Minnesota
The international gateway of Bloomington-Minneapolis-Saint Paul is comprised of three cities, each with unique offerings and experiences. The culturally rich and diverse area is home to more than 3 million people and 18 Fortune 500 companies. And with over 180 parks, 13 lakes and one iconic river, green space is everywhere in Bloomington-Minneapolis-Saint Paul! Go biking, canoeing, kayaking, or take a scenic river cruise on the mighty Mississippi River. During the winter, try snowshoeing, fat tire biking, and ice skating on a frozen lake. Sports fans will find plenty to cheer about with six professional sports teams, including the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, MLB’s Minnesota Twins, NFL’s Minnesota Vikings and more.
Saint Paul is home to the Minnesota State Capitol, along with many of the state’s most storied institutions – the Cathedral of Saint Paul, world-class museums and a long list of colleges and universities. Stroll along Summit Avenue, the longest stretch of preserved Victorian architecture in the United States, and find F. Scott Fitzgerald’s birthplace. Next door in Minneapolis, visit historic theatres and the walkable downtown district, and experience a renewed social justice movement along with a city on a journey of transformation. At Paisley Park, visit the former home, recording studio and performance space of Minnesota music legend Prince. A flourishing food scene, unique neighborhoods and exceptional events round out the cities’ one-of-a-kind arts and culture offerings.
Bloomington’s Mall of America is the nation’s largest retail and entertainment complex, with 500+ stores, 50+ restaurants, and entertainment options like Nickelodeon Universe theme park, SEA LIFE at Mall of America, Crayola Experience and more. There’s no sales tax on clothing and shoes in Minnesota, so serious shoppers can stock up on the latest trends. Bloomington’s 45+ hotels are all located nearby Mall of America, and most offer complimentary shuttles to the Mall and MSP Airport.
Bloomington-Minneapolis-Saint Paul is conveniently located in the middle of the United States with an award-winning international airport (MSP). MSP is a hub for Delta Air Lines with direct flights from across the globe (and flights from either coast of the U.S. take 3.5 hours or less). It is a natural gateway to the Great American West to explore neighboring states such as North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. The METRO light rail system travels between Minneapolis, Bloomington and Saint Paul, with key stops at Mall of America, MSP and downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul.