Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Twin Cities of Minnesota sit across from one another atop the bluffs of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, Minneapolis to the west and St. Paul to the east. They are called twins but they really display very different characters. Minneapolis has the reputation for being the more international and stylish city, while St. Paul, the state capital, has a more historical and traditional feel. Together, they serve many Fortune 500 companies, have a wealth of excellent museums and enjoy a vibrant performing arts scene, making the Twin Cities an excellent place to do business.

In addition to being great cities to do business, shopping is king in the greater metro area. The enormous Mall of America in the nearby suburb of Bloomington is a shopping mecca for shoppers from all over the world. With over 520 stores, 50 restaurants and attractions such as the Nickelodeon Universe® indoor theme park, and SEA LIFE™ Minnesota Aquarium, the Mall of America has something for everyone. The pedestrian-only Nicollet Mall is another popular shopping area. It is an 11-block area linked by skyway – covered, climate-controlled walkways between buildings – so shoppers don’t have to brave the Minnesota winters.

Other must-see sights include the well-preserved Victorian homes on St. Paul’s Summit Avenue and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Paul, which was modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The Minnesota Zoo with its naturalistic settings is widely considered to be in the nation’s top 10.

Don’t miss the pop-art fountain Spoonbridge and Cherry in the 11-acre Minneapolis Sculpture Garden where free guided tours are offered May – August.  It’s adjacent to the Walker Art Center which is well known for its sometimes controversial contemporary art. The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Minnesota History Center and the Science Museum of Minnesota are other venerable museums to enjoy.

In warm weather visitors enjoy a 50-mile network of connecting parks encircling the city that offers biking and walking paths throughout. To get a great view of the river on foot, the two mile St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail that crosses the Mississippi is a favorite.

Music and performing arts thrive in the Twin Cities with a diverse and eclectic following. Nightlife runs the gamut: First Avenue and Seventh Street Eatery, a dance club where Prince got his start; Nye’s Polonaise Room, a Minneapolis legend with serious Polish food and polka dancing; Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant, a nationally-recognized club that attracts top jazz artists. Performing arts and classical music offerings are impressive, with a variety of troupes performing in an assortment of genres.

Sports fans will not be disappointed with professional teams in football (Vikings), baseball (Twins), basketball (Timberwolves) and hockey (Wild). Vikings and Wild tickets are usually sold out so plan well ahead if you want to attend a game.

While summer temperatures rise to the mid-80s (F), winter is long and cold in Minneapolis with about 40 inches of snow falling from November through April. Business attire is somewhat conservative and in winter, the proper accessories are a must: heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarf and dressy boots or galoshes.

When business, shopping, sightseeing or sports calls you to the Twin Cities, please contact Covington’s professional travel advisors to make all the arrangements.