15 Fantastic Walking Tours In Minneapolis Saint Paul

Minneapolis Saint Paul offers some of the most engaging walking experiences in the Midwest. Whether you want to explore downtown landmarks, stroll through historic neighborhoods, or learn the secrets behind the city’s buildings, this pair of cities is perfect for walking tours. What makes Minneapolis and Saint Paul special is their blend of modern architecture, vintage neighborhoods, and artistic flair, all within a compact area that’s easy to explore on foot. We particularly enjoy tours that combine city highlights with local flavor, such as the Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour, which offers a rundown, or the Minneapolis Past and Present Walking Tour that traces historic sites along the river.

For those seeking a uniquely Minnesotan experience, the Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars provides a fun look at local taverns with a side of history. Meanwhile, art lovers should not miss the Minneapolis Walking Art Tour, which showcases the city’s outdoor sculptures and galleries. With options ranging from 1.5-hour ghost walks to 3-hour foodie adventures, there’s something here for every type of traveler.

1. Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

At number 1 on our list, the Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour is a standout for its thorough coverage of the city’s main sights. Led by a lively, friendly guide, this 3-hour stroll takes you through downtown, highlighting iconic spots like Target Field, First Avenue, and the IDS Crystal Court. The tour peels back the layers of Minneapolis’ past and present, including insights into the Skyway System footbridges and the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Guests love the personalized attention from guides like John O’Sullivan, who is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge—”We got a good overview of the city’s highlights and neighborhoods,” says one reviewer. This tour is perfect for first-timers and those wanting a broad introduction to Minneapolis. It also includes photo stops with fantastic river views, and the guide offers recommendations for your remaining stay.

Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Minneapolis, this tour delivers a lot of value for its $79 price tag.

2. Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

Number 2 is the Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour. It’s ideal if you’re visiting during winter or rainy days because it explores the city’s famous indoor skyway network. The tour covers about 9 miles of climate-controlled walkways connecting 80 blocks downtown, making it a great way to see the city without braving the weather. Highlights include the Foshay Tower, artwork by Chihuly, and City Hall. Jessica, the guide, is noted for her enthusiasm and deep knowledge, adding a personal touch to the experience. Guests mention how much they learned about Minneapolis architecture and art, with one reviewer calling it “an excellent detail-filled tour.” For a city that’s often better experienced inside on cold days, this tour offers a unique perspective.

Bottom Line: The skyway system makes this a practical, comfortable way to see downtown Minneapolis, especially in winter or rain.

3. Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour

Number 3 offers a private, flexible way to explore both cities with this Highlights Private Tour. For $550, your small group (up to 2 people) can enjoy a 3-hour mix of walking and driving through key neighborhoods like the Mill District, Lake of the Isles, and the State Capitol. The tour includes visits to major sites like Xcel Energy Center and Minnehaha Falls, with plenty of local stories from your guide. It’s perfect for those who want a tailored experience, combining the comfort of private transportation with in-depth commentary. Guests appreciate the personalized attention, with reviews noting how guides like Douglas Kline make Minneapolis’s history come alive. It’s a good fit for travelers with specific interests or limited time.

Bottom Line: For a customized, private look at Minneapolis and St. Paul, this flexible tour balances sightseeing with comfort.

4. The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour is perfect for those curious about Minnesota’s capital. This 3-hour walk covers the historic Summit Hill neighborhood, landmarks like the Minnesota State Capitol, and the Landmark Center. The tour also includes a coffee break at a local café, giving you a chance to relax and chat about the city’s secrets. Guides share stories about notable figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald and the city’s Prohibition-era past, which adds color to the architecture and streets. Reviewers praise the well-paced, informative nature of the tour, saying it offers a solid overview of Saint Paul’s character. It’s especially good for history buffs and architecture lovers.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging introduction to Saint Paul’s historic districts and cultural landmarks for $79.

5. Minneapolis Past and Present Walking Tour

The Minneapolis Past and Present Walking Tour is a concise 2-hour stroll that reveals surprising stories about the city’s evolution. Starting at the Stone Arch Bridge, this tour explores the connection between Minneapolis’s early days and its current vibrancy. Highlights include the IDS Building, a core part of the Skyway system, and the famous First Avenue & 7th St Entry, known for legendary music performances. Guests love the approachable, friendly guide and the mix of architecture, music, and local anecdotes. It’s great if you’re short on time but want a meaningful overview. The tour’s value is high at $64.99, especially considering the depth of insider knowledge shared.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick yet insightful introduction to Minneapolis’s past and present.

6. Twin Cities Walking Tour: Uncover Hidden Minneapolis Bars

Number 6 combines history and fun on a Bar-hopping tour. This 3-hour walk takes you through the Warehouse District, Target Field, and North Loop, exploring some of Minneapolis’s best dive bars and historic taverns. Your guide shares stories about the city’s nightlife and architecture, making it more than just a pub crawl. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and unique venues like Nye’s Bar and the Scandinavian-influenced Hewing Hotel. It’s perfect if you enjoy combining history with socializing. The tour is flexible enough for sports fans to stop at nearby stadiums beforehand.

Bottom Line: A lively, social way to learn about Minneapolis’s drinking scene and history.

7. Minneapolis Afternoon Snack and Walking Tour

For a tasty afternoon, the Snack & Walking Tour is a great pick. Over 2 hours, you’ll visit four local restaurants in North Loop and Northeast Minneapolis, sampling some of the best regional dishes. This tour combines culinary delights with stories about the city’s immigrant roots and modern food scene. Guests rave about the quality of the food and the engaging guide. It’s ideal for food lovers wanting an active way to taste Minneapolis’s diverse cuisine. The small-group format and focus on local eateries make it a memorable experience for about $90 per person.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to combine walking, eating, and cultural insights in a single outing.

8. Walking St. Paul Summit Ave. Victorian Homes Private Tour

Number 8 is a private tour of Summit Avenue’s Victorian mansions, offering a personalized look at some of Minnesota’s most historic architecture. For $195, up to 8 people can explore at their own pace, with a guide sharing stories of wealthy families and the styles they favored—Queen Anne, Romanesque, Georgian Revival, and more. The tour includes stops at the James J. Hill House (not included in the ticket) and the beautiful Summit Lookout Park. Reviewers say guides make the history come alive, and the private format allows in-depth questions. It’s best suited for architecture buffs and history lovers.

Bottom Line: An intimate, detailed look at Saint Paul’s Victorian architecture, perfect for small groups or couples.

9. Minneapolis Walking Art Tour – Heart of Downtown

Art lovers will appreciate the Downtown Minneapolis Art Tour. Over approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, the guide takes you from Guthrie Theatre to Gold Medal Park, showcasing public murals, sculptures, and outdoor installations like the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry. The walk offers stunning city views and plenty of photo ops. Many reviewers mention how the guide’s enthusiasm makes the art come alive. This tour is ideal if you’re interested in outdoor art and urban design, with a relaxed pace that lets you soak in the creative spirit of Minneapolis.

Bottom Line: A visual feast for outdoor art and architecture fans, perfect for a short, inspiring stroll.

10. Walking F. Scott Fitzgerald’s St. Paul Life & Homes Private Tour

Number 10 offers a private, 2-hour exploration of the life and homes of F. Scott Fitzgerald. Meeting at The Gnome Craft Pub, you’ll stroll through the neighborhood where Fitzgerald lived, learning about his formative years in Saint Paul and his career. Your guide shares stories about his childhood, social clubs, and the Victorian lifestyle he experienced. Reviewers find the guide’s knowledge engaging and appreciate the leisurely pace. This tour is ideal for literary fans and those interested in the personal side of Fitzgerald’s story. It offers an intimate look at the city’s influence on his writing.

Bottom Line: A specialized tour perfect for literature fans wanting an up-close look at Fitzgerald’s Saint Paul roots.

11. Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis

For a spooky twist, the Ghost Walking Tour explores Minneapolis’s haunted spots, including City Hall, Mill Ruins Park, and the Foshay Tower. Walkers hear ghost stories and legends about the city’s dark side, with stories of mysterious disappearances and spectral sightings. The tour lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours and is especially fun after sunset. Reviewers say the guide, Mad Tom, is excellent at storytelling, making the eerie stories both fun and engaging. It’s a great choice for those interested in supernatural tales or just looking for a different perspective on the city.

Bottom Line: An entertaining, spooky way to explore Minneapolis’s haunted history—ideal for a different kind of walking tour experience.

12. Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour

Number 12 is a private 2-hour tour focusing on the riverfront’s significance. For $349, your small group will meet at the Guthrie Theater and walk along the Mississippi, learning about the river’s role in shaping Minneapolis’s growth. The guide shares stories about James J. Hill, Mill City, and the city’s early industries. Guests appreciate the flexibility and personalized attention. This tour is best for those interested in industrial history and scenic river views, with a focus on storytelling rather than just sightseeing.

Bottom Line: An intimate, detailed look at Minneapolis’s river history, perfect for history buffs and river lovers.

13. Spirits of Summit Avenue Walking Tour

The Spirits of Summit Avenue offers a 2-hour look at the Gilded Age mansions and haunted stories of Saint Paul’s most famous street. With only one review rating it 1/5, we recommend approaching this tour with caution. It promises to explore the shadowy side of the wealthy families who once lived there and uncover paranormal tales linked to the mansions. The tour is designed for those fascinated by Victorian architecture and ghost stories.

Bottom Line: If you’re intrigued by haunted mansions and Victorian legends, this may be an interesting, if not fully reviewed, addition to your list.

14. Minneapolis Marvels European Cultural Walk

This relatively new tour, Minneapolis Marvels, offers a cultural exploration aimed at Europeans visiting Minneapolis. It takes in landmarks like the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Walker Art Center, emphasizing arts and architecture. The tour is about 2 hours and designed to showcase the city’s artistic vitality—highlighting sculptures like Spoonbridge and Cherry and public art installations. Though reviews are currently absent, the focus on European cultural themes makes this a distinctive choice for art and architecture fans.

Bottom Line: An arts-focused walk perfect for art lovers interested in Minneapolis’s public sculptures and cultural venues.

15. Minneapolis Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Finally, foodies will enjoy the Walking Food Tour, which combines walking with tasting Minneapolis’s culinary scene. You’ll visit four local restaurants over three hours, sampling everything from the city’s top-ranked pizza and classic Midwest dishes to international flavors. Led by a passionate local guide, this tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s evolving food culture. Reviews highlight the quality of food and the guide’s storytelling. It’s great for those who prefer a savory approach to sightseeing.

Bottom Line: A delicious way to explore Minneapolis’s food scene while walking through its lively neighborhoods.

How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Minneapolis Saint Paul

Picking the right tour depends on what you want most from your experience. If you’re keen on a comprehensive intro to both cities’ highlights, the Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour is a good bet. For winter or rainy days, the Skyway Tour keeps you dry while covering the city’s architecture. History buffs will enjoy the private Victorian tours, while food lovers should consider the Snack and Food Tour. Budget-conscious travelers can also opt for shorter, focused walks like the Past and Present Tour.

Think about your physical comfort and interests: urban architecture, historic homes, or culinary delights. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, and early reservations can help you secure small-group or private options. Also, consider the weather — many tours are best enjoyed in mild seasons, but indoor and covered options abound.

To sum it up, Minneapolis Saint Paul offers a diverse array of walking tours suited to different interests. From city highlights and art walks to haunted tales and culinary adventures, there’s something to satisfy every curiosity. For first-time visitors, the Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour provides an excellent overview, while history enthusiasts should not miss the St. Paul Victorian Homes. Foodies and nightlifers will find the Food & Bar Tours or Snack Tour particularly appealing.

We recommend booking early, especially during busy months or holiday periods. With so many options, you’re sure to find a walking adventure that makes your Minneapolis Saint Paul visit memorable—preferably with comfortable shoes and a curious mind.