Explore Minneapolis

Minneapolis is where city energy meets natural beauty. From sparkling lakes and  the iconic Mississippi River to diverse neighborhoods, craft breweries, world-class  dining, and famous “Jucy Lucy” burgers, there’s something for everyone. 

 Rooted in rich cultural heritage and known for their welcoming spirit—often called “Minnesota Nice”—Minneapolis invites you to explore its theaters, green spaces,  and buzzing local scene.  

Discover why the city is known for their warm hospitality, unique charm, and  unforgettable experiences!


ASPET Tours/Tickets

Limited tickets will be available for ASPET attendees to experience local activities  and events in small groups. All tickets through ASPET are non-refundable.  

We are exploring securing tickets to a baseball game, Prince’s Paisley Park, a local  brewery tour, and a ghost tour. Final offerings will be posted here when available, expected in January. Tickets can be purchased in the ASPET registration system. 

IMPORTANT: ASPET does not provide transportation to these activities. You are responsible for your own transportation. All locations are a short cab ride or  walkable. You must come to Hyatt Regency Minneapolis to pick up your tickets and can gather with other attendees to share rides if you wish. 

Sightseeing On Your Own - Recommendations

Recommended Activities Available on Your Own

ATTENDEE SAVINGS PASSES

Minneapolis Savings Pass

Mobile exclusive discounts to restaurants, bars and attractions delivered via text and email

Minneapolis Craft Beer Pass

Mobile exclusive discounts to Twin Cities breweries delivered via text and email

BEST PHOTO OPS

Unique Locations

Many are within just a couple miles of the Hyatt

Prince Mural & Star Wall

Within a mile walk from the Hyatt, stop at both the new Prince mural (101 N. 9th St) and at the star wall at the First Avenue club (1st Ave & 7th St) featured in the film Purple Rain.

ONLY HAVE 20 MINUTES

Walk up Nicollet

From the Hyatt front door, stroll up Nicollet to see Peavey Plaza, the Mary Tyler Moore statue, and the first-ever Target. Walkable or take the free ride buses up and down Nicollet Mall.

MUSEUMS
Most museums are closed on Mondays.

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (free)

Free and open from 6:00 am – 12 midnight every day

Walker Art Center

Paisley Park

Prince’s home and studio is about 20 miles from the Hyatt. Tours run Thursdays through Monday. Must have advance tickets.

Mill City Museum

Open Thursday to Sunday

Science Museum of Minnesota

Minneapolis Institute of the Arts

SHOPPING

Mall of America

Accessible via light rail from downtown.

Trendy Boutiques and Local Vintage Shops

NATURE

Loring Park

Less than ½ mile from Hyatt. Walking paths, ponds, fountains, gardens, pickleball, tennis and shuffleboard courts.

Stone Arch Bridge

About 1.5 miles from the Hyatt. Pedestrian/bike bridge with panoramic views of St Anthony Falls and the Mississippi Rive. Bridge links Mill Ruins Park on the west bank and Father Hennepin Bluff Park on east bank.

Minnehaha Falls

Just 6 miles from the Hyatt, this oasis features a stunning waterfall, scenic walking paths, and lush greenery.

Chain of Lakes

Plan ahead! Although less than 3 miles from the Hyatt at some points, this chain of 5 lakes includes 15 miles of pedestrian and bike trails, gardens, beaches, rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes and of course gorgeous views of the city.

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary

 

About 3.5 miles from the Hyatt and covering over 13 acres, it is the oldest public wildflower garden in the US.

Kayak Tours

 

Get out on the river with an organized 2.5 hour day-time excursion or a 90-minute happy hour sunset tour. Launch is about 3 miles from Hyatt.

Members are welcome to add their recommendations to the list!

  Food Recommendations

Explore the food scene in Minneapolis from Jucy Lucy cheese-filled burgers, to James Beard Award winning chefs, to a diversity of global flavors.

Download restaurant guide based on proximity to the Hyatt

Download Guide
Spoon and Dish food image