Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

Explore the Largest Skyway System in the World for $79

The Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour offers an engaging way to experience downtown Minneapolis, connecting 80 city blocks over more than 9 miles of enclosed walkways. This 2-hour 15-minute mobile ticket tour is designed to be accessible year-round, making it ideal for visiting during winter, rainy days, or hot weather.

Priced at $79 per person, the tour is highly recommended, with 100% approval from 36 reviews. It usually books 29 days in advance, showing solid interest and demand. The tour is perfect for those who want to see the city’s architecture, art, and history without braving the outdoor elements, though it involves walking up to two miles with breaks—so comfortable shoes are a must.

We note that this tour supports a woman-owned local business, emphasizing a community-focused approach. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to explore downtown Minneapolis’s indoor treasures.

Key Points

• Largest, contiguous skyway system in the world, spanning over 9 miles and 80 city blocks
• Two-hour, 15-minute walking tour with mobile ticket purchase
• Stops include iconic buildings like the Foshay Tower, Capella Tower, and IDS Building
• Art and architecture highlight the tour, including artworks by Chihuly and Jason Krugman
• Tour includes views from the Foshay Tower’s outdoor observation deck (admission not included)
• Small group size with a maximum of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention

Starting at the Foshay Tower with Stunning City Views

The tour begins at the historic Foshay Tower, where visitors ascend into the skyway system from its second story. This building’s art deco architecture makes a striking first impression. After exploring the skywalks, you return to the Foshay Tower at the end of the tour, with the option to visit its 31st-floor outdoor observation deck for panoramic views of Minneapolis (admission not included).

The Foshay Tower sets the tone for a tour focused on architecture, history, and urban design. Visitors appreciate the chance to see the city’s skyline from above, especially in winter, when outdoor sightseeing is less appealing.

Walking into the City’s Original Skyway

The original skyway connects early parts of the system, marking the beginning of the city’s indoor walkways. Walking through this historic passage offers insight into how the system started and evolved. This stop provides context on how the skyways were created to adapt to Minneapolis’s climate and urban development.

Art and Light at Capella Tower

Next, the tour visits Capella Tower, home to eye-catching artwork by light sculptor Jason Krugman and glasswork by Chihuly. These art installations create a striking contrast against the modern architecture. Visitors often comment on how the artwork enhances the walk and adds visual interest inside the skyways.

Discovering Public Art at Minneapolis Public Service Building

The Minneapolis Public Service Building features a notable public art collection, making it a key highlight for art lovers. The artworks reflect the city’s community spirit and creative energy. This stop provides an opportunity to appreciate Minneapolis’s public art scene without leaving the indoor environment.

Visiting City Hall and the Federal Courthouse

While the Minneapolis City Hall is not directly connected to the skyway, it links via an underground tunnel to the Federal Courthouse. Inside the City Hall rotunda, visitors can rub the big toe of the Father of Waters statue for good luck, adding a fun local tradition to the visit. This stop emphasizes Minneapolis’s architectural grandeur and civic pride.

The Westin Minneapolis and Its Historic Lobby

The Westin Minneapolis stands out as a historic bank building turned modern hotel. The preserved elements of its original lobby offer a glimpse into the city’s architectural past. Visitors enjoy seeing these historic features integrated into a contemporary hotel setting.

The Transit Mall and Public Art Displays

The mile-long transit mall running through downtown Minneapolis once served as a prominent shopping district. Today, it is lined with public art and populated by bars and restaurants during warmer months. The tour highlights this street’s transformation and its role in the city’s social life.

Rebranded Dayton’s Project and its Retail Revival

The tour includes a visit to the rebranded Dayton’s, now known as The Dayton’s Project. This historic department store has been revitalized to serve modern shoppers while respecting its heritage. It showcases how Minneapolis blends tradition with contemporary retail trends.

The IDS Center and the Crystal Court

The IDS Center, the tallest building in Minneapolis since 1972, features the Crystal Court, which is the heart of the skyway system. Travelers appreciate seeing the interconnected skywalks from within the world’s tallest building. The lobby’s architecture and the skyway connections are visual highlights.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at 10:00 am from the W Minneapolis – The Foshay, located at 821 S Marquette Ave. It ends back at the same meeting point, with most of the walking taking place inside the skyways and buildings. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially considering the walking involved. The tour’s timing makes it an excellent choice for a morning activity, and the free cancellation policy allows for flexibility if weather or plans change.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good accessibility and no major physical requirements noted.

The Personal Touch: Knowledgeable Guides and Engaging Storytelling

Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm. The guide uses tools like before-and-after photos to illustrate the city’s development, making the history tangible. The small group format fosters interaction and personalized attention, creating a more engaging experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Downtown Minneapolis

What sets this tour apart is its focus on the interconnected skyway system, a defining feature of Minneapolis’s urban landscape. Visitors learn how the system was designed to combat the cold climate and how it has become a vital part of the city’s identity. The art installations, historic buildings, and city views make this a comprehensive and visually stimulating exploration.

This tour is especially valuable for first-time visitors who want an inside look at downtown’s architecture and art, or those who want a comfortable way to see the city in bad weather. It also appeals to architecture enthusiasts and urban explorers eager to understand Minneapolis’s unique city plan.

Final Thoughts on the Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour offers a well-paced, informative, and visually rich experience that highlights one of the city’s most distinctive features. Its affordable price and small group size make it an attractive option for those seeking a personalized tour.

While it is primarily indoors and involves walking, it provides ample opportunities to see art, architecture, and city views without exposure to harsh weather. This tour is ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and urban explorers who want an intimate look inside Minneapolis’s downtown core.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, the tour is perfect for winter as it takes place mainly inside the skyways, protecting you from the cold.

Are there any additional costs?
Admission to the Foshay Tower observation deck is not included, but the tour itself costs $79.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, covering up to two miles of walking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking. Bringing water is also advised.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Mpls City & Skyway Tours, a local, woman-owned small business.

Is the tour accessible for most people?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be manageable for a wide audience.

What makes this tour special?
The tour’s focus on art, architecture, and the skyway system offers a unique inside look at Minneapolis’s downtown, rarely experienced from street level.