I’ve been traveling to Minneapolis, Minnesota for about 30 years, mostly on business and at different times during the year.  Yes, even during the winter months when there is snow on the ground and the temperatures are near zero degrees!  It’s a beautiful state in every season and offers travelers with disabilities plenty of options for accessibility and specific needs. 

Travel

I am particularly impressed by the Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport.  The road leading to arrivals and departures has flashing signs indicating where people with disabilities can find assistance in the airport!  I have not seen this in any other airport.  Specially trained airport employees will assist you throughout your entire time in the airport. 

I was also impressed with the number of accessible taxi companies. In Minneapolis, there are a few taxicab companies that offer accessible vans in their fleets. These companies include Airport Taxi, Yellow Taxi, and Minneapple Taxi.  There are also private companies that provide accessible transportation. You should contact those providers for more information specific to your needs. 

Hotels

Minneapolis has plenty of choices when it comes to accessible hotels.  Plus, you’ll find the city offers accessible sporting venues, restaurants, museums, and cultural events, all complemented by good ‘ole Midwestern hospitality! 

Recommendations

I look forward to getting back to Minneapolis and here are some recommendations for you:

One of my favorite places to visit outside of the city is Paisley Park, the home and recording studio of Price (for music fansI)!

Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA)

The Minneapolis Institute of Art is one of the nation’s largest and most respected art museums. The MIA offers accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators, allowing all visitors to freely explore its vast collection of over 90,000 works of art. The museum also provides audio tours, braille labels, and tactile reproductions for visually impaired visitors.

Minnehaha Park

Nature lovers will absolutely enjoy Minnehaha Park, a beautiful urban park located along the banks of the Mississippi River. This incredible park features accessible trails, including the popular Minnehaha Falls, a 53-foot waterfall that cascades over limestone cliffs. The park also offers accessible picnic areas, restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly paths.  Be sure to check out their website for more information.

Mill City Museum

Discover the rich history of Minneapolis and its flour milling heritage at the Mill City Museum, located in a beautifully restored historic building. The museum offers accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators. Here you can explore interactive exhibits, watch multimedia presentations, and learn about the city’s milling industry, which shaped its growth and development.

Walker Art Center

If you love contemporary art you must visit the Walker Art Center, known for its innovative exhibitions and multidisciplinary approach to the arts. The museum features accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators. Additionally, the Walker Art Center offers accessible tours, assistive listening devices, and audio descriptions for visually-impaired visitors.

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Adjacent to the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a beautiful outdoor space showcasing a stunning collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. The garden offers accessible paths and more. Don’t miss the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture, a beloved symbol of the city.

Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Minneapolis at Lake Calhoun, also known as Bde Maka Ska. This urban lake offers accessible trails, including the popular 3.4-mile loop around its shoreline. Accessible parking and restrooms are available.

Guthrie Theater

You can experience world-class theater productions at the renowned Guthrie Theater, located on the banks of the Mississippi River. The theater offers accessible seating options, assisted listening devices, and captioning services for the hearing impaired. Here you can enjoy some of the best performances, including classic plays, contemporary works, and Broadway productions.

Minneapolis, Minnesota is a really interesting and fun place to visit for people of abilities. From exploring renowned art museums to the beauty of nature, people with disabilities can enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. 

Yes, the winters can be brutal but the Minneapolis Skyway System is the world’s largest enclosed second level bridges at 9.5 miles long and connecting 80 blocks in the city, including offices, hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and government offices!  Every season offers visitors something to enjoy.  I look forward to getting back soon!