education, and artistic excellence has solidified its status as a cultural landmark in the Twin Cities area and a source of inspiration for generations of visitors.


Cost of Admission


FREE FREE FREE

Minneapolis Institute of Art

2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Hours

Monday Closed

Tue & Wed 10 am - 5 pm

Thursday 10 am - 9 pm

Fri to Sun 10 am - 5 pm

Jan. Highlight: American Gothic ~ Gordon Parks and Ella Watson - Jan 6th to June 23rd - Photography Gallery

Mall of America

Summary


The Mall of America is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the United States. Opened in 1992, the mall spans over 5.6 million square feet and features over 500 stores, restaurants, and attractions.


In addition to its extensive retail offerings, the Mall of America is home to a variety of entertainment options, including an indoor amusement park called Nickelodeon Universe, an aquarium called SEA LIFE Minnesota, and a miniature golf course. The mall also hosts events, concerts, and performances throughout the year.


With its diverse array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, the Mall of America attracts millions of visitors annually, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its size, scale, and range of activities make it more than just a shopping center—it's a destination in its own right, offering something for everyone to enjoy.


Featured Places


  • Nickelodeon Universe


  • LEGO Store


  • M&M'S Store


  • SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium


  • Crayola Experience


  • Moose Mountain Adventure Golf


  • The Escape Game Minneapolis

Christopher Lutter-Gardena’s ’Kaleidoscope’ of Butterflies at Mall of America Located in Bloomington, Minnesota

60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425

Hours

Mon to Sat 10 am - 9 pm

Sunday 11 am - 7 pm

Minnesota Zoo

Summary


The Minnesota Zoo is a premier destination for wildlife conservation, education, and family-friendly entertainment. Established in 1978, the zoo spans over 485 acres and is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world.


The Minnesota Zoo features immersive exhibits that showcase different ecosystems and habitats, including the Tropics Trail, Medtronic Minnesota Trail, and Northern Trail. Visitors can observe animals such as tigers, bears, wolves, and marine mammals in naturalistic settings designed to promote animal welfare and conservation awareness.


In addition to its animal exhibits, the Minnesota Zoo offers educational programs, interactive experiences, and special events throughout the year. The zoo is committed to conservation efforts, both locally and globally, and works to inspire visitors to care for wildlife and the environment.


With its engaging exhibits, educational opportunities, and commitment to wildlife conservation, the Minnesota Zoo provides an enriching and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.


Admission Cost


Adult: $21.95

Child (3-12): $15.95

Adult (65+): $15.95

Parking: $8

Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley

13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124

Hours

Daily 10 am - 4 pm

Mill City Museum

Summary


The Mill City Museum is a historic site and museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of flour milling in the United States. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, the museum is housed in the ruins of the Washburn "A" Mill, once the largest flour mill in the world.


The Mill City Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history of flour milling and its impact on the region's economy and culture. Exhibits explore the technological innovations that revolutionized the industry, as well as the stories of the workers who toiled in the mills.


In addition to its exhibits, the museum features interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and guided tours that bring the history of flour milling to life. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the mill and enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding area from the museum's observation deck.


With its rich history, engaging exhibits, and scenic location, the Mill City Museum offers visitors a unique and educational experience that celebrates the legacy of flour milling in Minneapolis and the Upper Midwest.


Admission Cost


Adult: $12

Seniors (65+): $10

Child (5-17): $8

Mill City Museum Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401

Hours

Mon to Wed Closed

Thu & Fri 10 am - 4 pm

Sat & Sun 10 am - 5 pm

Food

A Burger from The Nook Located in Minneapolis Minnesota, One of the Best Burger Spots in Twin Cities

The Nook

492 Hamline Ave S, St Paul, MN 55116

Hours

Mon to Wed Closed

Thu & Fri 10 am - 4 pm

Sat & Sun 10 am - 5 pm

Order Online: Yes

Sample Menu of What I Would Order

Nook Curds (for the group): Honey Glazed Bacon Cheese Curds $12.95


Triple B Burger: Bacon with Smoked Cheddar and Bourbon Sauce $14.95


Juicy Nookie Burger: Stuffed Cheeseburger $13.95


Walleye Sandwich: On Toasted Hoagie Roll $17.25


Michael Floyd Burger: Topped with Corned Beef, Cream Cheese, Pickle Planks, and Mustard $14.75

Pizzeria Lola Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

Pizzeria Lola

5557 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55410

Sample Menu of What I Would Order

Meatballs (starter): Italian Red Sauce, Parmesan, Crostini $17.00


Sweet Italian: House Red Sauce, Fennel Sausage, Mozzarella, Provolone, Red Onion, Peppadew Peppers $21.00


Korean BBQ: Beef Short Ribs, Mozzarella, Scallion, Arugula, Soy-Chili Vinaigrette, Sesame $24.00


Tavern Pie: House Red Sauce, Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Jalapeño, Honey $21.00


Hawaii Pie-O: Nueske's Bacon, Fresh Pineapple, Mozzarella, Provolone, Cream, Serrano

Hours

Mon to Thu 11 am - 9 pm

Fri & Sat 11 am - 10 pm

Sunday 11 am - 9 pm

Order Online: Yes

Feb. Highlight: Burger Pie ~ Ground Beef, Brick Cheese, Mozzarella, Dill Pickle, Onion, Tomato, Lettuce, Special Sauce ~ Monday Only

Milkjam Creamery, Best Ice Cream in Minneapolis Minnesota

Milkjam Creamery

2743 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Sample of the Ice Cream Flavors

  • Cereal Killers (orange coriander milk, fruity pebbles)


  • PB vs Everybody (peanut butter, banana, oreo chunks)


  • Hard Knock Life 2.0 (dark chocolate, salted chocolate fudge, whoppers, brownies)


  • Ridin' Duuurty (oreo milk, oreo chunks, salted peanut butter)


  • Liquid Cool (strawberry kiwi sorbet)


  • Bailout (sweet cream ice cream, chocolate covered everything)

Hours (winter)

Mon to Fri 4 pm - 10 pm

Sat & Sun Noon - 10 pm

Order Online: Yes

Places to Stay

FYI: The hotel prices are estimated and will most likely fluctuate since I looked them up on their website.  I will keep them updated the best I can every three months.  I look for the cheapest available room, usually a queen bed. I typically look at book rates two months in advance and in the middle of the month to get average rates. Reminder: It is an ESTIMATE

W Minneapolis - The Foshay

  • Located within Walking Distance of the Minnesota Orchestra, Minneapolis Convention Center, and Target Center


  • From their Website: "W Minneapolis - The Foshay is a luxury downtown Minneapolis, MN, hotel infused with art deco style, and urban chic and vibrant décor."


  • Food/Drinks Options: Manny's Steakhouse (dry-aged, center-cut beef ), Cardigan Donuts (nearby), and Barrio (nearby)


  • Who is this for: Basketball Fans, Convention Goers, Live Music Lovers, & Downtown Explorers

Room View at the W Minneapolis - The Foshay Hotel

821 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Estimated Cost for Weekend Night (without tax/fee)


King in May 24' - $212.00

Hewing Hotel

  • Located within Walking Distance of the Target Field, Mississippi River, and The Fillmore Minneapolis


  • From their Website: "Hewing combines its rustic Minnesota history with modern amenities for an authentic and unforgettable stay in the Twin Cities."


  • Food/Drinks Options: Tullibee (farm-to-table ), Rise Bagel Co. (nearby), and Smack Shack (nearby seafood)


  • Who is this for: Baseball Fans, Brewery Tasters, Live Music Lovers, & River Walkers

Room View at Hewing Hotel Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

300 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401

Estimated Cost for Weekend Night (without tax/fee)


King in May 24' - $275.00

21 and up fun

Darkness Imperial Stout from Surly Brewing Company Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

Surly Brewing Co.

520 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414

SAMPLE OF BEER MENU

Furious: India Pale Ale | 6.7% ABV


Mosh Pit: Juicy Pale Ale | 5.5% ABV


Yellowjacket: Double IPA | 9.0% ABV


Velvet Jam: Cherry Rasberry Sour | 9.0% ABV


Surly Lemonade: English Ale | 5.5% ABV

Hours

Monday Closed

Tue to Thu 3 pm - 9 pm

Friday 3 pm - 11 pm

Saturday 11 am - 11 pm

Sunday 11 am - 6 pm

Food Menu: Yes

Brew from Saint Paul Brewing Located in Minneapolis Minnesota

Saint Paul Brewing

688 Minnehaha Ave E, St Paul, MN 55106

SAMPLE OF BEER MENU

Fond Memories: CreamAle | 5.0% ABV


F*CK Cancer: Cherry Wheat Ale | 5.3% ABV


Bermuda Triangle: Belgian Tripel | 9.1% ABV


Black Helicopter: Coffee Oatmeal Stout | 5.3% ABV


Space Pirate: Juicy IPA | 5.5% ABV

Hours

Monday Closed

Tue to Thu 11 am - 9 pm

Friday 11 am - 10 pm

Saturday 11 am - 10 pm

Sunday Noon - 8 pm

Food Menu: Yes

 Again these are just few of my picks that fit my personality and interest. If you feel that I left one-off that may interest me or other people, message me on Facebook about the location.  I value a person's opinion and never just discard the information.  Always looking forward to learning about new places to add to my Google Map. ~ Shawn

The Summary in Activities Uses OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (3.5) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com

bottom of page