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 Nation's first basilica |
88 North 17th St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 333 1381 http://www.mary.org/ |
This grand beaux-arts church was the nation's first basilica, taking 20 years to complete. Built during the tenure of Archbishop John Ireland, the enormous white marble building is a marvel to behold. It is 120 feet wide by 278 feet long supporting 133-foot twin towers in the front. One of the towers houses a 3000-pound bell that can be heard for miles around. Over the altar, an ornate dome rises 250 feet and the 56 rank pipe organ echoes throughout. Guided tours are offered every Sunday morning. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Tatiana Canales  |
 Photo: Joel Dueck |
 Photo: Andy Weit |
 Photo: Tom |
 Photo: quaziefoto |
 Photo: Peter Lutz |
 Photo: Janeen Mitchell |
 Photo: Rob McCarron |
 Photo: Grace |
 Photo: Romel Eser |
 Photo: Amy L Soderstrom |
 Photo: joemw39 |
 Photo: Joanna Day |
 Photo: Autum Loverin |
 Photo: Vanessa Stangil |
 Photo: Jesse |
 Photo: Simon Wahlers |
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Fascinating 3-dimensional displays |
10 Church Street Southeast Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +1 612 624 7083 http://www.bellmuseum.org/ |
Kids and adults alike love the touch-and-see room at this cozy museum located on the University of Minnesota campus. Snakeskins, animal pelts and bones, rocks and fossils can be felt, picked up and examined. In addition, there are fascinating 3-dimensional displays of Minnesota's major habitats as they were more than 150 years ago complete with lifelike animals and plants. More than 100 species of Minnesota birds and animals are shown in their native surroundings. The museum's store has an excellent selection of wildlife and ecology books. Admission: $3 Adults, $2 Seniors, $2 Children ages 3-16 (under age 3 are free). Admission is free on Sundays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amy Sanders |
 Photo: Amy Sanders |
 Photo: Benjamin Beresford |
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Cathedral Church of St. Mark |
519 Oak Grove St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 870 7800 http://www.ourcathedral.org/ |
Overlooking Loring Park is the stately and splendid Episcopal Cathedral Church of St. Mark. The huge English Gothic structure asserts an almost aristocratic presence, yet offers a sense of welcome to all. A parish church, which received the designation of 'Cathedral' in 1941, it serves a congregation of over 1,200. The manila-colored limestone used on the exterior was painstakingly shipped from Bedford, Indiana during construction in the early 1900s. The front façade contains a multitude of artfully sculptured figures representing the history of St. Mark's and the people who played a role in its success. Bishops, priests and missionaries, as well as symbols of the great state of Minnesota (teepees, gophers and grain elevators), are proudly displayed. The numerous stained glass windows depicting saints and heavenly scenes are truly works of art. Visit the web site for worship times and other information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Ciscel |
 Photo: Meredith Dillman |
 Photo: Meredith Dillman |
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Depot Skating Rink |
225 Third Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 375 1700 http://www.thedepotminneapolis... |
When the last train left the Milwaukee Road Depot in 1970, a monstrous structure occupying multiple city blocks was left behind. Seemingly doomed to meet the wrecking ball, the National Register of Historic Places stepped in and declared it a Minneapolis landmark. As the building was being used primarily for overflow parking, ARC Ice Sports & Entertainment, Inc. of McLean, Virginia brought forward a plan for an indoor ice rink and restaurant in 1995. Now there are shops, restaurants, a hotel, a fully enclosed water park and an indoor ice skating rink. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Katy Szapa |
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Aerobic Workout |
245 Aldrich Avenue N Minneapolis, MN 55405 United States +1 612 377 3003 |
Nobody serves up a better aerobic workout than the thigh-busting professionals at The Firm. This busy studio offers a huge range of classes for aerobicizers of all abilities and fitness levels, as well as a fully equipped cardiovascular and weights training center. A wide variety of daily classes, including high and low impact aerobics, step training, kickboxing and muscle conditioning, are offered. The Firm also offers Spinning, an intense instructor-led stationary bicycle workout. Fees: $10 per single class; series passes available at $7.50 to $9 per class. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Excellent Acoustics & Sight Lines |
701 1st Ave N Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 332 1775 http://www.first-avenue.com/ |
This joint rules the Twin City music scene. As a converted bus depot, the large two-story room offers excellent acoustics and sight lines. If live music is on the agenda, get there early and grab a table in the balcony or you will stand all night. The music menu runs the gamut from reggae to punk to rock to country. If a local or national act is not scheduled to play, a DJ takes over and gets the dance floor jumping. Pool tables, pinball machines or video games offer quieter amusement. Oh yeah, Prince is known to drop by unannounced and play a set or two. Call the box office for ticket prices and hours. Both vary based on schedule. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Craig |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Nancysax |
 Photo: Hoainam Tran |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Nancysax |
 Photo: Felicia Atkinson |
 Photo: Josh M |
 Photo: Dan Anderson |
 Photo: M.A. Ross |
 Photo: Markus Long |
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Dominated skyline for 40 years |
821 Marquette Ave Minneapolis, MN 55402 United States +1 612 359 3030 |
The Foshay Tower is without a doubt the most recognizable landmark in the Twin Cities and has one of the most interesting histories behind it. Plumbing magnate Wilbur Foshay built this endearing homage to the Washington Monument in 1929. However, he was not around very long to enjoy it. After he had commissioned John Philip Sousa to write a rousing march for the tower's pretentious three-day opening, his check to the composer bounced and Foshay found himself being whisked off to prison shortly after the building's completion. At 447 feet housing 32 stories, the Foshay Tower was the tallest building in the Midwest for more than 40 years. It was dwarfed by the IDS Tower in 1973 and by other skyscrapers built since then, but it still offers the only bird's-eye view of the city open to the public. The open-air observation deck on the 31st floor is the only one of its kind in town, indoors or out, and on a clear day you can see for 30 miles. Also on the 31st floor, there is a museum, which includes photos, videos and sheet music for John Philip Sousa's Foshay Tower-Washington Memorial March. The 32-story obelisk has such a novel design that the architects had it patented, and Foshay's limitless ego led him to carve his name in 10-foot letters at the top. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children and seniors. The tower is open April-October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brennen Jensen |
 Photo: pr9000 (Paul Rinkes) |
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 Photo: Lianne Habinek |
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Contemporary Art |
333 East River Road Minneapolis, MN 55455 United States +1 612 625 9494 http://www.weisman.umn.edu/ |
This museum's mostly 20th-century collection contains the world's largest assemblage of works by Marsden Hartley and Alfred Maurer as well as paintings and prints by Georgia O'Keefe, Arthur Dove and Robert Motherwell. However, many critics consider the building itself to be a stunning piece of art. Designed by Frank Gehry, the flamboyant 1993 building is possibly the most talked-about structure in the Twin Cities. The museum's collections are displayed in galleries the 'New York Times' has referred to as possibly the five best rooms for art viewing in the world. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Troy B. Thompson Pho |
 Photo: Troy B. Thompson Pho |
 Photo: Rich Kaszeta |
 Photo: ɹɐǝʇuǝʌ1ǝ |
 Photo: Michael Carvaines |
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 Photo: Evelyn Darling |
 Photo: Dave Dowd |
 Photo: Gregory Lavigne |
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 Photo: C. Brito |
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Turn-of-the-Century Architecture |
528 Hennepin Ave #503 Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States (Box Office) +1 612 339 7007 http://www.hennepintheatredist... |
Originally a Masonic temple, this well-preserved example of turn-of-the-century architecture was built in 1889. Slated for the wrecking ball in the early 1970s, it was saved by a group of preservationists dedicated to the rescue and restoration of historic buildings in downtown Minneapolis. Since it reopened in 1979, it has been the home base for a number of theater groups including the Illusion Theatre, as well as providing studio, rehearsal and performance space for a number of dance and musical troupes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mykl Roventine |
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Twin towers |
300 South 6th St Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 348 3000 http://www.co.hennepin.mn.us |
Amid much controversy, the stylish Hennepin County Government Center opened in 1973. Many citizens and public officials alike felt it was too extravagant for a Minneapolis public building. Architect John Warneke was criticized for his use of certain materials and overall design. Many felt onyx boardroom panels and fragile Swiss tiles on the plazas were too lavish and not very cost effective. The large atrium was deemed poorly planned, as heating and cooling inefficiencies were feared. The twin towers have, however, survived the test of time and the critics grew to love the way the 24-story atrium was constructed to neatly frame the clock tower of the historic Minneapolis City Hall. The exterior purple gray granite, quarried in Ortonville, Minnesota, is the same as that used for City Hall. This, too, was hailed as a stroke of genius on the part of Mr. Warneke. The two plazas, one with a spectacular waterfall and the other with a grassy terrace, are well-liked spots for business types and downtown visitors to enjoy a stroll or an outdoor lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Josh Crockett |
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Full block complex |
717 Nicollet Mall (IDS Center) Minneapolis, MN 55402 United States +1 612 376 8000 http://www.ids-center.com/page... |
One of Minnesota's architectural landmarks, the IDS Center is a full block complex that includes a 57-story office tower, the Marquette Hotel and Crystal Court, home to numerous hig end chain shops. Basil's Restaurant provides a magnificent view of the 105-foot waterfall located in the center of these shops. Upstairs, a great little juice bar called Sola Squeeze will quench any thirst. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Andersen |
 Photo: Rich Kaszeta |
 Photo: Chris Andersen |
 Photo: Faruk Ates |
 Photo: Eric Gjerde |
 Photo: Brian Wisconsin |
 Photo: richard rodkin |
 Photo: Hank Anderson |
 Photo: nicolletdesign.com |
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 Photo: Casey Meshbesher |
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 Photo: Todd Cermak |
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Definitely worth a visit |
600 First Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 486 3600 http://www.lifetimefitness.com... |
This homegrown chain has multiple locations across the Twin Cities. Its flagship is the Arena Club, which is definitely worth a visit. The facilities include an Olympic size pool, indoor running track, double basketball court and seemingly endless number of workout machines and free weights. You will also find courts for racquetball, volleyball, badminton, handball, squash and tennis. There is an in-house café and juice bar, and locker room facilities, on-site childcare and massage are offered. Players, coaches and staff members of the Minnesota Timberwolves often work out at the club, which is located below the team's Target Center home. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Nothing else like it |
1011 Washington Ave South, Suite 200 Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 215 2575 http://www.loft.org/ |
Begun in an actual loft above a bookstore, The Loft has grown into one of the premier literary centers in the country, with more comprehensive offerings than any other independent organization. With a diverse program of grants and fellowships and a sterling slate of instructors for workshops and courses that vary each season, The Loft has always supported and nurtured the writing community. Now housed in Open Book in downtown Minneapolis, this operation has expanded. The new space includes a room for book clubs to rent with a spacious balcony overlooking downtown, classrooms, writers' studios and access to the Dayton's Performance Hall for visiting author readings and lecturers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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First city-owned park |
1382 Willow St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 370 4929 |
In 1883, the city purchased 35 acres of land and turned it into the first city-owned park, a gorgeous commons known as Central Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the designer of New York City's Central Park, thus the name. In 1890, the park's name was changed to honor Charles Loring, the first president of the Minneapolis Park Board and the initial force behind preserving much of the land that eventually evolved into one of the nation's most magnificent city park systems.An active and much-used inner city recreation area, Loring Park has a basketball court, paved walking and bike paths, numerous tennis courts, horseshoe pits and shuffleboard courts. In winter, the lake is packed with skaters. On the west side Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge connects the park to the Walker Art Center. Loring Greenway, a well-traveled pedestrian thoroughfare, connects the park to downtown's Nicollet Mall. At the end of the Greenway is the Berger Fountain, shaped like a giant dandelion.Free concerts are held in the summer and picnic tables are scattered throughout the park. The recreation building houses restrooms, an information center and ping-pong tables. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Evan Bibbee |
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Vibrant Part of Retail Scene |
700 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55402 United States +1 612 375 2200 http://www.fields.com/common/i... |
For over a century, Dayton's was a vibrant part of the upper Midwest retail scene and the favorite department store of residents. With the coming of other department store giants and the Mall of America, Dayton's always faced fierce competition but triumphantly survived. These days, though, it has been deemed more profitable to let Dayton's be known by the more prevalent brand name of Marshall Field's. Not much has changed besides the name. The flagship store in downtown Minneapolis engulfs the entire block on Nicollet Mall between 7th and 8th Streets. The 8th floor auditorium hosts many events. An annual flower show in March typically draws over 100,000 visitors. The animated holiday display routinely attracts 500,000 visitors between Thanksgiving Day and New Year's Eve. From the Marketplace to exquisite women's designer fashions featured in the plush Oval Room, to stylish home furnishings and Oriental rugs, the merchandise offered is unequalled in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gustaf TP |
 Photo: Gustaf TP |
 Photo: John Gaichas |
 Photo: S. Niemeyer |
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Home of the Twins & the Vikings |
34 Kirby Puckett Place Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 375 1366 |
Opened in 1982 in downtown Minneapolis, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome is now home to the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings. The facility has also played host to the World Series, the Superbowl and the NCAA college basketball championships. The retractable/inflatable stadium roof has caused some unusual moments in sporting history, including tears from heavy snow and high winds during football season, and a couple of wild richochets off the ceiling during baseball games. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lacey hanson |
 Photo: Lee Allen |
 Photo: Darrel Dawkins |
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 Photo: d Wang |
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 Photo: John Jones |
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 Photo: Craig Robinson |
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 Photo: Bev Leighton |
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 Photo: Erin Lanigan |
 Photo: Leah Sherman |
 Photo: Jeremy Hop |
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 Photo: psukingsfan |
 Photo: Max Maskevich |
 Photo: Julie Whitney |
 Photo: Rob Monroe |
 Photo: sjasis (Susan Asis) |
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 Learn about the flour milling industry |
704 South Second Street Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 341 7555 http://www.millcitymuseum.org/ |
Mill City Museum explains the importance of the flour milling industry and gives visitors an opportunity to learn about the history of flour production in Minneapolis. The museum has recently become a member of the Minnesota Historical Society and has won many awards. It has a café and organises birthday parties with prior notification. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fiercetigress |
 Photo: Michael Hartford |
 Photo: Amy Sanders |
 Photo: Kari Larson |
 Photo: Mark Vancleave |
 Photo: Todd J. Tubutis |
 Photo: Troy B. Thompson Pho |
 Photo: Zakcq Lockrem |
 Photo: Jill Carpenter |
 Photo: Jonathan Magley |
 Photo: Pavel Trebukov |
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 Photo: Gillian Wink |
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 Photo: D.N.F. MPLS |
 Photo: David Burck |
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 Photo: Todd Kalhar |
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 Glimpse of a different era |
Portland Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 313 7793 |
Mill Ruins Park opened its doors to the public in 2001. Visitors can learn about the city's flour production and water power run industry here. Once you're done with your history lesson for the day, take a walk on the park trails or enjoy a nice, leisurely lunch on the picnic area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lawrence G Sobczak |
 Photo: Ezra Gray |
 Photo: Luke Ibis |
 Photo: Ben Lazarus |
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 Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers |
 Photo: Aaron May |
 Photo: Kurt Canada |
 Photo: Kurt Canada |
 Photo: Luke Ibis |
 Photo: Michael Hartford |
 Photo: Theresa Hanacek |
 Photo: Mike Cashman |
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 Photo: Brian Johnston |
 Photo: Skyler Kehren |
 Photo: Stefanie |
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 Photo: Craig Faulkner |
 Photo: Lucie Dutfield |
 Photo: Thomas Gay |
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 Photo: Elliott M. Burke |
 Photo: Jesse Berezovsky |
 Photo: Creek Hopper |
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 Photo: Aaron Roufs |
 Photo: Greg W |
 Photo: Jennifer Laviolette |
 Photo: Justin Coyne |
 Photo: Dave Berthiaume |
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Open & Airy Design |
300 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 630 6000 http://www.mpls.lib.mn.us/newc... |
An architecture-buff's dream, this library is an all-purpose learning center and inviting haven for Minneapolis residents and visitors alike. Completed in the spring of 2006, the building immediately garnered rave reviews for its innovative use of light and existing surroundings, making it one of the best examples of the city's varied architectural style. The library itself houses the fourth-largest collection of any metropolitan library in the country, as well as large special collections, public art, and educational centers (it even has its own coffee bar!). Be sure to check out the website for updated classes and activities that keep this public complex bustling year-round. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amanda Kovattana |
 Photo: Kitty DuKane |
 Photo: Mitch Rossow |
 Photo: Aneel Gursahaney |
 Photo: Rachael Vilmar |
 Photo: Steve Basile |
 Photo: mwp_42 |
 Photo: David E. Kaplan |
 Photo: Action Sparks |
 Photo: MetaHipster |
 Photo: Doug Smith |
 Photo: teamcrunde |
 Photo: Derek Wolfgram |
 Photo: michelle o |
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Old majestic structure |
350 South 5th St Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 673 3000 http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ |
Visitors to downtown Minneapolis can't help but notice the muscular façade of the Minneapolis City Hall and perhaps wonder about the history behind the old majestic structure. The 16-year project, started in 1889 and completed in 1905, almost bankrupt the city. Once opened, the new municipal building brought Minneapolis notoriety as an emerging major city in the United States. Bigger than it needed to be for the time, the second floor was leased to a chicken hatchery and the basement was home to a horse stable and blacksmith shop. Covering an entire city block, it dominated the Minneapolis skyline for many years. Today, the 345-foot four-faced clock tower, with faces larger than those of Big Ben, still projects a solid, unyielding dignity. A massive statue, Mississippi, Fathers of Waters, carved from the largest block of marble to be produced from the quarries near Carrara, Italy, greets visitors as they enter.A number of renovations have taken place over the years, returning much of the building to its original brilliance. Over time, city and county offices have outgrown this testament to turn-of-century craftsmanship, and most government offices have moved across the street to the 24-story Hennepin County Government Center. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Knodl |
 Photo: Zakcq Lockrem |
 Photo: Dave Harvey |
 Photo: Chris Kelsey |
 Photo: Pete Sieger |
 Photo: Ian Talty |
 Photo: Gail S Connor |
 Photo: Nolan Zaroff |
 Photo: Luke Rohde |
 Photo: Renae Johnson |
 Photo: Robin Ward |
 Photo: Chantell Longley |
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Polished design houses trade |
400 South 4th St Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 321 7101 http://www.mgex.com/ |
In 1881, the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce formed an association to help facilitate the buying and selling of wheat, oats and corn. The purpose of this organization was to make sure both parties were arriving at a fair price based on the quality of the product being brought to market. Gaining notoriety and becoming a national force in the growing grain industry, the Chamber of Commerce commissioned the construction of a building in downtown Minneapolis to house the daily activity of the grain business. It was not until 1947 that the building was officially christened the Minneapolis Grain Exchange and commodity trading became a separate entity from the Chamber of Commerce. The building's turn-of-the-century design includes heavy use of stone, brick, marble and ornate wood. The terra cotta ears of corn and stalks of grain on the building's façade are particularly interesting and striking. Tours, including a glimpse of the always-rowdy trading floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jenni ripley |
 Photo: Mamluke |
 Photo: Brian Hayes |
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More Than 40 miles of Bike Trails |
Longfellow House Information Center 4800 Minnehaha Ave Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 370 4969 |
With an extensive network of bike paths crisscrossing the city, Minneapolis can't be beat for inner city biking. More than 40 miles of bike trails, most paved and designated solely for bike travel, the Grand Rounds system of parkways provides a complete circle of bike paths from which to view the city. The paths features some great views including Minnehaha Falls, the Mississippi River and the Minneapolis skyline. On the north side, bikers tour Victory Memorial Drive and Theodore Wirth Parkway, then the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Parkway on the south, and ride along the Mississippi River on West River Road. The Cedar Lake Trail, an abandoned railroad right-of-way running nearly four miles from downtown Minneapolis past Cedar Lake to suburban St. Louis Park, is the most recent addition to this scenic and breathtaking route. Contact the Longfellow House Information Center for additional information and a map of the Grand Rounds Bikeway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert MacGregor |
 Photo: Robert MacGregor |
 Photo: Mike Ebert |
 Photo: Beth Brooks |
 Photo: STRAWBERRYJ |
 Photo: Ophelia |
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View the final frontier |
300 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis Public Library Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 630 6150 / +1 612 630 6155 (Office) http://www.mplanetarium.org/ |
While seated in one of the many interactive seats of the Space and Science Theater, visitors will be whisked away to the outer limits of the galaxy and the universe. The projected simulation of the night sky is crystal clear and the thousands of twinkling stars will quickly make you forget you are actually in the cozy confines of the downtown branch of the Minneapolis Public Library. With countless photographs and drawings on display, as well as multiple interactive exhibits, the planetarium is an astronomy buff's dream come true. Call or visit the Web site for additional facility information and a list of current exhibits, movies and show times. Ticket prices: Ages 12 & under $3; Ages 13 & over $4.50 All ages admitted for $3 on Thursdays Group Reservations $2.50 (groups of 10 or more) Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Unique display of art |
725 Vineland Place Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 375 7622 / +1 612 375 7577 http://garden.walkerart.org/ |
Across from the Walker Art Center sits what many consider one of the boldest and most unique displays of art in the country, if not the entire world. Inaugurated in 1988, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a showcase for more than 40 works of art including major sculptures by George Segal, Ellsworth Kelly, Jenny Holzer, Henry Moore and Franz Lipschitz. The entrance to the 11-acre garden is bordered by Ampersand, a pair of colossal granite columns by Martin Puryear. During the warmer months, the 300-foot stainless steel arbor planted with a variety of blooming plants and colorful flowers is spectacular. The garden's centerpiece is the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture and fountain by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The 55-foot spoon topped by a 15-foot red bing cherry is the garden's most famous display. The Garden is open year round. Even in the dead of winter, visitors make the trek to the Cowles Conservatory on the west side of garden to view the changing display of blooming plants. The small conservatory is also home to a Frank Gehry-designed giant fish with scales of glass that rests on its tail in a pond surrounded by orange trees. Admission to the garden is free. The conservatory is open 10am-8pm Tue-Sat; 10am-5pm Sun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Leet |
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"Books come alive" |
1011 Washington Ave South, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 338 3634 http://www.mnbookarts.org |
Whether you are strolling through the exhibit space or browsing through the hand-made paper items in the gift shop, you will find something to make you stop and say "ooh." Anyone who has a love affair with anything paper will want to at least purchase a handmade note card or grab a schedule to see what classes are being offered. Wear your old jeans and shoes that can get wet when you take a class. You will come away with a new appreciation for the history of book-making and the beautiful things that are possible using these art forms. Located in the Open Book literary center, the MCBA's mission is to make sure that no one forgets the joy of touching books. Classes are offered in paper making, binding techniques, printing, and many other varied art forms, and the schedule always includes something for kids. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Zwartjes |
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One of the Country's Finest |
1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 371 5656 (Tickets) / +1 800 292 4141 (Tickets) http://www.minnesotaorchestra.org |
One of the country's finest has been making great music since 1904. Now under the direction of Eiji Oue, the orchestra has been guided by some of the most influential conductors of the 20th century, including Edo de Waart, Sir Neville Marriner, Anton Dorati, Dimitri Mitropoulos and Eugenr Ormandy. The Orchestra stages a vibrant festival each year called MusicFest (previously known as Sommerfest). It is the nation's only inner-city summer music festival staged by a major orchestra, luring summertime crowds for more than 20 years. The summer concert series is performed on Peavey Plaza, next to Orchestra Hall, the world-class home of the Minnesota Orchestra. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Plenderleith |
 Photo: Shannon Klug |
 Photo: Diane M. Lipovsky |
 Photo: Shannon Anthony |
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Country's First Pedestrian Mall |
Between Washington Ave and 13th St Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 661 4700 |
In 1967, faded Nicollet Avenue, the city's principal shopping area, was converted into one of the country's first pedestrian malls. The traffic-clogged street was replaced with a rolling, 30-foot wide roadway for buses and taxis only. Sidewalks were widened and turned into a shady, flower-filled boulevard. A clock holds court over Peavey Plaza at 11th Street. This 12-block area is home to hundreds of shops, theaters, department stores, and restaurants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andréas Olofsson |
 Photo: Rohan Kohli |
 Photo: TimWilson |
 Photo: J. Culbert |
 Photo: Marc Donnelly |
 Photo: Zeke Rice |
 Photo: Joey Marchy |
 Photo: Eric Thorson |
 Photo: Bob Lough |
 Photo: MNDustyLens |
 Photo: Seung Han |
 Photo: Pork-Chop |
 Photo: Derek Craig |
 Photo: Melora O. Bentz |
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Promoting ceramic art |
2424 Franklin Avenue East Minneapolis, MN 55406 United States +1 612 339 8007 http://www.northernclaycenter.... |
The Northern Clay Center hosts more than a dozen exhibitions each year, all of them featuring works of clay and of a ceramic nature. It promotes the work of both established and emerging artists, besides hosting workshops for children and amateurs - visit the official website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Literary Heaven |
1011 Washington Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 215 2650 http://www.OpenBookMN.org |
The Twin Cites has long been a haven for literary pursuits, from the days of F. Scott Fitzgerald to Garrison Keillor. After much anticipation, finally there is a central hub for the many spokes of the literary community, the first center of its kind in the nation. In a thoughtfully renovated warehouse, Open Book houses the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, The Loft Literary Center, Milkweed Editions, and Ruminator Books. The building also offers meeting spaces, Dayton's Performance Hall, and The Coffee Gallery. All this in a great space that was built with books in mind. Notice the main staircase; the white panels are meant to emulate the pages of an open book. The old warehouse can still be seen in some places, as the architects left old stairways, wallpaper, and doorways intact. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea |
 Photo: lookoutgiantsquid |
 Photo: Tobias Carroll |
 Photo: Jodi Chromey |
 Photo: a:yu |
 Photo: Tony Tallent |
 Photo: beanstealer |
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Nearly Perfect Acoustics |
1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 371 5600 (Office)/ +1 612 371 5656 (Tickets)/+1 800 292 4141 (Toll Free) http://www.minnesotaorchestra.org |
Located at the southern end of downtown Minneapolis' Nicollet Mall, this is the home of the world-renowned Minnesota Orchestra. The hall was built in 1974 with the goal of providing as nearly perfect acoustics as technologically possible at the time. Visitors will notice the huge cubes hanging from the ceiling, which were designed and placed to deflect sound to all 2,450 seats. More than 225 orchestral and community concerts are presented here each year. One of city's most popular series, the Viennese Sommerfest, takes place in July with performances, food and refreshments spilling out onto Peavey Plaza. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: KitchenGod |
 Photo: Bharani Padmanabhan MD PhD |
 Photo: M. Williams |
 Photo: Rejath Ajayan |
 Photo: Steve Cohen |
 Photo: chorleoni |
 Photo: Deirdre Butler-Derby |
 Photo: Anita Sandberg |
 Photo: Heidi |
 Photo: Hammerhause studios |
 Exceptional view and acoustics |
910 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403 United States +1 612 339 7007 / +1 612 373 5646 http://www.hennepintheatredist... |
The Orpheum Theatre opened in 1921 was a vaudeville house and then converted to a movie house. Thereafter, it fell into a state of disrepair due to competition from multi-screen, suburban theaters. The theater was renovated in 1994 and since then the Orpheum has hosted numerous Broadway musicals including world premieres such as "Victor/Victoria" and "The Lion King." Relax as you watch a musical or chill out at a concert here. You can also join your academically inclined friends for a lecture held in the theater. Regardless of the reason you visit this place, you will love the regal theater with a seating capacity of 2,650. The Orpheum is part of the Hennepin Theatre Trust. Visit their website for a full calendar of events for this and all Hennepin venues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thomas Brandt |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Steve |
 Photo: Charles Mallison |
 Photo: Daniel Hartwig |
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Oldest continuously used church |
1 Lourdes Place Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +1 612 379 2259 http://www.ourladyoflourdes.com |
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church is the oldest continuously used church in Minneapolis. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the landmark church stands in the heart of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District. The original building was constructed for $15,000 in 1857 as a meeting hall for the First Universalist Society. In 1877 the French Canadian Catholic community purchased the native limestone structure and the parish became the first in the United States to be named Our Lady of Lourdes. The original 3,000 square foot structure was enlarged and redesigned. A bell tower, sacristy, vestibule and rectory were added. The structural changes altered the church's architectural style. The original rectangular building became a linear French provincial-type edifice with a V-frame beam truss. The circular portion of the nave was modeled after the Chapel Royale at Versailles and a Gothic steeple was added. But by 1917 the parish was losing its population. French no longer was the primary language spo |