Minnesota’s Twin Cities are some of the country’s best-kept secrets, thanks to an incredible blend of history, culture, art and nature between Minneapolis and St. Paul. Luckily, you can enjoy parts of both cities without spending a dime. Check out these six free things to do in the Twin Cities.
Como Zoo & Conservatory
If you love yourself some cute and furry sights, don’t miss St. Paul’s Como Zoo and Conservatory. Free to visit, this zoo is home to everything from sea lions and polar bears to lions, tigers and bears – oh my! Don’t miss the spectacular rare blooms of orchids and other exotic flowers in the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory while you’re there.
The Stone Arch Bridge
Soak up the city skyline and the calming sight of the Mississippi River with a stroll over the historic Stone Arch Bridge, a 2,100-foot long landmark with 23 arches made of granite and limestone. Today, the bridge is a haven for pedestrians and bicyclists looking to enjoy the view of Minneapolis’ St. Anthony Falls.
Minnesota State Capitol
Enjoy a free taste of the state’s history with a guided tour of the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul. Free tours are held daily and offer a 45-minute trip into the state’s political past. Architecture buffs will enjoy a stop at the capitol building, too, to see the classical work of architect Cass Gilbert.
Mall of America
You can’t visit Minneapolis without a trip to the famed Mall of America, the country’s largest indoor shopping center. Window shop to your heart’s content or enjoy the plethora of free performances that regularly take over the mall, including musical acts and celebrity-studded shows.
Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway
Lace up your walking shoes and explore Minneapolis along one of the nation’s top urban scenic byways. The Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway highlights seven of the city’s districts, and while you might not tackle all 50 miles in one trip, you can still enjoy sights like the Lake Harriet Rose Garden, Mississippi River and Minnehaha Falls.
Summit Brewery
Treat your palette to the Twin Cities’ local flavors with a tasting tour at Summit Brewery, the state’s second largest. Known for popular craft beers like their Extra Pale Ale and Great Northern Porter, Summit Brewery offers free tours Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Not only will you get a behind-the-scenes peek at how these award-winning beers are brewed, but you’ll also be treated to a free taste.
(Main image: Nicholas Ortloff Photography (Is Back) used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
