Visit Minneapolis, the City of Lakes

Q: When is the Best Time to Visit Minneapolis?

The best time of year to go to Minneapolis is usually in the late spring and early summer. The weather is warm and pleasant but not too humid during that time. The humidity can be a little stifling in late summer and early fall, however. There are a lot of fun things to do in the winter, even though the temperatures can dip pretty low.

Q: What is Minneapolis Most Known For?

Minneapolis is a city known for its culture, food, and atmosphere. From its cool art and architecture to its amazing mix of food, the city has built its reputation on being fun, friendly and inviting. Visit downtown Minneapolis to check out some museums, eat at a trendy restaurant or catch a Golden Gophers or Vikings game.

Q: Where Should I Stay in Minneapolis?

Deciding where to stay in Minneapolis can be easy if you plan your trip early. Look for accommodations in the Minneapolis neighborhoods near the attractions you plan to visit to make the most of your time there. If you want to stay in a centralized location that makes it easy to check out different parts of Minneapolis, we recommend staying in the Downtown East area.

Q: Why is Minneapolis a Must-Visit Destination for Tourists?

One of the biggest reasons that Minneapolis is a must-visit city is because the greater metropolitan area is actually two cities! There are many great things to do in the Twin Cities, whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a romantic getaway . The pleasant weather, attractions and friendly people make the area truly unique.

Q: How Do I Get Around Minneapolis?

Many of the most popular areas for tourists in Minneapolis are close to one another, making the city very walkable. If there are places to visit in Minneapolis spread across the Twin Cities, you can take public transportation or order a car through a rideshare app.

Q: What’s The Food Scene Like in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a thriving food scene. The city's diversity means that there is a wide variety of fine dining and more casual eateries serving a great blend of midwestern and ethnic foods. If you want to eat at some of Minneapolis’s best restaurants, stop by Eat Street — you won’t regret it!

Q: What Are Some Affordable Things to Do in Minneapolis?

If you’re visiting the Twin Cities on a budget, don’t fret — there are lots of things you can do without spending a ton of money. Some of the museums in the area offer discounts or free days, there are walking tours all over the city, and Minneapolis’s natural areas are second to none. Travel during the off-season to save money even on some of the most popular attractions.

Take a trip to one of Minnesota’s charming Twin Cities

What To Do in Minneapolis, Where Urban Meets Nature

Minneapolis Travel Guide

What’s better than a city with all the modern amenities and culture you could want? A modern, fun city that’s just a short drive from some of the most beautiful natural areas in the United States. When you’re visiting Minneapolis, you get the best of both of those worlds. It’s why the Twin Cities are one of the top travel destinations in the country.

Start planning your next trip with the benefits that come with being a AAA member. Membership means access to travel agents' expert advice, exclusive lodging discounts and more. Sign up today to start saving money on your next trip!

Most Popular Hotels

Discover standout hotels worldwide with TourBook®. From Diamond-designated properties inspected for quality, to carefully selected international stays. Every hotel in this collection is chosen to help you enjoy a trusted and memorable experience, no matter where you travel.

Learn More

Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington Hotel

Travel Tips & Inspiration

AAA Travel Inspiration, Destination Information and More

Be inspired by articles and videos from AAA Travel experts, offering insights on top destinations, recommendations and travel tips for your upcoming getaway.

See All

EDITOR PICKCool Art and Architecture in MinneapolisEmily King03/27/2024 : Minneapolis offers some amazing art collections and impressive architecture. Here are six places to put on your itinerary.

ARTICLE51 Romantic Getaways in the U.S. to Fall in Love WithAAA Travel Editor, SMS03/25/2025 : Whether you're looking to stay local or travel the country, AAA has the perfect romantic getaway in the U.S. for you and your partner.

EDITOR PICK50 Top Tourist Destinations in the U.S. for 2025AAA Travel Editor, SMS08/13/2025 : Check out the 50 top tourist destinations in the U.S. along with each city’s best attractions so you can make the most of your upcoming trip to the States.

EDITOR PICKWhere to Go for an Anniversary Trip, Based on Your Celebration YearAAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome07/23/2025 : A romantic getaway is the perfect anniversary gift for couples who like to travel. Here are the best romantic hotels for each anniversary based on the traditional gifts.

Editor PickBest Activities at National Parks for KidsAAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims02/01/2024 : Find the best things to do with kids in 101 national parks.

EDITOR PICKUltimate Checklist of All 63 National Parks in the U.S.AAA Travel Editor, SMT01/16/2025 : Discover the beauty and wildlife in the 63 unforgettable U.S. national parks! Learn what they are, why they matter and start planning your next adventure today!

Editor PickColorful Ideas for FallAAA Travel Editor, Sherry Mims04/06/2023 : Leaf-peeping is just one of the many fun things to do on a fall trip.

Editor PickBest Road Trips in the Great Lakes RegionAAA Travel Editor, Laurie Sterbens03/27/2025 : What to see and things to do on a road trip in the Great Lakes Region, along with some of AAA's best road trips in the Great Lakes Region.

EDITOR PICKWhere to Find AAA TourBook Guides and MapsMichelle Palmer04/01/2025 : The AAA TourBook guides provide travel information and are a planning tool for destinations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Editor PickWhy You Should Travel During Shoulder SeasonMichelle Palmer11/14/2023 : Traveling in shoulder season means you save money by enjoying lower costs on hotel rooms and airfare, deal with smaller crowds and travel more sustainably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Want to visit Minneapolis but have questions? AAA’s travel experts have answers!

When is the Best Time to Visit Minneapolis?

What is Minneapolis Most Known For?

What Are Some Must-See Attractions in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has lots of great food, music, museums and natural areas that you’ll love to explore. When you’re in the city, make sure to check out these Minneapolis attractions:

Marvel at the Minnehaha Falls in Minnehaha Park.
Take a tour of the Skyway.
Learn more about the history of the city at the Mill City Museum.
Grab a beer at the Bauhaus Brew Labs.
Do some shopping at the Mall of America.

Where Should I Stay in Minneapolis?

Why is Minneapolis a Must-Visit Destination for Tourists?

How Do I Get Around Minneapolis?

What’s The Food Scene Like in Minneapolis?

What Are Some Affordable Things to Do in Minneapolis?

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

Explore trip canvas

Categories

Quick Links

AAA Travel

Explore AAA

Visit Minneapolis, the City of Lakes

What To Do in Minneapolis, Where Urban Meets Nature

Most Popular Hotels

Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington Hotel

The Marquette Hotel

Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown

Tru by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown

Emery, Autograph Collection

Microtel Inn Suites By Wyndham Ea

Extended Stay America Suites

Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, the Depot

Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown at The Depot

Rand Tower Hotel, Minneapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

TourBook® Curated Restaurants

Murray's Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge

Café Lurcat

The Freehouse

Bûcheron

Manny's Steak House

Christos Greek Restaurant

The Monte Carlo Restaurant

112 Eatery

Longfellow Grill

Young Joni

TourBook® Curated Things To Do

Minnehaha Falls

Mill City Museum

The Museum of Russian Art

Indeed Brewing Company

Bauhaus Brew Labs

Most Popular Road Trips

Iowa Valley Cultural Byway Road Trip

Northern Loess Hills Historic Byway Road Trip

Southern Loess Hills Historic Byway Road Trip

Green Bay and Door County Road Trip

Nebraska's Historic Lincoln Highway Road Trip

Illinois' Historic Lincoln Highway Road Trip

Northwest Michigan Coast Road Trip

Route 66 - Northern Illinois Road Trip

Most Popular Campgrounds

Rivers Edge Apple River Camping

City of Princeton, MN Campgrounds

Big Rock Creek

Good Root Growers

Crystal Springs RV Resort

Sands Country Cove Campground LLC

Flambeau River Lodge & Campground

RV There Yet

Oak Park Campground

Schreier's on Shetek Campground