A Friendly Look at the Twin Cities Highlights Tour
If you’re planning a visit to Minnesota’s twin metropolises — Minneapolis and St. Paul — and want a quick, engaging overview, the Twin Cities Highlights Tour might be just what you need. It’s designed for travelers who prefer to sit back and get oriented without the hassle of navigating the streets on your own. With a reputation for knowledgeable guides and a good balance of sights, this tour offers a worthwhile snapshot of what makes these cities unique.
What we really like about this experience is its affordable price point (just $42 per person) and the fact that it’s recommended by 91% of previous travelers. Plus, it’s clearly designed to cover the essentials — from natural beauty spots to iconic architecture — in under four hours. That means you can get a taste of both cities without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair bit of road travel and some stops may be brief, so if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each site, you might find this more of a broad overview. It’s best suited for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, guided approach to sightseeing.
This tour is a solid choice if you want a convenient, informative introduction to Minneapolis and St. Paul, especially if you value good guides and easy logistics.
Key Points
- Great for first-timers: Perfect for getting your bearings without the stress of planning.
- Affordable price: At $42, it offers good value for a half-day tour with diverse sights.
- Knowledgeable guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their friendliness and expertise.
- Comfortable transportation: The bus is described as clean and well-maintained.
- Shorter stops, broad coverage: You’ll see major highlights but won’t get deep into each site.
- Weather-dependent at certain stops: Some attractions, like Minnehaha Falls, depend on good weather for the best experience.
Planning more time in Bloomington? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What’s Included and How It Works
Starting from the Mall of America, known as one of the most iconic shopping destinations in the country, the tour kicks off at 10 a.m. with pickup from a central location, making it easy to join if you’re already in Bloomington area. The tour is operated by Gray Line Minnesota, a reputable provider, and features a mobile ticket, which makes logistics straightforward.
The tour lasts approximately three and a half hours, combining scenic drives and brief stops. It’s capped at about 50 people, so it’s not overly crowded, but still lively enough to have a social feel. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations — but keep in mind, some stops are short, and the bus is the main way to see the sites.
A Detailed Look at the Itinerary
Minnehaha Falls (10-minute stop)
The tour begins with a stop at Minnehaha Falls, one of Minnesota’s oldest tourist spots. It’s a classic Minneapolis sight, famous for its beautiful cascading waterfall set within a park. Although weather permitting, the stop is brief, it’s a high-impact moment that’s often praised for its scenic beauty. Reviewers mention how much they enjoyed seeing it, with one saying it was a “fabulous” stop, and another noting that the falls are “fabulous,” especially when the weather is nice.
The short duration means you won’t have time for long walks here, but it’s enough to snap some pictures and appreciate nature’s simplicity. If you’re a fan of outdoor scenery, this first stop sets a peaceful, natural tone for the tour.
Guthrie Theater (15-minute exploration)
Next, the bus passes by the Guthrie Theater, which is relatively new and considered an architectural landmark in Minneapolis. While there’s no long walk inside, the quick stop or pass-by allows you to admire its modern design and perhaps get some quick photos from outside. Several reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the panoramic views of the river and city from certain spots near the theater.
Rice Park and Landmark Center
The tour then moves to Rice Park in St. Paul, the city’s oldest park and home to the historic Landmark Center. While just a passing view this time, it’s nice to know about the historic core of St. Paul, and those familiar with the area praise the park for its charm and significance.
Summit Avenue Homes: F. Scott Fitzgerald and Sinclair Lewis
One of the more captivating parts of the tour is viewing the historic homes along Summit Avenue, including residences linked to literary legends like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Sinclair Lewis. Reviewers repeatedly mention how impressive the mansions and well-preserved architecture are, offering a glimpse into the affluent history of the area. This part is especially valued because it showcases the city’s architectural diversity and gives insight into the past.
Key Landmarks: Capitol, Cathedral, and Public Art
The bus offers a brief viewing of major landmarks such as the Minnesota State Capitol, the Cathedral of St. Paul, and notable sculptures like the Spoonbridge and Cherry. While you won’t step inside these sites, seeing them from the bus provides a sense of their scale and importance.
Passing Views of Other Sites
There are several drive-by views of other noteworthy places like the U.S. Bank Stadium and historic districts, giving you a well-rounded visual tour. Some reviewers mention that these passes are quick and don’t involve stopping, so if you’re eager for detailed exploration, you might want to plan for additional visits on your own.
What Travelers Say About the Experience
The reviews paint a mostly positive picture. For instance, one reviewer mentions that the “guide JB was great,” praising his knowledge and friendly attitude. Others highlight the seamless coordination between the driver and guide, making the experience feel smooth and well-organized.
Many travelers appreciate the informative commentary, which balances history, local stories, and personal anecdotes, making the experience engaging. A common compliment is about the entertaining and knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer describing their guide as “full of knowledge and friendly,” and another calling Greg a “gem” because of his energy and love for the area.
The comfort of the bus is also a highlight. Multiple comments mention that the vehicle was clean, comfortable, and easy to ride in, which makes the overall experience more enjoyable, especially during a couple of hours of sightseeing.
Notable Downsides Mentioned
Some reviewers note logistics issues — for example, the bus seats sometimes obstruct views, and there’s mention of a rattling noise from the overhead compartments that made it hard to hear commentary at times. These are minor inconveniences but worth considering if you want a seamless experience. A few mention that the tour ran slightly longer than expected, and in one case, the driver kindly dropped travelers off at a safe location afterward.
Value for Money
At $42 per person, many agree that the tour offers good value, especially given the variety of sights and the professional guidance. It’s a quick way to get a lay of the land, which can be especially helpful if you’re new to the area or have limited time.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to see the main sights of Minneapolis and St. Paul without the hassle of planning your own route or managing public transport. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors, those with a limited schedule, or travelers who prefer a guided experience that covers a broad range of highlights in a short amount of time.
If you have a particular interest in architecture, historic homes, or scenic nature spots like waterfalls, you’ll find parts of the itinerary rewarding. However, if you’re someone looking for in-depth exploration or plenty of time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed.
Final Thoughts
The Twin Cities Highlights Tour offers a friendly, informative, and practical introduction to Minneapolis and St. Paul. The highlights include beautiful natural sights, iconic buildings, and charming neighborhoods, all seen comfortably from a well-maintained bus. The guides receive praise for their knowledge and engaging delivery, making the experience enjoyable even during the brief stops.
The price point is reasonable, especially considering how much ground you cover in just a few hours. While some logistics could be better, the overall experience is considered worth it for the value, especially if you’re new to the Twin Cities or want a quick orientation.
For those who want a relaxed, guided overview of the area’s top sights and enjoy learning about local history and architecture, this tour hits the mark. It’s a good choice for travelers who appreciate comfort, convenience, and insightful commentary without sacrificing time or budget.
Twin Cities Highlights Tour
“Great experience! Loved our tour guide Greg and our driver Steve. Learned so much about the twin cities.”
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour involves some bus travel and short stops, so consider mobility needs if necessary.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Mall of America Bus/Shuttle at 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN, and returns to the same pickup point.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, perhaps a hat or sunscreen for outdoor stops like Minnehaha Falls, and a camera for scenic views.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering a wide range of sights in the Twin Cities.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, some stops, like Minnehaha Falls, depend on good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Are there any hidden costs?
No, the $42 per person fee covers the tour. Additional expenses, like meals or entrance fees, are not included.
How many people typically join?
The tour caps at around 50 travelers, providing a comfortable group size without feeling crowded.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, friendly way to learn about the Twin Cities without breaking the bank, this highlights tour could be just the ticket. It’s perfect for first-timers, busy travelers, or those who simply want a guided peek into Minneapolis and St. Paul’s most iconic sights.
