Understand

Welcome to Minneapolis, the North's premier metropolis! Immerse yourself in a city of towering skyscrapers, stunning blue lakes and rivers, and tree-canopied city streets. This rapidly growing city is a center of commerce, spurred by its strategic location at St. Anthony Falls, the largest source of water power on the mighty Mississippi River. From its humble beginnings as a hub for lumber mills in the 1840s, Minneapolis quickly rose to become the world's largest flour production center by the 1870s. Today, its modern transportation network and world-class cuisine and entertainment options make it a vibrant and thriving metropolis. But that's not all Minneapolis has to offer. The city is known as the "City of Lakes", with 22 natural lakes within its limits. These include the famous "Chain of Lakes" - Cedar, Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Harriet, and Nokomis. Take a stroll or bike ride along the scenic walking and biking paths that surround these lakes, maintained by the city's top-ranked parks department. Don't miss the chance to catch a performance at the Lake Harriet Bandshell or take a ride on the restored trolley operated by the Minnesota Streetcar Museum. Minneapolis is a city of diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. Downtown is a visual spectacle with its high-rise buildings, bustling sporting events, and vibrant nightclub scene. Northeast showcases the city's rich working-class and immigrant roots, boasting a wide array of foreign food, neighborhood bars, and social clubs. Uptown has long been a youth center, known for its funky food, drink, theater, and alternative hangouts. As real estate near the lakes becomes more sought after, Uptown is evolving into a neighborhood for yuppies and young families, while still retaining its unique charm. Further south, you'll find the quiet and charming Linden Hills and Lyn-Lake, home to indie stages, music venues, and alternative hangouts. And let's not forget the University of Minnesota's main campus, a hub of energy and intellectual pursuits. So whether you're drawn to the excitement of downtown, the cultural diversity of its neighborhoods, or the serene beauty of its lakes, Minneapolis has something for everyone. Get ready to explore and discover the wonders of this remarkable city!

Map & Climate