Minnesota is a remarkable state full of character, outdoor adventure, and vibrant city life. Below we share our favorite places to eat, drink, work out, and explore throughout the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. We’ve also included Team Fit Foodie’s top picks for hiking and camping beyond the cities.
Hello from Team Fit Foodie! While we love to travel, Minnesota is our home and one of our favorite places to live. All three of us—Lee, Linley, and Emily—live in Minneapolis, which makes it easy to explore the Twin Cities and the natural areas nearby. The Minneapolis–Saint Paul region offers an excellent mix of culinary variety, cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and a friendly, active community. You can bike one day, paddle on a lake the next, and catch a concert or visit a museum in between. Minneapolis consistently ranks high on lists for active living, bike-friendly streets, and overall quality of life, and it’s easy to see why.
We often get questions asking where to eat, drink, work out, and what to do while visiting or living in Minnesota. Whether you’re planning a trip or searching for something new to try locally, this guide highlights our favorite spots across the Twin Cities and beyond. Save it as a quick reference when you’re looking for recommendations for food, fitness, or outdoor adventures.
PLACES TO EAT
Food lovers will find plenty to get excited about in the Twin Cities. Minneapolis and Saint Paul are home to innovative chefs, neighborhood favorites, and a wide range of cuisines—from grab-and-go markets and casual cafes to memorable sit-down dinners. Whether you’re in the mood for seasonal farm-to-table fare, comforting classics, or international flavors, the dining scene delivers. Look for restaurants that focus on local ingredients, bakeries turning out fresh breads and pastries, and lively neighborhood spots where the community gathers. Exploring local food blogs, farmers markets, and weekly menus is a great way to discover new favorites.
PLACES TO DRINK
The Twin Cities have a thriving beer and cocktail culture. Northeast Minneapolis, in particular, is known for its cluster of craft breweries where you can spend an afternoon sampling creative brews and playing lawn games. If you enjoy stouts and experimental flavors, you might find surprising offerings like peanut butter porter alongside classic IPAs. For cocktail enthusiasts, distilleries and craft cocktail bars offer thoughtfully mixed drinks and inventive seasonal menus. Many places provide cozy interiors or rooftop views, making them perfect for date nights or catching up with friends. Remember to plan a safe ride home if you’re sampling multiple spots.
PLACES TO WORK OUT
Fitness is a big part of life here, and the Twin Cities have a wide variety of workout options to suit different preferences. From boutique studios offering cycling, strength, and high-intensity interval classes to community-focused gyms and outdoor group workouts, there’s something for everyone. One studio we frequently visit is Switch Minneapolis, which we often recommend for energizing classes and welcoming instructors. In addition to indoor classes, the area offers running clubs, cycling groups, and numerous parks and trails for walkers, runners, and cyclists who prefer to exercise outside. If you’re new to the area, trying a few different studios or outdoor groups is a great way to meet locals and find the right fit.
THINGS TO DO
The Twin Cities offer a wide range of activities year-round. In the cities, you’ll find museums, theaters, art fairs, and seasonal festivals to fill your calendar. For outdoor enthusiasts, Minnesota’s state parks and lakes are within an easy drive: in warmer months you can hike, camp, paddle, and swim; in winter you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or simply enjoy crisp, snowy landscapes. Family-friendly attractions, local markets, and community events make it easy to plan weekends filled with discovery. Whether you prefer urban exploration or nature escapes, the region provides a healthy balance of options.
We hope this roundup helps you make the most of your time in Minnesota. Enjoy the food, the neighborhoods, the workouts, and the natural beauty—then share your favorite spots with us so we can keep discovering together!