Activities in Minneapolis/St. Paul

Affectionately known as the BLB, this vintage-style bowling alley with a full bar and an adjacent theater for concerts, films, and plays draws a crowd

Both fresh creations and classics from children's literature are brought to life at this family-focused regional theatre. A Minneapolis institution si

A local favorite in Linden Hills, Clancey’s is both a butcher shop and a casual café. Specializing in locally sourced, ethically raised meat, the smal

As the birthplace of F. Scott Fitzgerald, St. Paul takes pride in keeping its vibrant literary reputation alive. Local celebrity and host of A Prairie

At 450 acres, this urban retreat is about half the size of NYC's Central Park, but it has more to see, with a zoo, conservatory, amusement park, golf

Depending on the season, nearly half of the merchandise in this eclectic gift shop is made by local artists, showcasing original home accessories, han

A coffee house, bakery, and cupcake shop all in one, Cupcake is the place to go for a quick meal, a caffeine boost, and a sweet treat. Adorned with a

Jazz enthusiasts of every stripe gather at this nationally renowned venue to hear local talent and touring musicians—everyone from vocalists like Nell

Dedicated to providing a showcase for one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories from emerging local talent, this sunny Uptown shop dresses men and women

Consistently voted the best bakery in the city, Franklin Street has been selling fresh breads, pastries, and cakes since 1998. Inside the spacious, re

Few other shops inspire the palate like the Golden Fig. Owner Laurie Crowell, who got her start selling homemade spices and vinegars at the St. Paul F

Why It’s Cool: As America’s longest continuous urban public parkway, this circular 50-mile asphalt path includes nine miles along the Mississippi Rive

Grumpy’s bar proudly (and rightly) promotes its three pool tables as an attraction, but there is a full "slate" of regular and special events that hav

Attracting architecture buffs from across the country, this performance space opened to much fanfare in 2006. Designed by famed French architect Jean

Named for owner Anthony Andler’s great-grandfather (a tailor and 1917 Russian immigrant), Heimie’s is the sort of men’s clothing store you may have th

In the hills of Lilydale Park, an undeveloped preserve along the Mississippi River in St. Paul

Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and park yourself in the grass for a performance of samba, swing, reggae, or even a Neil Diamond tribute band. Shows a

Spend at least a day here, with more than 500 stores to satisfy any shopper.

The city’s premier locally owned outdoor store is an addictive spot for adventurers looking for camping, climbing, and paddling gear—or simply a pair

A scenic spot for a little shopping or a bite, this May-through-October venue occupies the Mill City Museum train shed not far from the Stone Arch Bri

Known as the "birthplace of Minneapolis," the Riverfront District is located along the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis. Visitors can take a

Considered by many to be the unofficial end of summer, this 12-day fair runs from late August through Labor Day. In addition to celebrating Minnesota'

Moto-i, at Lyndale and Lake in Uptown, bills itself the first sake brewpub outside Japan. In addition to draft sake and namazake (unpasteurized specia

The glamorous Ordway Center, with its expansive glass façade and dramatically curved interior staircase, is the jewel of St. Paul’s performing arts sc