Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi River, Minneapolis blends urban energy with an easy connection to nature. It’s the largest city in Minnesota, but it feels anything but overwhelming. Here, glassy skyscrapers stand next to sprawling parks, and bike paths lead you from vibrant art museums to peaceful lakeshores within minutes.

In 2025, Minneapolis continues to bloom—with food markets, art installations, live music, and a genuine warmth that invites you to slow down and explore. Whether you’re kayaking by skyline views or tasting local dishes at a weekend festival, Minneapolis offers a perfect balance for Lykkers craving something both lively and laid-back.

What's special about the scenery?

Nicknamed the “City of Lakes,” it’s home to more than 20 shimmering lakes within its borders. The Chain of Lakes Regional Park connects a string of these waters—like Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles—by scenic trails where joggers, cyclists, and picnickers find their daily joy.

Meanwhile, the Mississippi River weaves right through downtown, with leafy parks like Mill Ruins Park and Gold Medal Park giving Lykkers quiet spaces to breathe in city views and sunset skies. In summer, expect green everywhere—parks buzzing with farmers’ markets, music, and outdoor yoga. In fall, the trees explode in fiery reds and golds, turning the city into a giant, walkable painting.

Public art fills the spaces between. Giant sculptures (like the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry) dot the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and colorful murals line the neighborhoods, turning walks into visual treasure hunts.

Tip: Rent a bike or an electric scooter—it’s the easiest, most scenic way to hop between lakes, parks, and downtown.

What to Do?

Art lovers should start at the Walker Art Center, a striking contemporary museum paired with the iconic Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Both are playful, open, and perfect for a half-day of exploring.

Music flows through the city's veins, too. This is Prince’s hometown, after all. You can visit Paisley Park, his legendary creative sanctuary, now open for intimate tours that feel as much spiritual as musical.

Live music venues also dot the city—catch outdoor shows in the summer or cozy indoor performances during cooler months.

For those wanting outdoor adventure, Minnehaha Regional Park offers hiking trails that lead you to a stunning 53-foot waterfall right in the middle of the city. Lykkers can pack a light lunch, hike a few easy trails, and sit by the falls under cottonwood trees.

Shopping is its own adventure here, with local favorites like Nicollet Mall downtown or the indie shops of the North Loop. Think handmade goods, local designers, vinyl shops, and endless good coffee.

Tip: Many attractions offer discounted or free admission on select weekdays—perfect for slower, more relaxed visits.

Minneapolis may be the largest city in Minnesota, but it keeps its heart wide open. It’s a place where creativity blooms on every corner, where lakes reflect city lights, and where kindness feels as natural as the winding river paths. For Lykkers craving a destination that feels both vibrant and easygoing, where you can kayak in the morning and listen to live music by night, Minneapolis offers a rhythm that’s impossible to rush—and too beautiful to miss.