Minneapolis is a vibrant North American city where heritage and the modern-day meet in perfect unison. On the one hand, you have its riveting milling history, on the other, you have contemporary art and a buzzing nightlife scene.
Nicknamed the “city of lakes”, you’ll find locals and travellers alike flock to the cities water holes. Minneapolis also has a rich abundance of green, open spaces and lakes for those seeking a retreat from urban life.
If you fancy yourself a bit of a culture vulture, you’ll be happy to know that the city has an outrageous number of art museums, galleries, festivals and theatres. You’ll be able to spend your days marvelling at various art forms!
But accommodation in Minneapolis can be a little on the pricey side, so it’s good to know where to stay in Minneapolis to ensure you’re getting the best vacation for YOU.
Luckily, you have me! Your expert Minneapolis travel writer – I’ve compiled the best areas to stay in the city and categorised them by interest and budget. You’ll also find my top accommodation picks and things to do in each area.
Whether you want museums, nightlife or nature, get scrollin’ – you’ll find all your answers below!
So, let’s get started with the best areas to stay in Minneapolis and find out which is best for you.
- Where to Stay in Minneapolis
- Minneapolis Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Minneapolis
- Minneapolis’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Minneapolis
- What To Pack For Minneapolis
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Minneapolis
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Minneapolis
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are the best places to stay in Minneapolis.
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Charming Urban Sanctuary – 1 Queen Bed | Best Airbnb in Minneapolis
Make your trip to Minneapolis a little quirky by staying on the only inhabited island on the Mississippi River! You get a private bathroom and are free to enjoy the rest of the house, and previous guests have applauded the awesome host. There’s lots to see and do on this island, and it’s close to Downtown.
Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites | Best Affordable Hotel in Minneapolis
This is our top pick for where to stay in Minneapolis if you want to be right in the center without splashing out. There is a fabulous pool and a sauna to unwind after a busy day of exploring, as well as an on-site bar and restaurant. You can’t fault this hotel!
Downtown East
Downtown East, also known as the Mill District, takes visitors back in time to the industrial era of the late 19th century, when Minneapolis was blossoming under its milling business.
Lowry Hill
Lowry Hills an extremely appealing neighborhood which sits within the boundaries of Calhoun-Isles and is found to the west of Downtown. It’s central enough to appease most first-time visitors as well as those looking for where to stay in Minneapolis on a budget as you can find some cheaper accommodation here.
Downtown West
Downtown West is the modern counterpart to the more historic Downtown East. This neighborhood is where you’ll find towering skyscrapers and high-rises, an expansive shopping district and some of the city’s iconic buildings.
The Warehouse District
The Warehouse District in the eastern pocket of the North Loop region along the banks of the Mississippi River. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its cool start-up vibe, innovative restaurants, craft breweries hip hangouts and gay nightspots. Without a doubt, it’s one of the coolest places to stay in Minneapolis.
St Louis Park
St Louis Park is a large neighborhood to the west of Minneapolis city center. You will find heaps of open green parklands and lakes to explore if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner city.
Minneapolis is a huge city in Minnesota, which together with St Paul’s forms what we know as the ‘Twin Cities’. The city rests on the Mississippi River and is known for its beautiful parks and lakes as well as it’s contemporary art museums, landmark skyscrapers and heritage mill buildings.
Minneapolis is split into 11 communities which are further divided into 81 unique neighborhoods. Our Minneapolis neighborhood guide explores 5 of these, to help you decide where to stay in Minneapolis.
Downtown East is our tip for where to stay in Minneapolis for your first time. The neighborhood is full of interesting sights and where you can find plenty of hotels.
If you’re after cheaper digs, we recommend Lowry Hill for where to stay in Minneapolis on a budget. As well as lower accommodation costs, this is one of the best places to stay in Minneapolis for checking out contemporary art!
For those looking to party, choose a hotel in Downtown West. Here is where you will find an expanse of late-night dining, bars and night clubs.
The Warehouse District is the coolest place to stay in Minneapolis. You can find some great AirBnBs here whilst you soak up the vibes of this innovative neighborhood.
Minneapolis has plenty of appeal for children, and we recommend St Louis Park for where to stay in Minneapolis for families.
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Minneapolis’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a look at the 5 best neighborhoods to stay in Minneapolis. They’re each a little different, so make sure you choose depending on the type of experience you’re after.
#1 Downtown East – Where to Stay in Minneapolis First Time
Downtown East, also known as the Mill District, takes visitors back in time to the industrial era of the late 19th century, when Minneapolis was blossoming under its milling business. You can learn about its legacy and check out some really fascinating museums and ruins to learn about this.
With its location on the banks of the Mississippi River, Downtown East is a prime spot for scoring some sensational river views. There are a number of green parks to relax in, and you can find more or less any cuisine along these streets. If you’re deciding where to stay in Minneapolis for your first time, Downtown East has everything you will need!
Things to See and Do in Downtown East
- Explore the historic ruins of an old mill in the urban park, Mill Ruins Park. Don’t miss the famous ‘Gold Medal Flour’ sign
- Learn about the city’s history in the flour industry through interactive exhibits at the Mill City Museum
- Find out what’s on at the Guthrie Theatre. Even if you don’t fancy the theatre, everyone should come and check out this fascinating building!
- Give your tastebuds a surprise with one of the creative flavors available at Izzy’s Ice Cream
- Check out the cool sculptures in the Gold Medal Park
- Visit the St Anthony Falls, a former natural waterfall that has since been turned into a dam since its partial collapse in 1869
- Take a walk along the Stone Arch Bridge for views across the Mississippi River and St Anthony’s Falls
- Cheer on the NFL league team Minnesota Vikings at the U.S. Bank Stadium
Radisson Red Minneapolis Downtown | Best Affordable Hotel in Downtown East
This is our top pick for where to stay in Downtown East Minneapolis. It’s walking distance to all the top sights, nearby nightlife and has cool amenities to keep you entertained such as ping pong tables and other games. We also love the bright, fresh design style of the hotel!
Aloft Minneapolis | Best Hotel in Downtown East
This contemporary, centrally located hotel has all the amenities you will need during your stay. There is a kids club for those travelling as a family, an express check-in service and funky rooms are equipped with a fridge and hot drink making facilities. There is a pool table and a swimming pool.
Sonder at East End | Best Airbnb in Downtown East
You can’t miss the striking silver brickwork of East End and this apartment puts you right in the middle of it. You’ll get the best of both worlds here – modern amenities and vibrant surroundings. This apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, in-suite laundry, and a private outdoor space. You can spend your evenings hittting the gym or taking a few laps in the outdoor pool. The apartment is clean, comfy, and even has a nice balcony overlooking the pool – perfect for soaking up the city’s vibe.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Lowry Hill – Where to Stay in Minneapolis on a Budget
Lowry Hills an extremely appealing neighborhood which sits within the boundaries of Calhoun-Isles and is found to the west of Downtown. It’s central enough to appease most first-time visitors as well as those looking for where to stay in Minneapolis on a budget as you can find some cheaper accommodation here.
Many of the top-rated attractions in Minneapolis are in fact found in Lowry Hill. You’ll find art galleries, casual coffee shops and plenty of green spaces to unwind in.
Things to See and Do in Lowry Hill
- Check out the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden which is home to over 50 quirky and fascinating works of modern art which have become icons of the city. Track down the Spoonbridge and Cherry, Hanh/Cock and LOVE
- Tap on a visit to the highly acclaimed Walker Art Centre for even more art
- Brave the line to get a scoop of gelato at Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream Cafe
- Take a twirl on the indoor skating rink at the Parade Ice Garden
- Go for walk among the tree and pools at Lowry Park
- Hang out at the locals’ favorite cafe, Caffetto Coffee House
- Pick up knick-knacks and souvenirs at Patina
- Have a brew at Sisyphus Brewing, look in advance to see if they have a comedy night on whilst you’re in town
- Retreat to Kenwood Park and neighboring Lake of the Isles, which has a sprawling lake at its center
- Tuck into American eats, craft cocktails and microbrews at the legendary restaurant, The Lowry
Cozy Uptown Suite Perfectly Located | Best Airbnb in Lowry Hill
This simple but stylish private guest suite comes with its own private deck perfect for enjoying a morning cup of coffee, winding down on or working on your laptop from. There is a compact kitchen for your personal use and a private bathroom with a free-standing tub. We love it!
300 Clifton | Best Hotel in Lowry Hill
The homely rooms in this gorgeous mansion are conveniently located for those who want to check out all the art in the Lowry Hill neighborhood. The interiors retain their 19th-century charm and it’s a very cozy retreat from the city. Modern touches include free Wi-Fi and a hot tub for guests!
MOXY Minneapolis Uptown | Best Affordable Hotel in Lowry Hill
This Uptown Minneapolis hotel near Lowry Hill is a gem – modern, with super friendly staff. The decor is beautiful, and the facilities are spot-on, with a cool aesthetic throughout. They’ve even got a bunch of games for those rainy days, plus free drink coupons that make the lounge area hard to resist. The room has great amenities and has everything you need. The real star is the bed – it’s INCREDIBLY comfortable!
#3 Downtown West – Best Area to Stay in Minneapolis for Nightlife
Downtown West is the modern counterpart to the more historic Downtown East. This neighborhood is where you’ll find towering skyscrapers and high-rises, an expansive shopping district and some of the city’s iconic buildings.
With a pub or bar on every corner, and a thriving theater hub, Downtown West is also the best neighborhood to stay in Minneapolis for nightlife. You’ll find an offering of nightclubs and gay bars to make a night of it too. You’ll have plenty to see day and night!
Things to See and Do in Downtown West
- Find out what’s on at one of the theater within the Hennepin Theater District. The Hennepin Theatre, The Pantages, The Skyway Theatre, The State Theatre, and The Orpheum Theater are all found on Hennepin Avenue
- Check out the Bob Dylan mural on S 5th Street
- Visit the Minneapolis Central Library, a feat of modern architecture
- Find out why there’s so much hype about the acoustics at the Minnesota Orchestra hall by catching a concert
- Take a self-guided audio tour of the Minneapolis City Hall
- Spend a day on Nicollet Island, which floats in the middle of the Mississippi River
- Have a drink at The Depot Tavern which was a Greyhound bus station in its former life!
- Watch a sports game or catch live music at The Pourhouse. It opens until 2am Thurs-Sat for more of a party atmosphere
- Sample exotic Hawaiian fare at Aloha Poke Co or have sushi on the roof at CRAVE
- Shop ’til you drop at the iconic Nicollet Mall
- Eat good food, drink craft beers and make an evening of it at Hop Cat
Sonder at SECOND & SECOND | Best Airbnb in Downtown West
Expect pops of color in this contemporary designed space. The apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, a private balcony, and in-suite laundry. The room is clean, comfortable, and quiet – just what you need after a day out. The location is perfect, right downtown and close to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. And the attached parking garage is a huge bonus too!
Hampton Inn & Suites | Best Affordable Hotel in Downtown West
This contemporary, 3-star hotel provides Minneapolis accommodation to suit any type of traveller. There is valet parking available, an on-site fitness suite and a friendly reception team who can point you in the right direction for where to spend your time in the city. Breakfast is included in the rate.
AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown West
Right in the heart of the city center, this comfortable 4-star hotel is surrounded by all the best landmarks and nightlife that Minneapolis has to offer. There is a swimming pool and modern gym available to guests as well as all the amenities you could possibly need in a hotel!
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Grab an eSIM!#4 The Warehouse District – Coolest Place to Stay in Minneapolis
The Warehouse District in the eastern pocket of the North Loop region along the banks of the Mississippi River. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its cool start-up vibe, innovative restaurants, craft breweries hip hangouts and gay nightspots. Without a doubt, it’s one of the coolest places to stay in Minneapolis.
With its riverside setting, a vast array of attractions and a couple of cheaper deals on accommodation, it’s the type of neighborhood that will appease anyone. Plus, it’s so close to neighboring Downtown.
Things to See and Do in the Warehouse District
- Root for local NBA basketball team, the Minnesota Timberwolves, in a game at the Target Centre
- Support local music acts at the Fine Line Music Cafe
- Eat some ‘New Nordic’ cuisine at the Bachelor Farmer then swing by their basement speakeasy, the Marvel Bar
- Take a day trip to Nicollet Island, which is right in the middle of the Mississippi River
- Follow the West River Parkway by bike, jogging or walking and score some scenic views of the Mississippi River
- Eat freshly caught, modern seafood at the Smack Shack
- Chuckle into your pint at the Acme Comedy Club
- Check out the edgy, industrial-esque Lab Theater for some high-octane or thought-provoking performances
- Dabble with cold brews, matcha, teas and ‘elixirs’ at Fairgrounds Craft Coffee and Tea
- Go cuckoo for clocks at the Fiorentino Cuckoo Clock Museum
- Enjoy Italian cuisine, oysters and craft cocktails at the casually minded Red Rabbit Minneapolis
Hewing Hotel | Best Hotel in the Warehouse District
This gorgeous boutique hotel retains a history-chic vibe with exposed brick walls, wooden beams moody lighting and vintage touches in the decor. The outdoor pool completes the hotel, and you can hire bicycles here too. This is our definitely the coolest option for where to stay in the Warehouse District.
MINNeSTAY* Sable 72 | Best Airbnb in the Warehouse District
This stylish, modern loft is a solid choice to for a romantic urban escape in vibrant Downtown Minneapolis. The apartment’s got a cozy living area with a comfy couch and retro rocking chair, a fully equipped kitchen, and in-unit washer and dryer—all with killer city views. But the real showstopper is the rooftop deck- you can soak up panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline, kick back in the outdoor seating, and fire up the BBQ stations to cook up a storm in the evenings.
Element Minneapolis Downtown North Loop | Best Luxury Hotel in the Warehouse District
The rooms at Element are clean, spacious, and super accommodating. The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help. You’re within walking distance or a quick train ride to all the city’s hotspots, with cool coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries just around the corner. The rooftop balcony is perfect for ending the evening with a drink or kicking off your day with a morning coffee—either way, the views are on point.
#5 St Louis Park – Best Neighborhood in Minneapolis for Families
St Louis Park is a large neighborhood to the west of Minneapolis city center. You will find heaps of open green parklands and lakes to explore if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner city. There are also a number of golf courses.
St Louis Park is our top pick for where to stay in Minneapolis for families. You will find some of the most affordable, family-friendly accommodation here. It’s a beautiful area to explore, whatever the season.
Things to See and Do in St Louis Park
- Explore the 15-acres of wildlife trails in the Eloise Butler Wildlife Garden (in neighboring Bryn Mayr) and check out the Quaking Bog
- Hire a kayak and take a paddle across the Brownie Lake
- Swim and hit the beaches at Cedar Lake. Explore the park by bike or on foot!
- Soak up the sun over a brew at the Utepils Brewery
- Shop or catch a movie at huge outdoor mall, The Shops at West End
- Have a family meal at the Punch Bowl Social Minneapolis
- Hike the pristine trails at Westwood Hills, where you can find a lake, forest and marshland. There’s also an educational center
- Cool down in summer at the Oak Hill Park Splash Pad water park
Ramada by Wyndham Minneapolis Golden Valley | Best Affordable Hotel in St Louis Park
The Ramada is a great budget hotel in St Louis Park, with spacious bedrooms suited to families and immaculate private bathrooms. There is a gym on-site if you want to keep on top of your exercise! Breakfast is included in the rate, and reception is open around the clock.
TownPlace Suites Minneapolis West / St Louis Park | Best Hotel in St Louis Park
This 3-star, family-friendly hotel comes with an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna and is well placed for exploring St Louis Park. Rooms come with a fridge, microwave and satellite TV. Families can choose between a queen studio or two-bedroom suite. Pets are also welcome if you fancy bringing your dog along!
3bdr, super-clean, cozy backyard, by WestEnds | Best Airbnb in St Louis Park
Rallying the crew for a big getaway in Minneapolis? This massive three-bedroom home is just the ticket. Nestled in a safe, quiet, and charming neighborhood, the place is beautifully decorated and loaded with extra amenities. There’s a playground just steps away for the kids, and plenty of fantastic local restaurants nearby to explore.
If you need more inspiration about where to stay in Minneapolis, check out these gorgeous cabins in Minnesota.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Minneapolis
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Minneapolis and where to stay.
What To Pack For Minneapolis
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Minneapolis
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a city with a lot of appeal, whatever your tastes, age or traveling style. You’ve got history, art, nature and some genuinely quirky things to see and do. No day needs to be the same when you’re in Minneapolis!
To recap our Minneapolis neighborhood guide, the Warehouse District is our top pick for where to stay in Minneapolis. This trendy area has a unique atmosphere with lots to see and do, and it’s well-connected to the rest of the city. Our top hotel pick for Minneapolis is the Stay Alfred at The Paxon. With all the amenities you could need from a hotel, an awesome location – it is easily one of the coolest places to stay in Minneapolis!
If you still need inspiration on where to stay in Minneapolis, consider checking out our guide on the best bed and breakfasts in Minnesota. We hope our guide has inspired you to make the most of your stay in Minneapolis.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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