Area Attractions

Make a day of it downtown! This historic district is a growing cultural, recreational, and residential neighborhood, so there are many other great places to explore before and after your visit to Mill City Museum.

Minneapolis Riverfront History: Map and Self-Guided Tour (PDF)

This self-guided tour follows a route from the downtown Minneapolis to key riverfront sights and back, but can be enjoyed in any order.

Stone Arch Bridge

"Please note that the Stone Arch Bridge is undergoing repairs and will have limited pedestrian access through Spring, 2026.  Check the MNDOT project site for the latest updates.

St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail

Take a self-guided history tour on this 1.8-mile loop that crosses the Mississippi River on the Stone Arch Bridge and the Father Louis Hennepin Bridge. The stories are told on a system of kiosks and information signs.

St. Anthony Falls Visitor Center & Lock and Dam

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam provides panoramic views of the historic lock, St. Anthony Falls, and the surrounding mill district. Exhibits at the visitor center provide information about the falls and its place in Minnesota history. National Park Service rangers lead short walks from the visitor center out onto the lock walls and describe how the falls changed the course of history of the area and of the nation. Open seasonally, mid-June to September.

Central Minneapolis Riverfront Regional Park

Explore the riverfront through an extensive system of bicycle and walking paths on both sides of the river from Plymouth Avenue to 35W.

Mill Ruins Park

Experience dramatic historic flour mill ruins, remnants of a railroad bridge, an excavated tailrace canal, and biking and walking paths. The park is located at the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge on the west bank of the Mississippi River.

Water Works

Enjoy sweeping views and places to gather and play and restore and refresh at Water Works Park and Pavilion. The pavilion and restaurant – Owámni by The Sioux Chef – are open!

More things to do

Take a tour with Mill City Museum or Magical History Segway Tours.

Enjoy the offerings at nearby arts organizations: Guthrie Theater, Open Book, and MacPhail Center for Music.

Learn more about area attractions in the East Town Mill District and Northeast Minneapolis.