Have the Best 48 Hours in Minneapolis 💜Minneapolis highlights: waterfalls in the middle of the city, sculpture gardens, creative neighborhoods with murals, shops + bookstores, and a food scene that quietly impresses, including Michelin-recommended spots.Authorskayleejochicago
DestinationsMinneapolisItinerary

Day 1

Hell's Kitchen Inc.
An underground Minneapolis brunch classic. This spot is known for big comfort-food energy. We tried the caramel pecan roll and lemon ricotta pancakes, plus a few other favorites.
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Weisman Art Museum
A free museum right on the U of M campus with a striking Frank Gehry design you can spot from the river. Inside, it’s a mix of rotating modern exhibits and quiet spaces to wander.
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Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Home of the famous Spoonbridge, this outdoor sculpture garden is one of those “you have to stop here” Minneapolis spots. It’s walkable, open-air, and full of playful art pieces that make it feel like a calm little city escape.
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Book
The Market At Malcolm Yards
A lively food hall with tons of different vendors so everyone can grab something different. Indoor-outdoor seating makes it great for hanging out, and there’s even a pour-your-own beer wall situation.
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MN Nice Cream
Honestly one of the highlights of the trip. This ice cream spot goes big on toppings and fun flavors. The rainbow cone is a must and it’s gluten-free too. Everything feels playful, generous, and a little over-the-top in the best way.
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Emery, Autograph Collection
A gorgeous downtown hotel set inside a former bank, so you get all these dramatic historic details mixed with modern design. It’s a perfect check-in before dinner, and the lobby alone feels like part of the experience.
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Book
Giulia
Tucked inside The Emery, this Italian dinner spot is super convenient after check-in. No need to go back out once you're settled in. The food is rich, comforting, and genuinely impressive. The kind of meal that feels like a reward after a full day out.
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Day 2

Spyhouse Coffee Roasters | Downtown / Emery
Located inside The Emery, this massive coffee shop keeps the old bank bones intact. Even the vault is still there. It's plant-filled, bright, and honestly just a great place to start the day. Strong coffee, plenty of seating, and perfect if you need to post up or get some work done.
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Historic Stone Arch Bridge
A historic limestone bridge that stretches over the Mississippi River with some of the best city views in Minneapolis. It’s an easy, scenic walk, especially with a coffee in hand from Spyhouse.
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Book
Minnehaha Falls
A real waterfall right in the middle of the city, which feels a little unreal when you’re standing in front of it. It’s gorgeous year-round, but it does get busy with locals and tourists, so expect some crowds. Still 100% worth the stop.
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Gai Noi
A Laotian, woman-owned restaurant with an absolutely incredible menu. First time trying Laotian food and it completely delivered. Everything feels bold, fresh, and full of flavor — easy to see why it's a local favorite.
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Fawkes Alley Coffee
A coffee shop tucked literally down an alley. It feels like a little discovery moment in the city. The drinks are super creative and really good. Great for a midday reset when you need a second wind before continuing the day.
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Jeromeo Curated Design, Massage & Wellness
A North Loop gem that’s part design shop, part treasure hunt. You’ll find everything from antiques to home goods to perfumes and scents you didn’t know you needed. It’s eclectic in the best way, like walking through someone’s beautifully curated brain.
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Requisite
A chic women's boutique in the North Loop with seriously beautiful, elevated pieces. Everything feels thoughtfully chosen and high quality. Easy to walk in casually browsing and walk out wanting to redo your entire wardrobe.
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North Loop Wine & Spirits
A wine lover’s dream stop with a huge, well-organized selection from all over the world. They also carry beer and spirits, but the wine section really steals the show. Great place to grab a bottle before dinner or a night out.
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Bob Dylan Mural
A colorful downtown mural honoring Minnesota legend Bob Dylan. It’s quick to stop by but really fun for photos and a little cultural nod while you’re exploring the city.
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Prince Mural
An iconic tribute to Prince in downtown Minneapolis that always draws a crowd. It's bold, vibrant, and feels like a genuine must-see that connects you to Minneapolis' music history.
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Book
Inkwell Booksellers Company
A modern bookstore with a cozy coffee shop inside where people actually settle in. You can read, listen to music, or just wander the shelves. It's calm, inviting, and a nice slow-down moment in the middle of the city.
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Eat My Words Bookstore
A used bookstore packed with character and history, with books ranging from the 1800s to today. Easy to lose track of time flipping through the shelves and walk out with something unexpected.
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Brühaven Craft Company
A laid-back brewery with house-made beers, a rotating food truck outside, and tons of indoor-outdoor seating. There are games inside too, so it feels like an easygoing hangout spot to wind down the afternoon.
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Brit's Pub
A British-style pub with a lively downtown energy, but the real highlight is the rooftop. Lawn bowling, open-air seating, and a fun social vibe.
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Day 3

Honour Coffee & Raw Juice
A health-focused coffee and juice spot that feels bright, fresh, and intentional. Coffee beans sourced from Costa Rica, tons of juice options, and a surprisingly busy crowd. Great final stop before heading to the airport.
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