MINNEAPOLIS - ATTRACTIONS

Minneapolis has a number of interesting places to visit, here are some that we particularly enjoyed. 

1. St. Anthony Main - Just over the 3rd Avenue Bridge coming from downtown, the Main is a historical district with a number of old buildings that retain their original charm. Several eateries, a movie theater, and the river walk make this a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. You can walk to Nicollet Island, or further down to St. Anthony Falls where the Stone Arch Bridge is located. The best sight, however, is the Museum of Questionable Medical Devices. Containing over 200 years of the history of medical fraud, the museum proudly displays an amazing array of devices that were used to swindle the gullible who believed that their ills could be cured by something other than medicine. The one-room museum is free, but donations are accepted. If you are not shy, get a phrenology reading - a machine is hooked up to your head and by reading the bumps on your skull, it can analyze your personality. It is good fun and will amuse all in the museum, and at $3 will provide you with a good story. As well, take your time and read some of the pamphlets explaining in detail some of the displays - it is truly frightening what people will try in order to improve their health.

The phrenology machine in the Musuem of Questionable Medical Devices

2. Minnesota Sculpture Garden - Located across from the Walker Art Center, the garden contains over 40 sculptures arranged outside. A good variety of materials and methods make this a good place to visit for fans of sculpture, and it is free, which is an added bonus. 

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

3. Mall of America - Located in the southern suburb of Bloomington, the Mall of America is a good place to go on a rainy day if you need to get some shopping done. With over 500 stores, you should be able to find what you are looking for. The Mall also contains Camp Snoopy, in honour of Minnesota native Charles Schulz who was the creator of Peanuts. Camp Snoopy is the largest indoor theme park in the U.S. and looks like it would be a good place for kids to spend the afternoon. 

4. Como Park/St. Paul Downtown - Como park is actually in St. Paul, just a couple of minutes from Midway Stadium. It contains a free zoo that includes giraffes, gorillas, and large cats, as well as a small amusement park, a conservatory, and Japanese gardens. While in St. Paul you should also try to see the State Capitol and Cathedral of St. Paul, both are very interesting buildings.