THINGS TO DO NEARBY
The 2026 National Convention is conveniently located very close to some of Minnesota’s greatest attractions and not-to-miss natural landmarks. While you’re here don’t miss your opportunity to explore these amazing spots.
MINNESOTA YACHT CLUB FESTIVAL: JULY 17-19
Minnesota Yacht Club festival takes place at Harriet Island Regional Park in the heart of downtown St. Paul, Minnesota. Experience sound waves underneath the giant cottonwoods & along the majestic Mississippi River. The music festival brings fans together for three days of performances across two stages with no overlapping sets between the 30 artists. No schedule conflicts on this river bank! Enjoy live music from The Lumineers, Matchbox 20, The Strokes, Cage the Elephant, Lord Huron, Semisonic and many more. LEARN MORE
THE LARGEST SHOPPING EXPERIENCE IN THE UNITED STATES
We call it the Mall of America for a reason! Located just a few miles away from the 2026 National Convention is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. Opening in 1992, the MOA features over 520 stores, 50 restaurants, and major attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, the nation’s largest indoor theme park, and the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. With four levels of retail shops, restaurants, entertainment, and hands-on exhibits this is the only mall that has it all! LEARN MORE
THE FAMOUS CHERRY SPOON BRIDGE AT THE WALKER SCULPTURE GARDEN
Explore more than 60 sculptures from the Walker’s collection on 11 scenic acres in the heart of Minneapolis. It is one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the country, with 40 permanent art installations and several other temporary pieces that are moved in and out periodically. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free, open to the public, and is open from 6 am to 12 midnight every day. While you’re there check out the Walker Art Center — a renowned 11-gallery multidisciplinary contemporary art museum recognized for its collections in visual, performing, and media arts. LEARN MORE
FALL IN LOVE WITH MINNEHAHA FALLS
One of the Twin Cities’ most beloved areas is a striking, wilderness waterfall in an urban setting. Overlooking the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Park is one of Minneapolis’ oldest and most popular parks, attracting over 850,000 visitors annually. Located at the intersection of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway, the 193-acre park features a 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs and river overlooks. The park contains oak, elm, silver maple, basswood, hackberry and cottonwood trees, as well as native and prairie woodland wildflowers. LEARN MORE
WHERE DOVES CRY IN PURPLE RAIN
What originally began as an unassuming cornfield in Chanhassen, MN, a charming suburb just 20-min southwest of Minneapolis, became a vision brought to life. Paisley Park completed its construction and officially opened its doors in 1987. It was a sanctuary where Prince could and would create, record, and perform. 35 years later, Paisley Park remains a creative sanctuary for guests to experience the rich history of the greatness created within these walls. Fulfilling Prince’s vision that one day, Paisley Park would be open to the public. This historic venue today welcomes fans, musicians, and audiophiles for tours, concerts, festivals, and special events in this corner of the Twin Cities. LEARN MORE
THE GOLD MEDAL FLOUR CAPITOL OF THE WORLD
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is a 72-mile and 54,000-acre protected corridor along the Mississippi River through Minneapolis–Saint Paul. This stretch of the upper Mississippi River includes natural, historical, recreational, cultural, scenic, scientific, and economic resources of national significance. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is classified as one of four national rivers in the United States. Be sure not to miss the Stone Arch Bridge, Mill City Museum, the “Endless Bridge” at the Guthrie Theater and the weekend Farmer’s Market! LEARN MORE
EAT A JUCY LUCY AT MATT’S BAR
Matt’s Bar & Grill, now a Minneapolis landmark, began in 1954 as a neighborhood burger joint. Shortly after opening, founder Matt Bristol explains how the “Jucy Lucy” was created when a local customer asked for two hamburger patties with a slice of cheese in the middle. Upon biting into this new, molten hot burger, he exclaimed “that’s one juicy Lucy”, and a legend was born. Customer demand grew so quickly, they forgot to add the “i” and the “Jucy Lucy” has now become a local culinary hero. Don’t go home before burning your chin! LEARN MORE
SALUTE A NATIONAL LANDMARK: HISTORIC FORT SNELLING
Historic Fort Snelling is an important landmark located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, serving as a historic 1820s military post and National Historic Landmark. Learn stories of the military fort and its surrounding area, home to a wide history that includes Native peoples, trade, soldiers and veterans, enslaved people, immigrants, and the changing landscape. Managed by the Minnesota Historical Society, it is a site for exploring 10,000 years of history, including Indigenous, military, and regional development, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. LEARN MORE
HIT A HOME RUN AT TARGET FIELD
Spectacular and intimate … breathtaking views … dazzling amenities … and a staggering array of special features! Those are just a few things you can find in your experience at Target Field, the new world class home of Twins Territory. The Minnesota Twins outdoor ballpark in downtown Minneapolis, is widely considered one of the best stadiums in Major League Baseball. The 40,000-seat, open-air stadium with a natural grass playing field features unbeatable views of the Minneapolis skyline, locally inspired food and drink, and loads of fun for the whole family. LEARN MORE
LOSE YOURSELF IN A WORLD OF NATURAL BEAUTY
Founded in 1958, the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a 1,200-acre public garden in Chaska, Minnesota, that attracts nearly 700,000 visitors per year. Best known for its beautiful display gardens, nationally recognized tree collections, protected natural areas and research activity, the Arboretum is easy to explore via paved paths, such as Three-Mile Walk and Three-Mile Drive, which are open year-round. Many miles of wooded trails, stone pathways and routes for cross-country skiers and snowshoers provide access to the healing power of nature in all seasons. LEARN MORE