What to Do Near the University of Minnesota Campus on Game Day
Want to start the pre-game festivities early? Or not quite ready to go home after all the excitement? Stick around and explore the area near "The U."
Stop by Weisman Art Museum, which has a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from early 20th-century American artists to contemporary pieces. The building itself is a work of art and was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Admission is free.
Prospect Park proves that, in Minneapolis, you’re never more than six blocks away from nature. This little park on a hill is a short walk or train ride away. After you’ve made the trek up to the park, you’ll be treated to a wide grassy area where you can have a picnic or let the kids run around and let loose. Visit during the fall season and you’ll see some beautiful, colorful foliage. Prospect Park is also home to the famous “Witch’s Hat” water tower. The observation deck is only open to the public once a year, but if you go near the tower’s base you can still find a very cool view of the park and the city skyline in the background.
The Surly Brewing complex is a beer lover’s paradise. Belly up to the bar to try over 32 rotating beers, get a free tour of the beer-making process, head upstairs for some specialty pizza and then claim a spot on the massive patio to soak it all in. Nearby, is a whiskey distillery that hosts one of the top whiskey makers in the world. Selling both American and Irish whiskeys, O'Shaughnessy Distilling Co. is a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy your glass of whiskey in comfort and class in their lounge-type environment. Both Surly and O'Shaughnessy are a short walk away from many of the University's arena and stadiums, making them the perfect places for your group to gather before AND after the game.
Don't have the proper gear for your game-day outing? You can find stylish University of Minnesota maroon and gold apparel at Goldy’s Locker Room and inside the stadium at Golden Gopher Fan Shop.
There are plenty of inexpensive and tasty options for food before and after the game.
- The Beacon Public House: Gastropub offering a menu of American classics and craft brews in woodsy-chic surrounds.
- Shuang Cheng: An extensive menu of Cantonese dishes and fresh seafood selections.
- Wally’s Falafel and Hummus: Counter-service restaurant offering authentic Middle Eastern favorites.
- Al’s Breakfast: Small well-frequented diner with an all-breakfast menu.
- Afro Deli: Fast-casual restaurant that fuses African, Mediterranean and American themed foods and flavors.
- Bona Vietnamese: A spot where you'll find the most traditional Vietnamese staple foods.
- Banh Appetite: Their specialty is the Banh Mi sandwich, with flavors that are inspired by Southeast Asia.
- Mesa Pizza: Inexpensive pizza join with a wide selection of toppings and specialty pizzas.
- Tony's Diner: Simple cafeteria-style diner dishing up basic American fare, including breakfast.
- Market at Malcolm Yards: Food hall featuring many different kitchens, a bar and a self-pour tap-wall.
Don’t have tickets to the game? There’s still plenty of spots around to watch all the action:
Getting There and Staying There
Parking and Transportation
Driving? Find the best parking spot near the arena/stadium
Transit instead? Choose from multiple highly accessible routes
- Train: METRO Green Line offers direct service to Huntington Bank Stadium at Stadium Village Station, West Bank and East Bank Campuses.
- Bus: Metro Transit bus routes: 2, 3, or 6
- Visit the official Metro Transit website for more options.
Hotels Nearby
Make the most of your University experience and stay the night in Minneapolis!
Great hotels within walking distance:
Looking for something a little different and don't mind the proximity? Check out more hotel listings to find your perfect room.