Things to do in Minneapolis: Landmarks
Top 5 Landmarks List
Minneapolis has very distinctive landmarks all of which are associated with part of the remarkable Minneapolis Story. If you visit these 5 landmarks you will be able to have a familiar conversation about Minneapolis. However, if you understand the significance of these landmarks, you will begin to peak at the soul of what makes Minneapolis so great.
Stone Arch Bridge
Stone Arch Bridge – Architecturally, the Stone Arch Bridge is one of a kind. No other stone masonry bridge spans the Mississippi. But also the aesthetics of the bridge are a stunning. The lazy sweep makes the bridge appear to being pulled by the Mighty Mississippi. The bridge was built for trains, but now it is a pedestrian bridge when it is not under renovation.
Significance? Minneapolis is the first bridge crossing of the Mississippi and the gateway to the West for the Transcontinental Railroad.
Spoonbridge and Cherry
Spoonbridge and Cherry at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden – There are more than 60 sculptures at the sculpture garden including the oldest and most iconic, the Spoonbridge and Cherry. The 30 foot tall cherry perched on top of a spoon spans a pond in the shape of a Linden seed. The cherry spurts water from the stem, but also water flows across the cherry making it glisten in the sun.
Significance? Bridging formality and utility Minneapolis is a model city in livability.
Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls – Minnehaha Falls is a rare 50 foot waterfall in Minneapolis. The water flows over the scenic falls and spills into the Mississippi a little ways downstream, which is a beautiful walk. The falls are also significant because they are the inspiration and namesake of Hiawatha’s lover in Longfellow’s epic poem, “The Song of Hiawatha.”
Significance? This odd geology catapulted Minneapolis into the second most prosperous city in the US and inspired the #1 municipal park system in the world.
Foshay Tower
Foshay Tower – Built to mimic the George Washington Monument, the Foshay Tower was the tallest building west of the Mississippi for much of last century. The way to see the Foshay Tower is by going up intothe museum and overlook at its apex. It is a beautiful Art Deco building inside and out.
Significance? During its boom, Minneapolis produced some of the most significant architecture and design thinkers in the Midwest.
First Avenue
First Avenue – First Avenue has indisputably been the heartbeat of the music scene in Minneapolis for decades. Over the last 50 years, this medium size music venue has been on every rising musical artist’s bucket list. The stars outside document the hundreds of greats that have made their pilgrimage to play there. Prince loved First Avenue and helped to make it one of the most famous music venues in the world.
Significance? Art is at the core of Minneapolis for the last 100 years.
Minneapolis Trolley Tours, we know things to do in Minneapolis!