28 Romantic Things to do in Minneapolis
Are you looking for some romantic things to do in Minneapolis for your next getaway? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Minneapolis is a great city for a romantic getaway, and there are plenty of things to do to make it even more special.
Here are 28 romantic things to do in Minneapolis that are perfect for a romantic getaway:
Take a bike ride through Minneapolis.
Minneapolis is one of the most bike-friendly towns in the country. Thanks in part to the bike path, city parkways, and the Nice Ride Bike Program.
Ride along the Chain of Lakes, a bike trail stretching Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bda Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), and Lake Harriet. The trial is 15 miles.
For something more extreme, head over to Theodore Wirth Park or Brownie Lakes mountain bike trails. They have single-track courses that will get the adrenalin going!
See Related: 40 Scenic Bike Trails in the Twin Cities
Go ice skating at one of the many outdoor rinks.
Looking for a fun activity to do in the winter? Check out one of the many outdoor rinks! Ice skating is a great way to get your heart rate up and have some fun. You can find rinks all over the city, so there’s sure to be one close to you.
Most places will also rent skates. My favorite place to skate is at Centennial Lakes after the sun goes down. This charming skating rink is free if you have skates.
The park has three ponds with tunnels under the roadways connecting them all. On each end, you’ll find yourself surrounded by office buildings lit up at night. It’s magical. When you are done, warm up by the stone fireplace inside.
See Related: The Best Ice Skating in Minneapolis: Winter Fun in Minnesota
Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art and explore the many different exhibits.
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is a museum that has a collection of over 33,000 pieces. It is quite the place to explore for any art lover.
There are many different exhibits and each one will take you on an adventure into the world of art. You can find out about everything from ancient history to modern times in this museum.
Some people might not be aware that there is an entire floor dedicated just to photography and other media arts.
This floor has a lot of information about how artists use these types of media in their work as well as some examples from different artists around the world.
Go for a romantic walk through one of the many beautiful parks in the city.
Minneapolis is filled with small parks to explore. From places like Lake Nokomis Park more public lakes to walk around to Theodore Wirth Regional Park with its nature trails. These two places have great walking trails.
You can also explore Harriet Lake and Bde Maka Ska Lake. They both have great walking paths open year-round to take a stroll in. These two lakes are in uptown, giving you access to great dining after you are done!
Visit the Stone Arch Bridge and take in the stunning views of the city.
The Stone Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Minneapolis. It spans the Mississippi River and is a great place to visit for anyone who wants to enjoy views of the city.
After crossing the Stone Arch Bridge make sure to stop at the Mill Ruins site. It’s a beautiful park on the site of the Pillsbury flour mill.
It’s a beautiful place to have a date night.
Have a picnic in one of the many scenic spots in the city.
Nothing is more fun than having a picnic with your significant other. Pack up the picnic basket with all your favorites, grab a blanket and head out to one of Minneapolis’s great parks.
Minnehaha Falls is a great location to do just that. They have tons of green space, as well as picnic tables.
After enjoying a meal, take a walk over to the waterfall. During winter months the waterfall is spectacular. In the summertime, you can go down to the base of the falls and even hike the trails to the Mississippi River.
Go for a romantic dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in Minneapolis.
An excellent way to spend a romantic evening with your loved one is to go for dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in Minneapolis.
This is an old tradition that has been around for many years, and it’s still popular today. The best part is that there are so many excellent restaurants in Minneapolis to choose from, making it easy for you to find the perfect place for your first date or anniversary.
The most romantic restaurants in Minneapolis are often full of ambiance, which can make you feel like you’re in another world. There are plenty of options including those with live music and a view of the city skyline.
Some of my favorite romantic spots with great food are the Broders’ Pasta Bar, P.S. Steak, Aster Cafe & Demi.
Take a stroll through the Nicollet Mall and do some shopping.
Nicollet Mall is the most famous shopping district in Minneapolis. It is located in the heart of downtown, and it has over 130 stores, restaurants, and shops.
The mall is open every day from 10 am to 9 pm. Some of its most popular stores are Macy’s, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Apple Store, and Nike.
The mall also has a number of restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines such as American food, Asian cuisine, and Italian food.
Attend a show at one of the many theaters in the city.
One of the best date nights in Minneapolis is always attending the theatre. Seeing Broadway-style performances like Les Misérables, Hairspray, the Lion King or Chicago are memories you’ll never forget.
Minneapolis is home to many theaters, including the Guthrie Theater, Orpheum Theatre, and more. Explore the city with your date and attend a show at one of these venues.
With downtown at your fingertips, make sure to eat at one of the great restaurants nearby.
Go on a scenic boat ride on Lake Minnetonka.
Lake Minnetonka is a popular tourist destination for many locals and people from out of town. It is a great place to go on a scenic boat ride and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.
There are plenty of tours that offer this experience, so it is easy to find one that fits your schedule and your type. My two favorite tour companies are Paradise Charter Cruises or Wayzata Bay Chartres.
The alternative to a bigger tour is to rent Swan Paddle Boat on Lake Nakomis. These light up at night and it’s the perfect way to enjoy some alone time on the lake.
Visit the Como Zoo and see the many different animals.
The Como Zoo is a zoo in St. Paul, Minnesota, United States. It was founded in 1884 and is home to many different animals from all over the world.
The Como Zoo has been voted as one of the best zoos in America by USA Today and one of the top 10 zoos in the world by Time magazine. It is also home to more than 1,300 animals representing about 165 species.
The Como Zoo is more than just a zoo. It also has a botanical garden attached, with a walking trail outside. This is a great place for a romantic getaway. The best part is it’s free so you’ll have plenty of money for a dinner afterward.
Go on a hot air balloon ride and see the city from above.
One of the most romantic things you can do in Minneapolis is to go on a hot air balloon ride. You will see the city from a different perspective and get to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
A hot air balloon ride is not just about going up into the sky. It is also about getting a bird’s eye view of the city below you, and it is also about being close to nature. A hot air balloon ride is one of those things that will make your date night really special.
There are three companies near Minneapolis that offer rides; Aamodt’s Hot Air Balloon Rides, Stillwater Balloon, and Balloons Ascensions Unlimited. It doesn’t matter which one you choose, one thing is for sure, it will be an adventure you never forget!
Take a walk through the Normandale Japanese Garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Normandale Japanese Garden is a beautiful place to spend time with your significant other. The garden is filled with colorful flowers and plants that are carefully groomed and cared for by the gardeners. There are also trees, waterfalls, and ponds that add to the serenity of this place.
The Normandale Japanese Garden is located in Edina near the Normandale Community College campus. It is open from dawn to dusk every day of the week for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Have some laughs at a local comedy or improv show.
Minneapolis is a hotbed of comedy entertainment with new clubs popping up all the time. They make for a great night out. I have a couple of favorite locations, the Comedy Corner Underground and the Huge Improv Theatre.
Comedy Corner Underground is a comedy club in Minneapolis that has been in operation since 1983. They have live comedy shows every night of the week and offer classes to people who want to improve their skills in stand-up comedy.
The HUGE Improv Theater is a theater for improv comedy that has been around for about 20 years. They have workshops and classes offered for people who want to learn more about improv, as well as performances where you can watch the comedians perform live on stage.
Go on a wine-tasting tour at one of the many wineries in the area.
Wine tastings are the perfect way to spend time with your significant other. There are many different types of wines that you can taste and you can even bring some home as well. It’s a great experience for both newbies and experts alike!
If this is your first item at a wine tasting, don’t worry. They do a great job of explaining the different wines and what they pair best with.
Minnesota has some great wineries all a short drive from Minneapolis. Some of the best places are in Waconia MN.
You can visit three in one adventure. Schram Vineyards, The Winery at Sovereign Estate and Parley Lake Winery. These wineries have both indoor and outdoor seating.
On a nice summer day, sit outside with your glass, enjoy the stunning lakeside views or play a game of bocce ball.
Visit the Minnesota State Fair and enjoy all the food and fun.
The Minnesota State Fair is a tradition that has been around for over 150 years. The fair is held the 10 days before Labor Day, but it’s a great time. Stroll along the midway and enjoy some rides, try some new foods or take in a concert.
There is so much to see and do at the MN State Fair. If you can’t wait for the fair to start up, there are county fairs going on all summer long.
Take in the smells at the Lyndale Park Rose Garden
The Lyndale Park Rose Garden is an oasis in the middle of the city.
The park is home to more than 1,000 rose bushes of more than 100 varieties. The garden is open from dawn to dusk every day, and admission is free.
The roses are beautifully arranged in rows that are separated by different colors and flower types.
It’s the perfect place to take your date for a romantic stroll through the Gardens.
Play a round of mini golf at one of the many excellent courses in the city.
There is nothing better than enjoying yourself during a game of mini-golf. Never have I laughed so much on a date than this. Minneapolis has some great destinations.
Can Can Wonderland is a fun place for a date. This indoor mini-golf course is so much fun! They have artist inspired course that is quirky and fun.
After golfing, see what’s playing on stage or enjoy old-fashioned arcade games including pinball machines! They also have a great bar filled with fun drinks!
During the summer, you have to go check out Big Stone Mini golf in Minnetrista. They have a whimsical course inspired by artist sculptures. After golfing play a game of oversized chess, and visit with the animals.
Find a mini golf course near you: 24 Best Mini Golf in Minnesota | Fun any time of year!
Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and see the beautiful gardens.
This is a great place for anyone who loves flowers, plants, and trees. It is a great place to go on a date or have a family day out.
The Arboretum has many different gardens that are all beautifully designed. One of the most popular gardens is the Japanese Garden with its beautiful water features and Koi fish ponds. Stroll through a hedge maze, or find some cool sculptures inside.
Go for a hike on one of the many trails in the city.
Are you nature lovers? This is a great way to spend a romantic date night in Minneapolis. Hiking is a great activity for couples because it’s not only fun and exciting, but you may find some hidden waterfalls and treasures along the way.
There are a lot of options all over the Twin Cities area to hike. My favorite waterfall hike is to Shadow Falls in Paul. It’s an advantage to find it.
For a cave adventure, you need to check out the Stillwater Boom Site!
If you are looking for a fun winter hike, head over to the hidden slot canyon at Crosby Farm in St Paul.
See Related: 21 Best Hikes Near Minneapolis and St Paul
Attend a game at one of the many sports stadiums in the city.
Minneapolis is home to some of the best sporting events. Between the Vikings in the Fall, Wild and Timberwolves in the Winter, and Twins in the Summer you have date night opportunities year around.
I love scoring some inexpensive tickets to a Twins Game, getting dollar hot dogs and enjoying a drink at Target Field.
Another great idea is to head over to St Paul for a Saint Paul Saints game. The baseball is fun to watch, with lots of crowd entertainment. Plus you are close to all the action.
Go to the Mall of America and do some shopping and sightseeing.
The Mall of America is the largest mall in the United States. It is located in Bloomington, Minnesota. The mall has over 500 stores and tons of great restaurants and entertainment to keep you busy any time of year.
From a dating perspective, there is more than just shopping! Do some mini golf, visit Sea Life Aquarium, drive Go-Karts at Fair on 4 or ride a few rides at Nickelodeon Universe.
There are great dining options too. If you want you can even see a comedy show there. The MOA is a great date night location especially during winter because you won’t have to bundle up!
Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and see the many different sculptures.
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a great place to visit and see many different sculptures. Some of the sculptures are from around the world and some are from Minnesota.
Take a stroll through the park and ponder each of the statues. Take some cute pictures with the famous Spoon Bridge and Cherry or the blue cock.
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free to enter and always a good time.
Go to a Drive-In Movie Theater
There is nothing more classic that a Drive-in Movie Theatre for a date night. Grab some blankets and a few snacks and enjoy double features under the stars.
Minnesota is home to six theatres, all around the State, but there are two close by Minneapolis.
See Related: Drive In Theaters in MN: Five Locations To Visit This Summer
Explore the Science Museum of Minneapolis
The Science Museum of Minneapolis is a fun time for everyone and makes a great date night experience. You’ll feel like a kid again.
The museum was founded in 1900 and it has been completely revamped in 1998. The museum has five floors and its goal is to provide visitors with an understanding of how the world around them works.
It is filled with interactive exhibits that are focused on math, science, and engineering. Learn about the biology and the human body and even see dinosaurs.
When it comes to date night, the best time to come is during the week after 3 pm or on the weekends. Otherwise, you’ll be flooded with field trips.
Go on a Segway tour with HumanOnaStick™ Segway Tours and see the city in a unique way.
It is not often that you get to see the city from a different perspective. A Segway tour with HumanOnaStick™ Segway Tours is a great way to do it.
The tour will take you through the most interesting parts of the city, and you will be able to see things that are usually hidden from view.
These tours are so much fun, you gotta try them!
Find a Distillery or a local brewery and try something made locally.
A distillery is a perfect place for a date night. You can enjoy a tour of the distillery, learn about the process of making liquor, and drink some fantastic drinks.
You can also do some shopping in the gift shop and browse through their selection of liquors to purchase as souvenirs or gifts.
Some great distilleries are the Stillheart Distillery and Cocktail Lounge, Royal Foundry Craft Spirits, and the Du Nord Social Spirits!
The Minneapolis Distilleries are a great place for an evening out with your significant other.
Visit the Minnesota Zoo and see the many different animals.
The Minnesota Zoo is an animal-focused zoo and not just for kids! It’s also a great place to take your significant other.
The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals in over 60 different exhibits. Take a walk through the grounds and enjoy some of the great attractions. This zoo has five different zones,
The Minnesota Zoo offers an assortment of attractions and exhibits. There are many different animals to see and experience, including dolphins, penguins, red pandas, and many more.
The zoo also provides education programs for children and adults alike.
What are you waiting for?
These are just a few of the many romantic things to do in Minneapolis. Your next date night should be epic, no excuses! No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time and create some wonderful memories.
