Top Minneapolis-Saint Paul Arts & Design

Minneapolis is one of America’s greatest arts centers, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is like stepping into a shrine that proves it. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll venture into this artistic labyrinth and admire some of the city’s most iconic works. The tour starts at the Walker Art Museum, located at the site of Thomas Lowry’s former mansion on the “Devil’s Backbone,“ a steep, twin-ridged terrain with a striking silhouette. From there, you’ll stroll through the sculpture garden, pausing at key works including Katharina Fritsch’s electric blue Hahn/Cock, and other lesser-known but equally fascinating pieces. This tour combines art appreciation, historical context and dramatic stories. You’ll find out how Sam Durant’s Scaffold was met with global outrage in 2017, and enjoy moments of quiet reflection at Jim Hodges’ mirrored boulders. I’ll also tell you about the controversies and characters that shaped this cultural landscape.

This isn’t your grandma’s walking tour. With this self-paced audio guide, you’ll learn all about Minneapolis’s standard history (like Prince) *and* discover its secret nooks and crannies, like the history of “Funkytown,” a mansion with 86 TVs, and the invention of Zubaz pants. No matter what, after you’ve explored with this River Walk guide, you’ll never look at this stretch of the Mississippi with glazed-over eyes again.

A great tour year-round, especially if you're visiting in the winter months! Minneapolis is home to the largest, contiguous skyway system in the world! Originally designed to counter the 1950s post war suburban boom by revitalizing the city's retail core, today the second story walkways connect 80 city blocks and meander more than 9 miles. This is a great way to see the city - inside and out - during cool weather, hot weather, rainy days and the brutally long Minnesota winter, so pretty much year-round! There are so many treasures within downtown's unique architectural landscape, and the skyway system is sometimes the only way to see them. AFTERNOON TOUR ends at the historic Minneapolis Club, not typically open to the public. Choosing Mpls City & Skyway Tours, you are supporting a local, woman-owned small business with a big heart. (Please note, this is a walking tour. We will walk up to two miles, with breaks. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.)

Explore the significance of George Floyd Square and engage with the local community through art, culture, and history. This tour emphasizes respect and understanding, guiding you through an area that honors resilience and fosters healing. Discover local businesses, such as Mystic Healing Stones, & Listen to Us Art Gallery, where you can find unique gifts while supporting artists striving to recover. Get involved by volunteering at the People’s Closet and learn about organizations like the Sabathani Community Center, dedicated to uplifting the community. After your visit, take time to reflect and decompress in a supportive environment. - Visit historic George Floyd Square and engage with local artists - Support small businesses and purchase unique gifts - Volunteer opportunities available at the People’s Closet - Explore community services that promote racial justice and healing

Explore Minneapolis through Prince’s life—without dealing with any of the crowds. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll hit the streets of Prince’s favorite 'hood, starting at Nicollet Avenue and ending on First Avenue, where 10,000 gathered to mourn the artist’s death. Though designed for a 75-minute tour, explore at your pace, sinking into all things purple.

Experience downtown Minneapolis like a local when you take this walking tour through the vibrant streets of the city. Join your guide, an avid traveler and proud resident of Minneapolis, as they take you on a journey to discover hidden gems. Visit a variety of spots, curated to showcase the personality of the city, including its sights, sounds, and flavors.

Enjoy a laid-back evening on Lake Minnetonka with the Friday Night Happy Hour Cruise. This 2-hour voyage features a soundtrack of classics from the 70s, 80s, and today while you take in the beautiful scenery. Each guest receives a complimentary drink—choose from a soft drink, beer, or wine—and savor packaged snacks as you relax and unwind on the water. Perfect for ages 18 and up, this cruise promises a perfect blend of music, views, and good vibes. - 2-hour cruise on scenic Lake Minnetonka - 1 Complimentary drink and snacks included (could be soft drink, beer or wine) - Music from the 70s, 80s, and contemporary hits - Great for ages 18 and up, ideal for a fun night out

Learn all about the life of F. Scott Fitzgerald on this private, historic walking tour in St. Paul, Minnesota. Your guide is a wealth of knowledge regarding the popular author who penned "The Great Gatsby" and shares stories about his life in the Roaring ‘20s, the Gilded Age architecture, and much more. Highlights include Fitzgerald's birthplace, homes, and haunts.

Discover the stunning scenery of Lake Minnetonka on this 90-minute Public Champagne Sightseeing Cruise. Sip on a complimentary drink while soaking in the beautiful views. The heated and air-conditioned boat ensures a comfortable experience year-round, whether you're enjoying the fall colors or the summer sun. Perfect for families and friends, this cruise is a great way to relax and unwind on the water. Additional snacks and drinks are available for purchase to enhance your outing. - 90-minute scenic cruise on Lake Minnetonka - Includes a drink ticket for beer, wine, or soft drink - Heated and air-conditioned boats for comfort - Great for families, with discounted rates for children

Gain a different perspective on downtown Minneapolis and learn about its haunted heritage with this ghost-themed walking tour. Walk around to sites such as City Hall, the Stone Arch Bridge, the Foshay Tower, and more, while your guide fills you in on the colorful characters and spooky stories that have shaped the city.