Eccentric Minneapolis: The Quirky Side of the City of Lakes Chris Osburn April 14, 2024 Arts & History, Top US Destinations, Travel Tips Every city has its secrets. Whether it’s quiet lunch spots, hidden coffee shops, or obscure speakeasies, urban secrets add an element of mystery to many cities. One city in particular has a very quirky side, indeed. Minneapolis is home to many a strange goings-on that will intrigue the curious traveler in you. From out-of-this-world experiences to pleasantly weird art, here’s our rundown of the wacky things you can see and do when you’re in town. Discover the Quietest Place on Earth Anechoic Chamber by Yamato IBM Research Facility licensed under CC BY 2.0 DEED Like your peace and quiet? Then you must visit Orfield Laboratories‘ anechoic chamber, which is officially ”the quietest place on earth” (The Guinness Book of Records says so). The chamber absorbs 99.99% of sound, and the quietness of the room could drive a person to insanity! It’s quite bizarre, but the absence of noise allows you to hear your heartbeat, stomach, and lungs — which can be perplexing for many, and as such, visits are short and supervised. The room is used for product development and testing. NASA, for example, uses it to test astronauts’ mettle, as they have to be ready to spend time in space, which is an endless anechoic field. Navigate the Minneapolis Skyway System Minneapolis Skyways Minneapolis boasts one of the largest continuous skyway systems in the world. Spanning over 11 miles and connecting over 80 blocks, it’s a lifeline during the icy winter months. But there’s more to it than just convenience; this elevated pedestrian maze hosts a variety of pop-up art displays, quirky shops, and even occasional live performances, making each stroll an adventure. Believe in Magic at Demings Height Park Demings Heights Elf Door by August Schwerdfeger licensed under CC BY 2.0 DEED Walk through Demings Height Park to the top of Norwegian Hill, which is the highest point in Minneapolis. This, however, is not the reason that the park is said to be magical. Keep your eyes open for a little red elf door — handmade, polished, with freshly oiled hinges — at the base of a very old tree. Locals believe that the little elf who lives here hides shiny trinkets inside the door for children to find. You could surprise him by leaving your own little gift for him! Get a Hug from the Mud Man at the Hidden Beach friends in cedar lake by Bryan Kennedy licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 DEED The Hidden Beach is located on the east side of Cedar Lake, renowned for its winding pathways that lead to its secluded sands. This spot is a favorite among locals for its authentic Minneapolis vibe, offering a true off-the-beaten-path experience. Among its main attractions is a natural mud pit, which serves as both a unique play area and the artistic medium for one of the beach’s most colorful characters—the Mud Man. This actual individual — a local who takes it upon himself to act as a sort of mud pit ambassador — is known for covering himself entirely in mud, and embodies the creative and unconventional spirit of Hidden Beach. He interacts with visitors, providing warm greetings and contributing to the laid-back, communal atmosphere. The presence of the Mud Man, engaging with beachgoers and enhancing the unique culture of the place, makes any visit to Hidden Beach memorable, drawing in diverse groups including skaters and reggae musicians. Manhole Covers? Or Objets d’Art? Image via Flickr CC – J Wynia If you thought this list couldn’t get any quirkier, just wait. In Minneapolis, the sewer covers are a point of artistic pride. Each cover features a design that celebrates art, history, and wildlife of the locality. Eleven local artists have created the various illustrations for this pervasive urban sight. From David Atkinson’s summer grill design to Stuart D. Kippler’s geography marker, these sewer covers convert the mundane into pieces of art. Step into the House of Balls The House of Balls by Gobonobo licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED Tucked away in the Warehouse District, the House of Balls is an art studio where creativity takes a tangible form. Artist Allen Christian crafts intriguing sculptures from bowling balls and other reclaimed materials, inviting visitors to explore the art and awaken their own creative instincts. This spot is a reflection of Minneapolis’s vibrant and interactive art scene, offering a deeply personal and unforgettable encounter with art. Tie Your Shoe to the U. Minnesota Shoe Tree Image via Flickr CC – Brian Dunnette The University of Minnesota Shoe Tree sits on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Even the casual observer will notice the sneakers, hiking boots, slippers, and even ice skates that dangle among the leaves of this local landmark. Some believe that it’s a rite of passage for students to celebrate losing their… um …innocence. Others believe it’s a tradition for graduating seniors to leave their mark. Half a century since the first shoe was tied to it, the Minnesota Shoe Tree continues to guard its mystery. FAQs: Q: What are the operating hours for the Minneapolis Skyway System? A: The Skyway is generally open from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays, with shorter hours on weekends. Hours can vary by specific access points. Q: Are there any entrance fees for Demings Height Park? A: No, Demings Height Park is open to the public free of charge. Q: Is swimming allowed at Hidden Beach? A: Yes, swimming is allowed at Hidden Beach. However, visitors should note that there are no lifeguards on duty. Q: How accessible is the House of Balls for visitors with disabilities? A: The House of Balls is partially accessible, but visitors with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the venue directly for detailed information. Q: Can I bring my pet to the University of Minnesota Shoe Tree? A: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times in accordance with local regulations. Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Anechoic Chamber at Orfield Laboratories? A: Visits to the Anechoic Chamber are by appointment only. It’s advisable to plan your visit well in advance, regardless of the season, due to high demand. Q: Is photography allowed inside the House of Balls? A: Photography is allowed and even encouraged inside the House of Balls, but commercial photography may require prior permission. Are you from Minneapolis? We would love for you to fill us in on any quirky city secrets we might have left out.
