You don’t necessarily have to go abroad to have a fantastic vacation: there are plenty of American cities worth checking out. One option is Minneapolis, which was named one of 2018's top travel destinations by Conde Nast. With an impressive list of restaurants, theaters, and nature attractions. Minneapolis is Included in the Trust for Public Land's best parks system in the U.S., making it one Midwest city you'll want to add to your bucket list.
Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Chicago and Minneapolis, at least according to travel site Skyscanner.
Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Minneapolis to get you excited about your next excursion.
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Flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between Chicago and Minneapolis are offered when you leave on November 27 and return from Minnesota on December 1. Delta currently has roundtrip tickets for $187.
There are also deals to be had in December. If you fly out of Chicago on December 1 and return from Minneapolis on December 4, Spirit Airlines can get you there and back for $202 roundtrip.
Hotels
To plan your accommodations, here are some of Minneapolis’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do, and customer satisfaction.
The Le Meridien Chambers Minneapolis (901 Hennepin Ave.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Le Meridien Chambers Minneapolis. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $89.
Set in the heart of Minneapolis, this hotel is close to the Target Center and the Target Field, as well as the Basilica of Saint Mary. Additional attractions include the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome.
The Westin Minneapolis (88 S. Sixth St.)
Another 4.6-star option is The Westin Minneapolis. Rooms are currently set at $129/night.
This hotel is located near the Minneapolis Public Library Central Branch, the Minneapolis City Hall, and the Target Center. Another place to check out is Mill Ruins Park.
The Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot (225 S. Third Ave.)
A third option is The Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot. The 4.3-star hotel has rooms for $99/night. Set in the heart of Minneapolis, this hotel is close to the Minneapolis City Hall, Mill Ruins Park, as well as the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome.
Restaurants
Minneapolis has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
Restaurant Alma (528 University Ave. SE)
If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Restaurant Alma, which has an average of five stars out of eight reviews on Skyscanner. Nearly 20 years in business, this casual fine dining restaurant serves eclectic American fare and specializes in three-course tasting menus. Choose any three dishes from the menu for $45 per person or dine A la Carte.
"My wife and I shared a pesto and tomato salad, which was was amazing," wrote reviewer Rene. "The pork tenderloin was served over a sweet corn chowder with jalapeño corn bread, and every bite was mouth watering."
Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream Cafe (1007 W. Franklin Ave.)
Don't forget the essentials like where to get your coffee fix. For a popular option, check out Sebastian Joe's Ice Cream Cafe, with 4.9 stars from 14 reviews.
Started in 1984 by three brothers--Tim, Todd and Michael--the first store in Riverplace development was among the first premium, locally made ice cream shops in Minneapolis.
"The line can get pretty long, but it usually moves pretty quickly. You'll be glad you waited. Try the Oreo and Nicollet Ave. flavors," wrote reviewer Christopher.
The Grand Ole Creamery & Grand Pizza (750 Grand Ave.)
If you're looking for a solid place to grab dessert, plan to visit The Grand Ole Creamery & Grand Pizza.
Now celebrating 27 years in business, The Grand Ole Creamery (est. 1984) was the first retail ice cream parlor in St. Paul to manufacture and serve premium ice cream and other treats, including its famous sweet-smelling, homemade malted waffle cones with a whopper in the bottom of each cone.
"Super good ice cream, " wrote Andi. "I especially love the Cookie Monster flavor! The pizza place that is adjoined is also a great spot to grab a slice."
Brasa Premium Rotisserie (600 E. Hennepin Ave.)
Finally, there's Brasa Premium Rotisserie.
Brasa's food comes from the highest quality sources available. Nearly 100 percent of the food it serves---meat, dairy, eggs, and flour-- is produced on family owned farms and cooperatives in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.
"It's great for enjoying events like surly brewing, fun with friends or picking up a quick meal," wrote Van. "From the cornbread to pulled pork, everything is delicious! Seriously, one of the best in Minneapolis."
Attractions
Minneapolis is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts (2400 Third Ave. South)
First up is The Minneapolis Institute of Arts.
You can explore exhibits that celebrate everything from Babe Ruth to mushrooms. Get inspired by the Asian Art collection or the Paintings collection with works by artists like Georgia O'Keeffe. You can even interact with exhibits through the Institute's Interactive Learning Stations.
"The best part about the Art Institute is free admission, " wrote visitor Austin. "This is a perfect place to take your family for an afternoon without spending a dollar."
The Minnehaha Park and Falls (4801 Minnehaha Ave.)
Then, there's The Minnehaha Park and Falls.
Winding alongside the Minnehaha Creek's five-mile path from the south shore of Lake Harriett to the Mississippi River, the Minnehaha Parkway features splendid gardens, shady trees and well-maintained trails. You'll also find a 53-foot cascade waterfall, where it's easy to spend an entire afternoon picnicking.
"Amazing waterfall, " wrote visitor Daniel. "Absolutely beautiful in the summer, but even more so in the winter. Just don't go walking on the ice!"
Wild Rumpus (2718 W. 43rd St.)
Finally, spend some time at Wild Rumpus.
Described by visitors as a kids' wonderland, this bookstore not only has a great selection of books for teens and younger kids, but it also has live animals inside.
"Our family loves Wild Rumpus, " wrote visitor Laura. "So many new titles to explore for my book loving daughter, and they have animals--birds and ferrets--tucked into various nooks and crannies. I recommend visiting on a weekday."
