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Article by Emily Pascale

2.5.2025 Communities

When you first arrive in Minneapolis, MN, it’s hard not to be captivated by its duality—a city where sleek modern architecture stands beside historic brick buildings, and urban landscapes blend into serene lakes and tree-lined streets. Creativity thrives here, not just in art museums, but in neighborhoods, restaurants, and outdoor escapes.

Whether you’re settling into a rental house in Minneapolis, searching for your dream home in the city, or planning to rent an apartment nearby, as you explore the unique things to do in Minneapolis, you’ll find its distinctive character and countless opportunities draw you in and keep you coming back for more.

Photo courtesy of Veronique Wantz Gallery

1. Explore the city through the art scene

Start discovering unique things to do in Minneapolis by diving into immersive exhibits, connecting with local artists, and experiencing the city’s bold, ever-evolving art scene. 

Tour the various art museums throughout the city

Ann Marie Grocholski of AMG Photos believes one should never discount the amazing art scene in Minneapolis. “From the incredible Minneapolis Institute of Art, to the Modern Art of the Walker Museum, to cultural centers such as the Swedish Institute or the Museum of Russian Art, there is a wealth of amazing art to be seen throughout the city. The best thing about many of these museums is that they have something for everyone, with special events for kids of all ages and programs for every age.”

After touring these various museums, pay a visit to Veronique Wantz Gallery, located in the North Loop of Minneapolis. It’s a welcoming gallery space for those who appreciate contemporary art. Featuring works by local, national, and international artists—both emerging and established—the gallery offers a diverse range of media, including canvas, wood, paper, ceramics, sculpture, photography, glass, and textiles. Whether you’re exploring new artistic perspectives or looking for the perfect piece, the gallery invites you to engage with art through observation, reflection, and vision. Visitors can also learn about art consulting, collection development, curator services, custom framing, and installation for residential and corporate spaces.

Attend art experiences throughout the seasons

What makes the art scene in Minneapolis truly special is its year-round lineup of events that inspire creativity and invite you to immerse yourself in the arts.

Adrian Steinbach Photography boasts about the strong connection between Minneapolis and its artists, with various events and festivals to support that. “In the winter, we have the Art Shanty Projects, which are a fun way to get out and experience something new and delightful in the middle of a frozen lake. In the spring, there is a massive festival in Northeast Minneapolis called Art-A-Whirl, which centers around open art studios, and includes food trucks, concerts, and much more.

2. Taste your way through Minneapolis

Minneapolis loves to eat, drink, and celebrate its history through cuisine. From inventive bistro dishes to lively bars, every meal offers a taste of the city’s unique culture.

Indulge in Minneapolis’ dining scene

Minneapolis’ food scene shines with unique dining experiences. Laura Adrian, Founder of Whole Life Elevation, recommends elevating a night out where indigenous-inspired dishes take center stage. “For a special night out, I love visiting Owamni by The Sioux Chef, where the menu highlights indigenous-inspired meals and ingredients. Their zero-proof mocktails are absolutely extraordinary as well.”

You’ll also have to pay a visit to The Prohibition Bar for great views and bites, as recommended by Erika of Rosemount Floral by Lucky Lola. “One of my favorite things to do in Minneapolis is to visit the hidden gem that is the speakeasy-inspired lounge in the Foshay, called The Prohibition Bar. There you will find a pleasing crowd, cozy atmosphere, great staff, and excellent food and cocktails. It really is a great place to unwind and experience the fantastic views of the Minneapolis skyline.”

Sip and savor unique spots

Minneapolis is home to spots that stand out for their exceptional drinks. For those looking to unwind with a refreshing drink, Laura Adrian highlights Northeast Tea House as a peaceful retreat to add to your list. “When I’m in the mood for some quiet time indoors, the Northeast Tea House is my go-to spot. Their electronic-free environment is perfect for reading a book or focusing on creative, computer-free work. Plus, their tea selection is incredible.”

Photo courtesy of Troubadour Wine Bar

Another option to add to your list when you’re looking for cozy things to do in Minneapolis, is stopping by Troubadour Wine Bar, located in the heart of Minneapolis. You’ll discover an intimate and cozy atmosphere where wine lovers and music enthusiasts come together. Known for its unique combination of expertly curated wines and live music performances, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and connect with friends. Whether you’re savoring a flight of wines or enjoying the sounds of talented local musicians, Troubadour delivers a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.

3. Unwind among the vines

As you continue your search for unique things to do in Minneapolis, why not trade the cityscape for vineyard views and a glass of wine? Sovereign Estate is a standout destination to visit with a 50-acre vineyard and winery on the North Shore of Lake Waconia – offering breathtaking lake views, sloping vines, outdoor patios, and an elegant tasting room. This family-owned business produces exemplary wines with award-winning estate-grown grapes. Open year-round for wine tastings, retail wine, and gift sales, Sovereign also offers a bistro menu with fresh, fast items paired with an extensive wine list. Enjoy live music on summer weekends, larger wine events in the Marquette Pavilion, and seasonal celebrations.

4. Find solace in Minneapolis’ natural beauty

Among the unique things to do in Minneapolis, this city offers the perfect balance of urban energy and natural tranquility. With abundant green spaces and serene settings, you can step away from the rush and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Dive into Minneapolis’ scenic waterways

There are countless ways to take in Minneapolis’ beauty, but exploring its lakes and rivers is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Laura Adrian shares her favorite way to enjoy the outdoors. “As a nature lover, one of my favorite activities in Minneapolis is walking around Lake of the Isles. This beautiful city lake offers stunning scenery and an active atmosphere, with people out running, biking, and walking their dogs. Afterward, I often stop at Tao Foods to enjoy an herbal elixir, smoothie, or a nourishing feel-good meal.”

Photo courtesy of Laeti Photography

Embrace the natural beauty of Minneapolis further and hang out at Boom Island, nestled in North East Minneapolis. Laeti Photography captures the timeless charm of this must-visit park. “Picture yourself embarking on a water taxi ride across the serene river, an experience that sets the stage for a day of exploration. Wander along picturesque walkways and trails, soaking in the lush surroundings and pausing to admire the bridge that frames this idyllic landscape. Whether you’re seeking a delightful family outing or a romantic setting under the stars, Boom Island promises memorable moments for every visitor.”

For a truly unique experience from the water, consider a day of kayaking with Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours. They offer a one-of-a-kind way to experience Minneapolis, showcasing the mighty Mississippi like never before. Whether you’re navigating the dramatic cliffs of the river gorge, floating past a hidden bird rookery, or paddling through the historic heart of the city, each tour blends adventure with rich storytelling. Unlike traditional sightseeing, these guided excursions immerse you in both nature and history, revealing the waterways that shaped the city’s past and continue to inspire today. With options ranging from thrilling lock descents to peaceful sunset paddles, there’s a perfect journey for every explorer.

Discover an indoor paradise

When the weather isn’t ideal for a stroll in the park, there are plenty of ways to experience the beauty of Minneapolis indoors. Ashley Fox Designs recommends a February favorite in the Twin Cities. “The Como Conservatory is the go-to place for any Twin Cities resident in February. The flower and tropical plant displays are second to none and will lift your mood instantly with the humidity and colorful plantings. The fern room is a personal favorite, along with the main greenhouse, where they change out the floral plantings seasonally and always with the most beautiful color palettes.”

5. Dance scene

If you’re searching for unique things to do in Minneapolis, let the city’s rhythm guide you. Whether you’re captivated by a performance or stepping onto the dance floor yourself, there are endless ways to connect, express, and move with the community.

Enjoy a unique night out for two

One of the fun and romantic things to do in Minneapolis is to attend Constantine Dance Classes  to spice up your date night. They offer group partner dance lessons throughout the Twin Cities, plus private sessions tailored just for the two of you. This experience isn’t limited to couples, gathering your friends and taking group dance classes is sure to spice up a night out.  Whether you’re a first-time dancer or perfecting your steps, it’s an unforgettable way to bond and have a memorable time on the dance floor.

Celebrate the history and culture of dance

Join TU Dance for their highly anticipated 20th anniversary celebration on April 25-26th, at The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University. This milestone event will feature powerful works by renowned African American choreographers who have shaped the company’s journey, honoring the artists who continue to redefine the American dance landscape. Known for its dynamic performances and bold storytelling, TU Dance blends modern dance, classical ballet, African-based, and urban vernacular movements in a way that captivates and inspires.

For another mesmerizing cultural experience, experience the storytelling magic of Kathak at  Katha Dance Theatre in St. Louis Park, home to Minnesota’s only Kathak dance company. This classical Indian dance form conveys everything from ancient Hindu tales to modern stories of female empowerment and racial justice through expressive hand gestures, rhythmic footwork, and lightning-fast pirouettes. Founded by Artistic Director Rita Mustaphi in 1987, KDT has gained international acclaim and collaborates with artists worldwide. If you’re feeling inspired, you can also take classes at their studio and learn this rich cultural dance tradition yourself.

Something for children

Minneapolis offers something for everyone when it comes to dance, and kids can join in too. Threads Dance’s NexGen/Youth Dance Project (YDP), for students ages 4-12, blends technical training in ballet and modern dance with holistic development through nutrition and wellness. More than just a dance program, YDP nurtures creativity, self-expression, and a strong mind-body connection, fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Rooted in Minneapolis’ vibrant artistic landscape, YDP reflects Threads Dance Project’s mission to examine, expose, and celebrate the threads that connect us all, inspiring confidence and growth in the next generation of dancers and creative thinkers.

Photo courtesy of Winsome Photography

6. Fill your days with unique things to do in the winter

Even as winter’s chill settles in, the unique things to do in Minneapolis never lose their spark. Whether you’re seeking moments of inspiration or a burst of excitement, the city’s unique blend of creativity and culture ensures there’s always an adventure waiting.

KC and Aaron Keen of Winsome Photography share a magical winter experience in Minnesota. “In the winter months, we love getting out to explore seasonal activities. We have what’s called Ice Castles, held at the MN State Fairgrounds, it’s literally a Winter Wonderland. Envision walking under ice archways, sliding down ice slides, dancing to music playing while the LED lights illuminate INSIDE the ice. All followed up with a cup of warm hot chocolate next to one of the fires they have. It is truly a magical place, especially when the sun goes down.”

Unique things to do in Minneapolis: Final thoughts

While every city has its pros and cons, Minneapolis invites you to experience its thriving arts scene, diverse cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Whether exploring museums, enjoying local drinks, or paddling the Mississippi, every moment connects you with the city’s unique energy that makes you feel at home.


Resident Artist, Jim Hillegass, speaks to ArtBookGuy

JIM HILLEGASS: EXPLORATORY LANDSCAPES

Jim at the opening of his latest solo exhibition "Quiet Places, Loud Spaces".

Jim at the opening of his latest solo exhibition "Quiet Places, Loud Spaces".

Jim Hillegass is a very intriguing painter who lives in Minneapolis.  His work really has an experimental vibe http://www.jimhillegass.com/ and you can literally see how he plays with color.  I love this interview because Jim is very down to earth and no nonsense about his work and what it means to appreciate art.  This following quote sets the tone …

“…I think a viewer often has a subconscious need to find an image or meaning in a painting, but for me, it's just playing with color, texture, and structure …”

MICHAEL: Hello Jim, Your work is obviously abstract, but it's so disciplined and elegant.  It has sort of a watercolorish, experimental vibe.  It sort of looks like you're trying to see what happens when you put paint to canvas.  How do you see your work?

JIM: Hi Michael, It is watercolorish, and it is experimental.  I'm glad you see that. I started painting a few years ago, just for fun, and it's a great adventure just to find out what will happen when you put colors on the canvas. I started to teach myself by learning about primary colors, and what happens when you mix them. That sounds childlike, I know, but it turned out to be a great starting point. I also discovered that you can really create a mess if you mix three primaries without being careful.

MICHAEL: HAHA.

JIM: Then, I experimented with adding white, and more white.  Then black, and more black. This, and the accidents along the way, gave me a nice palette of colors I liked. Even now, after hundreds of experiments, I start with a couple of primary colors, mixing them a little or a lot, then adding white and shades of grey.

But to answer your question, I see my work as exploration, often exploring a variation on a real or imaginary landscape.  There is great pleasure in seeing something emerge that you didn't intend to do, then following it to see where it goes. I think paintings have some kind of will of their own. I often start in one direction, but the paint takes me somewhere else.  When this happens, I usually try to follow it.

MICHAEL: During your painting process, does a narrative ever develop for you or is it really all about exploration?  Is there every a story involved in what you're painting?  Do you ever have some deep, allegorical message that you're imparting? 

JIM: Yes, sometimes I see something emerging and I usually follow it, but I try not to think much about it.  Just follow the paint. Occasionally, I'll see something and overthink it, creating something symbolic.  But this doesn't usually go well. I try not to care too much about the outcome and I push myself to make mistakes.  Sometimes the accidents are the most interesting part of a painting. So there’s usually no “story,” though there is often a “place.”

MICHAEL: Aren't you in Minneapolis?  What's the art scene like there?  Are you part of it?  Does the city inspire you?  Minneapolis seems like a cool city, but I always equate it with huge snow and bitterly cold winters.  Am I wrong? 

JIM: Minneapolis can be cold and snowy, but it also has the best summers of anyplace I've lived.  It's a great place to be.  It has a very strong art community. My connection to the art community is mainly through the Veronique Wantz Gallery which represents my work.

MICHAEL: Your work is very informed and mature, but I also get a sense of lightness from it.  It's not heavy or self-important.  I think it's due to your use of color and space.  I don't know.  What do you think about this?

JIM: I've been thinking for a couple of days how to answer this. I love quietly beautiful natural settings. Lakes, fields, dark forests, and so on.  I live on a marsh. I grew up on the plains. But that's only part of it. In my life, I seek serenity. It's not easily found, but I think I must also do that when I paint. I like the philosophy we call Zen.  It is humble and simple and I find it immensely appealing.

A known painter once studied a grey and white painting I had done and concluded, “It's almost nothing.” He meant it positively. I gave him the painting.

Painting, for me, is about emotion and I think it is most powerful when the painter is clearly not trying to impress anyone.  Both Mark Rothko and Gerhard Richter spent significant time experimenting with black. It isn't what I do, but I can understand why they might do that.  Painting is a journey.  It takes you somewhere. If it's honest, it can take others somewhere, too.  Maybe not the same place, but it is a journey for both the painter and the viewer.

MICHAEL: I find it very interesting that your journey and my journey when viewing your work can be quite different. Again, doesn't this sort of mess with the old, art critic/art history model of assessing and quantifying art? Especially contemporary art?  It's totally fascinating to me.  Maybe it's just me.

JIM:  People like to put things in categories, but painting isn't so intentional, at least for me. I start with a color or two and then just follow it where it wants to go.  I usually don't have much intent. What I paint and what you see may be very different. I think a viewer often has a subconscious need to find an image or meaning in a painting, but for me it's just playing with color, texture, and structure.  I didn't mean to paint the lake you may see.

MICHAEL: Wow. Very interesting.

JIM: Art critics and art historians are important for introducing people to art, but they usually don't paint. They're applying their own logic to something that may have none.  It would probably be tough for them to earn a living if they didn't.

MICHAEL: Exactly.  Aren't you also a tech business guy or something?  I can't imagine there's a connection between that and your art?  How did art happen for you?

JIM: I own JRiver, the publisher of JRiver Media Center software.  It manages and plays audio, video, images, and television. I work with digital media, but I don't think there's a connection to my painting. 

I've always drawn a little and done a few watercolors each year, but I began to do it seriously three years ago. I started by doing bigger watercolors on paper, playing with color and abstractions. I did acrylics on paper for a month or two, then began to paint in oil on canvas.  I can't explain why it happened suddenly or why I became so focused on it, but I've painted several times each week since 2012.  It's extremely pleasant and rewarding to do. Sometimes it's just simply thrilling.

I know I could benefit by studying painting with someone, but I don't want to alter the process.  I don't want to be technical in my approach and I don't want to paint like someone thinks I should. I just want to paint.

MICHAEL: Jim, I feel the exact same way about writing.  If I take any sort of writing classes at this point, I’m sure they would ruin my process.

JIM: I've been very lucky to have a great relationship with Veronique Wantz Gallery. She likes my work and sells it well. It's fun to see someone write a nice check for a painting.

MICHAEL: You seem to be saying what many artists tell me; You're painting because you're “following your bliss.” Yet so many people like to deconstruct art.  Is there a point in deconstructing your work if you're “playing with color and abstractions”? Does it make sense to try to deconstruct joy and enjoyment?

JIM: I wouldn't say, “follow your bliss.”  I'd say, “follow the paint.”  It leads somewhere. There is certainly some left brain work involved. You need to understand what color is and how to make it. You need to have a point of view on composition. And probably a few more things I don't know yet, but the main thing is to paint, to put it down, look at it, enjoy it, and then move on.  Push yourself to explore, take a chance and be willing to destroy the painting.

MICHAEL: When you say the painting is leading somewhere, does that mean someplace concrete that can be measured and defined?  Again, we always want to nail things down and define them.  Does this make sense when it comes to art?  Should we just look, smile (or frown) and simply move on after seeing the work?

JIM: By “follow the paint,” I mean that the paint always encourages something in me.  I can run from it or follow it.  I don't know where it will lead and once I've quit painting, whether it will please you or make you want to run.  Some of my mistakes have led to places that were very interesting to me.

MICHAEL: And so, what I'm (not) hearing you say is that because the creative process is so mysterious and intangible, the process of looking and perceiving art is as well.  So what's the point in writing a big thesis about art when some guy who is looking at your work might think that one of your paintings reminds him of a childhood camping trip in Maine?

JIM: It’s pointless.  I agree.

MICHAEL: What's your routine?  Do you painting everyday?  When?  In the morning?  Do you listen to music while you paint?  What kind?  What's the actual painting process like?  Is it emotional?  Intellectual?  Meditative?  What does painting DO for you?

JIM: I almost always paint in the late afternoon, after the things that have to be done are done. I always listen to music, usually jazz, sometimes opera.  It's an important element of the atmosphere needed for painting.  Maybe it puts the calculating side of the brain to rest.

I start with the idea of a color or sometimes two. I put it down with a stroke or two. That's the framework and I paint around it. Sometimes it's more complicated, but not usually. It can be emotional, but it's not always obvious.  It's more of a state of mind.  One that is a bit freer of earthly cares. What it does is very powerful.  The fact that you can make something more beautiful than yourself is very humbling.

MICHAEL: You said earlier that you started painting just a few years ago.  Did you have any connection at all to art while you were a kid?  You must have.  No?  And how are you different now since you took up painting?  What exactly has changed?

JIM: I had no involvement with art when I was a kid.  It came later, maybe starting with an interest in architecture, then art history in college. I kept looking at some of the paintings, thinking, “I could do that.” But I never tried. I had a girl friend when I was young who got me to keep a notebook and draw. I did a lot of line drawings of plants and small buildings, nothing major.  For many years, I've done two or three watercolors a year, but again, they were very simple, nothing ambitious. I'm the same person, but I have more of a need to put paint somewhere and move it around, just for the thrill of watching what happens.

MICHAEL: What role do you think art plays in the world today?  So many artists are struggling and so many people don't really appreciate art. Plus, if they do appreciate art, it's usually someone like Picasso.  What's the point?

JIM: What's it all mean?  Who knows?  It is what you make of it. If you love a piece, it's sublime. If you hate it, who cares?  It's life. What is the role of a beautiful woman?  She may be loving or not.  She may care about you or not.  You might care about her and then not.

Art is a moment of pleasure. That's all.  If paying $80 million for a dead artist's work pleases you, and you didn't steal the money somewhere, then good for you.  Enjoy the moment.  It has no more meaning than the life of a butterfly.

The struggles of artists are no different from the struggles of billions of others.  Maybe the struggles produce something fine or maybe they end in bitter disappointment.  They are just moments in time like any other.

MICHAEL: Thanks Jim. Cool chat.  Love your work!

http://artbookguy.com/jim-hillegass-exploratory-landscapes_1053.html

Star Tribune Article on Christie's MCAD auction and the growing Minneapolis & St Paul art scene

Excerpt from the article, "Adding Christie's brings buzz to Minneapolis College of Art and Design auction, Twin Cities art scene"

The Warehouse District in Minneapolis was home to a thriving arts market in the 1980s, but by 1992 the galleries were closed and did not return. During the most recent recession, even more gallery owners quit the business.

“The Twin Cities gallery scene struggles,” said Greg Hennes, an art consultant with 29 years of experience. “Too often the shows and open houses are an excuse to party, not to buy art.”

But hopeful signs have sprung up in the past several years. Hennes and several other art insiders are trying to resurrect the Twin Cities Fine Arts Organization, a group of galleries, colleges and museums that advocated for visual arts.

Several newer galleries dot the metro landscape, including Instinct and Gamut in downtown Minneapolis, Veronique Wantz in the North Loop and Flow Art Space in St. Paul’s Lowertown.

http://www.startribune.com/christie-s-will-run-mcad-s-art-auction/305412681/