Minneapolis Riverwalk Food Tour

When it comes to experiencing Minneapolis beyond its postcard images, a guided food tour along the Riverwalk offers an excellent way to soak up the city’s flavors and stories. While we haven’t walked the route ourselves, reviews and tour descriptions suggest this small-group adventure combines culinary delights with a healthy dose of local history.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the variety of tastings—from cheese curds to gelato—and the small-group atmosphere promise a personalized experience that’s both engaging and relaxed. Second, the inclusion of notable landmarks like the Mill City Museum and St. Anthony Falls adds a cultural context that elevates mere eating into a richer journey.

A possible consideration is the moderate amount of walking—roughly 2 miles plus additional strolling—which might be a concern for those with mobility limitations. However, for most active travelers seeking an authentic taste of Minneapolis, this tour hits a great balance of sights, stories, and flavors.

This experience suits curious travelers who love discovering local cuisine, enjoy walking through vibrant neighborhoods, and appreciate a guided narrative that ties everything together. If you’re visiting Minneapolis for a few days and want to go beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic local flavor: Try nearly a dozen tastings at neighborhood eateries, including cheese, baked bread, gelato, and craft beer.
• Cultural highlights: Visit historic sites like Mill City Museum and see the only natural major waterfall on the Upper Mississippi.
• Beautiful scenery: Walk along the Riverwalk, across the Stone Arch Bridge, and enjoy views of St. Anthony Falls.
• Small-group intimacy: A tour capped at 12 ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Flexible timing: Choose from morning or early evening departures to fit your schedule.
• Educational and fun: The guide offers insightful commentary on Minneapolis’s history and architecture while you walk.

In-Depth Look at the Minneapolis Riverwalk Food Tour

Overview and First Impressions

This 3-hour tour is designed for those who enjoy combining good food with a bit of city exploration. Priced at $79 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to get a well-rounded taste of Minneapolis’s culinary scene and historical neighborhoods.

The tour begins at Gold Medal Park, a scenic spot on the river with views of downtown’s skyline. Here, you meet your guide—someone knowledgeable and friendly, based on reviews—and start your journey into the city’s culinary and cultural fabric.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Gold Medal Park
The tour kicks off in a park named after the famous Minneapolis-based company, hinting at the city’s manufacturing roots. This initial meeting point sets a relaxed tone, allowing for introductions in an open, green space. It’s a great spot for photos and to get comfortable before moving into the city’s heart.

Stop 2: Mill City Museum
Most reviews mention this as a highlight—an educational visit that offers insights into Minneapolis’s milling history. The museum admission is included, so you can explore at your own pace after sampling some local bites. The building itself, a former flour mill, provides an industrial charm and a tangible link to the city’s past.

Stop 3: St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge
Walking along the historic Stone Arch Bridge, you’ll cross the Mississippi River and get views of St. Anthony Falls, which is the only natural major waterfall on the Upper Mississippi. Reviewers note the scenic vistas and appreciate the blend of nature and architecture. The walk is roughly a mile and a half, giving you time to enjoy the views and learn about the area’s significance.

Stops Along the Way: Local Food Tastings
The tour includes several stops at local eateries where you’ll sample everything from Thai cuisine—home of Minnesota’s first Thai restaurant—to baked goods, Polish sausage, and homemade gelato. Several reviews highlight the generous portions and variety, describing the stops as “interesting” and “delicious.” You might enjoy bites like cheese curds, a Minnesota staple, or locally brewed craft beer (beer is available for purchase).

Additional Sights: Farmers Market & Guthrie Theater
While not a formal stop, the tour passes by the Farmers Market and the Guthrie Theater, adding to the vibrant cityscape. This provides a sense of Minneapolis’s creative and agricultural roots, enriching the overall experience.

What Travelers Love

Based on reviews, the knowledgeable guides are a standout feature. One reviewer praised their guide, Brian, for being friendly and well-informed, making the experience more engaging. The combination of delicious food and historical context makes the tour more than just a tasting session—it’s an education wrapped in a culinary adventure.

The scenery along the river and the gorgeous views of St. Anthony Falls are frequently mentioned as highlights. Many note that the walk is just the right length—about two miles—perfect for active people who want to explore without feeling overwhelmed.

Food Quality and Diversity

The food stops are described as “just enough” with “fantastic variety,” including treats like gelato from a local shop, European-style baked bread, and Polish sausage. One reviewer highlights the hidden gem of the Tea House, indicating some stops are off the beaten path and offer authentic local flavors.

Several reviews note the generosity of the tastings, making it feel like a full meal rather than just snacks. The inclusion of locally brewed beer (though not included in the price) adds a local touch for adult participants.

Practical Considerations

The tour involves moderate walking—about 2 miles plus additional strolling—so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s suitable for most travelers, including children, as long as they’re accompanied by an adult and over 21 if they wish to sample alcohol.

The tour operates with small groups of 12 or fewer, which ensures a friendly, personalized atmosphere. There’s flexibility in departure times—morning or early evening—making it adaptable to different itineraries.

Note that alcoholic drinks are not included in the price and must be purchased separately. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly if you’re staying farther from the meeting point.

Value for Money

At $79, the tour offers a good mix of food, sightseeing, and local stories. The inclusion of museum admission and the guide’s expertise adds to the value. Many reviews mention that the food stops are well-paced and generous, making it a worthwhile experience for those wanting a comprehensive local introduction without breaking the bank.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews mention the initial difficulty in finding the starting point, so arriving a few minutes early is advisable. Also, given the walking involved, those with mobility issues might want to consider the distance and terrain.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This food and heritage walk is ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about Minneapolis’s history through its neighborhoods and food. It’s great for active visitors who enjoy walking and exploring vibrant communities without feeling rushed. Food lovers will appreciate the local flavors and quality tastings, while history buffs will enjoy the stories behind landmarks like the Mill City Museum and St. Anthony Falls.

It’s also a good choice for those new to Minneapolis who want a guided, rundown that combines food, scenery, and storytelling. Families with older children or teenagers will find it engaging, especially with the mix of outdoor walking and cultural sights.

The Sum Up

The Minneapolis Riverwalk Food Tour offers an engaging way to discover the city’s flavors, sights, and stories all in one compact experience. With knowledgeable guides, generous tastings, and scenic vistas, it’s a well-rounded way to spend a few hours if you’re visiting Minneapolis.

It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who love local food and history. The tour’s small-group format means you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that’s both relaxed and educational. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small family, you’ll likely come away with a deeper appreciation for Minneapolis’s vibrant neighborhoods and culinary scene.

While the walking may not be ideal for everyone, the overall value—combining food, culture, and scenery—makes this tour a memorable part of any trip to the Twin Cities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for older children and teenagers, especially if they enjoy walking and food.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour can provide alternative menus for nut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, shellfish-free, pork-free, vegetarian, or vegan diets if you request at least 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour include alcohol?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase at stops along the way.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1000 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, and ends in Northeast Minneapolis.

How long is the walking portion?
Expect to walk roughly 2 miles, plus additional strolling along scenic areas like the Stone Arch Bridge and neighborhood streets.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
Since the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, those with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.

Is transportation provided?
No, there is no hotel pickup or drop-off; you are responsible for getting to and from the starting point.

In sum, the Minneapolis Riverwalk Food Tour combines the best of local cuisine, scenic views, and neighborhood charm into a well-paced and informative experience that’s ideal for those wanting a taste of the city’s authentic flavor and history.