Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Minneapolis

Interesting fun activities

An activity that is genuinely interesting instead of just another way to kill time on a weekend.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Mill City Museum image 1
Mill City Museum image 2
Mill City Museum image 3
View all
History museum

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.

Docents bring history to life with fun and knowledgeable stories. The Flour Tour offers a creative way to explore the building's past, making it engaging for all ages.

Rich history of the mill factory and the story of the Mills hold attention. The Flour Tower offers a great view, and all exhibits, including worker explanations, keep visitors engaged.

People are saying

"The interactive exhibits at the museums were really interesting."

"It's a fun place to learn about Minneapolis's history."

"I found the history of flour milling surprisingly interesting."

Good to know

1

Adult tickets cost $15 and children's tickets cost $8.

2

The museum offers a Flour Tower elevator show every 30 minutes.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during events.

02
Escape The Room Minneapolis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center offers immersive themes with creative, well-designed sets that include hidden rooms and intuitive puzzles. The atmosphere stays fun and exciting with a difficulty level that suits a wide range of ages and groups. It serves as a popular spot for team building and group activities.

Escape rooms offer fun and challenging puzzles with clues that keep you moving. Hosts like Alexander and Jake make the experience exciting and well managed.

Creative puzzles feature interesting mechanics and hidden clues that keep the experience engaging. Rooms like The Dig and The Agency offer challenging and unexpected elements throughout.

People are saying

"This escape room experience is so much fun and really creative."

"This escape room is super fun and great for kids."

"The clue masters here are so helpful with challenging puzzles."

Good to know

1

The escape room accommodates up to ten players, but 3-5 players is ideal.

2

The event is well organized and suitable for team building activities.

3

The Dig escape room offers a fun and challenging experience.

03
Trapped Puzzle Rooms image 1
Escape room center

Escape rooms feature intricate themes like dragons, wizards, and superheroes with immersive decor and creative puzzles. Atmosphere stays positive and engaging, offering challenging yet fair experiences. Rooms include unique interactive effects and use space cleverly to enhance immersion.

Escape rooms offer two difficulty levels to suit all ages and skill levels. Themed rooms like Marvel's It's All Fun and Games and Dragon's Keep provide a fun challenge for families and mixed groups.

Puzzles offer a mix of fun and challenge that keeps things engaging. Unique themes like Witchcraft Alley and well-crafted missions add variety and depth to the experience.

People are saying

"The escape rooms here are so creative and fun!"

"The escape rooms here are so immersive and creative."

"The missions and puzzles were so interesting and engaging."

Good to know

1

Parking is readily available on the street, especially on Sundays.

2

The location does not have elevator access, which may affect some visitors.

3

The escape rooms are suitable for families, including kids aged 10 and up.

04
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden image 1

Large open-air park combines modern sculptures with serene natural elements like wind chimes in trees. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere ideal for quiet walks and reflection. Iconic pieces such as the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture stand out against views of historic architecture.

Running around art projects offers active fun for kids and adults alike. Open green spaces invite picnics and relaxed gatherings with family and friends.

Beautiful layout features unique sculptures and interesting installations throughout a peaceful garden setting.

People are saying

"I loved how the sculpture integrates with nature and everyday life."

"I found the sculptures beautiful and thought-provoking."

"The sculptures here are beautiful and interesting."

Good to know

1

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free to visit.

2

Parking at the adjacent lot costs $4 for the day.

3

The park is open until midnight.

05
American Swedish Institute image 1

Mansion combines historic architecture with contemporary art for a seamless visual experience. Atmosphere feels friendly and spacious, with holiday decor enhancing the setting. Unique features include an authentic Swedish cafe and an amazing kids' play area.

Fun activities happen regularly, especially around holidays. The place offers a unique experience that stands out from typical outings.

Intricate design details and a rich history make the mansion stand out. The museum features interesting art exhibits and storytelling methods that add to its welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"This museum's ornate architecture and woodwork are stunning."

"The mansion's history and architecture are truly interesting."

"The mansion is beautifully decorated for Christmas, making it feel festive."

Good to know

1

Admission to the American Swedish Institute is free on Thursdays from 3-8 pm.

2

Tickets for events at the American Swedish Institute can sell out quickly.

3

Kids under 6 can enter for free at the American Swedish Institute.

06
Violet Wine & Spirits image 1

Cozy shop with handwritten labels on nearly every bottle creates a welcoming, relaxed vibe that encourages conversation. Dedicated lounging areas and wine-related reading materials invite lingering and learning. Selection focuses on small winemakers and natural wines, offering diverse price points and hard-to-find bottles.

Tastings offer a ton of fun and are educational. Tuesdays and Fridays bring an enlightening and social vibe for meeting new people.

Fred personally curates an eclectic wine selection featuring many hard-to-find bottles. The variety stays consistently interesting and diverse.

People are saying

"The staff's wine suggestions were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful."

"The staff here are super friendly and knowledgeable about beer."

"The staff here are so knowledgeable and patient with guidance."

Good to know

1

Wine tastings are held on Fridays from 5-7 PM and Saturdays from 1-3 PM.

2

Cocktail tutorials take place on Tuesday afternoons for those interested in learning.

3

The shop specializes in small winemakers and natural wines, offering unique selections.

07
Spoonbridge and Cherry image 1

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.

Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture offers a quick, fun stop that appeals to all ages. Water features and sculptures blend with the skyline, creating a playful spot for a fun afternoon.

Sculptures stand out as the most interesting feature here, especially the Spoonbridge and Cherry artwork. The park offers many art pieces that catch the eye and invite a closer look.

People are saying

"This iconic cherry sculpture is a must-see."

"It's a fun place to take photos and see sculptures."

"I found the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculptures really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 in the park's lot.

2

The sculpture garden is free to enter.

3

Special artists create interactive exhibits during summer.

08
The Dampfwerk Distillery Cocktail Lounge image 1

Warehouse setting with dark modern decor and a long steel-topped bar creates a sleek, intimate space. Atmosphere feels dark and moody yet friendly, with live DJ music adding energy. Craft cocktails feature unique distillery spirits, paired with a small but excellent charcuterie selection.

Events here are unique and fun, with trivia on Tuesdays standing out as a popular activity. The cocktail lounge offers a distinctive atmosphere that adds to the enjoyment.

Upscale venue serves imaginative cocktails with interesting distillates and herbal spirits. Tasting offers a variety of unique drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are imaginative and have creative names."

"Their distillates and cocktails are pretty out there and interesting."

"The cocktails here are outstanding and innovative."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a 15% discount on drinks.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

Free parking is available in front and on the street.

09
House of Balls image 1
Art gallery

Old car mechanic garage transforms into a working studio and gallery filled with scrap metal sculptures and unique art installations. Quirky, interactive atmosphere invites exploration inside and out, appealing to all ages. Space buzzes with creative energy and offers constant surprises for those who wander through.

Many fun and interesting things fill the space, making it a lively spot. The owner adds to the vibe with engaging conversations about art.

Interesting art fills the space with cool, odd pieces and beautiful displays. There is always something new and fun to see.

People are saying

"It's packed with interesting sculptures and odd pieces."

"The outdoor space is covered in scrap metal art and spare parts."

"It's a fun place with many interesting things to look at."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the House of Balls is free, but donations are accepted.

2

Parking is limited but free on the street.

3

The House of Balls is located right next to the Cedar Riverside Station.

10
Hunt and Gather image 1
Antique store

Antique store packed with unique oddities and vintage collectibles arranged in narrow, winding paths that create a maze-like experience. Low lighting with vintage chandeliers and colorful signs sets a funky, eclectic vibe. The space feels intense and densely curated, attracting those who enjoy exploring rare and diverse treasures.

Exploring offers a fun hunt with a lot of variety and unique finds. Vibrant colors and music make the experience lively and enjoyable.

Many unique vintage items fill the shelves alongside new finds. Browsing reveals a mix of rare and interesting objects that catch the eye every visit.

People are saying

"I found so many unique antiques and oddities at this vintage shop."

"It's so much fun browsing for treasures and oddities here."

"It's packed with interesting vintage items and unique finds."

Good to know

1

Expect narrow aisles and a cramped layout, especially when busy.

2

Prices vary widely; some items can be quite expensive.

3

The basement level has additional treasures but is accessed via a narrow staircase.

11
Mill Ruins Park image 1

Park combines historic mill ruins with river views and urban skyline. Atmosphere stays peaceful and scenic, with sounds of rushing water and quiet paths. Visitors enjoy walking among weathered stone walls and watching landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls.

High water levels offer a unique view from the bridge. Mill Ruins Park provides a fun and beautiful setting with plenty of activities to enjoy.

Ruins offer a glimpse into the past with historical significance clearly visible. The area provides informative insights into its history.

People are saying

"I loved learning about the history of the milling industry here."

"It's a fun place with lots of great activities."

"I found the history and ruins here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking at Mill Ruins Park requires payment at a pay station.

2

There are no restrooms available at Mill Ruins Park.

3

The park is ideal for watching the Target Aquatennial fireworks.

12
The Golden Nuts image 1
Coffee shop

Store combines unique cultural charm with a cozy coffee shop and self-service candy bar. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite occasional crowding. Seating area offers a relaxed spot to enjoy desserts and fresh smoothies.

A super fun spot with lots of exciting activities to try. Anniversary events add an extra layer of fun experiences.

Combines bakery, market, and cafe in one spot. Offers a variety of interesting products that make it a fun place to explore.

People are saying

"This Dubai Chocolate is creamy, decadent, and has a toasty crunchy filling."

"You have to try the viral Dubai chocolate and strawberry treats!"

"It's an interesting place with a lot of unique products."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult due to the busy location.

2

The restaurant is often very busy, especially during peak hours.

3

They give away free Knafa, ice cream, chocolate, and gifts during special events.

13
Guthrie Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater housed in an architecturally stunning building with a cantilevered river view and multiple floors offering spectacular cityscapes. Atmosphere feels romantic and cozy with excellent sightlines from all seats and a lively energy during performances. Accessible lounges and bars provide comfortable spaces for socializing before and after shows.

Cool architecture makes the theater a fun spot. Kids enjoy the space and its rich history adds to the experience.

Strong acting and unique show spins make performances stand out. The building features interesting architecture inside and out, including an infinite bridge and many areas with distinctive forms.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be a beautiful and fantastic place for performing arts."

"The views of the river and bridges are stunning."

"It's a very fun place to visit."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a ramp directly across the street from the theater.

2

The theater allows public exploration of its spaces during non-performance times.

3

The theater is accessible for all patrons, ensuring a comfortable experience.

14
Stargazer image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy 40-seat cocktail bar with constellation ceiling and interactive star chart menu creates a unique, intimate atmosphere. Loud and dark setting suits those who enjoy thematic, finely crafted cocktails and flavorful finger foods. Space feels carefully designed to elevate the experience beyond typical bars.

Bathrooms feature Tron-style and spaceship button designs that add a playful touch. The interactive menu and star map on phones create a unique, engaging experience. Drinks offer a fun twist to the visit.

Menu setup features interesting cocktails like the Vesper and Salary Man, which mix Japanese whiskey with other flavors. Food offers tasty, interesting options but is not the main focus.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The drink menu is interesting, with a constellation-style map."

"The creative cocktails here are delicious and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait on busy nights like Thursdays.

3

Parking can be difficult; consider street parking if you're willing to walk.

15
Los Sanchez image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant space opens up to create a lively atmosphere with live music and dancers that energize the environment. Music volume rises later, making conversation difficult. Margaritas stand out as a popular drink choice, often served in large portions with festive presentation.

Karaoke and live music keep the energy high. Dancing and birthday parties add to the fun, lively atmosphere.

Many amazing and interesting options fill the menu. A live band adds a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is great and fun."

"The live music and dancers were interesting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 margaritas from Monday to Thursday.

2

Expect a 20% service charge automatically added to bills over a certain amount.

3

Karaoke nights are available, providing a fun atmosphere.

16
Ground Zero Nightclub image 1

Nightclub offers interactive shows and flashy dance floor with go-go dancers and a Moroccan themed lounge upstairs. Atmosphere blends Halloween-themed decor with a kinky vibe and diverse crowd. Energy varies, with lively performances but occasional hostility on the dance floor.

Dominatrix shows and great DJs create a unique and fun atmosphere. The dance floor and occasional decor changes add to the lively vibe.

Unique setting creates a fun and interesting atmosphere. The decor stands out and adds to the overall vibe.

People are saying

"This nightclub has cool performances and a welcoming atmosphere."

"My friend fainted at the bar and hit his head."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Ground Zero Nightclub only accepts cash payments for entry and drinks.

2

The cover fee is approximately $20 on regular nights and $30 on Halloween weekend.

3

Live DJs and themed events happen every Saturday night.

Discover more

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Area guide
Loading Map...