Area continues to take readers on a week-long journey to some lesser-know American cities to uncover the gems. Today, Area informant, Missy Bemm, reveals the rich and varied culture of Minneapolis.
Are Minnesotans really "nice"? Discover for yourself as you witness their emergence from winter hibernation on May 8 - opening day of the Mill City Farmers Market in downtown Minneapolis. In addition to organic and locally produced foods, this lesser-known market offers prime viewing of locals in their natural environment. Arrive hungry because you don't want to go without tasting Aunt Else's Aebleskiver.
Connected to the market is the Mill City Museum where you can learn about the surrounding historic landmarks and explore what helped fuel the growth of Minneapolis. Before you leave, don't forget to take a step inside the Guthrie Theater that hosts one of the best views of the city. From the "Endless Bridge" you can see the Mississippi River, the raging falls, historical landmarks, mill ruins, grain silos and architecture that helped shape Minneapolis into the beautiful city it is today.
All this culture within a one-block radius - it's the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning.
While in town, sleep at Le Méridien Chambers Minneapolis. No mere design hotel or 1990s-style boutique, this is an "art hotel," where the art collection, not the interior design, is the focus. And the Chambers' collection leaves most New York hotels (most hotels anywhere, really) in the dust: Minnesota is probably the last place you'd expect to see one of Damien Hirst's formaldehyde-preserved carcasses, but here you'll find his Judas Iscariot (a rather grim-looking decayed cow's head) along with works by other artists.
