Free Things to Do Around the Twin Cities: Art Edition

Part I: Enjoy the local art scene at no cost

Going on fun outings does not need to involve spending money. In this first edition of a three-part series, we have compiled a list of free art-related activities around the Twin Cities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the local art scene.

Visit Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)

Mia offers free admission for all visitors and several new exhibits to explore. The museum is home to hundreds of renowned artworks from countless different time periods and cultures. Mia also hosts several free programs for individuals of all ages, including Meet at Mia for adults and Family Day for children.

Family Day at Mia
Family Day at Mia

Photo by Minneapolis Institute of Art, Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis

Take a Free Art Class at Curiosity Studios

Curiosity Studios in Minneapolis offers open studio programs at no cost. They host summer studio classes for youth and adults with different themes, offering the perfect combination of art and community. Unlock a new hobby or learn some new artistic techniques and get creative!

Wander Through a Local Art Festival

Several towns across the Twin Cities and beyond offer summer art festivals with no admission fees. Visit the Minnehaha Falls Art Fair in Minneapolis this weekend (July 19-21) to admire the mastery of local artists.

Take a Self-Guided Mural Tour

The Twin Cities is full of commissioned murals along its streets. Check out one of Minneapolis’ most famous murals, Eduardo Kobra’s Bob Dylan mural at Fifth Street and Hennepin Avenue. Next, head to First Avenue and Eighth Street to observe Hiero Veiga’s 100-foot-tall mural of Prince. For a classic Minnesotan mural, visit 515 First Ave. NE to see the “Greetings from Minneapolis” mural, showcasing the skyline and Stone Arch Bridge. Take in these massive masterpieces and enjoy your art crawl!

Bob Dylan mural in Minneapolis
Bob Dylan mural

Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis

Admire Contemporary Art at Walker

Visit Walker Art Center on Thursday evenings and the first Saturday of the month for free admission! Stroll through their stunning galleries or take some pictures in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, where you can find the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry.

Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture in Minneapolis
Spoonbridge and Cherry

Courtesy of Walker Art Center

Take advantage of the art scene in the Twin Cities without breaking the bank! Bring your art-enthusiast friends or go solo to support local artists and ignite your own creativity.

Julia Jacobson is a rising senior at the University of Notre Dame, studying political science and journalism. Outside of her coursework, she participates in her school’s mock trial team and works as a teaching assistant for an introductory political science course. Julia was born and raised in Minnesota, and loves traveling both domestically and internationally. In her free time, she enjoys reading and journaling.