Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota and part of the Twin Cities metropolitan area along with neighboring Saint Paul. Known for its lakes, parks, and strong arts scene, Minneapolis is a major cultural, economic, and political hub of the Upper Midwest.
Overview
- Population: ~430,000 (metro area ~3.7 million)
- Founded: Officially incorporated in 1867
- Nicknames: The Mill City, City of Lakes
- Geography: Located along the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota
Landmarks and Attractions
- Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry
- Walker Art Center
- Guthrie Theater
- Minnehaha Falls and Park
- Chain of Lakes Regional Park
- U.S. Bank Stadium (home of the Minnesota Vikings)
Economy
Minneapolis has a diverse economy based on:
- Finance and commerce
- Healthcare and medical technology
- Education and research
- Retail and manufacturing
It is home to several Fortune 500 companies including Target, U.S. Bank, and Best Buy (headquartered in nearby suburbs).
Culture and Arts
- Known for its performing arts scene, museums, and music legacy
- Birthplace of Prince — the Purple Rain legend
- Hosts major cultural events like the Minneapolis Aquatennial and Twin Cities Pride
- Strong Scandinavian and Somali cultural communities
Education and Innovation
- University of Minnesota – a major research institution
- High literacy rate and strong public library system
Transportation
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- METRO Light Rail and bus systems
- Bike-friendly infrastructure — among the best in the U.S.
- Skyway system — enclosed pedestrian walkways downtown
Fun Facts
- Minneapolis has more than 20 lakes within its city limits
- It was once the flour milling capital of the world
- The city experiences some of the coldest winters among U.S. major cities