7 MUST Visit Places In Minneapolis-St. Paul Minnesota

Recently I was in Minnesota for a weekend and was able to do some amazing things while I was there. Granted, a weekend never feels long enough for me, but I loved my stay and I am already ready to go back.  The Twin cities offer a lot to those wishing to explore the area. When I was planning my trip I already had a list of must see items and they did not disappoint.
Where to stay:
I stayed in Roseville right outside St. Paul and Minneapolis with easy access to both cities (about 10 minutes) at the Courtyard Marriott. I loved that hotel was so clean, minimalist but modern, served Starbucks coffee, and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful.
During my stay, I checked into a guest room with 2 double beds that had:

• Newly renovated
• Pillow Top Mattress
• Free wifi
• Pay Per View Movies and a full list of channels
• Luxury bath amenities

One of the nights during my stay I ordered a movie and a pizza from the bar – and the pizza was crazy delicious! Sorry I don’t have a photo, we ate it all!
Hotel Info:

• 2905 Centre Pointe Drive Roseville, MN 55113
• Phone: 651-746-8000
• Distance from MSP: about 14 miles
• Plenty of on-site parking
• Hotel has fitness center and pool
• Free WiFi

Booking.com

Things to do:
These are my top 7 places to see in Minneapolis – St. Paul:
Minnesota State Fair
Technically this is a seasonal event (but well worth it). It was the entire reason I came to Minnesota. It takes place around the end of August and beginning of September. People flock from all over the country to come to this foodie destination. Here you will find the craziest and most delicious foods spread throughout the fair grounds. In addition, there are rides for all ages, lots of shopping, concerts, and an endless stream of fun.

Check out my foodies guide to the state fair 

Minnehaha Park
This was an easy decision for me to visit Minnehaha Park and Falls. They have a waterfall – so that sealed the deal. Parking can get a bit crowded, but once you find a spot you are good to go.
I loved that you can see the waterfall from a couple vantage points. I was only going to see it from the top because it was stunning, but decided to walk down the (110 or so) steps to see if from there, and the view paid off. Not only is the view down there just as gorgeous BUT I witnessed a couple getting engaged. How lucky!

Weisman Art Museum
What drew me to the Weisman Art Museum was the fascinating building. I mean, LOOK AT IT!!

Located along the Mississippi River, you cannot miss this work of art. Check their website to see what they have featured as things tend to change in art museums.
Mall of America

Technically the mall is in Bloomington, but its so close to the airport and easy to access. It is the second largest mall in America and the coolest mall experience I have ever had! One simply does not come to Minneapolis and NOT go to this mall. Its a staple tourist visit.
Pro tip: since the mall is so big, plan ahead where you are looking to go or what you want to do so that you can park close to an area/attraction.
One of the coolest features I think the mall has is the computer screen kiosks throughout the mall that show you were you are, whats close, and you can find anything you are looking for. It will show you how to get there, even a restroom!
I loved that the mall has a section with a lot of rides, an aquarium, endless shopping, and lots of food to choose from.
Cathedral of St. Paul
The Cathedral is one of the prettiest sites in all of St Paul. Perched atop a hill, you can see it from many spots in the city. The inside of the cathedral has the most gorgeous grandeur. I could have spent half a day staring and walking around, looking at all the details. If you love beautiful craftsmanship – this is the place for you.

Booking.com

Stone Arch Bridge
Built in 1883 as a way to move goods and people across the river, it is mostly a pedestrian bridge and a popular destination for tourists to visit. You can walk or bike across the bridge or take in the views from below. It is made from native granite and limestone and has 23 arches!
While I was there I strolled across the bridge and then went down below. I liked the view from below because you could see the bridge versus being on it. I suggest both.

Como Conservatory 
The Conservatory is also where the Zoo is. You don’t have to go to the zoo or pay to get into the zoo to visit. I really enjoyed the sunken garden and walking around the tropical encounters. It is a little humid inside the tropical encounters but that is the weather it thrives in.
Pro Tip: The cost to get into the conservatory is donation only, so bring cash.

I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Minnesota with the Roseville Visitors Association. The cities have so much to offer and I cannot wait to go back to Minnesota and explore more of the area. Overall I loved all the places I went to but the State Fair takes the cake – literally.

 

I was a guest of Visit Roseville, but as always, opinions are entirely my own. 

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