Top 100 best museums in Minnesota

The Walker Art Center, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a renowned art museum that was established in 1879 by Thomas Barlow Walker, a lumberjack. This institution has a rich history and has been a significant part of the city's cultural landscape for over a century.

The Minnesota State Capitol, located in Saint Paul, serves as the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate of Minnesota. This significant building is not only a hub of political activity but also a symbol of the state's history and governance. Visitors can explore the grand architecture and gain insights into the workings of the state's legislative bodies.

The Purcell-Cutts House, originally known as the Edna S. Purcell house, is a significant example of Prairie School architecture located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The house was designed in 1913 by the architectural firm of Purcell, Feick and Elmslie for the architect William Purcell and his family. The design of the house is notable for its long, narrow floor plan that breaks away from traditional Victorian concepts about room divisions.

The Minneapolis Institute of Art, established in 1883, is a significant art museum in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. It is one of the largest museums in the country, boasting a collection of over 100,000 objects that cover a historical period of 5,000 years. This vast collection offers visitors a chance to explore art from different eras and cultures, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.

The American Swedish Institute (ASI) is a museum and cultural center located in the Phillips West neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The institute is dedicated to preserving and studying the historic role that Sweden and Swedish Americans have played in US culture and history. It serves as a gathering place for people to share experiences around themes of culture, migration, the environment, and the arts, all informed by enduring links to Sweden.

In 1993, the Weisman Art Museum moved to its current location, a building designed by the renowned Canadian-born American architect Frank Gehry. The museum was renamed in honor of the art collector and philanthropist Frederick R. Weisman, marking a new chapter in its history.

The Alexander Ramsey House, located in Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota, is a historic house museum. It offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the Ramsey family who were prominent figures in Minnesota's history. The house is a significant landmark, not only for its architectural beauty but also for its historical significance.

The Como Park Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory are situated in the heart of Como Park, at 1225 Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul, Minnesota. This location is easily accessible and offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. The park, zoo, and conservatory are owned by the City of Saint Paul and are a division of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.

The Lake Superior Railroad Museum (LSRM) is a railway museum situated in Duluth, Minnesota. It was inaugurated in 1973 and has since grown to become one of the largest railway museums in the country. The museum is housed in the historic Duluth Union Depot and features a vast collection of Minnesota's railway vehicles, along with interactive exhibits about the region's history.

Split Rock Lighthouse is a historic landmark situated near Silver Bay on the north shore of Lake Superior, in Minnesota, United States. It is a central building of the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since June 23, 1969. The lighthouse was built in response to the significant loss of ships during the famous Mataafa Storm of 1905, during which 29 ships were lost on Lake Superior.

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a significant 11-acre park located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is operated in collaboration with the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. This partnership ensures the park's maintenance and the coordination of its various activities and installations.

In 1878, the mill complex was destroyed by an explosion that killed 18 people. Despite this tragic event, the mill was later rebuilt and continued to operate until 1965. Today, the Mill City Museum stands as a testament to the resilience and industrial spirit of the city.

The Bakken Museum, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a science museum that was established in 1975. The museum was founded by Earl Bakken, who is also the co-founder of Medtronic. The museum offers a unique blend of science, technology, and humanities through its interactive exhibits.

The Two Harbors Light, located in Two Harbors, Minnesota, is the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. It overlooks the beautiful Lake Superior's Agate Bay, providing a picturesque view for visitors. The lighthouse has been in operation since 1892, making it a significant historical landmark in the region.

The James J. Hill House, a significant historical landmark, was built by railroad magnate James J. Hill and completed in 1891. It is conveniently located near the eastern end of Summit Avenue, close to the Cathedral of Saint Paul. This location offers a commanding view of downtown St. Paul and the Mississippi River area, making it a highly desirable location for tourists.

The St. Louis County Depot, also known as The Depot, is a historic railroad station located in Duluth, Minnesota. It was constructed in 1892 and at its peak, it served seven different railroads. This makes it a significant part of the region's transportation history.

The Science Museum of Minnesota, located in Saint Paul, is a nonprofit institution that was founded in 1907. The museum focuses on a variety of topics including technology, natural history, physical science, and mathematics education. It is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers.

The Minnesota Streetcar Museum (MSM) is a unique transport museum that operates two heritage streetcar lines. These lines are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the western suburb of Excelsior. Visitors to the museum can experience a ride on these historic streetcars, providing a glimpse into the past of Minnesota's transportation history.

Hill-Annex Mine State Park is a significant location in Minnesota, United States. The park is dedicated to interpreting the open-pit mining heritage of the Mesabi Range. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and impact of mining in the region.

The Hubbard House, located in Mankato, Minnesota, is a historic site that was built in 1871. It was the home of Rensselaer D. Hubbard, a successful businessman of the time. The house stands as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of the era, making it a point of interest for those interested in history and architecture.

Today, the Lower Sioux Agency is a historic site managed by the Lower Sioux Community in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society. In February 2021, ownership of half of the site was transferred from the historical society to the Lower Sioux Community. This partnership and ownership transfer demonstrate the ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the history of the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation.

Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, located on the outskirts of Little Falls, Minnesota, spans 569 acres. The park was once the farm of Congressman Charles August Lindbergh and his son, the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. This historical connection adds a unique layer of interest to the park's natural beauty.

The LeDuc Historic Estate, also known as the William G. LeDuc House, is a significant historical site located at 1629 Vermillion Street in Hastings, Minnesota, United States. This estate is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, indicating its national significance in American history.

The National Eagle Center, situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in Wabasha, Minnesota, is a nonprofit educational center. Its primary focus is on providing education about eagles and the Upper Mississippi River watershed. This location offers a unique opportunity to learn about these majestic birds and their natural habitat.

Forestville Mystery Cave State Park is a unique destination in Minnesota. It is home to the restored 19th-century village of Forestville and the state's longest cave, Mystery Cave. The Minnesota Historical Society operates the village as a historic site, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. The Mystery Cave, open to the public, offers an exciting underground adventure.

The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum is an aviation museum situated in Granite Falls, Minnesota. It is a destination for those interested in World War II aviation history, offering a unique opportunity to explore and learn about this significant period.

The Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) is located in Winona, Minnesota, United States. The museum specializes in showcasing art that is inspired by water. As a nonprofit organization, MMAM aims to engage visitors in meaningful visual art experiences that explore the ongoing and historic human relationship with water.

The Rochester Art Center, located in Rochester, Minnesota, is a contemporary arts center. It is a hub for the arts, showcasing a variety of contemporary works from local, national, and international artists.

The Ames–Florida–Stork House is a historic house museum located in Rockford, Minnesota, United States, situated on the Crow River. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and historical significance of the house. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history, the people who lived there, and the role it played in the local community.

The Gideon H. Pond House, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a historic site that forms part of the Pond-Dakota Mission Park. This park also encompasses the Oak Grove Mission site, which was active from 1843 to 1852, a cemetery, and the remnants of the Pond family farm and orchards. This site offers a glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of the Pond family.

The Landmark Center in St. Paul, which was completed in 1902, has a rich history as it originally served as the United States Post Office, Courthouse, and Custom House for the state of Minnesota. This gives visitors a unique insight into the building's past and its importance in the state's history.

The International Wolf Center (IWC) is a research and educational organization located near Ely, Minnesota, United States. The center's mission is to advance the survival of wolf populations by educating about wolves, their relationship to wildlands, and the human role in their future. This is achieved through a variety of exhibits and programs.

The Dr. William W. Mayo House, a significant historical site, is situated at 118 North Main Street in Le Sueur, Minnesota, United States. This house is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), indicating its national significance and historical value.

Pickwick Mill, located in the unincorporated community of Pickwick, Minnesota, near the city of Winona, is a historic gristmill. Constructed in the mid-1850s, it now operates as a milling museum, offering a glimpse into the past. The mill's history and its transformation into a museum make it a significant point of interest for visitors.

The Alexander Faribault House, located in Faribault, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1853 by fur trader Alexander Faribault, the house is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. This style, popular in the mid-19th century, is characterized by its symmetrical shape, columned porticoes, and heavy cornices. The house stands as a testament to Faribault's influence and affluence during his time.

The Hormel Historic Home, also known as the Cook-Hormel House or simply The Hormel Home, is a significant historical site in Austin, Minnesota. This Italianate style home with a Classical Revival facade was built in 1871 and was recognized for its historical significance by being added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The home offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of the time and the history of the Hormel family.

The Dr. George R. Christie House, located in Long Prairie, Minnesota, United States, is a historic house museum. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the life and times of Dr. George R. Christie and his family.

The Somali Museum of Minnesota boasts a collection of over 1000 traditional nomadic artifacts from Somalia. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Somali people. In addition to the artifact collection, the museum also offers educational programming about Somali culture, arts events, and cross-cultural activities. These programs aim to promote understanding and appreciation of Somali culture among visitors.

The E. St. Julien Cox House, located in St. Peter, Minnesota, is a unique example of Carpenter Gothic-style architecture. This style is characterized by its ornate wooden elements that mimic the intricate designs typically found in stone Gothic architecture. The house stands as a testament to the architectural tastes of the late 19th century.

The Katherine E. Nash Gallery is a prominent art gallery situated within the University of Minnesota Department of Art. It is located on the West Bank of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This location offers visitors a unique blend of art and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Minnesota Museum of American Art, also known as "The M", is situated in the Historic Pioneer Endicott building in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The museum is home to over 5,000 artworks that span from the 19th century to the present day. These pieces showcase the unique voice of American artists throughout the years.

The Minnesota Discovery Center is a comprehensive facility that showcases the history and future of northeastern Minnesota. It includes a museum, an entertainment venue, a research center and library, and a park. These diverse offerings provide a wide range of experiences for visitors, from exploring historical exhibits to enjoying outdoor activities in the park.

The Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College, colloquially known as The Arb, is a significant botanical attraction located on the campus of Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota, United States. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a variety of botanical gardens and a vast 125-acre arboretum, which was established in 1973.

The American Museum of Asmat Art, located at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a gallery dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of the Asmat people of southwestern Papua, Indonesia. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Asmat people, right in the heart of the United States.

The Kashubian Cultural Institute & Polish Museum, located in Winona, Minnesota, is a cultural and historical museum. It was established in 1979 with the aim of preserving the Polish and Kashubian heritage of the region. The museum is a testament to the rich cultural history of the area and offers a unique insight into the lives and traditions of the Polish and Kashubian communities.

The Hay Lake School, a historic schoolhouse located in Scandia, Minnesota, was in operation from 1896 to 1963. Today, it is managed by the Washington County Historical Society and serves as a museum. It shares its location with the 1868 Johannes Erickson House, creating a unique historical complex for visitors to explore.

The Andrew John Volstead House, located in Granite Falls, Minnesota, is a historic site that was once the home of ten-term United States Congressman Andrew Volstead (1860–1947). This house is not just a building, but a piece of American history, as it was the residence of a significant political figure who played a crucial role in the country's legislative history.

The Charles H. Burwell House, located in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed in 1883. This house offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the late 19th century.

The Henderson Community Building, also known as the Old Sibley County Courthouse, is a historic government building located in Henderson, Minnesota. This building holds significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the area.

The Museum of Russian Art (TMORA), located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, holds a unique position as the only major institution in North America that is entirely dedicated to the celebration and preservation of Russian art and culture. This spans across all periods of Russia's rich and diverse history. The museum was founded by Raymond and Susan Johnson, who are renowned art collectors. Their dedication to Russian art has resulted in a collection that provides a comprehensive overview of Russian culture and history through its art.

The Holz Family Farmstead, located in Eagan, Minnesota, is a significant part of the city's history. Established in the 1870s, the farmstead was a thriving 80-acre family farm that produced livestock, crops, fruits, and vegetables. It provides a glimpse into the agricultural past of the region.

The Fillebrown House is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, signifying its importance in American history. The house is a rare example of American Picturesque architecture, a style that was popular in the late 19th century when White Bear Lake was a bustling resort town. Visitors can appreciate the unique architectural style and the historical context in which it was built.

The Great Lakes Aquarium, which opened its doors in 2000, is situated on the Duluth waterfront. This location not only provides a scenic backdrop for the aquarium but also allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area. The aquarium is easily accessible and offers a unique experience for all ages.

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, located in Duluth, Minnesota, is a museum operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region, with exhibits demonstrating the history and operations of upper Great Lakes commercial shipping.

Glensheen, the Historic Congdon Estate, is a significant historic house museum located in Duluth, Minnesota. The mansion, which spans 20,000 square feet, is managed by the University of Minnesota Duluth. This grand estate offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the opulence and architectural prowess of the early 20th century.

The Tweed Museum of Art is situated on the campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth, in Duluth, Minnesota, United States. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors, as it is within the university campus and in the heart of Duluth. The museum's location also adds to its charm, as it is surrounded by the academic atmosphere of the university.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo are situated in Olmsted County, Minnesota, United States. They are located north of the city of Byron and approximately 4.5 miles west of Rochester. This location makes the park and zoo easily accessible for visitors from both cities and those traveling from further afield.

The Rourke Art Museum, located in Moorhead, Minnesota, was established in 1965 by James T. O’Rourke. It was initially created as a museum for fine arts, showcasing a variety of artistic works from different periods and styles. The museum's establishment is a testament to O'Rourke's dedication to the arts and his desire to share this passion with the public.

Edna G is a historic steam tugboat that once sailed the Great Lakes and is now preserved as a museum ship in Two Harbors. Visitors can explore this unique piece of maritime history and learn about its significant role in the region's iron ore and taconite transportation.

The Lake Superior Zoo, which was formerly known as the Duluth Zoo, is located in Duluth, Minnesota. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a prestigious organization that ensures high standards of animal care and conservation. This accreditation is a testament to the zoo's commitment to providing a quality experience for its visitors while also contributing to the conservation of wildlife.

Sea Life at Mall of America, previously known as Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, is a public aquarium situated in the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, United States. This aquarium is home to a wide variety of aquatic creatures and offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

The Greyhound Bus Museum, situated in Hibbing, Minnesota, marks the location where Carl Wickman and Andrew "Bus Andy" Anderson initiated their first bus service in 1914. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the early days of bus transportation in the United States.

The Minnesota Zoo, previously known as the Minnesota Zoological Gardens, is a zoological park located in Apple Valley, Minnesota. It was inaugurated in the year 1978 and has since been a popular destination for animal lovers and tourists alike. The zoo offers a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of species in a setting that closely mimics their natural habitats.

The Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children, located in Owatonna, Minnesota, served as a residential and educational facility for wards of the state from 1886 to 1945. The school was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1885 to provide safe transitional housing for orphaned, abandoned, and abused children. Over its 60-year operation, the school was home to a total of 10,635 children.

The Spam Museum, located in Austin, Minnesota, is a unique institution dedicated to the history and impact of Spam, a brand of canned precooked meat products. The museum is admission-free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. It provides an in-depth look into the Hormel Foods Corporation, the creators of Spam, and the product's place in world culture.

The Twin City Model Railroad Museum, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a unique destination for those interested in railroads. The museum boasts a large collection of model railroads, offering visitors a chance to explore the intricate details of these miniature masterpieces.

The Comstock House, located in Moorhead, Minnesota, is a historic house museum that was constructed for Solomon Comstock and his family between 1882 and 1883. The architectural style of the house is a blend of Queen Anne and Eastlake, making it a unique representation of the period's design aesthetics.

The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center, commonly referred to as the Hjemkomst Center, is a museum located in Moorhead, Minnesota. The museum first opened its doors to the public in 1985 and has since been a significant cultural and historical hub in the region.

The Minnesota History Center, located near downtown Saint Paul, serves as the headquarters of the Minnesota Historical Society. This museum and library is recognized as one of Minnesota's finest public buildings, offering a rich insight into the state's history and culture.

The Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM) is a significant institution located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The museum is dedicated to the preservation of local transportation history, with a particular focus on railroads, buses, and streetcars. This commitment to historical preservation provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and understand the evolution of transportation in the region.

The Minnesota Music Hall of Fame is situated at the intersection of First North Street and Broadway in New Ulm, Minnesota, United States. The museum is housed in a building that was formerly a public library. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique setting for the museum.

The August Schell Brewing Company, located in New Ulm, Minnesota, is a historic brewery founded in 1860 by German immigrants August Schell and Jacob Bernhardt. This establishment has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century, making it the second oldest family-run brewery in the United States.

The Forest History Center offers a variety of learning experiences about forests, the logging industry, and forest conservation. These experiences include exhibits and films, demonstrations, a living history lumber camp, an original 1934 fire tower, and nature trails. These diverse offerings allow visitors to engage with the history and conservation of forests in multiple ways.

The interior of the Crow Wing Historic County Courthouse is as impressive as its exterior. It features polished marble floors and walls, and a rotunda surrounded by a balcony. The dome of the courthouse is adorned with a colored glass skylight and a fine brass electrolier, adding to the overall grandeur of the building.

The Grand Army of the Republic Hall, located in Litchfield, Minnesota, is a significant historical site. Constructed in 1885, it is one of only four remaining GAR halls in the state of Minnesota. This hall stands as a testament to the history and heritage of the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Dorothy Louise Molter, also known as Knife Lake Dorothy or the Root Beer Lady, lived for 56 years on Knife Lake in the Boundary Waters area of northern Minnesota. She gained national prominence due to her unique lifestyle and the root beer she made and sold to thousands of passing canoeists in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) near Ely, Minnesota. Her life and her place in the public eye were significantly influenced by the evolution of the area where she lived into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Cahill School, a one-room schoolhouse, is currently situated in Tupa Park, near Minnesota State Highway 100 and Eden Avenue in Edina, Minnesota, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique glimpse into the educational history of the region.