More Things to Do Near Downtown Minneapolis
More Things to Do Near Downtown Minneapolis
By Devon Cox
The North Loop, which “officially” ends at 10th Ave, has begun to push farther and farther north, into the industrial area just east of 94, before what most people commonly consider the start of the Near North neighborhood.
This fast-developing area doesn’t have an official name yet — we called several businesses and got several different answers — but we can safely say that geographically, it’s North of the North Loop, East of Near North, and packed with incredible businesses that are well worth the five-minute car ride.
PAIR NATURAL WINE AND
NORDIC FOOD AT BAR BRAVA
Duck rice porridge from Torsk at Bar Brava
Bar Brava is known for its peerless natural wine selection, but don't sleep on its ever-evolving food program. After helping launch the post-Quang dreams of Eric Pham — his grandmother opened the Vietnamese icon in 1989 — with his first Khue's Kitchen pop-up, the airy space shifted to supporting the New Nordic nods of Torsk.
Named after a kind of Scandinavian cod, the collaboration between former FIKA Café chefs Sydney Reuter and Axel Pineda dials in delightful versions of pork schnitzel, Swedish meatballs, potato dumplings, and fried smelt with pickled vegetables, togarashi seasoning and dill creme fraiche.
GO TO ONE OF THE
WORLD'S BEST BARS
A cocktail at Meteor Bar
Nondescript from the outside, Meteor has all the charm of a local dive bar, but its playful, upscale drinks garnered it a James Beard nomination in 2023. The cozy, brick-walled interior of this old bar keeps it feeling nonchalant, while the themed drinks range from full-booze to low-proof to no-proof, and boilers (a shot paired with a beer) with unique liquors from around the globe.
Meteor is serious about making incredible cocktails, but also serious about having a laid-back atmosphere. Snacks for hungry sippers include well-dressed hot dogs with toppings like kimchi mayo and fried onions or pineapple, hoisin mayo, and togarashi. Need more convincing? In May of 2024 they received a nod from the Pinnacle guide as one of the best bars in the world.
FIND A NEW FRIEND
AT MOTHER CO.
Mother Co., Plants
Mother Co. is a destination nursery for Minnesota plant lovers. Their sprawling warehouse of carefully curated and cared-for cacti, tropicals, and houseplants is a dream for those of us lucky to have a green thumb.
If that gene missed you — don't worry. Mother has plenty of low-maintenance options, and their friendly staff is always happy to assist you in picking something that fits your "what if I don't water it for three months" lifestyle.
GO TREASURE HUNTING AT
BAUER BROTHERS SALVAGE
Bauer Brothers Salvage
Sometimes, you need to pick up a dozen eggs and a new roll of duct tape on your way home from work. Sometimes, you need the entire back bar of an original Irish pub and a 1890s farm sink (with legs).
For the former, there's every store on every corner in the city. For the latter, we give you Bauer Brothers.
Even if you're not in the market for salvaged door hinges or Hollywood Regency Chandeliers, this massive, sprawling salvage complex is an incredible way to spend an afternoon. You may even find a little leaded glass window you can't leave behind.
Pro tip: If you find Bauer Brothers overwhelming, you may enjoy City Salvage, a slightly smaller operation just up the road.
TRY FEATHER BOWLING
AT PRYES BREWING
Feather bowling at Pryes Brewing
Alongside the banks of the Mississippi River is Pryes Brewing — one of the biggest taprooms in the city. They have two levels, a massive patio (complete with fire pits), a bookable sauna, and even a feather bowling lane (yes, that's a thing).
It's one of our favorite breweries to meet up with a large group, and they serve a small of menu of pizzas and shareables. Our favorite? The mini donuts. They go perfectly with the whats-not-to-like Pragmatic Pils, an easy-drinking Czech Pilsner perfect for sitting outside and staring at the river.
FIND A FOOTHOLD AT THE
MINNEAPOLIS BOULDERING PROJECT
Minneapolis Bouldering Project
Curious about climbing? The Minneapolis Bouldering Project, with its friendly, teal-blue climbing prisms, is the perfect place for experienced climbers as well as first-timers. Bouldering is a type of climbing that is close-to-the-ground, and performed without ropes (there are plenty of cushy mats to catch you if, not when, you fall).
The Bouldering Project also offers yoga and fitness classes, including barre, HIIT, and strength, as well as a full cardio and weightlifting gym. And you won't be going it alone; there are instructors on-hand to teach in either group or one-on-one settings.
Day passes, punch cards, and full membership are all available.
UNWIND ALONG THE
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
A sunset along the Mississippi River / Lane Pelovsky, courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
This isn't a specific place so much as it is a reminder. No matter where you are in downtown Minneapolis, you're not far from the river. Catch the riverfront trail on the north side or the south side and take a long stroll.
Just don't be surprised if a few strangers want to save hello; that's called Minnesota nice!
Devon Cox is Explore Minnesota’s Digital Strategy Manager. You can spot her carting her public radio tote bag to Twin Cities bakeries, bookstores, and vintage shops. She thinks you should go out to eat tonight (sit at the bar).