Minneapolis tends to get a bad rap for being cold and not enough attention for being cool. The Mini Apple provides big-city culture and fun in a smaller package. For true city kids, there are tons of walkable neighborhoods to choose from in Minneapolis proper. However, a modest metro population makes everything more accessible, even to those who want to spread out in the suburbs. From fantastic infrastructure to year-round outdoor activities, here are 10 reasons you should move to Minneapolis – and why you’ll love it.
1. The grass is greener
In fact, it’s green on both sides of the fence! Minneapolis has more than 270 parks, and 98% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of one (compared to a national average of only 55%). Because of this and other factors like park amenities, the city’s park system was ranked fifth best in the country in 2022 by Trust for Public Land. Minnehaha Falls and Loring Park are two favorites for city dwellers who want to escape into nature without going anywhere.
For those who want to venture farther out, check out the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, run by the University of Minnesota and wander the beautiful gardens, take a nature class, or stop by the AppleHouse to shop for the U’s signature creation: the Honeycrisp apple.
2. Holiday heaven
Recently, WalletHub ranked the metro area 15th best winter holiday destination. If you move to Minneapolis, not only will you get a white Christmas, but there are plenty of outdoor celebrations if you want to do more than just admire it through the window. Classics include downtown Minneapolis’ Holidazzle festival and Bentleyville, a walk-through holiday light display on Lake Superior’s North Shore.
If you’d rather stay toasty, take the family to the drive-through musical light show Christmas in Color or enjoy some adult fun with Brews n’ Bulbs, a holiday bus tour through the Cities. Great entertainment and food options also make Minneapolis an amazing place to…