Overview
Welcome to my Minneapolis! This is where I grew up and the city that keeps me coming back no matter where I roam. As an international tour guide, I spend a lot of my time excitedly researching and traveling to far flung destinations.
It is with this same enthusiasm for foreign lands that I created this unique day tour of my hometown, which includes just some of the things I find remarkable about the city. This isn't a tour of historical facts and figures, instead, I want you to get to know Minneapolis by experiencing it!
Choosing Mpls City & Skyway Tours, you are supporting a local woman-owned small business with a big heart.
(Please note, this is a walking tour. We will walk up to two miles, with breaks. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.)
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Light rail ticket
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet in front of the main entrance of the Guthrie Theater on 2nd Street South.
What to expect
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Guthrie Theater
This is where we will begin our tour. The Guthrie Theater is open to all, giving everyone the opportunity to appreciate its clever architecture and spectacular views of the Mississippi River from its unique vantage point. (Dependent on Guthrie lobby hours.)
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Gold Medal Park
10 min
A place for community gathering alongside the Guthrie Theater, this park offers stunning views of the cityscape. It takes its inspiration from the Native American mounds that are found throughout Minnesota.
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Mill Ruins Park
10 min
This park interprets the history of flour milling in Minneapolis and showcases the ruins of several flour mills that were abandoned.
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Stone Arch Bridge
20 min
We'll walk out onto the the Stone Arch Bridge, a former railroad bridge crossing the Mississippi River at Saint Anthony Falls, which has been turned into a pedestrian bridge for everyone to enjoy. This is the location of several annual art fairs. It is the only arched bridge made of stone on the entire Mississippi River and the second oldest bridge on the river.
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Minneapolis City Hall
10 min
One of the oldest buildings in downtown. Home to both the Mayor and the Father of Waters. From here we will take a short ride on the light rail to our next stop. This light rail connects both downtown St. Paul and the Mall of America to downtown Minneapolis.
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First Avenue & 7th St Entry
10 min
A tour of Minneapolis would be incomplete without a nod to our beloved Prince. We'll stop by to read the writing on the wall. Be the first this summer to see the new 100-foot-tall mural of Prince, painted by muralist Hiero Veiga.
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Nicollet Mall
10 min
This mile-long, pedestrian oasis is lined by bars and restaurants overflowing onto the sidewalks, art, bountiful greenery, and many shopping options. Stop and chat with the iconic Mary Tyler Moore! We'll also hit a few well-known murals along the way.
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IDS Building
10 min
Tallest building in Minnesota, the IDS stands at 792 feet above the city and is at the core of the downtown Minneapolis skyway system, which is the largest, contiguous enclosed walkway in the world! Let's stop in to see the award-winning 23,000 square foot urban park that is Crystal Court.
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Foshay Tower
10 min
The Foshay was completed in 1929 and modeled after the Washington Monument. It's a fine example of Art Deco architecture. It remained the tallest building in Minneapolis until 1972. From the observation deck high above the city streets, it's easy to imagine what it once was in its early glory days. This is where our tour will end and you can choose to visit the observation deck on your own. I will also suggest some great restaurants in the area for lunch.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
FAQs about Minneapolis Walking City Tour - Heart of Downtown
Can I cancel Minneapolis Walking City Tour - Heart of Downtown for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours 15 min.
Where does it start?
Meet in front of the main entrance of the Guthrie Theater on 2nd Street South.
What's included?
- Light rail ticket
Which places does it visit?
It visits Guthrie Theater, Gold Medal Park, Mill Ruins Park, Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis City Hall, First Avenue & 7th St Entry, Nicollet Mall, IDS Building.
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 Mpls City & Skyway Tours
