If you’re considering a quick yet comprehensive way to see Minneapolis and St. Paul, this private 3-hour riding and walking tour might just be the perfect choice. While I haven’t experienced it myself, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the Twin Cities through various tours, and I can tell you this one consistently receives high praise. It’s tailored for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible glimpse into the area’s top sights, with the added bonus of being private—ideal if you prefer an intimate experience without the crowds.
What really appeals to me about this tour is how it combines walking with private transportation—giving you the best of both worlds. Seeing landmarks up close on foot, then hopping into a comfortable vehicle for longer drives, makes for a smooth, engaging day. Plus, the guide’s reputation for being knowledgeable and personable shines through in reviews. The price, around $550 per group, might seem steep at first glance, but considering the private nature and the multiple site visits, most travelers find it worthwhile.
One thing to keep in mind is the 3-hour duration—while packed with highlights, it’s a whirlwind tour. If you’re a history buff or love architecture and local stories, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those wanting a flexible, customized overview of the Twin Cities—whether you’re on a quick trip or just want a well-organized intro before exploring on your own.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: A private tour means your interests shape the itinerary.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes major landmarks and local spots like the State Capitol, Mill District, and Minnehaha Falls.
- Walking and Riding Blend: Enjoy both sightseeing on foot and comfort of private transport.
- Knowledgeable Guide: Expect engaging stories and insights about Minneapolis and St. Paul.
- Family-Friendly: Engages all ages, with stops suitable for kids who like nature and history.
- Good Value: Private tours often cost more but offer tailored attention and flexibility.
The Journey Begins: What to Expect
Starting with a drive through downtown Minneapolis, you’ll get a sense of the city’s current vibe—its rising skyways and evolving downtown landscape. As you pass through, your guide shares stories about how Minneapolis is transforming, giving you insights into the city’s growth. From there, it’s a quick detour to view some impressive artworks in a public park, with the Minneapolis skyline as a stunning backdrop—perfect for snapping some photos.
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Exploring the Chain of Lakes
One of the highlights is the Chain of Lakes, often called the crown jewel of Minneapolis parks. We loved the way this part of the tour felt relaxed yet vibrant. You’ll see several lakes, with plenty of residents enjoying the outdoors—boating, walking, or just hanging out. It’s a peaceful, scenic stretch that showcases the city’s love for outdoor life. The reviews confirm this as a favorite: “The Chain of Lakes is the crown jewel of the Minneapolis parks system,” and “you’ll view many lakes, and lots of residents around and on those lakes.”
Minnehaha Falls and Historic Sites
Next up is Minnehaha Falls, a natural marvel that’s drawn visitors for over 160 years. The guide explains its history and significance, making it more than just a pretty waterfall. With just about 10 minutes at this stop, it’s enough to appreciate its beauty and learn about its longstanding popularity. As one reviewer put it, “We learned why and how travelers have been traveling to this amazing natural feature for 160 years,” which adds a nice historical perspective.
Nearby, you’ll see one of the earliest U.S. forts from the “wild west” era, giving you a glimpse into Minnesota’s frontier past. It’s a quick, informative stop that enriches your understanding of the area’s early days.
St. Paul: Politics, Architecture, and Culture
Crossing into St. Paul, the tour showcases the city’s elegant downtown with landmarks like Rice Park, the Landmark Center, and the historic St. Paul Hotel. Your guide will highlight the importance of these sites and tell stories of their past residents. Seeing the Minnesota State Capitol—restored to its former glory—is a real treat, and it’s a highlight that many reviews praise for its stunning architecture and historical importance.
The tour also covers notable residences, including the largest house in Minnesota, and drives along the Victorian homes district—an area full of beautifully restored houses that tell stories of different eras. If you love architecture, this part of the tour will be particularly memorable.
Sports and Education Highlights
For sports fans, the tour mentions the Twin Cities’ professional teams—the Minnesota Wild, Minnesota United, Vikings, Timberwolves, Lynx, and Twins—driving by their stadiums or homes. While not included in the ticket price, these drives offer a quick look at the city’s sports culture. The University of Minnesota campus also makes an appearance, hugging both sides of the Mississippi River, giving you a sense of the city’s academic life.
Mill District and the Mississippi River
One of the most stunning parts of the tour is the Mill District, from a perch at the Guthrie Theater. Here, you get panoramic views of the Mississippi River, Stone Arch Bridge, and historic mill ruins. The guide shares stories of the area’s industrial past and its transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. This segment is often praised for its scenery and storytelling, with one review mentioning a “famous rock nightclub that for decades has launched performers, especially Prince, and the ‘Minneapolis Sound’.”
Additional Highlights
The tour also passes by the homes of professional sports teams and historic neighborhoods, giving a sense of local pride and community. The quick look at the Twin Cities campus of the University of Minnesota is a nod to the city’s educational importance, while the drives past sports arenas remind you of Minnesota’s passionate sports culture.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour includes a guided experience with a knowledgeable guide, private transportation in a comfortable vehicle, and bottled water. It’s designed to be flexible—your guide adjusts to your interests and pace.
However, it’s worth noting that gratuities are not included, so if you find the guide particularly helpful, it’s customary to tip. Also, since it’s only three hours, don’t expect to see everything—think of it as a well-curated overview rather than an exhaustive exploration.
How Do Travelers Feel About It?
Based on reviews, this tour scores an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 35 guests. Comments highlight how knowledgeable and personable the guide is, with many praising the blend of history, sights, and personal stories. One reviewer said, “Douglas Kline makes Minneapolis tour pop,” emphasizing how engaging and informative the experience is. Another noted that private tours are the best, especially since the guide and driver accommodate specific interests and needs.
Travelers also appreciate the flexibility, with some mentioning how the guide tailored stops based on their preferences. For families or groups with varying ages, the tour’s pacing and engaging storytelling seemed to be well-suited, making it a memorable way to start their visit.
Is It Worth the Cost?
At $550 for up to two people, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the private setting, personalized attention, and the number of sites covered, many find it good value. Private tours typically cost more than group excursions, but they offer a level of customization and comfort that’s hard to beat. Plus, with such high ratings and positive reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise, it’s clear that most guests feel they got their money’s worth.
You’ll also be saving time by seeing many highlights in just a few hours, especially since transportation, storytelling, and site entries are included or at least easily accessible. If you’re someone who values expert narration and a tailored itinerary, then this tour likely makes sense financially.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Minneapolis and St. Paul without the hassle of planning. It’s also perfect for travelers with limited time who want to maximize sightseeing in a short period. The private aspect makes it especially appealing for couples, small families, or friends who prefer a more personalized, relaxed format.
If you’re a history buff or architecture lover, the stops at the State Capitol, Victorian neighborhoods, and mill ruins will keep you engaged. Travelers interested in local culture and sports will also enjoy seeing the stadiums and the Mill District’s artistic scene.
This private Twin Cities tour offers a handcrafted look at Minneapolis and St. Paul in just three hours. The blend of walking and private driving ensures you get a good feel for each city’s personality—its natural beauty, historic sites, and modern developments. The feedback highlights the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, making for an engaging experience that feels custom-tailored.
While the price tag may seem high for some, the value lies in the private, flexible approach and the opportunity to see a lot in a short time. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded, personalized introduction to the Twin Cities—especially if you prefer touring with someone who can share stories and insights along the way.
If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and customized overview of Minneapolis and St. Paul, this tour is worth considering.
Minneapolis & St. Paul Highlights Private Riding & Walking Tour (3 hrs)
“Douglas Kline makes Minneapolis tour pop. 4 of us in a Cadillac Escalade driven by driver Jeff followed Doug's detailed and fascinating history of…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s engaging enough for travelers of most ages, especially those interested in history, art, and local culture. It’s also flexible, so the guide can tailor stops to suit family interests.
What’s the duration of the tour?
Approximately 3 hours. It’s a quick but thorough overview, perfect if you’re short on time.
How many people can join the tour?
It’s a private experience for up to 2 guests per group, which allows for personalized attention.
Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private transportation is included in a comfortable vehicle, making it easy to cover the city’s highlights without fatigue.
Are tickets to attractions included?
Yes, tickets for the Minnesota State Capitol and Mill District attractions are included.
What should I bring?
Bring water (provided), comfortable shoes for walking, and your curiosity—this tour is designed to be engaging and interactive.
Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The guide can adjust stops based on your interests and preferences.
Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included, but tipping the guide for good service is customary.
Is this tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but if mobility is a concern, it’s best to discuss specific needs beforehand.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about a month in advance—on average, 33 days ahead—to secure their preferred date.
This private tour of the Twin Cities offers a detailed, personable introduction to Minneapolis and St. Paul. Its combination of expert storytelling, scenic stops, and flexibility makes it a strong choice for those wanting a memorable, tailored experience of Minnesota’s vibrant cities.
