Minneapolis sits on both banks of the Upper Mississippi River, next to Saint Paul, and is known for cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Water shapes the city: there are thirteen lakes, wetlands, creeks and waterfalls, and the public park system is linked by the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. The downtown riverfront centres on Saint Anthony Falls, the only natural waterfall on the Mississippi.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple. Downtown holds the largest concentration of places to stay, the arts institutions and the professional sports venues, and it is where the city's transport connections come together. The University of Minnesota campus sits close to downtown, and South Minneapolis lies within easy reach of the centre. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what each is like for different kinds of trip.
Best areas to stay in Minneapolis
1. Downtown
Downtown is the most convenient base for a first visit. It hosts many independent and international hotel chains, ranging from the mid-range to the high-end, so you have the widest choice of places to stay in the city. Four professional sports teams play downtown, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center and the Guthrie Theater are among the city's major arts institutions.
This area suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants the sights and evening options within walking distance of their room. It is also the best choice if you are relying on public transport, since Metro Transit serves the centre and the airport lies towards the south on the city limits.
2. University of Minnesota campus
The University of Minnesota's main campus is not too far from downtown and has many mid-range options. It suits visitors with a connection to the university, and anyone who wants a quieter base while staying within easy reach of the centre.
Because it sits close to downtown, you can treat it as an alternative to the centre rather than a separate trip. If you are getting by without a car, this area keeps you inside the city and on the transport network.
3. South Minneapolis
South Minneapolis has limited accommodation options, but they are also close to downtown. It suits travellers who prefer a residential setting and do not mind a smaller choice of places to stay.
As with the campus area, the main practical point is proximity: you remain close to the centre and within the city, which matters if you are travelling without a car.
4. Saint Anthony Falls Historic District
This historic area centres on Saint Anthony Falls, which has been a focus of indigenous peoples' spirituality, commerce and industry. It is now an area of restored buildings, charming streets and natural sights.
It suits visitors who want the riverfront and the city's industrial heritage on their doorstep. Note that the sources describe this as a historic district rather than a hotel area, so treat it as a setting to stay near rather than a district with its own listings.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: the sources do not identify specific budget areas; the main saving is to stay inside the city rather than outside it, particularly if you are travelling without a car.
- Mid-range: the University of Minnesota campus has many mid-range options, and downtown also offers mid-range chains alongside its higher-end properties.
- Splurge: downtown hosts international hotel chains at the high end, alongside independent hotels.
Best area for a first visit
Downtown is the best base for a first visit. It has the widest variety of hotels, from mid-range to high-end, and puts you within reach of the city's major arts institutions and its professional sports venues. It is also the strongest choice if you are depending on public transport.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car to get around Minneapolis?
Not necessarily. Metro Transit provides the city's public transport, and travellers getting by without a car will want to avoid staying in a hotel outside the city.
Which area has the most choice of places to stay?
Downtown, which hosts many independent and international hotel chains from the mid-range to the high-end.
Where can I stay if I want a mid-range option near the university?
The University of Minnesota campus, not too far from downtown, has many mid-range options.
What is South Minneapolis like as a base?
It has limited accommodation options, but they are close to downtown.
Compare live prices for the areas above with the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.