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Guide to Minneapolis

Museums

You want to spend your time somewhere that demands your full attention and rewards your curiosity.

Based on 469 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Mill City Museum image 1
Mill City Museum image 2
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History museum

Ruins of the Washburn โ€œAโ€ Mill offer a historic atmosphere with interactive exhibits that engage families. Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the river and Stone Arch Bridge from a cozy rooftop deck. Staff provide helpful insights into milling history and the city's past.

Towering remains of the Washburn โ€œAโ€ Mill greet visitors, setting a historic tone. Exhibits cover milling production history and the city's past, supported by engaging presentations and helpful staff.

People are saying

"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

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
The Somali Museum image 1

Small museum offers historical artifacts and well laid out displays that provide deep insight into Somali culture and history. Atmosphere feels informative and engaging despite limited visibility. Rich content makes it a valuable cultural visit.

Small size holds numerous historical artifacts and well laid out displays. Offers detailed information about Somali culture and history.

People are saying

"You'll learn so much about Somali culture and history at the museum."

Good to know

1

Expect a small but informative experience with a focus on Somali culture.

2

Plan for about an hour to explore the museum thoroughly.

3

The museum is not very visible from the street; look for signage.

03
Weisman Art Museum image 1

Stunning contemporary architecture and a quirky facade make this museum stand out. Visitors enjoy free admission to thought-provoking exhibits in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. A balcony offers a great city view, enhancing the relaxed visit.

Free admission allows easy access to contemporary art exhibits that change frequently. The museum features thought-provoking curation and a unique architectural design that enhances the experience.

People are saying

"I loved that the galleries here are always free to visit."

"I found the exhibits on futuristic and eco-friendly city designs really interesting."

"I loved that the museum was free to visit."

Good to know

1

The Weisman Art Museum is free to enter.

2

Parking is available by reservation only near the museum.

3

Several rooms at the museum may be closed during your visit.

04
Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society image 1

Model railroad exhibits showcase detailed layouts with local touches in a family-friendly space. Youth programs make it a great spot for families. Easy parking and transit access add to the convenient visit.

A model railroad museum offers a quaint and fun experience for all ages. Youth programs encourage engagement, making it a great spot for families and locals to visit often.

People are saying

"It's a truly kid-friendly place with engaging, screen-free exhibits for all ages."

"It's so lucky to have this cool museum in our neighborhood."

"I went to the Trains After Dark event."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is $10 for adults and $25 for families.

2

Children under 3 are free.

3

Parking is easy and accessible.

05
American Swedish Institute image 1

Mansion blends historic architecture with contemporary art for a unique museum visit. Friendly, spacious atmosphere includes holiday decor and an authentic Swedish cafe. Kids enjoy an amazing play area while adults explore detailed exhibits and tours.

The museum features a well curated mansion as its main attraction, beautifully maintained and engaging. Exhibits bring history to life with detailed displays and tours, all accessible within an hour or less.

People are saying

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

"The historical sites here are beautiful and well-maintained."

"The food here is delicious and fresh, a great lunch spot."

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
MN Firefighters Museum image 1

Museum blends hands-on fire truck exhibits with kid-friendly interactive gear and historical firefighting artifacts. Kids love climbing on climbable engines and trying mini firefighter outfits. Large party room suits group events well.

Hands-on exhibits with mini firefighter outfits and real fire engines make it very kid-friendly. The museum features about eight meticulously restored fire engines and a detailed exhibit on the 35W bridge collapse.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with all the firefighter gear and trucks to climb on."

"You can climb in and drive an old firetruck; it's so much fun."

"This children's museum has interactive firefighter gear and real fire trucks kids can climb on."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open one weekend day every two weeks.

2

The fee is $250 for the first 35 attendees, plus $5 for each additional person.

3

The museum has many interactive experiences, like going down a pole and cranking a pump.

07
Foshay Museum and Observation Deck image 1

Observation deck offers spectacular city views with binoculars for close looks. Art Deco style creates a 1920s ambiance throughout. Museum below shares historic landmark stories with exhibits that deepen the experience.

Art deco design shapes the museum's exhibits, which tell the story of a historic landmark and its family. The observation deck offers a 360ยฐ view that complements the educational history presented below.

People are saying

"The view from the observation deck is amazing."

"The historical sites offer really cool views of the city."

"The views from the observation deck were amazing."

Good to know

1

The Foshay Museum participates in Doors Open Minneapolis every year.

2

Expect over 30-minute wait times during the Doors Open event.

3

Entry to the observation deck costs $10 for non-hotel guests.

08
Hennepin History Museum image 1
Local history museum

Beautiful old building with original charm and stunning woodwork offers a quiet, calming space. Exhibits highlight local history and Tibetan art, with engaging storytelling and live performances. Admission is free, welcoming all visitors easily.

Housed in a beautiful old building with original charm and stunning woodwork, the museum features exhibits on local history like pioneers, soldiers, and Tibetan art. It offers live performances and special exhibits, creating a quiet, calming space with engaging storytelling and visual displays.

People are saying

"I found the local history exhibits at this museum really interesting."

"I found the historical sites offered a unique glimpse into local history."

"The galleries here feature interesting exhibits on history and art."

Good to know

1

Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to support the museum.

2

Parking is easy and available near the museum.

3

Spending an hour or two at the museum is recommended for a full experience.

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