15 Things to do in Minneapolis on Weekend!

Weekends in Minneapolis are full of choices. The city has a mix of nature, culture, food, and community events that make it easy to plan two days without spending too much. Whether you love art, outdoor walks, live music, or just relaxing by the lake, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your weekend. In this guide, we’ll take you through 15 best things to do in Minneapolis on weekend, explained each one in detail that will help you plan a weekend itinerary that perfectly balances culture, food, and fun.

1. Boat Cruise on Lake Minnetonka

Taking a boat cruise on Lake Minnetonka is a fantastic way to enjoy a weekend near Minneapolis, and it gives you a chance to see one of the largest lakes in Minnesota. The lake is about half an hour from the city and has many bays, islands, and long shorelines that make the ride interesting. Cruises usually run in summer, and some focus on sightseeing while others include dining options like brunch or sunset dinners. Many boats also have indoor seating, so you can stay comfortable even if the weather changes. After the ride, visitors often spend time at lakeside restaurants or walk along the docks to enjoy the view.

2. Visit Weisman Art Museum

The Weisman Art Museum is one of the most unique places to explore on a weekend in Minneapolis. Located on the University of Minnesota campus, the building itself is a landmark designed by architect Frank Gehry, with shiny metal curves that make it stand out from a distance. Admission is always free and inside, the museum holds a wide range of collections, including American modern art, Native American pottery, and traditional Korean furniture. Visitors can see works by well‑known artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Marsden Hartley, along with rotating exhibits that change throughout the year.

3. Food Tour at North Loop

Joining a food tour in the North Loop is one of the best ways to enjoy Minneapolis local flavors during the weekend. This neighborhood was once filled with old warehouses, but today it has turned into a lively area with restaurants and breweries. Walking through the streets, you’ll find a mix of casual spots and modern kitchens, each offering something different. Many tours here include stops at bakeries with fresh pastries, local eateries serving small plates, and breweries where you can taste craft beer. Evening tours are especially popular, with rooftop dining and cozy restaurants adding to the atmosphere.

4. Take a Narrated Trolley Tour

The narrated trolley tour is a really an enjoyable way to learn about Minneapolis during a weekend visit. The ride takes you through historic neighborhoods, busy downtown streets, and scenic areas, all while a guide shares stories about the past and present of Minneapolis. The tour usually covers key landmarks, local culture, and interesting facts that you m ight miss if you were exploring on your own. The trolley itself has a classic design, and these tours highlight places like the Mississippi riverfront, historic mills, and some popular districts, making it a good introduction for first‑time visitors.

5. Minneapolis Institute of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) is one of the best places to spend time on a weekend in the city, especially if you enjoy exploring culture and history. The museum is free to enter, and inside, you’ll find more than 90,000 pieces of art that cover thousands of years, from ancient artifacts to modern works. The collections include paintings, sculptures, textiles, and photographs from different parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and Native American cultures. Visitors enjoy seeing famous works by artists like Rembrandt and Van Gogh, along with rotating exhibits that bring something new each season.

6. Go for The Escape Game

The Escape Game in Minneapolis is a fun weekend activity for anyone who enjoys puzzles and teamwork. It offers themed escape rooms where groups work together to solve clues and complete challenges within a set time. Each room has its own story, such as breaking out of prison, finding hidden treasure, or completing a secret mission. The rooms are built with detailed settings that make you feel part of the adventure, and the tasks range from simple locks to tricky riddles. After finishing the game, you can explore the Mall of America for food, shopping, or more entertainment, which turn the outing into a full day plan.

7. Join Haunting Ghosts Tour

Joining a Haunting Ghosts Tour is a thrilling weekend activity that mixes history with mystery. These tours usually take place in the evening, when guides lead groups through old neighborhoods, historic buildings, and hidden corners of the city. Along the way, they share stories about strange events, unexplained sounds, and local legends that have been passed down for years. Popular stops often include places connected to the city’s milling past, theaters, and homes where unusual activity has been reported. Families and groups of friends often join these tours because they are safe, guided, and entertaining.

8. Visit Minnehaha Falls

The Minnehaha Falls is one of the most popular weekend spots in Minneapolis, dropping at 53 feet and flows throughout the year. In summer, the falls are surrounded by green trees and lively trails, while in winter the water freezes into stunning ice formations. The park itself covers more than 160 acres, with walking and biking paths that connect to the Mississippi River and the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. Families spend time here enjoying picnics, playgrounds, and open spaces, while travelers explore the three public gardens — Longfellow Gardens, the Pergola Garden, and the Song of Hiawatha Garden.

9. SEA LIFE at Mall of America

The SEA LIFE at Mall of America is a great weekend stop in Minneapolis, especially if you enjoy exploring underwater life. This large indoor aquarium has thousands of sea animals from around the world, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish. One of the highlights is the 300‑foot tunnel, where visitors walk through while marine creatures swim all around. The aquarium is divided into different zones, each showing unique habitats such as tropical reefs, jellyfish displays, and rainforest areas. There is also a Behind‑the‑Scenes tour that explains how the animals are cared for and how the tanks are maintained.

10. Explore Mill City Museum

The Mill City Museum is a great weekend stop because it connects history with hands‑on learning. Built inside the ruins of the old Washburn A Mill, which was once the largest flour mill in the world, the museum shows how the milling industry shaped the city. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that explain how flour was made and how the Mississippi River powered the mill. One highlight is the Flour Tower elevator ride, where guests move through different floors to see stories from the mill’s past. There is also a short film called Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat! that gives a quick but clear look at the city’s growth.

11. Go Kayaking at Chain of Lakes

Kayaking at the Chain of Lakes is a perfect weekend activity for anyone who enjoys being outdoors. The Chain of Lakes includes Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake, all connected by small channels that make it possible to paddle through them in a loop. Renting a kayak is simple, with local providers offering equipment for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The lakes are linked by small channels, so it’s possible to paddle between them. Local wildlife such as ducks, geese, and herons are often seen along the shore, adding to the charm of the trip.

12. Explore Nicollet Mall

The Nicollet Mall is one of the most lively places to explore during a weekend in Minneapolis. This pedestrian‑friendly street runs through downtown and is lined with shops, restaurants, and public art. The mall is also close to other downtown attractions, and it has been a central part of the city for decades and was redesigned to make walking easier and more enjoyable. On weekends, the area often hosts seasonal events, street performances, and community gatherings, which bring a lot of energy to the space. Even if you are not shopping, walking along Nicollet Mall gives you a good feel of the city’s atmosphere.

13. Visit Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo is a wonderful place to spend a weekend near Minneapolis, especially if you enjoy seeing animals in natural settings. Located in Apple Valley, about 30 minutes from downtown, the zoo covers 485 acres and is home to more than 500 species from around the world. Visitors can explore different themed trails, such as the Northern Trail with animals from colder regions, the Tropics Trail with rainforest wildlife, and Discovery Bay where marine life is displayed. Families enjoy special exhibits like the Red Panda Forest, and seasonal events such as Farm Babies in spring bring extra excitement for kids.

14. Catch a Game at Target Field

Catching a game at Target Field is one of the most exciting weekend activities in Minneapolis, especially for baseball fans. Home to the Minnesota Twins, this open‑air stadium is located in the heart of downtown and is known for its modern design and great views of the city skyline. Food is also a big part of the experience, with local favorites like walleye sandwiches, cheese curds, and craft beer available throughout the stadium. The ballpark has seating that brings fans close to the action, and families enjoy the kid‑friendly areas, while groups of friends often gather in social spaces like the Budweiser Deck.

15. Watch a Show at Guthrie Theater

Watching a show at the Guthrie Theater is one of the most memorable weekend experiences in Minneapolis. Inside, the Guthrie has three stages that host a mix of classic plays, new productions, and family‑friendly performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy works by Shakespeare, contemporary dramas, or musicals, all performed by talented local and national artists. Outside, there are open spaces, art displays, and a casual café where guests can relax before or after the show. Many people also enjoy walking around the nearby Mill District, which adds to the outing with historic landmarks and river views.

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