Visitor’s Guide to Minneapolis, MN
If you’re new to uptown Minneapolis or you’re visiting the area for the first time, you may not know about all of the things there are to do and see in the city. Did you know that you can get the same pizza native Chicagoans have been enjoying for more than 40 years without leaving Minneapolis, for instance? Well, you can now that Giordano’s has opened on Hennepin Avenue.
Featuring authentic Italian food, including stuffed and thin crust pizzas, filling sandwiches, savory pastas, fresh salads and more, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re a new resident or a tourist, start getting familiar with everything Minneapolis has to offer by making Giordano’s the first stop on your list of must-visit attractions.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Attractions
While Minneapolis has many popular attractions, some of the city’s most fascinating sites aren’t as well known. In fact, some of the sites on our must-see list might not even be familiar to the city’s long-term residents or repeat visitors.
Some of these adventures will require you to travel away from uptown, but they’re worth the short trip. Here are some attractions you shouldn’t miss whenever you’re in Minneapolis:
- Orfield Laboratories
Orfield Laboratories houses what “Guinness World Records” considered to be the world’s quietest place. The lab is an anechoic chamber. This means the room absorbs 99.99 percent of the sounds produced within its walls, which prevents echoes. This level of silence is enough to drive an individual mad — literally.
As your ears adjust to the silence, your heartbeat and the workings of your stomach and lungs become your only reference points. Because this is disorienting for so many people, visitors are only allowed to visit the lab under supervision for brief periods. To experience what it’s like inside this space, you must book a tour.
- House of Balls
Located in Minneapolis’ Warehouse District, the House of Balls was founded by sculptor Allen Christian, who has since become known as the “Willy Wonka” of art made in the Twin Cities. Christian believes that lifeless objects take on a real life force when they are touched by sentient beings.
Given his belief, guests are encouraged to interact with the art that’s on display, including the location’s renowned bowling balls. As long as Christian is on-site and the doors are unlocked, you can visit the House of Balls any time of the day or night.
- City Salvage
If you’re a fan of architecture and antiques, you’re going to love City Salvage, a locally-owned antique shop that focuses on unusual architectural finds.
From antique bar supplies to lighting to stained glass and many other hidden treasures, you’ll find many unique items from the 19th and 20th centuries at City Salvage. Whether you’re decorating your home or business, you’ll find materials at this shop that aren’t readily available elsewhere.
Enjoy Your Stay in Uptown Minneapolis
Whether you walk the beaten or unbeaten path during your stay in uptown, you’ll find many great attractions and activities along the way. Just remember to include Giordano’s on your list of sites to visit so you can enjoy authentic Italian food prepared by true artisans.