April 13, 2019, marked the first Minnesota United FC game at Allianz Field, in St. Paul’s Midway neighborhood, a long-awaited celebration for locals and soccer fans alike. From March through October, watch the Loons in the Twin Cities’ newest stadium, where 19,400 seats put you within 17-125 feet of the pitch. They’re not the only sports team in town; the Twin Cities have at least one for every season.
The Minnesota Twins finished second in the American League Central division in 2018, and fireworks burst over Target Field after 49 home wins that season. Grab a classic, like a bag of peanuts, or head to Bat & Barrel for everything from Red Rabbit chicken Parmesan to Baja Haus ceviche.
The Super Bowl LII venue, U.S. Bank Stadium, houses the Minnesota Vikings. The first time you see a home game, you’ll be amazed at the indoor setup. A glass roof evokes an outdoor stadium while shielding you from the elements, so you can look out at the skyline while the Vikings score. Last season, they finished second in their conference. Off the field, the team gets involved with the community, doing meet-and-greets, participating in fundraising galas and hosting a 5K in the fall.
As skilled as Minnesotans are on the icy roads, our hockey players truly conquer the ice. The Minnesota Wild plays at the Xcel Energy Center, the same four-tiered venue that hosts touring superstars like Ariana Grande, the Backstreet Boys and Queen with Adam Lambert. Otherwise, dress in red and forest green to check out a home game.
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At Target Center, catch the Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) and the Minnesota Lynx (WNBA). The Lynx are tied with the Houston Comets for the most titles in WNBA history, making our team one to watch. At a Wolves game, get a picture with Crunch, the team mascot. You might find yourself at Target Center during the off season, too, as it hosts big-name concerts and performances.
The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has 25 Division I teams, with some of the best facilities in the nation. Williams Arena, home to Golden Gopher men’s and women’s basketball teams, has tradition and prestige dating back to 1928. TCF Bank Stadium, the 80,000-seat home of Gophers football, is a newer addition to campus and the first college football stadium to be LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
