Minneapolis is a fiercely creative and passionate city that offers plenty of free experiences, ranging from peaceful parks to top-class museums.
Although the city was officially founded in 1850, its landscape is rich with over 12,000 years of human history. Minneapolis showcases striking contradictions, such as the locals’ embrace of cycling culture despite its notoriously cold winters necessitating the expansive Skyway complex.
Moreover, Minneapolis’ free spirit is palpable. This is the city renowned for musical innovators like Prince and The Replacements, as well as the beloved Peanuts cartoonist Charles M. Schulz. It has also been pivotal for significant protest movements, including Black Lives Matter, and is famous for hosting the first-ever Internet Cat Video Festival, complemented by a vibrant theater scene and a folk music legacy that once nurtured a young Bob Dylan.
Consequently, Minneapolis is chock-full of surprises, and exploring what this half of the Twin Cities has to offer on a budget is eminently achievable. Here are the best free activities to enjoy in Minneapolis.
Minnehaha Park
If you’ve never visited Minneapolis, you likely recognize Minnehaha Falls from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s iconic poem The Song of Hiawatha. The existing falls are a stark reminder of what this area was like before European settlers acquired the land from the Dakota people.
Located within the country’s second-ever state park, which was designed by landscape architect Horace W. S. Cleveland in 1883, the falls are surrounded by beautiful Victorian-era buildings and gardens. Entry to Minnehaha Park is free, with a nominal fee of $1 to visit the John H. Stevens historic house, the first home established in Minneapolis, relocated here in 1896.
Nicollet Mall
In downtown Minneapolis, Nicollet Mall serves as an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and people-watching, featuring excellent shopping venues, cafes, restaurants, and seasonal events such as craft and farmers’ markets. Of particular note here is the famous statue of Mary Tyler Moore, the 1970s television icon who prominently showcased Minneapolis in pop culture. This iconic monument at the corner of 7th Street and Nicollet Mall captures the moment the beloved star tossed her hat in the air during the show’s memorable opening sequence.
Minneapolis Street Art
Minneapolis brims with fantastic murals, notably the large depiction of Bob Dylan at Hennepin Avenue and 5th Street, alongside a striking portrait of Prince at Hennepin and 26th Street. This artistic flair extends throughout the city, particularly along Hennepin Avenue, featuring vibrant works such as Greg Gossel’s comic book tribute at 930 Hennepin and the Minnesota Nice mural at 2601.
Notably, artistry can be found everywhere you explore in Minneapolis, with a diverse range of murals, some politically charged and others whimsical, enhancing the cityscape. Don’t miss the monumental mosaic on an auto shop facade at 3019 Minnehaha Avenue or the playful Pabst Blue Ribbon squirrels at 1029 Marshall Street.
Endless Bridge
For a breathtaking view of the city, enter the cobalt-blue Guthrie Theater and ascend the escalator to the Endless Bridge. This striking cantilevered walkway juts over the parkland beside the Mississippi River, designed as a public space that requires no theater ticket for access. Additionally, the theater’s 9th-floor Amber Box (located by the Dowling Studio) showcases even more stunning views.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is a cultural treasure trove, showcasing a comprehensive collection of global art history. With remarkable modern collections and contemporary works, the Asian galleries on the 2nd floor and the Decorative Arts rooms on the 3rd floor stand out.
Remarkably, there is no admission fee to enter this magnificent building and explore its 90,000 pieces of art. Visitors can admire masterpieces from renowned European artists, including notable works by Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet, without needing to travel to the Louvre or Uffizi. Plan to spend several hours immersing yourself in the artistic offerings.
Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Similar to Minnehaha Park, the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway was an innovative vision of Horace W.S. Cleveland, who sought to enhance Minneapolis’ allure in the 19th century. Although completed posthumously, much of the parkland was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.
Featuring 102 miles of trails, Grand Rounds allows exploration by foot or bicycle, connecting some of the city’s most captivating features, from the Downtown riverfront to the Chain of Lakes and historic sites like the Longfellow House along the Mississippi River.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The 19-acre Minneapolis Sculpture Garden features contemporary artworks like the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry by Claes Oldenburg, located adjacent to the Walker Art Center. The Cowles Conservatory, filled with exotic flowers, is also within the grounds. During the summer months (May to September), a whimsical mini-golf course operates among the sculptures, adding to the garden’s allure.
Walker Art Center
The prestigious Walker Art Center boasts an impressive permanent collection of 20th-century art and photography, featuring works by prominent US painters and pop artists. From late July to late August, the gallery organizes well-attended free film screenings and music events on Monday evenings (attend the festivities across the pedestrian bridge to Loring Park). Although admission typically incurs a fee, access is free on Thursday evenings after 5 PM and on the first Saturday of every month.
Stone Arch Bridge and the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
Enjoy a scenic 1.8-mile walk along the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail, which combines intriguing historical tidbits (with information placards throughout) with convenient access to the Mississippi riverbanks. The trail starts at Portland Avenue, meandering over the pedestrian-friendly Stone Arch Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the cascading St. Anthony Falls. This location, providing close-up sights of the mesmerizing city skyline, is a favored spot among locals and visitors alike, suitable for sunny days or light snowfalls.
Cathedral of St. Paul
The Cathedral of St. Paul, an architectural marvel inspired by the Beaux-Arts churches of Paris, presents a stunning interior that you can explore for free. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, donation-based tours were offered at 1 PM from Tuesday to Friday. While these tours may be on hold, you are welcome to wander and appreciate the architecture, being mindful of worshippers attending morning mass at 7:30 AM and confessions from 3:45 PM to 5 PM.
Weisman Art Museum
The free-to-explore Weisman Art Museum resides within a striking, swooping silver structure designed by architect Frank Gehry on the University of Minnesota campus. Boasting airy main galleries, the museum showcases remarkable collections of 20th-century American art, ceramics, Korean furniture, and various works on paper.
Gold Medal Park and the Riverfront
For cost-free riverside relaxation, join locals in Gold Medal Park, a beautiful expanse adjacent to the Guthrie Theater. The park features a mound and spiral walkway inspired by the ancient Native American mounds found throughout Minnesota. From this location, visitors can effortlessly access the Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park for tranquil walks along the riverbanks.
Prince Tribute Tunnel
While visiting Prince’s former residence at Paisley Park incurs an entrance fee, you can still pay homage to Minneapolis’ most beloved son nearby. Situated by the Riley Creek Underpass, which runs beneath Highway 5 and Arboretum Boulevard toward Lake Anne Field, the area transforms into a vibrant tapestry of purple hues. The chain-link fence, draped with tributes and adorned with spray-painted murals bearing Prince’s name, serves as a contemporary stand-in for the now-demolished Graffiti Bridge in Eden Prairie, which was a prior magnet for fans until it was dismantled in 1991.
Mall of America
As America’s largest shopping center, the Mall of America offers a spectacle that can be enjoyed free of charge. Visitors can take in the ambience of the mall, complete with a zipline, two amusement parks, and a wedding chapel. Make sure to find a great spot on the concourse to engage in some people-watching and keep an eye out for occasional free concerts and events.
Chain of Lakes
Known as the land of a thousand lakes, Minnesota is home to numerous picturesque bodies of water, and Minneapolis boasts its share of scenic lakes. The Chain of Lakes links several of the city’s most beautiful natural features, including Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet, all interconnected by trails. This area offers beaches, boat docks, bike paths, hockey and ice skating rinks, playgrounds, a bird sanctuary, and a dog park. Emulating local residents, bring your walking shoes, an engaging book, your camera, or a canoe and spend a delightful day exploring.
Northeast Minneapolis Arts District
With its vibrant galleries, art-centric events, and occasional open studios, the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District features numerous free opportunities for travelers captivated by creativity and the arts. On the first Saturday of each month, visitors are invited to wander through the Northrup King Building, a transformed seed warehouse repurposed as studios for over 300 local artists. For those visiting Minneapolis in May, the Art-A-Whirl festival is an unmissable event, showcasing works from more than 800 artists across various mediums.
First Avenue
The city’s premier music venue itself serves as a sightseeing attraction. First Avenue has been central to the Twin Cities’ dynamic music scene since 1970, with a host of local talents and renowned artists leaving their legacies on the city. Admire the names emblazoned on stars outside the venue, representing an illustrious musical past. Whether attending a show or simply walking around to appreciate the venue, First Avenue offers a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
