Who says that summer in the Midwest should be boring? Sure, exotic destinations are cool, but there are so many interesting things to see and do right in your neighborhood! Minneapolis and Saint Paul, also known as Twin Cities, have so much to offer to locals and tourists alike.
These cities are so diverse that they offer fun activities for everyone: families, solo travelers or friend groups, outdoorsy people, and party maniacs. So, no matter what your definition of fun is, here you can find the best summer activities to do in the Twin Cities!
Family-Friendly Summer Activities In Twin Cities
Family vacations can be expensive, stressful, and chaotic, but they also create memories for life, especially for the children. Every family has some funny stories from their vacations, and you can get your own funny stories and core memories if you take your family to the Twin Cities. There are many family-friendly places there; you just need to pick where you want to go.
For instance, you can visit Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, where you and your family can see various wild and exotic animals, such as the Arctic fox, Galapagos tortoise, green anaconda, giraffes, spider monkeys, and even flamingos! This Zoo also has beautiful gardens where you can see rich bonsai collections, lily ponds, and a tropical rainforest.
Then, if you want more adrenaline, go to the Valleyfair Amusement Park. Opened in 1976, this amusement park is still insanely popular. It has over 75 attractions, including rollercoasters, bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, circular rides, and many, many more. There is also the water park area called Soak City, which is included in the entrance ticket for the whole amusement park.
Activities for History and Culture Lovers
Do you prefer vacations and travels where you can explore the history and cultural heritage of your destination? Well, you’re in for a treat! Both Saint Paul and Minneapolis are packed with museums, galleries, theaters, and historical sites.
For instance, a Minnesota History Center in Saint Paul is a great starting point to learn more about the history of this state. Here, you can see interesting exhibitions about the Native population of Minnesota, as well as take a peak at the lives of the Greatest Generation, the generation that fought in WW2. You can also take a picture in front of a giant postcard or enjoy the view at the Minnesota State Capitol.
If you are more into arts, visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA), a place that keeps over 100,000 pieces of art from the past 5,000 years of our history. Twin Cities are also the home of various summer festivals and other events, which is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture of Minneapolis while having fun.
Twin Cities Outdoor Activities
These two cities lack no activities for nature lovers. You probably know that Minnesota is called the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” with many of those lakes being close to the Twin Cities. Why don’t you visit Lake Nokomis, Lake Harriet, or Lake Calhoun? There, you can swim, fish, drive a boat, or simply enjoy the sun and breathtaking views.
Make sure to visit Minnehaha Falls, which is located in Minnehaha Park. The waterfall is 53 feet high, which isn’t particularly high, but it is a beautiful sight, especially in the summer when the whole park becomes green and lush. This park also contains several historical sites, which make it even more charming and interesting.
Obviously, you can’t skip visiting the banks of the Mississippi River – the second-longest river in the US. Take a walk by the river or, even better, take a riverboat cruise! You can also try kayaking or go for an out-and-back guided paddle tour. Afterward, you can visit the Stone Arch Bridge, enjoy the view, and take some cool pictures!
Best Nightlife Spots
Are you looking for a bar that serves the best beer? Well, you are lucky since the Twin Cities are full of such places. Make sure to visit The Pourhouse MN, a prohibition-themed bar that serves the best drinks and the most delicious foods. Enjoy live music and DJ sets, or participate in themed nights – the choice is yours. You can even book an event at The Pourhouse – a birthday party, a bachelor/ette party, or even a wedding. This place will make your vacation unforgettable, so make sure to visit it.
If you want to really party, you will be happy to know that both Minneapolis and Saint Paul are full of exciting nightclubs. For example, First Avenue is an iconic nightclub dating back to 1970. This place is practically the musical epicenter of the Twin Cities, especially since this is the place where Prince made his first musical steps there. It was even featured in Prince’s 1984 film, “Purple Rain.”
Foodie Destinations
Of course, we haven’t forgotten the foodies among our readers. Twin Cities is your go-to place if you want to enjoy rich and diverse cuisines. Here, you can find fancy restaurants such as Spoon and Stable and The Bachelor Farmer. If ethnic cuisines are more up to your alley, then visit places such as Quang Restaurant (Vietnamese), Hai Hai (South Asian), and Pimento Jamaican Kitchen (Caribbean).
There are also some budget-friendly options, such as Al’s Breakfast and Annie’s Parlour. You can also mingle and talk to locals to get even more recommendations. If you are into craft beers, go to Indeed Brewing Company, Surly Brewing Co., or Summit Brewing Company. Vine lovers will enjoy visiting the Saint Croix Vineyards in Stillwater.
Conclusion
Minneapolis and Saint Paul, also known as the Twin Cities, are great destinations during the summer months. No matter what your preferences and expectations are, Twin Cities will certainly meet them. From fun zoos and interesting museums to breathtaking nature and cool bars, Minneapolis and Saint Paul have something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Visit these cities and enjoy the adventure of your life!
Who says that summer in the Midwest should be boring? Sure, exotic destinations are cool, but there are so many interesting things to see and do right in your neighborhood! Minneapolis and Saint Paul, also known as Twin Cities, have so much to offer to locals and tourists alike.
These cities are so diverse that they offer fun activities for everyone: families, solo travelers or friend groups, outdoorsy people, and party maniacs. So, no matter what your definition of fun is, here you can find the best summer activities to do in the Twin Cities!
Family-Friendly Summer Activities In Twin Cities
Family vacations can be expensive, stressful, and chaotic, but they also create memories for life, especially for the children. Every family has some funny stories from their vacations, and you can get your own funny stories and core memories if you take your family to the Twin Cities. There are many family-friendly places there; you just need to pick where you want to go.
For instance, you can visit Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, where you and your family can see various wild and exotic animals, such as the Arctic fox, Galapagos tortoise, green anaconda, giraffes, spider monkeys, and even flamingos! This Zoo also has beautiful gardens where you can see rich bonsai collections, lily ponds, and a tropical rainforest.
Then, if you want more adrenaline, go to the Valleyfair Amusement Park. Opened in 1976, this amusement park is still insanely popular. It has over 75 attractions, including rollercoasters, bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, circular rides, and many, many more. There is also the water park area called Soak City, which is included in the entrance ticket for the whole amusement park.
Activities for History and Culture Lovers
Do you prefer vacations and travels where you can explore the history and cultural heritage of your destination? Well, you’re in for a treat! Both Saint Paul and Minneapolis are packed with museums, galleries, theaters, and historical sites.
For instance, a Minnesota History Center in Saint Paul is a great starting point to learn more about the history of this state. Here, you can see interesting exhibitions about the Native population of Minnesota, as well as take a peak at the lives of the Greatest Generation, the generation that fought in WW2. You can also take a picture in front of a giant postcard or enjoy the view at the Minnesota State Capitol.
If you are more into arts, visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA), a place that keeps over 100,000 pieces of art from the past 5,000 years of our history. Twin Cities are also the home of various summer festivals and other events, which is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture of Minneapolis while having fun.
Twin Cities Outdoor Activities
These two cities lack no activities for nature lovers. You probably know that Minnesota is called the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” with many of those lakes being close to the Twin Cities. Why don’t you visit Lake Nokomis, Lake Harriet, or Lake Calhoun? There, you can swim, fish, drive a boat, or simply enjoy the sun and breathtaking views.
Make sure to visit Minnehaha Falls, which is located in Minnehaha Park. The waterfall is 53 feet high, which isn’t particularly high, but it is a beautiful sight, especially in the summer when the whole park becomes green and lush. This park also contains several historical sites, which make it even more charming and interesting.
Obviously, you can’t skip visiting the banks of the Mississippi River – the second-longest river in the US. Take a walk by the river or, even better, take a riverboat cruise! You can also try kayaking or go for an out-and-back guided paddle tour. Afterward, you can visit the Stone Arch Bridge, enjoy the view, and take some cool pictures!
Best Nightlife Spots
Are you looking for a bar that serves the best beer? Well, you are lucky since the Twin Cities are full of such places. Make sure to visit The Pourhouse MN, a prohibition-themed bar that serves the best drinks and the most delicious foods. Enjoy live music and DJ sets, or participate in themed nights – the choice is yours. You can even book an event at The Pourhouse – a birthday party, a bachelor/ette party, or even a wedding. This place will make your vacation unforgettable, so make sure to visit it.
If you want to really party, you will be happy to know that both Minneapolis and Saint Paul are full of exciting nightclubs. For example, First Avenue is an iconic nightclub dating back to 1970. This place is practically the musical epicenter of the Twin Cities, especially since this is the place where Prince made his first musical steps there. It was even featured in Prince’s 1984 film, “Purple Rain.”
Foodie Destinations
Of course, we haven’t forgotten the foodies among our readers. Twin Cities is your go-to place if you want to enjoy rich and diverse cuisines. Here, you can find fancy restaurants such as Spoon and Stable and The Bachelor Farmer. If ethnic cuisines are more up to your alley, then visit places such as Quang Restaurant (Vietnamese), Hai Hai (South Asian), and Pimento Jamaican Kitchen (Caribbean).
There are also some budget-friendly options, such as Al’s Breakfast and Annie’s Parlour. You can also mingle and talk to locals to get even more recommendations. If you are into craft beers, go to Indeed Brewing Company, Surly Brewing Co., or Summit Brewing Company. Vine lovers will enjoy visiting the Saint Croix Vineyards in Stillwater.
Conclusion
Minneapolis and Saint Paul, also known as the Twin Cities, are great destinations during the summer months. No matter what your preferences and expectations are, Twin Cities will certainly meet them. From fun zoos and interesting museums to breathtaking nature and cool bars, Minneapolis and Saint Paul have something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Visit these cities and enjoy the adventure of your life!
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