Top Culture Spots in Minnesota

Food can be pricey but I recommend checking out the food court on the east side for some budget-friendly options like the local hotdog stand. I loved it!

If you're planning to shop, keep an eye out for sales! I stumbled upon some awesome discounts on certain days that really saved me cash.

My advice is to take breaks! I spent too much time walking around and felt exhausted. Find a bench or cozy spot to recharge with a snack.

Arrive before 10 AM if you can! The mall opens at 10 and it's way quieter then. I got to enjoy some shopping without the usual chaos of crowds.

Grab a bite at the restaurant on the top floor before the show. The views of the river are stunning, and it saves time going somewhere else.

Try to book your tickets ahead of time online, especially for weekend performances. I almost missed out on a show because it was sold out at the box office.

If you're driving, plan to arrive by 5:00 PM... Parking can get tricky, and I ended up walking several blocks because the nearby lots were full

If you’re planning to bike along the trails, try to go early in the morning around 8 AM to avoid crowds. I made the mistake of going later and it was packed, which made it harder to enjoy the ride.

I think the sunsets over the river are breathtaking, so try to stay until around 7 PM if you can. I caught one and it was a perfect way to end the day

I recommend exploring the Wells Fargo Place for its amazing architecture, but don’t forget to bring your camera. The views from the area are just stunning and you’ll want to capture the moments.

If you're planning to grab food, check out the cafe but maybe avoid peak lunch hours. I went around noon and waited a bit too long. A snack at another time worked better for me!

I recommend exploring the outdoor sculpture garden first. The fresh air is a nice break and the views are amazing—plus, it helps you to start the day with some beautiful art before hitting the indoor exhibits!

My advice is to take your time with the exhibits, especially the immersive ones. I felt rushed at first, but slow down and actually soak everything in—it makes a world of difference.

I suggest visiting on a Thursday evening when they have free admission from 5 to 9 PM. It was super crowded but totally worth it for the price!

Check the weather before you go; it's way more fun walking the bridge on a sunny day... I got caught in rain and it wasn't pleasant!

Consider visiting on a weekday if you can; it was way less crowded compared to the weekend when I first went.

Take a leisurely stroll and don’t rush. I felt like I missed some great views because I was just walking through. Enjoy the vibe!

if you're short on cash, check out the local cafes nearby for affordable breakfast options before you visit. i found a cute little spot just two blocks away that was way cheaper than on-site snacks.

I think it's worth grabbing a quick guide at the entrance or downloading the app. I didn’t do this and felt I missed some fascinating details about the art and history. Just 5 mins prep could really enhance your visit!

I recommend showing up around 9 AM when they open. The crowd was much thinner, which made it easier to soak in the stunning architecture without distractions. Plus, early sunlight through the stained glass is breathtaking!

My advice is to take some time to wander the surrounding gardens after your visit. It’s a peaceful spot and gives you a great view of the basilica from a distance. Don't rush out right after!

Don't miss the interactive displays; they really bring the history to life. I suggest spending extra time there to fully appreciate them.

I recommend visiting during the weekday mornings, like around 10 AM, when it's less crowded, so you can enjoy the exhibits more freely.

If you're on a budget, definitely check out the museum shop. I found some cool souvenirs that won't break the bank

I think taking the time to watch the documentary about the mills is worth it; it adds so much context to the whole experience.

For a better experience, I recommend taking a self-guided tour first to get the lay of the land. Then, you can dive deeper into the parts that interest you.

Try the café there! I got a traditional Swedish pastry that was delish. I think it’s a great way to take a techational break during your visit.