Historic Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour
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Step back in time along Minneapolis's historic riverfront on a private 2-hour walking tour. Follow in the footsteps of influential figures like railroad magnate James J. Hill as you explore the area's rich 350-year history. Your guide will share captivating stories about the city’s past—rivalries, hidden corners, booming industries, and early explorers—giving you a vivid picture of Minneapolis’s development from a flour-milling hub to a modern city rooted in innovation.
As you stroll, you'll see how historic buildings have been repurposed for today's use, blending old charm with contemporary vibrancy. Discover the stories behind landmarks like the Mississippi River's waterfalls, the city’s oldest streets, and historic bridges. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Minneapolis’s golden ages—its wealth, immigrant stories, and close ties to nature—making it the best sightseeing experience in town.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers from 0 to 120 years old.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a private experience with a professional, knowledgeable licensed tour guide, backed by over 10 years of experience.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
All sales are final. Cancellations are not refundable, and the tour may be canceled in bad weather.
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Professional tour company with over 10 years' experience
- Local, knowledgeable, licensed Tour Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary
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Stop 1
The country’s largest regional theater, offering a breathtaking view of our tour area from the Endless Bridge
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Stop 2
Once housed the world’s largest and most technologically advanced flour mill in the world, now a history on the founding and growth of Minneapolis.
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Stop 3
Celebrates and documents the history of 19th-century flour mills long since abandoned and excavated in the past 25 years.
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Stop 4
Discover why it’s been the Minneapolis area’s lifeline for over 10,000 years.
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Stop 5
Cross the river via this historic and unique bridge, while taking in the best view of the city.
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Stop 6
First documented in 1680, the falls powered mills and generated wealth for the Twin Cities.
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Stop 7
Stroll the oldest street in Minneapolis, passing by the city’s oldest tavern and over a warren of caves and tunnels.
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Stop 8
Location of what was the first permanent bridge over the Mississippi River, we take the current elegant and stylish bridge back toward downtown.
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Stop 9
Before it became a Victorian oasis in the middle of “Big Muddy”, the island was revered by the Sioux and Ojibwe.
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Stop 10
The third building for this purpose stands on the site of the former Minneapolis Great Northern Depot and the Pacific sawmill.
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Stop 11
In the 19th century, “Bridge Square” was the commercial hub and government seat of the growing city; the original Downtown Minneapolis.
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Stop 12
The Milwaukee Road railway depot bustled with activity for over 70 years; today it remains one of the last surviving long-span, truss-roofed sheds in the country.
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Stop 13
An Art Deco treasure in an unexpected location, the opulent lobby remains unchanged since its 1933 opening.
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Stop 14
St Anthony Falls’ power was harnessed for industry here at the nation’s first commercial hydroelectric generation station.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Meet your guide outside the front door; he will be wearing a purple shirt with the company logo.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
- 0% refund if canceled at least 0 day(s) before
- May be canceled for bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $349.00 per person
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
