Twin Cities

Minneapolis and St. Paul are a vibrant hub of creativity. If you crave visual arts or theater, music or sports, the Twin Cities has it all–and MCAD is at the heart of it. Whether you're a new transplant from another city, state, or country, or you've called the Twin Cities home your entire life, there are always new surprises here to discover.

Thrive in a Land of Prosperity

The metro area is a thriving business community—only NYC, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and San Francisco are home to more Fortune 500 headquarters. With leading medical, retail, technology, food, and advertising companies, the Twin Cities attract top talent from around the world, thanks to an outstanding college graduation rate, high median earnings, and high employment rate for young adults in the country. It’s also home to amazing brands from companies that were started here: Aveda, Target, Blu Dot, 3M, General Mills, Room&Board, Toro, Surly Beer, and Salsa Bikes.

Get Fit Without Trying

An unmatched park system connects the Twin Cities' lakes, creeks, and rivers with miles of biking and running paths. Bicycling magazine has named the Twin Cities as one of the nation's best biking cities.

“Best of” Lists

The mix of urban and outdoor lifestyles has garnered Minneapolis and Minnesota many great spots on the “best of” lists.

• Happiest State: #1
• Happiest City: #1
• Fittest Cities in the U.S.: #3
• Nation's Best Park System: #1
• Best State: #2
• Best Cities for Entrepreneurs and Startups: #3
• Most Vibrant Arts Communities in U.S.: #8
• Best Cities for Work-Life Balance: #3
• Best City for New College Graduates: #1

What Is There to Do?

SEE impressive things at museums, theaters, and sporting events.

• Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)
• Walker Art Center
• Guthrie Theater
• State, Orpheum, Pantages Theaters
• Ordway Theater
• Roller Girls Roller Derby
• Timberwolves Basketball
• Lynx Basketball
• Wild Hockey

HEAR everything from local acts to top artists.

• Cedar Cultural Center
• First Avenue
• The Fine Line
• Target Center
• Turf Club
• Varsity Theater

DO something new every season.

• Art-A-Whirl
• Art Shanties
• Basilica Block Party
• May Day Parade
• Music and Movies in Parks
• Renaissance Festival
• State Fair
• Twin Cities Pride Festival
• Valleyfair

BUY clothing, music, materials, and essentials.

• Art Cellar
• Midtown Global Market
• Electric Fetus
• Cheapo Discs
• Farmers Markets
• IKEA
• Mall of America