Twin Cities Attractions

What began in 1854 as a territorial fair to highlight agriculture and encourage farming in the region became the Minnesota State Fair in 1859, a year after Minnesota was granted statehood. Today, often referred to as the “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” the annual Minnesota State Fair is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The fair attracts more than 2 million guests annually and will run from August 22 – September 2. The State Fair is located about 6 miles east of the Depot in St. Paul. Bus transportation will be available from downtown Minneapolis to and from the Fair.

The Minnesota State Fair includes rides, shopping, a wide variety of foods, and top-end entertainment shows every evening on the Grandstand. More information on specific acts that will be performing during the week of our conference will be provided as details become available.

About a 20-minute walk from the Depot hotel is Target Field, the home of the Minnesota Twins Major League Baseball team. It is also accessible using the Blue Line light rail system.

Tickets are available online or in person at the Target Field Box Office, located near the Target Field light rail station (2 stops from the Government Plaza Station nearest the Depot hotel).

Since opening its doors in 1992, the Mall of America has revolutionized the shopping experience for roughly 42 million visitors per year. A leader in retail, entertainment and attractions, the Mall of America is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and is known around the world. Located in Bloomington south of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, the mall is the second largest mall in the United States with over 520 stores, an indoor amusement park, and an aquarium. The Mall of America is easily accessible using the Blue Line light rail leaving from the Government Plaza Station, three blocks from the Depot hotel.

Located about 30 minutes southwest of Minneapolis in Shakopee, Valleyfair is the Twin Cities amusement park featuring over 75 rides and attractions including eight roller coasters. Valleyfair also has a water park called Soak City which is included with the price of admission.

Daily tickets start as low as USD$34/person and can be purchased online or in person at the amusement park.