I remember the St. Anthony Main of the 80’s and 90’s. It was vibrant, full of small boutiques, restaurants and live music. For me it was a place to visit on a Sunday afternoon. I would browse the stores, very rarely buying anything I might add. Could be why those boutiques are no more!
St. Anthony Main, is located on the NE side of the Mississippi River, across from downtown Minneapolis. Views of the river, downtown and the falls are worth the visit alone. One end of Main Street connects to Nicollet Island, and the other end connects to the Stone Arch Bridge. In recent years many of the old warehouses have been converted into lofts and apartments.
Don’t get me wrong, St. Anthony Main still has a certain charm but it’s certainly downsized. The iconic St. Anthony Main theatre is currently closed. Happily only for renovations and re-branding. It will re-open in March 2022. The Wilde Cafe & Spirits (namesake Oscar Wilde) offers an interesting menu and sidewalk seating. https://wildecafe.com/minneapolis-wilde-cafe-and-spirits-food-menu
A few blocks further down Main Street is the Aster Cafe. If Wilde Cafe seating is interesting the Aster Cafe offers stupendous seating. They also have a music venue. Checkout the website for up-coming shows. https://astercafe.com/events/
Nicollet Island & The Stone Arch Bridge
I would recommend walking across the Stone Arch Bridge. You get a cracking view of the falls and it’s great watching downtown loom ahead of you. The bridge is made of local granite and limestone and spans 2,100 feet with 23 arches. If you have the desire and energy, you can visit the Guthrie Theatre. The balcony in the Guthrie offers an amazing view of the river looking back towards St. Anthony Main.
Nicollet Island
So, before you leave take the time to drive around Nicollet Island. It’s home to DeLaSalle High School, The Nicollet Island Inn and about 150 residents. The houses on the island were all built between 1864 and 1898. It’s like stepping back in time! Here is an interesting fact, if the northward movement of the falls had not been stopped in the 19th century the island would not exist today.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church https://lourdesmpls.org/
Our Lady of Lourdes is the oldest church in Minneapolis. It’s been in continuous use since the 19th century. My nephew was married here. It was summer, no air conditioning phew! It’s worth a look even if you don’t go inside.
This whole area is a great place to explore. Some of the iconic places around include: Nye’s Bar, 112 East Hennepin. Kramarczuk Sausage Company, 215 East Hennepin. Keegan’s Irish Pub, 16, University Ave NE.