Culture, Recreation, and Outdoor Life
Arts and Culture
Minnesota theatre and performing arts continue to explode with creativity. In the Twin Cities alone, the number, variety and quality of theatre has earned national acclaim.
Outside New York City, we have more theatre than anywhere in the nation. Perhaps the most well-known venue is the renowned Guthrie Theatre.
Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the new Guthrie was called “Minneapolis’ vanguard of American theater” by Travel and Leisure magazine. The building is a three-theater complex, featuring a 1,100-seat signature thrust stage and a 700-seat proscenium stage theater rising four stories above the ground.
Beyond the Twin Cities, outstanding community theatres in Lanesboro, Bemidji, Plainview and others continue to raise the thespian bar.
Arts organizations throughout the state have art centers and galleries that feature the work of regional artists. Several museums in the state continue to present cutting edge exhibitions, and concerts and music festivals regularly feature entertainment’s biggest draws.
Due to its vibrant cultural institutions, Minneapolis was named one of the “Top Five International Hot Spots” by Travel and Leisure. Of particular interest are the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Children’s Theater Company and the newly expanded Walker Art Center.
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts has extensive collections from around the world and throughout the ages, while the Walker Art Center focuses on contemporary works and features a sculpture garden.
Minneapolis and St. Paul are home to two major orchestras: the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra.