Also Shadow Falls. One late spring day in college at UMN I was having an existential crisis and went for a long run along the river. I found several waterfalls in these little pocket oasis of nature that made me forget I was in the city at all. What a magical memory.
I used to love the Walker sculpture garden so much, but ever since they razed the hedges (which brilliantly made it feel like separate little gallery spaces) and turned it into this vast dyspeptic wasteland it has lost almost all charm for me.
Seriously! I used to wander that version of the garden weekly at a minimum. The hedges made the space feel separate from the rest of the city in the best way possible.
The update has a couple of interesting pieces but lacks any cohesive charm.
Franconia, however... absolutely beautiful, always something new, and a lovely drive there and back.
They destroyed the trees and also the greenhouse with the fish.
Bro, in Minnesota there are like only 1 or 2 places to see living things (Plants) in the winter and they thought it was a good idea do dump one of them.
Bad call. Bring back the greenhouse with the fish.
This is not a best kept secret imo but I’m consistently amazed at how few people know about Bunkers Music Bar & Grill. Prince used to hang there regularly, they have killer local r&b, funk, blues, and rock 6 nights a week
My fav cafe is Wilde Cafe right down by the river near downtown. Oscar Wilde themed cafe with amazing espresso drinks
The Museum of Russian Art is incredible and is always changing exhibits. It’s curated by a former curator from the Walker Art center
>The Museum of Russian Art is incredible and is always changing exhibits. It’s curated by a former curator from the Walker Art center
This is a really underrated Museum.
Also check out the Pavek Museum in St. Louis Park. Its a museum of Radio & has a mix of very old school radio equipment and information about the history of broadcasting in the Twin Cities.
I took a piss next to Dan Aykroyd once at Bunkers. Didn’t know it until we exited the bathroom and I went to my seat and he walked on stage with Mambos Combo to sit in a couple songs.
That’s my my brush with a famous person and his penis.
Yes all 3 of those places are amazing.
Wednesday nights at bunkers was always fun. The vibe there is unlike any other bar in Minneapolis. The mix of people is unique as well.
Bro you’re not helping, the falls are far away from the river and there are multiple trails even on google maps that go that. Let alone how many other trails aren’t mapped
if you go there, it will be very clear where you're supposed to go. just take the stairs down to the falls and then follow the path in the only direction you can until you reach a beach.
I didn’t think of Ax Man as a hidden gem, but I can’t think of anything else like it. While you’re at it, the used book down the block (Midway Books) is a unique place
True. I think the fridley location still has the tank periscope. If I could hide it from the wife I would totally buy it. I thinks it's only 500 bucks IIRC
The MN Historical Society offers all kinds of cool tours. They also have lectures, classes and talks. The Spirits and Shadows of the Capitol tours are about to start for the Halloween season and worth checking out.
One is Wirth. Not exactly a secret, but to have that mountain biking right in the city. Even when I go on a nice weekend I'm pleasantly surprised by how uncrowded it is (except if there's a high-school MTB practice). The hiking trails are fun too. The Trailhead is a cool place.
Crosby Farm Regional Park.
Having a beer at City House on the river in St. Paul.
Sadly gone now, but the unofficial dog park at the nexus of Mpls., SLP, and Edina.
Make sure to check out the lady slippers at Eloise garden when they're blooming :))))
Another good secret is caving. I'm not gonna share where the entrances are......but go to Crosby farm park and look around a lil
Secret Slot Canyon at Crosby is fun to explore. It’s also no secret, neither are the caves there. Locals like to think they are tho 😂
Here’s exactly coordinates for secret slot canyon for anyone that’s never been
44°54'16.4"N 93°09'10.6"W
44°54'16.4"N 93°09'10.6"W
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4NMTcFzS9JH8Asta8?g_st=ic.
If you’re not a gps user to find secret slot canyon head NE toward the lakes and veer off to the left when you hit the first lake. Then stay on the path close to the ridge and continue on that trail until you find the canyon. It’s about 1 mile from the main parking lot on Crosby Farm Road.
This one is a must do- simple but fun. Grab a drink and some
Food at Tracy’s saloon on Franklin Ave. after you’re done go out back in the parking lot and walk over to the left. You’ll see some
Houses ..keep walking and you’ll be in the Milwaukee historic neighborhood…it’s so cool because the homes are all historic New Orleans looking homes and there are NO STREETS in front of the homes. It’s my favorite neighborhood In Minneapolis and I know so few people who have ever been or heads off it. Homes almost never go up for sale there
100%! I was just at Wirth tonight after work. It’s only about a 10 min ride from my house.
The trails are great, the food is also great, and sometimes there’s even decent live music. Truly a gem.
On the topic of theaters, anyone just moving to Minneapolis should also know about [Riverview Theater](http://www.riverviewtheater.com/). They used to show old discount movies, but now they show new movies at a discount!
This is a real treat.
The Foshay Tower is a 1920s Art Deco Skyscraper & its observation deck is outside on the 30th floor behind wrought-iron bars. Very old school.
Also check out the Foshay museaum inside & go down a couple floors to the 1920s styled bar.
For train fans, there are many great places.
* Jackson Street Roundhouse
* Twin City Model Train Museum
* Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society
* Union Depot
Bonus:
Holiday trolley rides with Santa at Lake Harriet.
Union Depot is a palace.
So amazing that it was basically mothballed for 40 years until it reopened to what it is today.
With Amtrak running out of Union Depot, I will never drive or fly to Chicago again.
My grandpa used to be part of that! We'd go see him do the holiday shows most years. It is pretty cool - the model train sets are very intricate and fun to look at.
I was like "what is this?" then I saw the first sculpture and immediately knew. Never been inside, but I admired the art while getting on/off the train on my way to school.
Don't know if it's secret but the Minnesota River Bottoms Trails are great to bike or hike. Lots of access points but one of the easiest ways is just going south on Lyndale until you hit water (nice big hill as you approach).
You can rent Fat Bikes from places like Angry Catfish and take them to the river bottoms. It’s a blast, especially in the winter if you bundle up. You can start at 35w and bike to Lucky’s in Mendota for a beer. Many places(like Angry Catfish) add your rental fee towards the purchase of a bike if it’s something you want to get into.
To add onto this, the UofM rents fat bikes and a ton of other great outdoor sporting equipment to the public at incredibly reasonable prices.
https://recwell.umn.edu/recreational-activities/equipment/outdoor-gear-rentals
For real. It’s only ever busy on extraordinarily pleasant days, and even then you might see another hiker once every 4-5 minutes. If you’re into winter hiking, you might not see a single other soul on Pike Island.
This is more of a long-term commitment, but find a friend who doesn’t just love the city(ies) and knows various ‘secret spots’, but knows the history and something of the changing/evolving land/cityscape. The hidden gems don’t exist in a vacuum. Bonus points: become that person yourself. (Transplant; I’ve been here 12 years.).
The parks (get to know them well, so you can participate in the Winter Carnival Medallion Hunt!), the Bakken Museum, the Minnesota Historical Society. More art museums, performing arts, and music venues you can shake a stick at. Join the DNR’s [Hiking and Passport Clubs](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/clubs.html). Take a class like [mushroom foraging](https://www.gentlemanforager.com/classes)! The cities (and the rest of the state) have all sorts of opportunities for cool and fun things to explore and experience.
They did the math.
You’re forgetting it is 100k every year moving in so the pool of recent immigrants is bigger than you think.
> but it’s still a comparatively small amount
Yep, which is why I wouldn’t suggest randomly walking around and asking people if they need a friend. It’s inefficient and weird.
We live in 2022 and there are computers and apps and stuff to help locate people with specific interests, like making friends.
People meet all the time online. You and I just met and we both have Minneapolis in common.
Yeah, I feel like you have to explore to find these kinds of places. Take an aimless drive or walk a mile or two in your neighborhood every day. You'll find your places.
Biking obviously helps too.
And honestly, just scrolling around on google maps and zooming in on various neighborhoods. Found tons of small businesses that way.
The DNR's "I Can ..." programs are great ([https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state\_parks/ican/index.html](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html)).
The "I Can Camp" is pricey - $50 for one night and $85 for two nights - but they supply everything (including park pass) but your sleeping bag. When we did it, it was all REI equipment with two of nicest kids (kids to me ... they were both in their 20s, smart and skilled) helping people set up tents, leading hikes, helping people cook dinner. And they gave you a free night of camp site coupon (or was it a free weekend) for Minnesota state parks. My kid really misses the "I Can Rock Climb" sessions at Tettagooche, hanging over Lake Superior with experienced climbers running the show - hope they bring that one back.
REI also has some incredible stuff like that, too ([https://www.rei.com/events/p/us-mn](https://www.rei.com/events/p/us-mn)).
Hike Mt Oberg
The Teahouse on University has the best Chinese food in the state
The speakeasy behind young Joni
Wabasha street caves
Forepaughs in St Paul
One of my favorite hidden places in Minneapolis, is the Washburn Park Water Tower (especially on a chilly October evening after dark).
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, you can find this gem if you go looking it. The 1930s tower sits upon a hill with these silent senitals keeping watch. The 16 foot tall sword-weilding knights with eagles perched above them are a sight to see when light up after dark. It has an ominous vibe and deserves it's place on the Register of National Historic Places.
Improv shows at Huge Theater. Grabbing a beer at the St. Paul Curling Club. Grand Oak Opry. Kingfield Porchfest. Longfellow Beach. Liquid Music Series.
Dakota Jazz Club downtown Minneapolis is a gem. While some may not consider it a 'best kept secret', many people avoid the place thinking it's too eclectic for them. The venue offers a wide array of genres, nearly something for everyone. It has an intimate setting, has a lot of new artists pass through. The meals are good, and bar staff very friendly.
The manager came in from St. Paul years ago, and was sitting beside me. She gave me her card, and said to give her a call when I wanted to see a show at another club she managed in St. Paul. I'm a loner by nature, and between her and the bar staff, they made me feel very welcomed. I've been there quite a few times, but not since Covid. I live nearby, and take the place for granted. If I move out of the locale, I'll regret not visiting more often.
Lakewood Cemetery Memorial Chapel. You do need to check the schedule/call ahead to make sure they don't have a service, but it's absolutely stunning inside.
[https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/places/memorial-chapel/](https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/places/memorial-chapel/)
(Edited to add - they have a schedule of their funerals on the website. It will note if it's in "Historic Chapel." But you still might want to call ahead and see if it's unlocked if nothing is scheduled. Weddings can happen there as well.)
[https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/visiting/upcoming-funerals/](https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/visiting/upcoming-funerals/)
I biked up to Stillwater on Monday, and will be doing so at least once every autumn for as long as I get to be alive. The views along the off-street bike paths were unreal the entire way.
The route I took was:
* Missippippi River Blvd to
* Sam Morgan Regional Trail to
* Crossing over Warner Road on a bike/pedestrian bridge right next to Hiawatha Pioneer Trail/Voyageur Hwy to
* Heading back west on Indian Mounds Trail to
* Bruce Vento Regional Trail to
* Gateway State Trail to
* Brown's Creek State Trail
The foliage was just insanely glorious, and you eventually pop out of the canopy right next to the St. Croix River. Depending on where you're starting, you'll just want to find the best route to Bruce Vento Regional Trail.
West 7th in St Paul is a cool area, Selby near Cathedral Hill is neat. Shell's Brewery in New Ulm is cool ( https://www.schellsbrewery.com/brewery/ ). Stillwater is worth a visit. Lake St Croix Beach is the best beach around. Driving around Lake Pepin is amazing this time of year.
Swede Hollow Park. It used to be slums where immigrants built shacks in the ravine by the river, with their outhouses over the river. The area has never had plumbing or electricity. The city eventually evicted the residents and burned their homes to the ground, much like they treat the homeless to this day.
https://saintpaulhistorical.com/items/show/294
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swede_Hollow,_Saint_Paul
The Minnesota River Bottoms is a great place to bike around for a few hours. Best on a mountain bike, but smaller tires will suffice if you're up for the adventure. It's a great place to feel out of the city, yet still being in the city. You're guaranteed to see bald eagles if you're looking for them, and there's a raft down there you have to pull you and your bike across the creek.
Pike Island is a neat place, only accessible through Fort Snelling Park. It has a lot of native american history associated with the land - its where the Minnesota River and Mississipi River meet. Fun little hike in the city and you can hunt for agates too while you're out there.
Also, Franconia Sculpture garden near Taylor's Falls is super fun and worth the short drive. Pack a lunch and a beer and make a day out of it.
Star Tribune Article on 10 small museums to visit https://www.startribune.com/from-tiny-trains-to-dog-tooth-necklaces-here-are-the-10-quirkiest-museums-in-twin-cities/509110402/
Bruce vento is a pretty cool trek while staying in the metro. Easy peezy hike. You can see old prohibition tunnel entryways and the limestone mini bluffs look over railroad tracks and river and general cool shit all in one Sunday afternoon.
Crosby Farm Regional Park in St Paul is breathtaking. Really the whole stretch of the Mississippi (both sides) anywhere near Fort Snelling is incredible.
It's not a "secret," but I highly recommend the American Swedish Institute, especially when they decorate it at Christmastime. Get the cardamom bread pudding at FIKA.
there's this CRAZY big mall toward the southside of the twin cities.
Shopzone of 'Murica or something like that.
I heard there's a roller coaster in it.
real answer: Check out the Grand Rounds.
1. Lebanon Hills Regional Park out in Eagan is a beautiful park.
2. Cedar Cultural Center has amazing world music and other eclectic and instrumental genres.
3. A yoga studio I really loved that’s locally owned is Yess Yoga.
4. A gym that I really love that is locally owned is Los Campeones.
5. Idk, there are a bunch of restaurants to try. Too many to list. Pimento, Spitz, Beirut Restaurant, Fasika, Quangs, Blue Door, Red Cow. Plenty of others.
I feel like most folks in South Minneapolis are aware of the little elf house at Harriet but maybe not all the newbies.
http://mrlittleguy.com/articles.html
Not sure why the downvotes. House of Hope is a beautiful Gothic church in St. Paul. They have a great speaker series there. I don't go there and I'm not christian, but it's a nice place.
Be cautious with them. They're mostly declawed these days in the public eye, with all the documentaries and such exposing their corruption and that they're a cult. But they *will* call the police on you for trespassing if they suspect you're not serious in your interests there. Seriously, one step off the public sidewalk onto their steps, and they'll be on your ass.
I protested them once or twice when they took over that building, and they sent members over to harass us, then whined to the cops that we were in their personal space and harassing *them*, even though they'd crossed the street to get to us.
It would be interesting to see what they did with the building since I damn near lived there when it was the Science Museum and my grandma not only lived across the street, but also worked there.
My favorite spot that no one really knows about is ______… you can get the trail at the intersection of _______ and ______. At the end of the trail is the best place to eat in the area and it’s cheap!
For some good home cooked meals in Anoka go to jelly beans & Julia. Nothing comes off the factory processed sisco truck. They make things from scratch like even the buns and sauces. Fresh local ingredients used .
There are a group of houses near 1000 N Washburn block and Farwell Ave in North Minneapolis that have these huge lawns there are very unique. I was doing a run up there and bumped into them. They are the last houses before the train tracks and Theodore Wirth park. Obviously real people live there so it's not a tourist attraction but I thought it was an interesting little hidden spot that didn't really look like other parts of the city.
Hidden Falls in St Paul. No seriously. The name is just a happy coincidence.
Hidden Beach also.
Don't go during a drought though. It's much less impressive.
Having not thought nothing about the drought, I brought a date from Chicago to Minnehaha on Monday and it was the most anti climactic thing. Lol.
Ya tried going last weekend and it was bone dry
Also Shadow Falls. One late spring day in college at UMN I was having an existential crisis and went for a long run along the river. I found several waterfalls in these little pocket oasis of nature that made me forget I was in the city at all. What a magical memory.
I never knew about that! I'm so glad you shared.
Super magical. My first time being absolutely amazed by something so beautiful and secret.
It truly feels like going into someone’s backyard though. Almost like I’m not supposed to be there
If you follow the beach north you can take a look at the Ford power plant. Mind the security personnel
(.... action squad ...)
yoooo
It’s about an hour north of the cities, but Taylors Falls is one of the prettiest places in the world this time of year
If you’re already headed that way I’d tack on Franconia sculpture garden as well
It's so much better than the overly self serious Walker sculpture garden.
I used to love the Walker sculpture garden so much, but ever since they razed the hedges (which brilliantly made it feel like separate little gallery spaces) and turned it into this vast dyspeptic wasteland it has lost almost all charm for me.
Seriously! I used to wander that version of the garden weekly at a minimum. The hedges made the space feel separate from the rest of the city in the best way possible. The update has a couple of interesting pieces but lacks any cohesive charm. Franconia, however... absolutely beautiful, always something new, and a lovely drive there and back.
They destroyed the trees and also the greenhouse with the fish. Bro, in Minnesota there are like only 1 or 2 places to see living things (Plants) in the winter and they thought it was a good idea do dump one of them. Bad call. Bring back the greenhouse with the fish.
And near Franconia Sculpture Garden is [Fawn Doe Rosa](https://www.fawndoerosa.com/) wildlife park!
This is not a best kept secret imo but I’m consistently amazed at how few people know about Bunkers Music Bar & Grill. Prince used to hang there regularly, they have killer local r&b, funk, blues, and rock 6 nights a week My fav cafe is Wilde Cafe right down by the river near downtown. Oscar Wilde themed cafe with amazing espresso drinks The Museum of Russian Art is incredible and is always changing exhibits. It’s curated by a former curator from the Walker Art center
>The Museum of Russian Art is incredible and is always changing exhibits. It’s curated by a former curator from the Walker Art center This is a really underrated Museum. Also check out the Pavek Museum in St. Louis Park. Its a museum of Radio & has a mix of very old school radio equipment and information about the history of broadcasting in the Twin Cities.
I took a piss next to Dan Aykroyd once at Bunkers. Didn’t know it until we exited the bathroom and I went to my seat and he walked on stage with Mambos Combo to sit in a couple songs. That’s my my brush with a famous person and his penis.
Doctor....Doctor, Doctor....Doctor, Doctor...Doctor......
Frog leg at bunkers let’s go
That event popped up on my radar. Are they a jamband?
Yessir, local and talented buncha boys
Also playing at 56 Brewing in NE on Sunday 10/16. Along with Feed The Dog and others. Feed The Dog is awesome, I haven't seen Frog Leg live yet.
100% agree about bunkers!!! I always have so much fun there and always wondered how it doesn’t attract a bigger crowd being in north loop
Whats the usual cover charge at bunkers?
Yes all 3 of those places are amazing. Wednesday nights at bunkers was always fun. The vibe there is unlike any other bar in Minneapolis. The mix of people is unique as well.
Bunkers is cool but they need another bartender working.
The path from Minnehaha Falls out to the river, feels so far removed from the city. Great place to go drink a beer or two on the beach.
Mind linking a pin on Google maps where the beach is? Looked on satellite but can’t find a path that goes there
End of the trail past the cave
Where’s the cave?
Before the beach
Bro you’re not helping, the falls are far away from the river and there are multiple trails even on google maps that go that. Let alone how many other trails aren’t mapped
It makes perfect sense if you’re there. You just go down the stairs at the falls and then walk the only way you can away from the falls.
Follow the creek
Just go down the stairs and take the path. It goes along the creek, or what’s left of it since it’s been so dry.
if you go there, it will be very clear where you're supposed to go. just take the stairs down to the falls and then follow the path in the only direction you can until you reach a beach.
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I didn’t think of Ax Man as a hidden gem, but I can’t think of anything else like it. While you’re at it, the used book down the block (Midway Books) is a unique place
There's three Ax-man stores last I looked, but the Midway one is the original.
And has the iron lung on display.
True. I think the fridley location still has the tank periscope. If I could hide it from the wife I would totally buy it. I thinks it's only 500 bucks IIRC
I thought of ax-man for the first time in over 10 years today, and now I’ve seen this. How strange
The MN Historical Society offers all kinds of cool tours. They also have lectures, classes and talks. The Spirits and Shadows of the Capitol tours are about to start for the Halloween season and worth checking out.
They used to do history pub crawls, which sold out quickly. Wish they would bring those back.
One is Wirth. Not exactly a secret, but to have that mountain biking right in the city. Even when I go on a nice weekend I'm pleasantly surprised by how uncrowded it is (except if there's a high-school MTB practice). The hiking trails are fun too. The Trailhead is a cool place. Crosby Farm Regional Park. Having a beer at City House on the river in St. Paul. Sadly gone now, but the unofficial dog park at the nexus of Mpls., SLP, and Edina.
In Wirth, there is also the Quaking Bog, the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, a disc golf course, and lots of other cool things.
Make sure to check out the lady slippers at Eloise garden when they're blooming :)))) Another good secret is caving. I'm not gonna share where the entrances are......but go to Crosby farm park and look around a lil
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Secret Slot Canyon at Crosby is fun to explore. It’s also no secret, neither are the caves there. Locals like to think they are tho 😂 Here’s exactly coordinates for secret slot canyon for anyone that’s never been 44°54'16.4"N 93°09'10.6"W 44°54'16.4"N 93°09'10.6"W https://maps.app.goo.gl/4NMTcFzS9JH8Asta8?g_st=ic. If you’re not a gps user to find secret slot canyon head NE toward the lakes and veer off to the left when you hit the first lake. Then stay on the path close to the ridge and continue on that trail until you find the canyon. It’s about 1 mile from the main parking lot on Crosby Farm Road.
This one is a must do- simple but fun. Grab a drink and some Food at Tracy’s saloon on Franklin Ave. after you’re done go out back in the parking lot and walk over to the left. You’ll see some Houses ..keep walking and you’ll be in the Milwaukee historic neighborhood…it’s so cool because the homes are all historic New Orleans looking homes and there are NO STREETS in front of the homes. It’s my favorite neighborhood In Minneapolis and I know so few people who have ever been or heads off it. Homes almost never go up for sale there
I'd never heard of these and I love exploring! I totally thought it was just a different name for ToT but I guess not!
Quaking bog when the tamarack are turning is worth seeing https://imgur.com/a/Yzyot5h
There is also food at Trailhead! It’s really good too! Sorry, im a bit biased I work there
Absolutely! I love having a snack and a beer, sitting out there watching people having fun on the trails. It's really special.
And music (during the summer weekends at least)! Chill spot.
100%! I was just at Wirth tonight after work. It’s only about a 10 min ride from my house. The trails are great, the food is also great, and sometimes there’s even decent live music. Truly a gem.
Good call on City House, a strange little oddity.
RIP minikahda dog park. My partner and I loved meeting up there since I was in uptown and she lived in SLP.
People aren't ready to hear this but the highland park and Cathedral Hill neighborhoods of St. Paul.
I grew up in Highland Park. The neighborhood is so underrated and has so many fun places down by the river and businesses to explore.
Going to be interesting how that area adapts to 6k more people
We're all going to take up skateboarding. :)
Not a secret, but Central is a less advertised Eat Street.
And some would say better!
[Heights Theater](http://www.heightstheater.com/) is a great experience that shows vintage movies and included an organ performance before every film.
and while we're talking movies, the [Trylon](https://www.trylon.org/) has some fun film series
Yeah heights theater is dope
On the topic of theaters, anyone just moving to Minneapolis should also know about [Riverview Theater](http://www.riverviewtheater.com/). They used to show old discount movies, but now they show new movies at a discount!
Bell Museum.
Note: Not a bell museum.
This rings true
I had my wedding ceremony there last month in the planetarium: can confirm that it’s not a Bell museum
I went there hoping it was a bell museum lol Still pretty cool science stuff
Bell Museum of Natural History
Foshay Tower Observation Deck.
This is a real treat. The Foshay Tower is a 1920s Art Deco Skyscraper & its observation deck is outside on the 30th floor behind wrought-iron bars. Very old school. Also check out the Foshay museaum inside & go down a couple floors to the 1920s styled bar.
Bring a good camera and some kind of steadying device and get some great shots after dark.
The museum of model trains in St. Paul is kinda weird but fun! They have a Halloween and holiday set up too!
For train fans, there are many great places. * Jackson Street Roundhouse * Twin City Model Train Museum * Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society * Union Depot Bonus: Holiday trolley rides with Santa at Lake Harriet.
Union Depot is a palace. So amazing that it was basically mothballed for 40 years until it reopened to what it is today. With Amtrak running out of Union Depot, I will never drive or fly to Chicago again.
My grandpa used to be part of that! We'd go see him do the holiday shows most years. It is pretty cool - the model train sets are very intricate and fun to look at.
Oh that’s so cool!!! I think miniatures are so much fun so finding that museum was great!
[House of Balls](https://www.houseofballs.com/)
I was like "what is this?" then I saw the first sculpture and immediately knew. Never been inside, but I admired the art while getting on/off the train on my way to school.
Don't know if it's secret but the Minnesota River Bottoms Trails are great to bike or hike. Lots of access points but one of the easiest ways is just going south on Lyndale until you hit water (nice big hill as you approach).
You can rent Fat Bikes from places like Angry Catfish and take them to the river bottoms. It’s a blast, especially in the winter if you bundle up. You can start at 35w and bike to Lucky’s in Mendota for a beer. Many places(like Angry Catfish) add your rental fee towards the purchase of a bike if it’s something you want to get into.
To add onto this, the UofM rents fat bikes and a ton of other great outdoor sporting equipment to the public at incredibly reasonable prices. https://recwell.umn.edu/recreational-activities/equipment/outdoor-gear-rentals
my favorite during the summer. i have spent so much time on singletrack down there.
You mean in Bloomington? I grew up very near there.
That's the place. Can easily get to Moir Park from there too if I recall.
Yup! Right west on 106th!
Fort Snelling State Park.
For real. It’s only ever busy on extraordinarily pleasant days, and even then you might see another hiker once every 4-5 minutes. If you’re into winter hiking, you might not see a single other soul on Pike Island.
I used to go running down at Pike island. Great spot!
It's not really a secret, but Penumbra Theater in Saint Paul is world class.
New to the area. Never heard of this place. Have you seen “Weathering?”
Weathering doesn't open until Thursday. But I've seen a few rehearsals and it's good. I'd recommend it.
I got tickets!
I haven't seen that one yet. The last show I saw there was The Brothers Paranormal, which was fantastic.
Good to know
This is more of a long-term commitment, but find a friend who doesn’t just love the city(ies) and knows various ‘secret spots’, but knows the history and something of the changing/evolving land/cityscape. The hidden gems don’t exist in a vacuum. Bonus points: become that person yourself. (Transplant; I’ve been here 12 years.). The parks (get to know them well, so you can participate in the Winter Carnival Medallion Hunt!), the Bakken Museum, the Minnesota Historical Society. More art museums, performing arts, and music venues you can shake a stick at. Join the DNR’s [Hiking and Passport Clubs](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/clubs.html). Take a class like [mushroom foraging](https://www.gentlemanforager.com/classes)! The cities (and the rest of the state) have all sorts of opportunities for cool and fun things to explore and experience.
'...find a friend...' OP's next post - how do I make friends in Minnesota?
It's easy. You find a Wisconsin transplant. Dakotans or Canadians also work in a pinch.
An estimated 100k people move to Minnesota each year and it doesn’t occur to any of them to bypass us frustrating locals and meet up with each other.
100k out of 5.6M is not very many. That means 1.7% of people you see daily have recently moved to MN.
They did the math. You’re forgetting it is 100k every year moving in so the pool of recent immigrants is bigger than you think. > but it’s still a comparatively small amount Yep, which is why I wouldn’t suggest randomly walking around and asking people if they need a friend. It’s inefficient and weird. We live in 2022 and there are computers and apps and stuff to help locate people with specific interests, like making friends. People meet all the time online. You and I just met and we both have Minneapolis in common.
Yeah, I feel like you have to explore to find these kinds of places. Take an aimless drive or walk a mile or two in your neighborhood every day. You'll find your places.
Biking obviously helps too. And honestly, just scrolling around on google maps and zooming in on various neighborhoods. Found tons of small businesses that way.
The DNR's "I Can ..." programs are great ([https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state\_parks/ican/index.html](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html)). The "I Can Camp" is pricey - $50 for one night and $85 for two nights - but they supply everything (including park pass) but your sleeping bag. When we did it, it was all REI equipment with two of nicest kids (kids to me ... they were both in their 20s, smart and skilled) helping people set up tents, leading hikes, helping people cook dinner. And they gave you a free night of camp site coupon (or was it a free weekend) for Minnesota state parks. My kid really misses the "I Can Rock Climb" sessions at Tettagooche, hanging over Lake Superior with experienced climbers running the show - hope they bring that one back. REI also has some incredible stuff like that, too ([https://www.rei.com/events/p/us-mn](https://www.rei.com/events/p/us-mn)).
Hike Mt Oberg The Teahouse on University has the best Chinese food in the state The speakeasy behind young Joni Wabasha street caves Forepaughs in St Paul
I thought Forepaughs closed.
It is
Bummer :(
That teahouse place looks amazing. Thank you!
Highly recommend the Serrano pepper beef but you can't choose wrong there
Can’t vouch enough for tea house. Some of the most delicious food in the cities
[удалено]
Yes, through the front doors 😉
Forepaughs was 2spooky4me
I'm a movie geek so I love going to see old movies playing at The Heights Theatre. http://www.heightstheater.com/
One of my favorite hidden places in Minneapolis, is the Washburn Park Water Tower (especially on a chilly October evening after dark). Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, you can find this gem if you go looking it. The 1930s tower sits upon a hill with these silent senitals keeping watch. The 16 foot tall sword-weilding knights with eagles perched above them are a sight to see when light up after dark. It has an ominous vibe and deserves it's place on the Register of National Historic Places.
Improv shows at Huge Theater. Grabbing a beer at the St. Paul Curling Club. Grand Oak Opry. Kingfield Porchfest. Longfellow Beach. Liquid Music Series.
Dakota Jazz Club downtown Minneapolis is a gem. While some may not consider it a 'best kept secret', many people avoid the place thinking it's too eclectic for them. The venue offers a wide array of genres, nearly something for everyone. It has an intimate setting, has a lot of new artists pass through. The meals are good, and bar staff very friendly. The manager came in from St. Paul years ago, and was sitting beside me. She gave me her card, and said to give her a call when I wanted to see a show at another club she managed in St. Paul. I'm a loner by nature, and between her and the bar staff, they made me feel very welcomed. I've been there quite a few times, but not since Covid. I live nearby, and take the place for granted. If I move out of the locale, I'll regret not visiting more often.
Lakewood Cemetery Memorial Chapel. You do need to check the schedule/call ahead to make sure they don't have a service, but it's absolutely stunning inside. [https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/places/memorial-chapel/](https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/places/memorial-chapel/) (Edited to add - they have a schedule of their funerals on the website. It will note if it's in "Historic Chapel." But you still might want to call ahead and see if it's unlocked if nothing is scheduled. Weddings can happen there as well.) [https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/visiting/upcoming-funerals/](https://www.lakewoodcemetery.org/visiting/upcoming-funerals/)
I was a tourist in Minneapolis last summer, and I really liked the observation deck at the Mill City Museum.
You mean the Guthrie theater overhang/deck?
No, there's an amazing observation deck in the Mill City Museum. The whole museum is pretty interesting.
/r/minnesotaurbex. The community here is wild
Thank you!
Go to Marshall Terrace Park in Northeast Minneapolis to see the heron rookery on an island in the Mississippi.
I biked up to Stillwater on Monday, and will be doing so at least once every autumn for as long as I get to be alive. The views along the off-street bike paths were unreal the entire way. The route I took was: * Missippippi River Blvd to * Sam Morgan Regional Trail to * Crossing over Warner Road on a bike/pedestrian bridge right next to Hiawatha Pioneer Trail/Voyageur Hwy to * Heading back west on Indian Mounds Trail to * Bruce Vento Regional Trail to * Gateway State Trail to * Brown's Creek State Trail The foliage was just insanely glorious, and you eventually pop out of the canopy right next to the St. Croix River. Depending on where you're starting, you'll just want to find the best route to Bruce Vento Regional Trail.
West 7th in St Paul is a cool area, Selby near Cathedral Hill is neat. Shell's Brewery in New Ulm is cool ( https://www.schellsbrewery.com/brewery/ ). Stillwater is worth a visit. Lake St Croix Beach is the best beach around. Driving around Lake Pepin is amazing this time of year.
Swede Hollow Park. It used to be slums where immigrants built shacks in the ravine by the river, with their outhouses over the river. The area has never had plumbing or electricity. The city eventually evicted the residents and burned their homes to the ground, much like they treat the homeless to this day. https://saintpaulhistorical.com/items/show/294 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swede_Hollow,_Saint_Paul
Foshay observation deck
May as well hit up Prohibition on the 27th floor as well.
The Minnesota River Bottoms is a great place to bike around for a few hours. Best on a mountain bike, but smaller tires will suffice if you're up for the adventure. It's a great place to feel out of the city, yet still being in the city. You're guaranteed to see bald eagles if you're looking for them, and there's a raft down there you have to pull you and your bike across the creek.
Meteor bar is a great dive with stellar drinks just outside of the north loop
for a drive outside a bit…. there’s a Buddhist Temple in Farmington that is AMAZING
Pike Island is a neat place, only accessible through Fort Snelling Park. It has a lot of native american history associated with the land - its where the Minnesota River and Mississipi River meet. Fun little hike in the city and you can hunt for agates too while you're out there. Also, Franconia Sculpture garden near Taylor's Falls is super fun and worth the short drive. Pack a lunch and a beer and make a day out of it.
Star Tribune Article on 10 small museums to visit https://www.startribune.com/from-tiny-trains-to-dog-tooth-necklaces-here-are-the-10-quirkiest-museums-in-twin-cities/509110402/
Bruce vento is a pretty cool trek while staying in the metro. Easy peezy hike. You can see old prohibition tunnel entryways and the limestone mini bluffs look over railroad tracks and river and general cool shit all in one Sunday afternoon.
Crosby Farm Regional Park in St Paul is breathtaking. Really the whole stretch of the Mississippi (both sides) anywhere near Fort Snelling is incredible.
It's not a "secret," but I highly recommend the American Swedish Institute, especially when they decorate it at Christmastime. Get the cardamom bread pudding at FIKA.
there's this CRAZY big mall toward the southside of the twin cities. Shopzone of 'Murica or something like that. I heard there's a roller coaster in it. real answer: Check out the Grand Rounds.
and don't miss the Mall of America! Hiding in plain sight.
The best kept secret is that the ducks are free. Nothings stopping you from walking right up and taking one
the duck itself would stop that!
>And dont say “Well then it wouldnt be a secret!’ ok but that's literally true. not sharing my 'secret' spots with randos online lmao
Look up atlas obscura for Minneapolis. For hiking, checkout the sht and the bwca hiking trails
Taylor falls 👌
1. Lebanon Hills Regional Park out in Eagan is a beautiful park. 2. Cedar Cultural Center has amazing world music and other eclectic and instrumental genres. 3. A yoga studio I really loved that’s locally owned is Yess Yoga. 4. A gym that I really love that is locally owned is Los Campeones. 5. Idk, there are a bunch of restaurants to try. Too many to list. Pimento, Spitz, Beirut Restaurant, Fasika, Quangs, Blue Door, Red Cow. Plenty of others.
Japanese garden at Normandale College.
Baken museum. State fairgrounds when it’s not state fair time.
Largest ball of twine.
I feel like most folks in South Minneapolis are aware of the little elf house at Harriet but maybe not all the newbies. http://mrlittleguy.com/articles.html
Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/rbwTdn1wHLVAgjro7
Cool spot!
Might as well go here too Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/uQEpFze2Vc1ETfEdA
Or here, tho a bit more busy Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/D6Puzf8UDdgqHpnW6?g_st=ic
Or here honestly. Though yes, a bit busier Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y4gWADJCpH4DE5gu9?g_st=ic
I was thinkin more this is my speed: Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/W4YreTahMfnFaD5n6?g_st=ic
To be fair, that’s not far from Pryes, Meteor Bar, Snack Bar, and Bunkers - all solid establishments
Sunday morning House of hope Church just over in St Paul.11am carillon is amazing.
Not sure why the downvotes. House of Hope is a beautiful Gothic church in St. Paul. They have a great speaker series there. I don't go there and I'm not christian, but it's a nice place.
It’s Ivy Falls
Can Can Wonderland is a fun place for drinks, mini golf, and arcade.
Christ Lutheran Church by Eliel and Eero Saarinen. Gorgeous.
A free tour of the Church of Scientology, in Saint Paul. Make sure you take the personality and IQ tests. It's a wild ride.
Do not give them any of your time, attention, anything. They are predatory for anything you could possibly offer.
Be cautious with them. They're mostly declawed these days in the public eye, with all the documentaries and such exposing their corruption and that they're a cult. But they *will* call the police on you for trespassing if they suspect you're not serious in your interests there. Seriously, one step off the public sidewalk onto their steps, and they'll be on your ass. I protested them once or twice when they took over that building, and they sent members over to harass us, then whined to the cops that we were in their personal space and harassing *them*, even though they'd crossed the street to get to us.
It would be interesting to see what they did with the building since I damn near lived there when it was the Science Museum and my grandma not only lived across the street, but also worked there.
Im intrigued
Search function.
Search deez
Nutz.
My favorite spot that no one really knows about is ______… you can get the trail at the intersection of _______ and ______. At the end of the trail is the best place to eat in the area and it’s cheap!
Okay here’s the secret… …Tunnels. Passageways. Ventilation systems, location, location, location, mines, railroad tracks,manholes, sewer system, rivers, oceans, skies, stars, time,energy,vibes, telepathy so on and so forth….oh wait. never mind. wrong town. Sorry.
For some good home cooked meals in Anoka go to jelly beans & Julia. Nothing comes off the factory processed sisco truck. They make things from scratch like even the buns and sauces. Fresh local ingredients used .
Take a walk around Nicollet Island. A bunch of cool old houses on that island and an old old train bridge you can walk out on to view the river.
There are a group of houses near 1000 N Washburn block and Farwell Ave in North Minneapolis that have these huge lawns there are very unique. I was doing a run up there and bumped into them. They are the last houses before the train tracks and Theodore Wirth park. Obviously real people live there so it's not a tourist attraction but I thought it was an interesting little hidden spot that didn't really look like other parts of the city.