For the second consecutive year, the treasured Mill City Museum is vying for the title of the nation's best history museum. The museum, nestled among Minneapolis's architectural relics, has landed a spot on the coveted shortlist for USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice travel award, seeking to dethrone the competition and prove it's more than just a runner-up. With voting in full swing, the competition is heating up as USA Today's contest draws to a close on February 12th.

Supporters of the storied institution have been urged to quickly cast their votes online – with the option to proudly support the museum once a day, every day, until the deadline. According to a CBS News Minnesota release, Mill City Museum Site Manager David Stevens expressed his gratitude for the local support, saying, "We are doubly honored to receive this nomination as we celebrate 20 years of welcoming visitors to Mill City Museum." He added that the nomination was "tremendous" recognition of the staff's dedication to preserving Minneapolis's rich narrative.

Last year, the museum impressively clinched fourth place, leaving little doubt that its sights are firmly set on a first-place finish this time around. As a former flour mill turned historic site, the museum has long been a fixture by the Mississippi River, drawing visitors to its storied walls that echo the industrial saga of a bygone era. The fierce competition amongst nominees highlights the prestige such an accolade bestows upon the winning museum, further fueling the drive to rally votes from history enthusiasts and proud Minnesotans alike.

The Mill City Museum is making an appeal to the community to help secure its victory. "We are so grateful for all the support received from Minnesotans last year," Stevens remarked in a message shared by CBS News Minnesota. Supporters are encouraged to let their voices be heard, to directly influence the outcome by voting.

For those eager to boost Mill City Museum's standing, the process is straightforward. Simply visit the CBS News Minnesota link to ensure your vote is counted in the push to recognize Mill City Museum as a cut above the rest in American historical preservation.