2019 National NOW Conference Fun Attractions Around Minneapolis/St. Paul Area

This year’s National NOW Conference is being held in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota on July 19-21. Beyond all of the exciting and important workshops, we will also offer fun events during the conference such as a dance party/open mic night, photo booth and film screenings.  So don’t forget to register today! 

Additionally, the surrounding area has a variety of opportunities for exploring nature, art, culture and history. Here are some attractions you don’t want to miss: 

Shopping and Adventure 

The Mall of America  

One of the largest malls in the world, the Mall of America (MOA) offers a range of entertainment options beyond shopping. Attractions include the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Nickelodeon Universe, two mini golf courses and amusement park rides. Located close to the hotel, MOA is accessible via light rail. 

Celebrate Women Artists at Local Museums  

The Minneapolis Institute of Art has two women-centered exhibits on view currently. One highlights the women artists who lead Minnesota’s couture fashion industry around the turn of the 20th century, while the other is devoted to the art of Native women in the U.S. and Canada. Admission to the museum is free, although you must purchase tickets for the latter exhibit. 
 

The Walker Art Center, devoted to capturing the diversity of contemporary art, features prominent modern women artists such as Kara Walker, Kiki Smith and Julie Mehretu, who grapple with issues of race, religion, femininity, patriarchy and identity. 

Minnehaha Regional Park and Falls  

The Minnehaha Regional Park is home to walking trails, gardens, historic sites and sculptures. It also sports a gorgeous 53-foot waterfall, the Minnehaha Falls. The park is accessible via lightrail from the hotel.  

A little further from the hotel into Minneapolis itself, you will find even more opportunities for shopping, exploring nature, and having thought-provoking experiences.  

Water Activities at the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes

For those interested in Minnesota’s lakes and waterways, the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes is a must-see. The Chain connects five regional lakes with trails and parks. At Bde Maka Ska Park, the largest link in the “chain,” you can rent paddle boats, kayaks and canoes for a fun water adventure.  

Food, Art and Culture at the Midtown Global Market 

The Midtown Global Market celebrates the food, art, culture, and entertainment that defines Minnesota. Bringing together food from around the world and locally created art, the Market provides a unique shopping and dining experience.  

History Reborn in the North Loop and the Mill District Neighborhoods

 

If you’re looking for interesting neighborhoods to explore, you can’t go wrong with the North Loop and the Mill District. What were once stables, factories and warehouses have been transformed into restaurants and shops in the North Loop. You can also see Target Field, home to the Minnesota Twins, and walk along the Mississippi Riverfront. The Mill District was the world’s largest producer of flour, but it has been transformed into a modern residential and cultural center. You can visit the district’s Mill City Museum to dive into the history. These neighborhoods are accessible through a combination of the lightrail and walking. 

Biking the Greenway and other Minneapolis trails 

Minneapolis is filled with cycling routes for anyone who wants to explore the city in the fresh air. A particularly popular trail, the Midtown Greenway in south Minneapolis provides 5.5 miles of biking and walking trails. No bike? No problem—Nice Ride Minnesota provides easy bike rentals throughout the city for only $6/day.  

Online Registration Open Until July 18th 

There’s still time to register! Join us at the 2019 National NOW conference: Feminist Agenda Rising, Our Time is NOW in Minneapolis-St. Paul, July 19-21, 2019. Registration for the conference is available here.