On the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail, you’ll walk through towering grain silos, get a close-up view of the Saint Anthony Dam and glimpse the remnants of bluff and prairie that preceded European settlement in Minneapolis. This scenic,1.8-mile loop follows both banks of the Mississippi from the Stone Arch Bridge in the south to the Hennepin Avenue Bridge in the north.
The Stone Arch Bridge, a former railroad bridge that’s been restored for pedestrian and cyclist use, is a wonderful place to stop and observe the churning water running over the dam, the skyline and the people passing by. On nice days, find busking musicians, couples taking wedding photos and every breed of dog you can image (plus their owners), along with the usual runners and bikers.
On the east side of the Stone Arch Bridge, Main Street, a cobblestone street lined with picturesque nineteenth century brick buildings, offers the perfect mash-up of old and new worlds. Stop for a drink at one of the sidewalk cafes and take in the towering oaks along the river and looming skyline across the water.
Also on the east side of the bridge is Water Power Park. The City of Minneapolis processes drinking water at the adjacent facility, but visitors can walk out on the grassy peninsula of the park to get the best close-up view of the St. Anthony Dam and a glimpse of the remaining bluffs, which used to characterize this landscape. Markers along the way tell the story of the falls and the role they played in the development of the city.
Farther along the riverfront is Nicollet Island where the historical Nicollet Island Inn has stood since 1893. Appreciators of architecture may want to wander around the island where Victorian homes are tucked away among the trees.
Cross back to downtown on the Hennepin Avenue Bridge and head south. History buffs and lovers of architecture will want to stop in at Mill City Museum, which tells the history of Minneapolis’ brief reign as the flour milling capitol of the world. Food lovers will want to check out the Saturday Farmers Market at Mill City where the best of Minnesota’s short but sweet growing season can be enjoyed.
Next door is the Jean Nouvel-designed Guthrie Theater. It’s open to the public and worth a look. The Endless Bridge offers a unique experience. Suspended from the side of the building overlooking the river, it seems to go on forever thanks to the glass wall at its end.
Finally, climb the hill at Gold Medal Park, named after the flour brand, on a paved sidewalk that goes all the way to the top. Take shelter under the grove of trees and check out the view. Izzy’s Ice Cream, at the southeast corner of the park, is a good place to stop for a cone.
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One of the most pleasant patios in Minneapolis, Aster Caf¿ is on a dreamy spot to stop for a drink or dinner. It's only across the river from downtown, but it feels a world away, especially once the...
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Gourmet ice cream in tons of creative flavors, do you really need to hear more?
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This museum tells the story of the milling industry in Minneapolis and is built inside the ruins of what was once the world's largest mill. The Washburn A Mill ruins have been restored in such a way...
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Conspicuously clad in cobalt, the grand dame of the Minneapolis theater scene offers riverfront views from the Endless Bridge, which make it worth a stop, whether you plan to stay for the play or...
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Saint Anthony Falls (now a dam) was the only natural waterfall in the Upper Mississippi and it allowed for the development of the lumber and grain milling industries. These industries supported the...
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