One of the trendiest cities in the Midwest, Minneapolis is twinned with the city of St Paul, with each city on an opposite side of the Mississippi River. As the largest city in Minnesota, it offers a wide selection of activities; from water-skiing on its numerous lakes during the summer and para-skiing on them when they are frozen during the winter, to its superb collection of fine arts and its alternative music scene. Long stretches of a climate-controlled skyway system enable residents and visitors to do everything from shopping, to working and dining, without stepping outdoors in the winter. Car rental is the most convenient way to get around in Minneapolis.
Getting there
The Twin Cities’ Charles Lindbergh International Airport, located near the Mall of America in Bloomington, is the home base for Northwest Airlines and is served by almost all national carriers and some international as well. Amtrak trains come from Chicago and beyond from the east coast and southern states, and from the west all the way from Washington, Oregon and California. Choosing self-drive for you vacation transportation through checking national travel deals on your chosen rental car saves both money and time better spent exploring.
Minneapolis is the intersection point of I-94 and I-35. I-94 comes into the city from St Paul and central Wisconsin; while I-35 comes down from Canada to Minneapolis, and goes on south all the way to Dallas (Texas). South of Minneapolis, I-35 crosses I-90, which can be taken east to Chicago and beyond to Boston. Self-drive via a rental car is enjoyable, especially in the rural hinterlands outside the city.
Key attractions
Minneapolis is comprised of an assortment of different neighborhoods, each of which offers a distinct feel and a variety of options for entertainment, dining and culture. The downtown area is comprised of skyscrapers and offers ideal opportunities for upscale shopping. Alternatively, the Uptown area houses plenty of stores, coffee shops and restaurants, and is near to the lakes and parks of Calhoun and Harriet.
Out and about
Of course, if you visit Minneapolis, you won’t want to miss its twin city of St Paul, just across the Mississippi River. St Paul is Minnesota’s capital and is home to its beautiful domed Capitol building as well as some magnificent mansions. Getting there is best with car rental, and checking online national travel deals ensures you get the lowest price available.
Near Minneapolis in the suburb of Bloomington you will find the largest shopping mall in the United States, the famed Mall of America. It is home to well over 500 stores, a popular full service wedding chapel, movie theatres, nightclubs, and an entirely enclosed amusement park called Camp Snoopy.
Leisure options
For a bite to eat, the many Vietnamese, Mexican, Chinese and Greek restaurants on Nicolette avenue are an excellent option. Alternatively, the Warehouse District is the heart of Minneapolis nightlife.
Safety
Travellers in an unfamiliar environment can be at greater risk of accidents or problems with travel arrangements. Additionally, driving on snowy or icy roads in winter can be tricky, with car accidents being a leading cause of death in the US. It is advisable to take out travel insurance for you and your family when visiting Minneapolis.