Things to Do in Downtown Minneapolis

72 Hours in the City

Minneapolis is the biggest city on the prairie. There are contemporary art centers and sculpture gardens, world-class shopping and dining, and wonderful natural features, such as parks, lakes, and the Mississippi River. Only in town for a quick visit? These are all the things to do in downtown Minneapolis in 72 hours.

Day 1: The Biggest Mall in America

Arrive at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. InterContinental Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport is the only hotel connected directly to the airport. Our enviable location places us just steps from Terminal 1, meaning a stay here the quickest way to step off the plane and (almost) directly into your hotel room.
Check in at the hotel and drop your bags in your luxury guest room, which features views of the surrounding area through floor-to-ceiling windows.
After you get settled in, start your trip with a visit to the biggest mall in America. We’re one of the closest hotels near Mall of America Minneapolis. With more than 500 stores across four floors, this massive mall could fit seven of New York’s Yankee Stadium, making it the place to shop until you drop.
Ready to rest? Have a night in to save your energy for the rest of your trip. Located at the property, Bradstreet Crafthouse offers gastropub favorites, cocktails, and games. Head here to play shuffleboard, foosball, or billiards before bed.

Day 2: Historic Minneapolis Riverfront

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. La Voya Brasserie offers your choice of a classic American breakfast or French-inspired dishes, like smoked salmon tartine.
Minneapolis is known for its parks, lakes, and rivers. Our hotel borders Fort Snelling State Park, located at the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Minnesota River. In addition to the historic fort, established in 1820, the park offers hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and skiing trails — all within steps of the hotel.
Looking for a more urban way to explore the great outdoors? The Minneapolis Riverfront District is located along the scenic Mississippi River. Here, you’ll find the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, as well as cultural attractions such as the St. Anthony Main Theatre and the Guthrie Theater.
Make it back to the hotel for sunset with the backdrop of Minneapolis and St. Paul city scapes or airplanes taking flight. On the menu: light fare, beer, wine, spirits, and 180-degree views of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and beyond.

Day 3: Downtown Minneapolis Attractions

Take the light rail METRO Blue Line from the hotel directly to the best Downtown Minneapolis attractions.
When it comes to art and culture, Walker Art Center can’t be beat. From gardens to galleries, and cinema to live stage performances, there’s no shortage of world-class contemporary art on view.
Even if the theater isn’t for you, head to the iconic Guthrie Theater to see the Endless Bridge. It’s not a real bridge, but the contemporary steel structure offers the best view of the Mississippi River anywhere.
You don’t have to have grown up in the 1970s to know who the late, great Mary Tyler Moore is. A statue of the actress tossing her hat in the air — commemorating the opening sequence of the show — is located at the spot on which it was filmed, on the corner of 7th Street South and Nicollet Mall.