Ruins of an old flour mill create a historic atmosphere with breathtaking views of the river, city, and Stone Arch Bridge from the rooftop deck. Interactive exhibits, including an elevator ride and water features, engage families and visitors. The space feels small and cozy, offering a relaxed experience without crowds.
Seated elevator presents the history of the mill and factory works in an engaging way. The museum offers many exhibits on milling production and the city's past, with an outdoor courtyard and glass faรงade that evoke the area's historical atmosphere.
Sweeping panoramas of the Mississippi River and the Stone Arch Bridge unfold from the observation deck atop the flour tower. The outdoor observatory offers beautiful, breathtaking views of the city and river.
"The interactive exhibits at the museums were really interesting."
"I learned so much about the history of flour milling here."
"The view from the top floor is amazing."
Good to know
Adult tickets cost $15 and children's tickets cost $8.
The museum offers a Flour Tower elevator show every 30 minutes.
Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during events.
Historic stone arch bridge spans a river with breathtaking city and river views. The atmosphere stays calm and scenic, with musicians and artists often adding to the peaceful vibe. Crowds feel family-like and never crowded, making it a relaxing spot for walking, reflection, or photography.
The area features the Historic Stone Arch Bridge, a beautiful and iconic structure with rich history. Interpretive signs and audio guides share details about the bridge and the area's milling heritage along the St Anthony Falls Heritage Trail.
Spectacular views include the downtown skyline, Mississippi River, and waterfalls. The Historic Stone Arch Bridge offers beautiful city and river scenery, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Good to know
The bridge will be under construction soon, limiting access to only half of it.
Parking is available nearby for a fee, but it can be an issue.
The bridge is closed for construction on the Minneapolis side, limiting access.
Historic 19th-century swing bridge stands as a unique architectural landmark with scenic river views and informative historical signs. The area offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with walking paths and picnic facilities, making it suitable for small gatherings and photography.
A 19th century train bridge stands as a beautiful and unique piece of history. Informational signs offer fascinating insights about its significance and connection to the area up to 2000.
Multiple spots offer beautiful river views, including a yacht harbor and a historic swing bridge. The park provides several vantage points to see the river and nearby refinery clearly.
Good to know
Parking is available and not usually a problem.
The location is handicap accessible.
There is a nice walking path leading out over the water.
Tall water tower with 151 steps offers panoramic views of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding landmarks. Platforms include chairs for resting during the climb, making the ascent manageable. Access is limited to twice a year, creating a quiet, scenic experience with historical significance.
A neighborhood landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Water Tower offers peaceful, scenic views of the Twin Cities and surrounding landmarks. It also provides insight into the city water system's history and features visible water elements and bridges.
Panoramic views of the Twin Cities and Downtown Minneapolis stand out from the top. The scene includes water features, bridges, and natural scenery visible from the tower.
Good to know
The Highland Water Tower opens to the public only twice a year, in July and October.
Visitors can climb 151 steps to reach the observation deck for scenic views.
Expect long lines during open days; arrive early to secure your spot.
Massive dome and detailed stonework define the building's classical architecture and stunning murals. Interior spaces feel regal and somber, with marble finishes and elegant painted designs. Roof access offers views of golden sculptures and the city skyline, while the surrounding plaza hosts community events and memorials.
A beautiful historic building with deep significance, preserved with great care. Tours offer rich history and architecture insights, making it a great spot to learn about the state's legacy.
The rooftop offers panoramic views of the city and the cathedral, with a close-up of the gold statue and the Quadriga. Climbing 63 steps leads to an observation deck with exceptional views of downtown and St. Paul's charm.
Good to know
Entry to the Minnesota State Capitol is free for all visitors.
Guided tours start at the beginning of every hour.
The Capitol closes at 3 pm on Saturdays.
Cathedral presents majestic architecture with intricate artwork and stained glass windows creating a reverent atmosphere. Visitors experience a peaceful, spiritual vibe with quiet chapels for reflection and excellent music during services. Guided tours and seating areas support both admiration and contemplation.
Historic elegance fills the cathedral with stained glass, sculptures, and detailed architecture. Warm hospitality and a peaceful atmosphere add to its rich sense of history.
Perched on a hill, the cathedral offers great views of the city and the Capitol building. Visitors can see the cityscape and the capital from its vantage point.
Good to know
Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Paul is free, with optional donations.
Parking is often full during mass; consider street parking.
On Sundays, donuts and coffee are served after Mass.
Old star fort stands with gorgeous river views and extensive hiking trails nearby. Exhibits and guided tours cover 19th-century soldier life and include Native American and WWII history. Accessibility features like golf cart rides and wheelchair availability support diverse visitors.
Guided tours feature volunteers in period clothing who explain historical roles. The site covers Native American history and government dealings, including stories of Dred and Harriet Scott. A visitor center offers detailed history, and living history displays engage kids with reenactments.
Walking trails offer access to beautiful scenery and gorgeous views of the river. The grounds provide great views of the city and rivers.
Good to know
Tours or shows occur every 30 minutes, especially on weekends.
Veterans receive free admission to the museum and fort.
Parking is free at Historic Fort Snelling.
State park combines historic buildings with woodsy trails and river valley views. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite proximity to highway and airport. Visitors find secluded spots for picnics and wildlife watching amid well-maintained amenities.
Historic forts and museums reveal complex history, including Native American treatment and slavery. Devoted historians keep the past alive with detailed exhibits and extensive trails for exploration.
Gorgeous views of the river valley and bluffs stand out here. Trails run along the river and lakes, offering beautiful scenery and sunset views over the water.
Good to know
Parking can be tight, especially on weekends due to nearby housing units.
Expect loud sounds from military demonstrations; caution is advised for sensitive visitors.
The park features numerous trails for hiking and beautiful views along the river.
Giant spoon and cherry sculptures create a vibrant focal point in a well-designed open-air museum. The space offers panoramic skyline views and maintains a peaceful atmosphere despite its urban setting.
A large sculpture garden features many art monuments, with the Spoonbridge and Cherry as its iconic centerpiece. The area serves as a notable landmark with a variety of sculptures to explore.
Beautiful views include a panoramic city skyline and a footbridge overlooking the interstate. The area features the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture alongside multiple other artworks.
Good to know
Parking costs $5 in the park's lot.
The sculpture garden is free to enter.
Special artists create interactive exhibits during summer.
Boutique hotel occupies a beautifully restored historic convent with charming decor and intimate bar featuring cocktails named after its past. Spacious rooms blend modern amenities with old-world charm. Noise carries easily through thin walls, creating a lively atmosphere late into the night.
A restored historic convent forms the core of this boutique hotel, showcasing a cozy environment with well-preserved history. Original art and decor honor the building's rich, deep history with sincere reverence.
Rooms offer beautiful views of the State Capitol building through large windows. The spacious rooms make the capital view very pleasant.
Good to know
Parking is available directly behind the hotel.
The hotel has a happy hour that goes until 6 pm.
Showing MN Wild tickets at the bar gets a free drink per ticket.
Roundhouse setting hosts a cozy, casual space filled with train cars to walk through and model trains. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, welcoming families and solo visitors alike. Interactive features like a kids' zone and caboose ride keep children engaged for hours.
Several restored train cars sit inside a historic roundhouse, letting visitors walk through and explore. Staff and volunteers share extensive local rail history and explain the gauges, levers, and engineer seats that bring the railroad past to life.
Stunning scenery surrounds the area, including a waterfall and trestle visible during the trip. Views from the museum add to the beautiful landscape regardless of weather or season.
Good to know
The museum hosts 'Tots and Trains' events on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 10:30 am.
Parking is very limited, so arriving early is advisable.
Admission includes train rides, making it a great value for families.