Why You Need To Visit Minneapolis In 2017

Minneapolis, one of the ‘Twin Cities’ of Minnesota, is more than the late Prince’s prized hometown. This city, intersected by the Mississippi River, is known for its many parks, cultural landmarks, eclectic arts scene, and as a long-time center for folk, funk, and alternative rock music; though, it rarely spends much time in the limelight. With 2017 named the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, there’s no better time to promote tourism to less-visited US cities, with hopes to revive many under-the-radar towns that make America so unique. In 2017, Minneapolis is where it’s at.

It’s full of history

The region where Minneapolis stands was first occupied by Sioux natives; it was discovered by the French in the late 17th century and remained occupied until it was officially acquired by the US in the early 19th century. With the construction of Fort Snelling in 1819, the area became a popular post for merchants and traders, with many settling near Saint Anthony Falls, where most of the power for the mill industry was generated. By the late 1800s, the city was flourishing with a large percentage of America’s grain coming from Minneapolis; it also became known for its thriving performing arts scene – early theaters included the Pence Opera House, Grand Opera House, the Academy of Music, and the Metropolitan Opera House. After struggling through the aftermath of the Depression, the city was revamped in the 1950s with an urban renewal plan that razed several buildings within the city.

It’s a thriving cultural center for music, arts, and theater

The food scene is on point

The city isn’t just for the thespians and the musically inclined; along the streets of downtown, find a number of award-winning restaurants, specialty food stores, and breweries. For a look into what makes Minneapolis so special, head to the North Loop neighborhood, an area filled with young creatives, chic stores, and coffee shops. First-timers can get their hands on fresh produce at the Mill City Farmers’ Market, or grab artisanal cheese and meats at Lowry Hill Meats; there’s also Spoon and Stable, The Bachelor Farmer, Tilia, 112 Eatery, and Butcher & The Boar for the foodies. In the warmer months, seasonal restaurant The Sea Salt Eatery serves fresh seafood between April and October.

With so many year-round festivals, you’ll never get bored

This Twin City is brimming with annual festivals. From film and arts festivals to beer and food fests, there’s plenty of chances to experience Minnesotan culture. Located across the river in Minneapolis’ twin city, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival will be held from Jan. 26th to Feb. 5th. Signature events at the Carnival include the construction of ice palaces, the Disc Golf Ice Bowl, a snowplow competition, ice carving competitions and three large parades.

Another annual winter festival to check out is the City of Lakes Loppet Ski Festival, taking place from Feb. 3rd to 5th in 2017. In addition to the skiing events, the festival also hosts the Luminary Loppet, where ‘luminaries’ are placed in a trail-like sequence around the lake, and visitors receive hot chocolate and treats while they navigate the path. Because, who wouldn’t want to see a winter-themed light installation?

City of Lakes Luminary Loppet, Minneapolis

It’s said to have the best park system in the US

Considered the best-designed and best-maintained park system in America, Minneapolis – with over 15 percent of the city as parkland – boasts beautiful lakes and an unusual landscape filled with wetlands and waterfalls, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The waterfall in Minnehaha Park in particular provides a serene escape from city life, and during the winter months, when it freezes over, visiting is akin to exploring an urban glacier.

It’s also been named one of the best cities for runners, and with five golf courses, a wildflower garden, and a bird sanctuary located within the city, Minneapolis offers plenty to see and do during the spring and summer months. June 2017 will also see the reopening of the celebrated Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.

It’s a sports destination

A newly established hub for national sporting events, Minneapolis will see several big-time sports events hosted in its downtown next year, including two USA national volleyball tournaments and the 2017-2018 X-Games. A three-hour drive from the city, visitors can also venture to the US Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, northern Minnesota for a unique showcase of the sport’s history. Baseball enthusiasts can take tours of Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins. And, all football-loving eyes will be on the Vikings in the lead-up to Super Bowl LII, which will be held in Minneapolis in 2018.

Now, do you really need another reason to visit this Minnesota gem?

landscape with balloons floating in the air

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