Location
MINNEAPOLIS POINTS OF INTEREST
Attendees at the AAAR 31st Annual Conference will not be disappointed with the variety of attractions which are located within a short walking distance of the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis.
The starting point of the main shopping area, Nicollet Mall, is located outside the front door of the hotel. This pedestrian and transit mall offers a large concentration of shops, restaurants, galleries and other attractions. You will be able to find everything from coffee shops to snacks and burgers to a large variety of ethnic foods in both casual and more formal settings.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, eight miles of skyways connect 72 blocks of hotels, stores and restaurants. If you want retail stores, the international headquarters of Target is located just a few blocks up Nicollet Avenue. And, if Target isn’t on your list, Neiman Marcus Last Call on Four, Saks Off Fifth, and Macy’s are also within easy walking distance. If you want a true indoor mall experience, take the light rail to Bloomington and the Mall of America and experience the country’s largest mall.
Any mention of the city needs to include the Mississippi River. Catch the view of the 49-foot high St. Anthony Falls from the walkway of the Stone Arch Bridge, a 19th century railway bridge easily accessible via a short bus ride down Nicollet Mall. Beyond the waterfalls begins the navigable stretch of the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.
Cultural opportunities abound. The Walker Art Center, considered “possibly the best contemporary art museum in the US” showcases works in all media from the past two centuries. Next to the Walker is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, highlighting Spoonbridge & Cherry, one of the most iconic images representing the area. The Garden is located in an 11-acre park.
The Mill City Museum, built into the ruins of the world’s largest flour mill, gives visitors a unique, interactive look at the origins of Minneapolis and its world-class industry. Rooftop views provide stunning images of the St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge.
The Minnesota Orchestra performs in Orchestra Hall, just two blocks away from the Hyatt Regency. The Guthrie Theater is home to three unique theaters which offer choices for everyone. The Orpheum Theatre is the destination for Broadway musicals and live concerts, and the Pantages Theatre offers off-Broadway productions.
Truly, there is something for everyone in Minneapolis…and don’t forget that the other TWIN CITY is St. Paul, Minnesota’s capital. Summit Avenue boasts the nation’s longest stretch of restored Victorian homes. The Minnesota State Capitol building offers breathtaking architecture.
For more information concerning Minneapolis attractions, visit www.minneapolis.org.
