Minneapolis-St Paul Attractions

Minnehaha Park
Winding along the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Park, one of the oldest and most popular parks in Minneapolis, contains the city’s first frame house, located west of the river. There are views over Minnehaha Falls and a statue commemorating the Native Americans, Hiawatha and Minnehaha, who were the subjects of Longfellow’s famous poem, ‘The Song of Hiawatha’.

Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway, Minneapolis
Tel: (612) 230 6400.
Website: www.minneapolisparks.org
Opening hours: Daily 0600-2200.
Admission charge: N.

Historic Fort Snelling
This 1820s US Army outpost has been restored to depict military life in the frontier era. Costumed guides on the site demonstrate musket and cannon drills, blacksmithing and other skills, while the history centre contains exhibits and videos.

Junction of Highways 5 and 55, Fort Snelling exit
Tel: (612) 726 1171.
Website: www.mnhs.org
Opening hours: Sat 1000-1700, Sun 1200-1700 (early May and late Sep-Oct); Mon-Sat 1000-1700, Sun 1200-1700 (late May-early Sep); closed (Nov-Apr).
Admission charge: Y.
Disabled access: Y.

St Paul City Hall
It is well worth your while to take a quick look-see at this interesting 1920s art deco structure. Dominating the blue marble lobby is Swedish sculptor, Carl Milles’, “Vision of Peace.” Erupting between five, peace-pipe smoking Native Americans is the 11m (36ft) towering white onyx “god of peace.” In the basement, walls are lined with carved glass murals, each signifying a chapter of St Paul’s past. A guided tour schedule is available.

15 Kellogg Blvd W, St Paul
Tel: (651) 266-8500.
Website: www.stpaul.gov
Opening hours: 0800-1630.
Admission charge: N.
Disabled access: Y.