Minneapolis is the most populous city in Minnesota, located in Hennepin County in the state's center near its eastern border. It serves as the county seat and occupies both banks of the Upper Mississippi River. The city adjoins Saint Paul, the state capital, and together they form the Twin Cities metropolitan area, which has a population of approximately 3.69 million residents.
Known as the "City of Lakes," Minneapolis features an abundance of water, including thirteen lakes, wetlands, creeks, waterfalls, and the Mississippi River. The city's public park system is connected by the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. Geographically, the city is built on relatively flat terrain over an artesian aquifer and experiences a climate characterized by cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers.