Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis combines a Dakota word with a Greek word to come up with a name that means "Water City." A fitting name for one of the central cities in the state of 10,000 lakes.

Minneapolis began as a trading village called St. Anthony for the 16 foot waterfall that powered the city's rapid growth. Between 1848 and 1855 the town's population grew to 3,000 and it was complete with schools, churches, stores, and hotels. The original Main Street is across the river from downtown Minneapolis. Visitors touring the street will find specialty shops, restaurants, and cafes. Guided walking tours of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District are available to tourists on Wednesday through Sunday.

Settlers in Minneapolis on the west side of the river created the Minneapolis Mill Company in 1856 using the falls. With the building of more mills, Minneapolis became the largest flour producer in the country in the 1890's.

For scenic leisure in the city center, visitors will want to explore the 170-acre park that surrounds Minnehaha Falls. The park includes shaded lawns, picnic facilities, and wooded paths.