Overview
On your 2-hour fully narrated experience you’ll stroll along, and across, the Mississippi River in the footsteps of people like railroad tycoon James J Hill, once the richest man in Minnesota. He made his fortune as the river rushed through the heartland, tumbled down a magnificent waterfall, and powered dozens of mills as a rapidly thriving community grew up around it.
Your tour guide will delight you with stories of epic rivalries, world domination, quiet hidden corners, boom town brothels, and European explorers as you traverse 350 years of recorded history. Once the flour-milling capital of the world, modern-day Minneapolis thrives on its founding principles of hard work, innovation, and ingenuity.
See how historic structures are repurposed for modern use, while retaining the charm and flair of past golden ages. This is the Minneapolis we bring you back to: the Minneapolis of sawdust, extreme wealth, immigrants, brewers, and nature. This is the best sightseeing experience in town!
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Professional tour company with over 10 years' experience
Local, knowledgeable, licensed Tour Guide
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet your guide outside the front door; s/he will be wearing a purple shirt with company logo.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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Guthrie Theater
5 min
The country’s largest regional theater, offering a breathtaking view of our tour area from the Endless Bridge
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Mill City Museum
5 min
Once housed the world’s largest and most technologically advanced flour mill in the world, now a history on the founding and growth of Minneapolis.
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Mill Ruins Park
10 min
Celebrates and documents the history of 19th-century flour mills long since abandoned and excavated in the past 25 years.
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Mississippi River
15 min
Discover why it’s been the Minneapolis area’s lifeline for over 10,000 years.
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Stone Arch Bridge
20 min
Cross the river via this historic and unique bridge, while taking in the best view of the city.
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St. Anthony Falls
15 min
First documented in 1680, the falls powered mills and generated wealth for the Twin Cities.
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Saint Anthony Main
15 min
Stroll the oldest street in Minneapolis, passing by the city’s oldest tavern and over a warren of caves and tunnels.
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Hennepin Avenue Bridge
20 min
Location of what was the first permanent bridge over the Mississippi River, we take the current elegant and stylish bridge back toward downtown.
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Nicollet Island
5 min
Before it became a Victorian oasis in the middle of “Big Muddy”, the island was revered by the Sioux and Ojibwe.
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Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis
5 min
The third building for this purpose stands on the site of the former Minneapolis Great Northern Depot and the Pacific sawmill.
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Gateway District
5 min
In the 19th century, “Bridge Square” was the commercial hub and government seat of the growing city; the original Downtown Minneapolis.
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The Depot
5 min
The Milwaukee Road railway depot bustled with activity for over 70 years; today it remains one of the last surviving long-span, truss-roofed sheds in the country.
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United States Postal Service
10 min
An Art Deco treasure in an unexpected location, the opulent lobby remains unchanged since its 1933 opening.
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Water Works Park
5 min
St Anthony Falls’ power was harnessed for industry here at the nation’s first commercial hydroelectric generation station.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
FAQs about Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour
Can I cancel Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
What's included?
- Professional tour company with over 10 years' experience
- Local, knowledgeable, licensed Tour Guide
What's not included?
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park, Mississippi River, Stone Arch Bridge, St. Anthony Falls, Saint Anthony Main, Hennepin Avenue Bridge.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Operated by Twin Cities Sightseeing Tours
