Discover MN History In A Day

Are you looking to experience the historical side of Minnesota, but you are limited on time? No need to worry, because Minneapolis and St. Paul have you covered. There is a wide range of museums and tours available within these neighboring cities. You will be able to walk away at the end of the day full of historical treasures that required less than a tank of gas.

Fort Snelling

Fort Snelling is a National Historic Site. When Colonel Henry H. Sibley was appointed by Minnesota territorial governor and friend, Alexander Ramsey, to gain control of the U.S. vs Dakota war of 1862, Fort Snelling was where Sibley recruited his men and made plans for the war. Fort Snelling includes a re-creation of the daily lives of those who lived within the protective brick walls. The fort stands high on a hill looking over the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers.

Fort Snelling

200 Tower Avenue

St. Paul, MN 55111

http://www.historicfortsnelling.org/

Sibley House

Henry Hastings Sibley was the first governor of the new state of Minnesota and in his position as a Colonel at Fort Snelling made history during the U.S. vs Dakota war of 1862. Sibley’s home sits across the river from the fort and was the first official historical site of Minnesota.

Sibley House

1357 Sibley Memorial Hwy.

Mendota, MN 55150

http://www.historicfortsnelling.org/sibley-house-historic-site

Alexander Ramsey House

Alexander Ramsey, Minnesota’s first territorial governor, built his house in the late 1800’s and it is an excellent view into the elegant lifestyles of the wealthy during Minnesota’s earlier days. The Ramsey family enjoyed the most recent technology, like hot and cold running water! Mrs. Anna Ramsey spent much of their riches on furnishing the home, including an extravagant shopping trip to New York.

Alexander Ramsey House

265 S. Exchange Street

St. Paul, MN 55102

http://sites.mnhs.org/historic-sites/alexander-ramsey-house

James J. Hill House

James Jerome Hill, also known as “The Empire Builder,” built his reputation on his success in multiple businesses. He was the leader behind the two largest railroads to run through Minnesota, the Great Northern Railway and the Northern Pacific. James J. Hill was very focused on creating work for Minnesota people. He also funded the St. Paul library, numerous schools, and the St. Paul Seminary. Tour the home where he lived with his ten children and beloved wife Mary.

James J. Hill House

240 Summit Avenue

Saint Paul, MN 55102

http://sites.mnhs.org/historic-sites/james-j-hill-house

 

Minnesota History Center

The Minnesota History Center is an interactive museum that hosts permanent and changing exhibits throughout the year. Many visitors come to the history center for their special events, like family day, outreach programs and history-driven workshops.

Minnesota History Center

345 W. Kellogg Blvd.

St. Paul, MN 55102

http://www.minnesotahistorycenter.org/

 

Landmark Center

Be inspired by the art, music and special exhibits featured at the Landmark Center. On Sundays the center hosts free workshops and small festivals focusing on the cultural paths that bring us all together.

Landmark Center

75 5th Street

St. Paul, MN 55102

http://www.landmarkcenter.org/

 

Minnesota State Capitol

The Minnesota State Capitol was inspired by Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It took nine years to build the stunning structure, and was completed in 1905. Today, you can tour the capitol and learn more about the architecture, as well as state and government history.

Minnesota State Capitol

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

St. Paul, MN 55155

http://sites.mnhs.org/historic-sites/minnesota-state-capitol

 

Bell Museum of Natural History

Get a taste of the University of Minnesota’s campus life when you visit the Bell Museum of Natural History, which is located on the school grounds. The Bell focuses on the environmental aspects of the state.

Bell Museum of Natural History

10 Church Street SE

Minneapolis, MN 55455

http://www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/index.htm

 

Mill City Museum

Minneapolis was once known as the Flour Milling Capital of the World! Consider an education on the process of flour milling at the Mill City Museum. There are a handful of exhibits for all ages to experience, and a dining and shopping area.

Mill City Museum

704 South 2nd Street

Minneapolis, MN 55401

http://www.millcitymuseum.org/museum-minneapolis-riverfront