What Are The Best Budget-Friendly Attractions to Visit in Minneapolis?

There are plenty of budget-friendly attractions in Minneapolis that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the city without breaking the bank. From outdoor activities that take advantage of the city’s natural landscape to cultural offerings, Minneapolis offers a wealth of experiences at a fraction of the cost of some of its nearby, more famous tourist hubs.

Walk the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Due to its location directly along the Mississippi River, Minneapolis is a prime spot for beautiful views and time spent outdoors. Built along a 72-mile stretch of the river, Minnesota’s only National Park contains plenty of free activities that are worth exploring. The park boasts many running and biking trails, public parks, boat ramps and swimming beaches covering both Minneapolis and St. Paul. For the adventurous types, spots like Minnehaha Falls and Hidden Falls Regional Park house plenty of cliffs and rock faces perfect for climbing.

Visit Minneapolis’ Nature Centers & Museums

For those looking to explore Minneapolis’ cultural opportunities, Minneapolis is home to plenty of noteworthy museums and nature centers. Free museums include places like the Weisman Art Museum at University of Minnesota and the MIA (Minneapolis Institute of Arts). Nature centers such as Eastman Nature Center in Dayton and Lowry Nature Center in Victoria are also free and offer guests a chance of up-close exploration of local plants and animals.

Explore Minneapolis on Foot or by Bike

Exploring on foot or by bike is arguably one of the best ways to get to know Minneapolis on a budget. Many areas in Minneapolis are safe for walking and biking and provide visitors with plenty of paths and roads that offer views of the city, even away from the Mississippi River. If visitors don’t have their own bike, Nice Ride Minnesota is a $3 per ride bike sharing program that offers over 590 bikes at almost 70 stations located around Minneapolis.

Take Advantage of Free Events

Each year Minneapolis hosts plenty of free events throughout the city. Repeating events might include things like Prairie Singers at the Visitor Information Center and Music in the Park concerts during the summers, both of which let visitors experience music without paying an admission fee. Other events like Loring Park Art Festival and Uptown Art Fair also showcases talented artists without requiring an admission fee.

My Opinion

No matter what you’re looking for on a budget in Minneapolis, you’re sure to find something to do. Whether it’s exploring nature centers, biking trails, attending a free festival or spending time outside along the Mississippi River, Minneapolis’ affordability allows visitors to discover new experiences without going bankrupt.

In conclusion, it’s easy to experience all that Minneapolis has to offer even on a budget. There are so many exciting activities that can be experienced with little to no money spent. Plus, with all of the outdoor activities options throughout Minneapolis visitors can enjoy exercising while taking in gorgeous natural views and vistas.

For more information on incredible budget-friendly activities in Minneapolis, be sure to check out Discover Minneapolis’ Amazing Budget-Friendly Things To Do.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Minneapolis on a Budget

Minneapolis is the largest and busiest city in Minnesota. It is a vibrant and historic city with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. However, travelling to a new destination can be expensive, but fear not! I have put together a guide to help you experience the best of Minneapolis while staying within a budget. Here are some of the best budget-friendly attractions to visit in Minneapolis:

Visit the Minnesota History Center

The Minnesota History Center is a must-visit attraction in Minneapolis that is also budget-friendly. You will learn about the history of Minnesota, the culture of the region and the lives of the indigenous people and early settlers. The exhibits are interactive and engaging, and you can spend hours exploring the exhibits. Admission is only $12 per adult.

Walk or Bike Around Lake Calhoun

Lake Calhoun is a beautiful body of water and a great place to explore. Walking or cycling around the lake will provide you with stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline, and there are plenty of places to stop and take pictures. The biking and walking trails are free, but if you don’t have a bike, you can rent one from one of the many bike rental stations near the lake.

Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art is a free, must-visit attraction for any art lover. The museum has an extensive collection of art from around the world, including African, Asian, and European art. The admission is free, but a donation is required. Even if you are not an art lover, the museum’s grand architecture, sculptures, and other artifacts make it a visit-worthy destination.

Take a Stroll Through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a free public space with numerous outdoor sculptures and installations. It features the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture that attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to take a walk, relax, and enjoy the art. The garden is located just behind the Walker Art Center, entrance is free.

Enjoy Local Food at Midtown Global Market

If you’re a foodie, then you must visit Midtown Global Market, where you can enjoy authentic global cuisine at an affordable price. The market has over 50 vendors serving up different types of food, including Mexican, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Asian. There are also stalls selling unique gifts, ethnic clothing and accessories. It is a great place to grab a delicious meal while exploring different global cultures.

Check Out the Historic Stone Arch Bridge

The Stone Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Minneapolis. The bridge was constructed in 1883 to connect downtown Minneapolis and the flour milling district. It is now a pedestrian bridge with beautiful views of the Mississippi River. While enjoying the views, be sure to read the informational signs posted throughout the bridge to learn about the history of the area and the story of the bridge.

Off the Beaten Path: Visit the Witch’s Hat Water Tower

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, the Witch’s Hat Water Tower is an exceptional attraction that should not be missed. This tower is a beautiful example of late 19th-century architecture and a significant landmark for the Prospect Park Neighborhood. The tower offers a 360-degree view of the entire city at the top. Guided tours are available but are not necessary. It is located near the University of Minnesota campus.

Conclusion

Minneapolis is a fascinating city with a wealth of attractions, history, and culture. It can be expensive visiting new cities, but there are plenty of budget-friendly attractions to experience in Minneapolis. From beautiful scenic parks, world-famous art, diverse global cuisines, and historic landmarks, you can still have an enjoyable vacation within your means.