Local Activities

Minneapolis and the surrounding area has many local attractions for attendees to enjoy.

Padelford Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi River

[DATE – TBD]

Walker Art Center & Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

[DATE – TBD]

Other Local Activities

Minneapolis and the surrounding Twin Cities area have many local attractions for attendees to enjoy on their own. Some local favorites include:

Minnehaha Regional Park & Minnehaha Falls

A beloved 193-acre Minneapolis city park featuring the stunning 53-foot Minnehaha Falls near the entrance. The park offers scenic trails along Minnehaha Creek down to the Mississippi River, picnic areas, and the seasonal Sea Salt Eatery — widely regarded as one of the best outdoor dining spots in the Twin Cities.

  • Distance from [VENUE]: approximately 5.5 miles, 15 min.
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Website: https://www.minneapolisparks.org
  • Accessible via Metro Transit Light Rail Blue Line (Minnehaha Park station)
  • Activities available:
    • Hiking and walking trails along the creek and gorge
    • Scenic waterfall viewing — free and open year-round
    • Picnicking and outdoor dining at Sea Salt Eatery (seasonal)
    • Biking: the park connects to the regional Grand Rounds Scenic Byway trail system

Stone Arch Bridge & Mill City Museum Walking Tour

The historic St. Anthony Falls area offers a self-guided or guided walking experience along the Mississippi River, taking in the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, the ruins of the world’s largest flour milling complex, and stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. The Mill City Museum, built into the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, offers an immersive look at Minneapolis’s flour-milling heritage, including a ride inside an eight-story grain elevator.

  • Distance from [VENUE]: approximately 1.5 miles walk, or short bus/rideshare ride
  • Stone Arch Bridge: Free and open daily
  • Mill City Museum: 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Museum Admission: $14 adults; $10 seniors & college students; $8 children (5–17); free for children under 5 and MHS members
  • Phone: (612) 341-7555
  • Website: https://www.mnhs.org/millcity

Weisman Art Museum

One of the most architecturally striking buildings on the University of Minnesota campus, the Weisman Art Museum occupies a swooping stainless-steel structure designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum houses an outstanding permanent collection with a focus on American modernism, ceramics, and Korean furniture, as well as rotating contemporary exhibitions. Best of all — admission is always free.

  • Distance from [VENUE]: on campus — 333 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55455
  • Website: https://wam.umn.edu
  • Phone: (612) 625-9494
  • Cost: Free and open to the public

Golfing Options

For attendees interested in golf, there are several public courses in Minneapolis and the surrounding area to consider.

  • Minneapolis Park Board Golf Courses: The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board operates several public courses including Columbia Golf Course (18-hole) and Hiawatha Golf Course (18-hole), both within 10–15 minutes of campus. Greens fees typically range from $28–$40 per person.
  • Surly Brewing Disc Golf: For a more casual option, Surly Brewing Co. — just a short walk from campus — hosts a disc golf course and outdoor beer garden. A great combination of sport and local craft beer culture.
  • Edina Country Club: A private club located about 20 minutes from campus in the upscale suburb of Edina, accessible to guests of member sponsors.
  • Braemar Golf Course: A popular 27-hole public course in Edina, approximately 20 minutes from campus, with greens fees typically in the $35–$50 range.

Links to Information on Other Local Activities

Pre- and Post-NOS Vacation Possibilities

  • Duluth & Lake Superior’s North Shore (2.5 hrs)
  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (3.5 hrs)
  • Mall of America, Bloomington (30 min)
  • Wisconsin Dells (3 hrs)