What to do and see in Minnesota, United States: The Best Cultural Tours

September 16, 2021 Oliva Fomby

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul have the famous Mall of America and Walker Art Institute. Bluff Country to the south has water sports and cross country skiing. The Prairielands abound with lake recreations.
Restaurants in Minnesota

1. Walking Minneapolis Downtown Parks, Fountains & Sculpture Private Tour (2 hrs)

IDS Center, 80 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA Douglas Kline
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This private, outdoor, 2-hour walking tour highlights the varied parks & trails, water fountains and art sculptures that comprise some of the most popular public cultural attractions near downtown Minneapolis. Best experienced during late spring, summer and early fall, we'll see some of the city's most beautiful settings and understand why it is exponentially growing with new downtown residents and workers. You'll enjoy the lively scene along Nicollet Mall and the quiet serenity of public plazas, stroll park paths with the locals and marvel at modern, world-class sculpture in a unique garden setting. Luckily, we'll have time to stop for some fresh caramel corn, chocolates or snacks at a beloved candy counter (purchased on own). "Amazing experience! Douglas' passion means return soon!" Ana M., Brazil "5 out of 5 stars! Personable...knowledgeable..." Thalia S., Georgia USA "Informative & fun! He is a walking Wikipedia and a great photographer for group shots." David S., Florida USA

Inclusions: Guided tour

Exclusions:

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

2. Walking Minneapolis Mississippi River, Falls & Historic Mills Private Tour(2hrs)

201 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA Douglas Kline
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You'll get so close to the surging Mississippi River and its dramatic St. Anthony Falls during this private, 2-hour walking adventure that you'll catch your breath while learning how the the river's rich history impacts life today in Minneapolis. From the falls to old flour mills and spanning the famous Stone Arch Bridge, you'll see surprising views and hear stories from many different perspectives - early settlement and lumbering, harnessing the river's wild power, milling flour to feed the world and today's Mill District transformation into the city's most desirable and trendy residential neighborhood. "Informative & fun! He is a walking Wikipedia and a great photographer for group shots." David S., Florida USA "5 out of 5 stars! Personable...knowledgeable..." Thalia S., Georgia USA "Amazing experience! Douglas' passion means return soon!" Ana M., Brazil

Inclusions: Guided tour

Exclusions: Restrooms are not available during this tour.

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

3. Walking F. Scott Fitzgerald's St. Paul Life & Homes Private Tour (2 hrs)

The Commodore Bar & Restaurant, 79 Western Ave N, St Paul, MN 55102, USA Douglas Kline
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

For 2 hours, you'll enjoy a private, guided walk in a historic, charming neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota, as you stroll past the birthplace, homes and haunts of F. Scott Fitzgerald, the famous author of "The Great Gatsby" and other notable American novels. While we walk, you'll learn about Fitzgerald's lively life and the Roaring '20s, and also hear anecdotes about his hometown shenanigans. In addition, while we amble, residential architecture buffs will be able to spot many types of popular Victorian home styles in this historically preserved area. "Informative & fun! He is a walking Wikipedia and a great photographer for group shots." David S., Florida USA "5 out of 5 stars! Personable...knowledgeable..." Thalia S., Georgia USA "Amazing experience! Douglas' passion means return soon!" Ana M., Brazil

Inclusions: Guided tour

Exclusions: Tour does not include home interiors., Restrooms are not available during this tour.

Reviewed By Holly F

Our tour guide, Doug, went above and beyond for our tour. First of all, the fact that he was game to do an outdoor tour in February was so kind. At first I thought we might like to do the Skyway tour since we'd be mostly indoors but still fairly Covid-safe with our masks. Doug suggested that this wouldn't be the best tour as many of the shops and businesses were closed. He suggested the Summit Avenue tour instead and I'm so glad we got to see it. St. Paul is so lovely and you get the bonus of being right near the cathedral as well.

4. Walking St. Paul Summit Ave. Victorian Homes Private Tour (2 hrs)

James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, USA Douglas Kline
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5.0 based on 6 reviews

For 2 hours, take a private, guided stroll along charming and historic Summit Ave. in St. Paul, Minnesota, past stately homes built during the Victorian era that are nearly perfectly preserved today. You'll hear stories about the barons and tycoons who built these homes and how their houses have survived 120 or more years of change. You'll also wind through a former back alley now transformed into a charming city street that features modern residences in historic structures. Residential architecture buffs will spot nearly every type of home style popular during the Victorian era - Queen Anne, Italianate, Georgian Revival, Neo-classical, Romanesque, Beaux Arts, Tudor and more. Love grand, old homes that are pristinely preserved as active residences? Enjoy meandering outdoor sidewalks among trees, parks, fine landscapes and beautiful buildings? This tour is for you. "Informative & fun! A walking Wikipedia." David S., FL USA "5 stars! Personable...knowledgeable." Thalia S., GA USA

Inclusions: Guided tour

Exclusions: Tour does not include home interiors., Restrooms are not available during this tour.

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

5. Red Wing Tour - Fall Vineyards & Valleys

Mall of America, Bloomington, MN 55425, USA Gray Line Minnesota

Red Wing is one of Minnesota’s more hidden gems. Nestled between the Mississippi River and the breathtaking Barn Bluffs, this little town is perfect for a day long excursion. Our guided riding tour begins aboard a deluxe motorcoach on a journey to the Red Wing, where you will see all of the vibrant “Fall Colors” our beautiful state has to offer. When we reach Red Wing, we will take you on a quick loop around downtown before giving you time to explore the iconic city for yourself. This tour also includes entry to a the Red Wing pottery museum, for a guided tour, as well as a wine tasting at one of Red Wing’s most picturesque wineries, the Flower Valley Vineyard.

Inclusions: The price of the wine tasting is included in your booking., Restroom on board, Pottery Museum Admission

Exclusions: Lunch is on your own in downtown Red Wing

Reviewed By 604donaldt

We took a great trip to Duluth to see the fall colors, but the highlight of the weekend was our trip to Betty's Pies north of Two Harbors for lunch. While the place was a bit busy, we were able to get in after a short wait and had a wonderful lunch and a great piece of pie. Afterwards we went up along the shoreline to the Silver Cliff tunnel on highway 61 about 15 minutes north of Betty's and spent a wonderful half hour on the scenic overlook (the path of the old highway now a pathway) looking out on Lake Superior. With just a light breeze and a warm sun, it was a wonderfully relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

6. Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 hrs)

Douglas Kline

We'll connect at a location convenient for you and launch a 3-hour private riding & walking tour of Minneapolis & St. Paul that focuses on local culture, interesting history and what it's like to live today in the Twin Cities. We'll explore famous landmarks and discover little-known spots. I'll share stories and exclusive anecdotes that will bring your private experience alive. In town for a limited time? Have an open half-day during your visit? This professionally guided private tour is for you. It's a great way to experience the highlights and get an overall feel for the cities in a fun and entertaining way. Many guests use this experience to become oriented so they can return later on their own to deeply explore favorite locales. Transportation for this tour is provided in a professionally chauffeured "black car" sedan or SUV. “Highly recommend!” Melissa A., Wisconsin USA “…abundant knowledge of how the city works and the locals live.” Karale F., California USA

Inclusions: Guided tour, Private transportation, Bottled water, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Snacks

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

7. Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (2 hrs)

Douglas Kline

We'll connect at a location convenient for you and launch a 2-hour private riding and walking tour of Minneapolis & St. Paul that focuses on local culture, interesting history and what it's like to live today in the Twin Cities. We'll explore famous landmarks and discover little-known and delightful spots. I will continuously share stories and exclusive anecdotes that will bring your private experience alive. Have a break between other commitments? This professionally guided private tour is a great way to experience the highlights and get an overall feel for the cities in a fast and entertaining way. Many guests use this quick experience to become oriented so they can return later on their own to deeply explore favorite locales. Transportation for this tour is provided in a professionally chauffeured "black car" sedan or SUV. “Highly recommend!” Melissa A., Wisconsin USA “…abundant knowledge of how the city works and the locals live.” Karale F., California USA

Inclusions: Guided tour, Private transportation, Bottled water, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions:

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

8. Walking Minneapolis Downtown & Skyways Private Tour (2 hrs)

IDS Center, 80 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA Douglas Kline

This private walking tour will reveal what it is like to live, work and play in downtown Minneapolis today. Best experienced during the middle of a weekday work day, you'll see why the climate-controlled Minneapolis skyways are so popular and understand how downtown is exponentially growing with new residents and workers. You'll spot hurried workers on their way to their next meeting, leisurely lunch patrons, shopkeepers and troupes of kids on an outing with their day-care providers. You'll see a wide range of noted architecture styles, have a chance to pickup travel info and souvenirs, and, luckily, have time to stop for some fresh caramel corn, chocolates or snacks at a beloved candy counter (purchased on own). "5 out of 5 stars! Personable...knowledgeable..." Thalia S., Georgia USA "Amazing experience! Douglas' passion means return soon!" Ana M., Brazil "Informative and fun! Douglas is a walking Wikipedia and a great photographer for group shots." David S., Florida USA

Inclusions: Guided tour

Exclusions:

Reviewed By I4110YKpaulg

The tour guide was excellent. He was very astute and engaging. I highly recommend this tour to anyone with an interest in history, culture, architecture, and literature.

9. The best of Minneapolis walking tour

Minneapolis City Hall, 350 S 5th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA Fun Top Fun USA

Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city, while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Why is Minneapolis considered one of the best cities for bikes? Why is the St. Anthony Falls in the Mississippi River important to the city’s natural landscape? You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings and corners of Minneapolis. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most of it!

Inclusions: Local Professional Guide

Exclusions:

10. Romantic tour in Minneapolis

Minneapolis City Hall, 350 S 5th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA Fun Top Fun USA

An exclusive tour for all the romantics of the world! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most romantic places in the city. Minneapolis is not only the hometown of music’s star Prince, but is also a perfect mix of an urban landscape and natural creations like famous waterfalls and the lovely Mississippi river. You will feel spellbound in a charming atmosphere. What is considered as one of the best places to have a date in the city? Where can you make lovely photos? You will be surprised how many historical love stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, parks of the city. From heartbreaking and tragic, to the hilarious or spicy ones. What is the magic behind Minnesota’s state flower, Lady Slipper and its many unique origin tales? This tour is especially recommended in the Saint Valentine period!

Inclusions: Local Professional Guide

Exclusions:

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