The Minneapolis-St. Paul center point is approximately the area of Minnehaha Park and 1 mile southwest of University of St. Thomas.
Minneapolis-St. Paul is known for pleasant summers and frigid winters. Though winters tend to be cold and snowy, the spring season warms up the area with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. Summer temperatures typically top out in the low 80s, and the Twin Cities enjoy ample sunshine throughout the season. Fall brings stunning colors and temperatures in the 60s, making it one of the best seasons to visit Minneapolis-St. Paul.
If you'd rather plan your trip around a special event, get your calendar ready. Both Minneapolis and St. Paul host dozens of festivals and major events that cater to film buffs, food lovers, and music fans.
The spring season kicks off with the multiweek Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival, which features more than 250 long and short films from over 60 countries. Minneapolis gets colorful in early May with Art in Bloom, an annual event that features over 100 floral displays at the renowned Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Later in May, Art-A-Whirl attracts art lovers to marvel at projects and performances at over 70 studios and galleries across Minneapolis.
In mid-July, the Dragon Festival is a dynamic celebration of Asian Pacific culture that features live music, art displays, and dragon boat races. Later in July, the Highland Fest is a popular event with carnival rides, musical performances, and fireworks. From late August through late September, the nation's largest Renaissance Festival draws crowds with juggling, magicians, medieval wares, and old-fashioned eats.
Close out festival season in style with a trip to the Minnesota State Fair, which takes place in St. Paul. You'll find everything you've ever dreamed of for a family friendly day, like horse shows, giant rides, and over-the-top fair food.
Look for group discounts at hotels in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and you'll have plenty left over to spend on dining and excursions during your trip. AAA members can save 10 percent on standard room rates at the Days Inn Hotel on University and The Hotel Minneapolis, Autograph Collection. Military members and government employees get guaranteed low rates at the Best Western Plus Bandana Square and other Minneapolis-St. Paul hotels.
Minneapolis-St. Paul boasts several mid-range options that offer all the amenities you need for a reasonable daily rate. Plan your stay at these best value options in Minneapolis.
Located right in the heart of St. Paul, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown is close to the Fitzgerald Theater and the Landmark Center. Rooms are equipped with refrigerators and microwaves so you can grab a snack at any hour, and bathrooms boast designer toiletries. Go for a swim in the indoor pool or a workout in the fitness center, and then treat yourself to a nice meal in the DoubleTree's restaurant.
Enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River from your room at the Intercontinental Saint Paul Riverfront, which is just steps from all that St. Paul has to offer. This large hotel has over 400 rooms with plenty of extras like refrigerators, LCD TVs, iPod docking stations, and plush bathrobes. With 43,000 square feet of available facilities, the Intercontinental is also a great place to host a large event or conference in St. Paul.
For a mid-range hotel on the Minneapolis riverfront, book your stay at the Aloft Minneapolis. This stylish hotel is packed with amenities like flat-screen TVs, designer toiletries, and free Wi-Fi, along with an indoor pool and a fitness center. Make your way to the XYZ bar and toast to a fun stay in the Twin Cities.
Minneapolis has such an impressive art scene that art fans will want to spend at least a couple of days exploring. Start at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, home to more than 80,000 works of art that date back more than 5,000 years. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to French paintings, this free museum is fun for the whole family.
If modern and contemporary art is more your speed, make your way to the Walker Art Center and wander through the permanent and temporary exhibitions. Head outdoors to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, where you'll see some larger-than-life works of art installed on beautiful grounds.
Catch a show at the Guthrie Theater, which hosts both classic performances and more contemporary plays. This theater is also home to three restaurants, a bar, and stunning waterfront views.
If you want to cool off or take a stroll in the great outdoors, go to the Chain of Lakes, a group of five lakes that feature boating, wildlife spotting, swimming, and live music. Next, explore Minnehaha Park, located on the shores of the Mississippi River. Just a few miles south of the center of Minneapolis, this park is the ideal place to get away from the city, thanks to bike paths, walking trails, and the popular Minnehaha Falls.
Check out the arts in Minneapolis, dig into history in St. Paul, or divide your time between the two cities. You'll find plenty of fun and hotels to fit all budgets in the Twin Cities.
Below are reviews of the city of Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Minneapolis is a great destination, and the MOA a fantastic place to visit. With sports, shopping, and some great restaurants and sights, it is a great place to visit.
Unlimited restaurants and cafe type bars. Many with live music.
It's a great city with lots of hidden treasures to discover!
Being downtown is enjoyable: lots of neat places to see.