The Best of Minneapolis in 3 DaysMinneapolis surprises at every turn, blending a world-class arts scene, a thriving craft brewery culture, and a stunning riverfront history into one incredibly walkable city. From the Mill District to Northeast's creative corridors, this itinerary captures the best of the City of Lakes.Authorscoupleofpatels
DestinationsMinneapolisItinerary

Stay

Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District
The perfect home base for exploring the Mill District, featuring a stunning industrial-chic lobby and a prime location just steps from the riverfront. We loved the local touches and how easy it was to walk to the Stone Arch Bridge from here.
See More
Book

Day 1

Silver Fern
A cozy and bright spot in Northeast Minneapolis that’s perfect for a mid-day fuel-up. The fresh, seasonal menu and Great Lakes-inspired flavors made for a delicious first lunch in the city.
See More
Boom Island Park
This park offers some of the best skyline views of Minneapolis and a peaceful escape along the Mississippi River. It’s a great place to wander the trails and get your bearings before heading into the heart of Northeast.
See More
Indeed Brewing Company Northeast Taproom
The Art-A-Whirl energy here was incredible, especially with the vibrant outdoor scene and local buzz at the Northeast Taproom. It’s the perfect place to grab a pint and soak in the neighborhood’s industrial-meets-artistic soul.
See More
MN Nice Cream
No trip to Northeast is complete without a stop here, especially since Jay never misses a chance to find the best ice cream in the city. Their over-the-top toppings and creative swirls made it the ultimate highlight for his sweet tooth.
See More
Bauhaus Brew Labs
From the massive "Liquid Zoo" event to the colorful, high-ceilinged warehouse vibe, Bauhaus is an absolute must-visit for craft beer lovers. The atmosphere is consistently fun and welcoming, making it a standout stop in the Northeast brewery district.
See More
Earl Giles Restaurant and Distillery
This stunning space on Quincy Street feels like a tropical oasis tucked inside a grand industrial distillery. We were blown away by the creative botanical cocktails and the unique atmosphere that perfectly captures the innovative spirit of Northeast Minneapolis.
See More

Day 2

Farmers Kitchen + Bar
The farm-to-table philosophy shines through here, making it the perfect spot for a morning coffee right in the heart of the Mill District. We loved the connection to local Minnesota farmers and the fresh, community-centered atmosphere.
See More
Mill City Farmers Market
Located right between the historic Mill City Museum and the riverfront, this market is the best place to experience the local flavor of Minneapolis. We spent the morning browsing artisan goods and fresh seasonal produce with the iconic Stone Arch Bridge as our backdrop.
See More
Historic Stone Arch Bridge
Walking across this historic landmark is a quintessential Minneapolis experience with incredible views of St. Anthony Falls. It’s the perfect spot for cinematic shots of the city's industrial history meeting the riverfront.
See More
Book
Reverie Cafe + Bar
A fantastic plant-based spot that proves how incredible vegetarian cuisine can be when done with so much creativity. The vibrant, community-focused atmosphere and unique menu items made it one of our favorite culinary discoveries in the city.
See More
Guthrie Theater
The "Endless Bridge" provides a dramatic cantilevered view over the Mississippi that feels like you’re floating above the water. The architecture here is a work of art in itself and offers one of the most cinematic vantage points in the entire city.
See More
Minneapolis Institute of Art
A world-class museum with an incredible collection that spans centuries and continents—and the fact that it's free is amazing. We could have spent hours getting lost in the galleries and architectural details.
See More
Hai Hai
This spot serves up some of the most vibrant and flavorful Southeast Asian street food in a colorful, tropical setting. The heated patio and inventive cocktails made for a perfect final dinner in the city.
See More
Berlin
A moody and sophisticated spot for live music, this club brings a world-class jazz scene to the heart of the city. The intimate lighting and incredible acoustics made for a perfect evening of cinematic storytelling and soulful performances.
See More
Barcelona Wine Bar
This vibrant North Loop spot is the perfect place to linger over a vast selection of Spanish wines and small plates. The rustic-chic energy and buzzing crowd make it an ideal destination for a social evening spent sharing tapas.
See More

Day 3

Isles Bun & Coffee
Famous for their massive "Puppy Dog Tails" and world-class cinnamon rolls, this cozy spot is a must-visit for any sweet tooth. Grab a fresh bun and a coffee before taking a short walk over to enjoy the views at Bde Maka Ska.
See More
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Home to the iconic "Spoonbridge and Cherry," this 11-acre park is one of the most recognizable spots in the city. It’s a perfect outdoor gallery for a scenic stroll, offering an incredible mix of modern art and lush green space right next to the Walker Art Center.
See More
Book
Loring Park
Often referred to as the "Central Park" of Minneapolis, this historic green space is a serene escape right on the edge of downtown. It’s a beautifully cinematic spot for a walk, with winding paths, a large pond, and perfect views of the city skyline.
See More
Book
Namaste Cafe
This charming, homey spot in a converted Victorian house offers a serene setting for incredible Nepalese and Indian-inspired flavors. Its beautiful outdoor patio and warm interior make it a perfect, low-key destination for a nourishing meal.
See More