Minneapolis/St. Paul’s art scene inspires budget spenders

Minnesota is known for its pristine wilderness, but if you’re interested in exploring other wonders of the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes, then Minneapolis/St. Paul is the place for you. The Twin Cities are filled with gorgeous examples of Beaux-Arts architecture, like the historic Hennepin Theatre and the Basilica at St. Mary’s. Modern architects have also made their mark, with Frank Gehry’s steel masterpiece at the Weisman Art Museum taking center stage.

If performing arts are more your style, Minneapolis is home to one of the best performing arts festivals in the world. The Fringe Festival runs from July 31 to August 10, with hundreds of music and theater performances in venues across the city. General admission is only $3, and that also gets you special discounts at loads of local shops and restaurants like Pizza Luce, and discounts on theater tickets year-round. Each show is $12, or you can see five shows for $50.

That famous Minnesota wilderness isn’t forgotten in the Twin Cities. The Chain of Lakes provides city-dwellers with miles of paths, canoeing, a rose garden, and a bird sanctuary. You can rent a canoe for under $20 and paddle on Lake Calhoun, or explore the historic houses and parks along the way for free.

The Chambers Minneapolis hotel houses daring contemporary art and the Chambers Kitchen, which dishes up celebrated Asian fusion cuisine. And since you’ve spent the afternoon canoeing, you can order the creme fraiche cheesecake without guilt.

Read more of the 50 Affordable Stateside Escapes.

Have a recommendation for Minneapolis/St. Paul, or another great getaway in Minnesota? Post your comment below!