Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 hrs)

Explore the Twin Cities in Comfort and Style

The Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour offers a comprehensive look at Minnesota’s twin metropolises in just 3 hours. Priced at $550 per group (up to 2 people), this exclusive experience combines private transportation and guided walking to showcase the most exciting sights. The tour departs with pickup options and includes bottled water, making for a smooth, personalized outing. It’s ideal for those seeking a flexible, insightful tour that covers both cities’ top attractions without feeling rushed.

What truly sets this tour apart is its customized approach. The guide offers an in-depth exploration of sites like the Mill District, State Capitol, Minnehaha Falls, and popular sports venues, all while sharing engaging stories about local history, art, and culture. The private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience, making it perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers wanting an intimate, detailed overview of the Twin Cities.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide and stunning views, it’s important to note that the duration is tight for covering all stops in depth. This makes it a great introduction, but those wanting a deep dive into specific neighborhoods or attractions may prefer longer, more specialized tours. Bookings generally occur about 33 days in advance, reflecting high demand and excellent reviews.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 3-hour tour of Minneapolis and St. Paul
• Includes 16 stops, from lakes and parks to historic landmarks and sports venues
• Guided by an expert guide sharing stories of local history, art, and culture
• Private transportation and bottled water included for a comfortable experience
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 score from 35 reviews, praised for knowledge, flexibility, and views
• Suitable for small groups, couples, or those seeking a personalized, efficient overview

Start with Minneapolis’ Dynamic Downtown and Skyways

The tour begins by driving through the heart of Minneapolis, where the guide highlights the city’s skyway system and discusses ongoing changes in downtown. This gives a glimpse of the city’s modern urban landscape, setting the stage for the day’s exploration. The guide shares insights into how Minneapolis is evolving, giving travelers context for the sights ahead.

Next, the tour offers an optional stop to view stunning public art with Minneapolis’s skyline acting as a backdrop. This provides a visual treat and an opportunity to appreciate Minneapolis’s vibrant culture, especially if visitors are interested in public art or cityscapes. The flexible nature of the tour allows for such stops, weather permitting.

Visiting the Chain of Lakes, Minneapolis’s Natural Gem

A highlight of the tour is the view of the Chain of Lakes, known as the crown jewel of Minneapolis parks. Travelers see multiple lakes, with scenes of residents relaxing and enjoying outdoor activities. The guide points out the lakes’ significance and shares stories about how they became central to Minneapolis’s outdoor life.

This segment emphasizes the beauty and recreational spirit of the city, making it a favorite for nature lovers. The quick stops here give a sense of the lakes’ importance without taking up too much time, fitting well into the overall 3-hour schedule.

Visiting Minnehaha Falls and Its Historic Significance

One of the tour’s most iconic stops is Minnehaha Falls, where visitors learn why and how this natural feature has attracted visitors for over 160 years. The guide explains its history and natural beauty, making it a perfect snapshot of Minnesota’s scenic landscape. The admission is free, so no extra cost applies here.

This stop is 10 minutes long, providing enough time to appreciate the falls and hear stories about its significance. It’s an ideal moment to enjoy some fresh air and snap photos of the powerful cascading waters.

Exploring Historic Sites in St. Paul: State Capitol and Cathedral

The tour continues into St. Paul, starting with a visit to the Minnesota State Capitol. The guide details its restoration process and discusses its role as the ‘people’s house’ of Minnesota. Visitors get a quick 5-minute view, but enough time to admire its architecture and learn about its importance.

Next, the Cathedral high on the hill above downtown is highlighted for its majestic presence and the stories of the people who built it. The tour also includes a view of the largest residence in Minnesota, offering a glimpse into the state’s historic wealth and architecture.

Strolling Through Victorian Neighborhoods and Royal Residences

A drive takes travelers along Minnesota’s most concentrated Victorian neighborhoods, showcasing meticulously restored houses of various styles. The guide shares stories of state governors and prominent families, adding a layer of historical richness to the visual splendor.

This brief drive allows visitors to appreciate the architectural diversity and the city’s preservation efforts. It’s a visual highlight, especially for fans of historic homes and urban design.

The Mill District and the Mississippi River Views

From a perch at the Guthrie Theater, the tour offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River, Stone Arch Bridge, and St. Anthony Falls. This 15-minute stop features free access to enjoy the scenery while hearing stories about Minneapolis’s industrial past and the role of the flour industry.

Additional landmarks include the Rock nightclub, famous for launching performers like Prince, and the homes of professional sports teams such as the Minnesota Wild, Timberwolves, Lynx, and Twins. These stops provide a sports and entertainment perspective, rounding out the cultural landscape of the Twin Cities.

Professional Sports and University of Minnesota

The tour passes by the home of the Minnesota Wild hockey team, Minnesota United soccer club, and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. These sites highlight the vibrant sports culture and academic importance of the region. While only passing by, these views give a sense of the city’s athletic and educational spirit.

The Vikings’ stadium also features in the route, making it clear how sports are woven into local life.

Flexibility and Personalization in the Tour Experience

One of the most praised aspects from reviews is the customizable nature of the tour. The guide, Douglas Kline, adjusts stops based on interests, whether focusing more on historic sites, neighborhoods, or sports venues. The private transportation means no hassles, and bottled water keeps guests refreshed throughout.

Feedback highlights the knowledgeable storytelling and the comfortable ride, with many praising how the guide makes each stop engaging and informative. The tour’s length and pace are well-suited for those wanting a broad overview without feeling overwhelmed.

Booking, Availability, and Practical Info

This tour is generally booked about 33 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. It includes a private guide and vehicle, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. The tour is accessible for most travelers, with service animals allowed and close to public transportation options.

Since it is a private experience, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized, distraction-free environment. The tour is an excellent way for first-time visitors to get a well-rounded picture of Minneapolis and St. Paul, with flexibility to tailor the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Twin Cities Private Tour

The Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour provides a compact yet thorough introduction to Minnesota’s twin cities in just 3 hours. The combination of driving and walking, the carefully curated stops, and the knowledgeable guide make for an engaging experience.

While the tour offers a broad overview, it’s best suited for those looking for a convenient, private introduction rather than an in-depth exploration of specific neighborhoods. The positive reviews confirm the tour’s quality, especially noting the expert storytelling and beautiful views. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors or short-stay travelers eager to see the highlights with minimal fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering 16 stops in both Minneapolis and St. Paul.

What is included in the price?
The price of $550 per group includes private guided tour, private transportation, and bottled water. Admission to stops like Minnehaha Falls and the State Capitol is free.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, allowing the guide to adapt stops based on the interests of the group.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, the tour involves some walking, so mobility considerations should be kept in mind.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 33 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

What if I need to cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.