Southwest Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Southwest that includes information on places to visit, food and drink scene, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Southwest

Southwest is one of the most diverse regions in the United States of America and is known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique geographic features. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Southwest is home to several of the country’s most populous and thriving cities, including Minneapolis and St. Paul, which form the Twin Cities metropolitan area. This travel guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of all the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural experiences to enjoy when exploring Southwest.

List of Places to Visit in Southwest

Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Southwest:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Minneapolis Institute of Art
  • Walker Art Center
  • Mill City Museum
  • Minnesota State Capitol
  • Historic Fort Snelling

Natural Attractions of Southwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Minnehaha Regional Park
  • Chain of Lakes
  • Mississippi River Gorge Regional Park
  • Minnewaska State Park
  • Voyageurs National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southwest

Southwest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are numerous hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views of the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
  • Theodore Wirth Regional Park
  • Minnehaha Parkway
  • The Minnesota River Valley Trail
  • The Superior Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Southwest: Activities and Tours

Southwest offers a wide range of activities and tours suitable for all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Catch a baseball game at Target Field
  • Visit the iconic Mall of America, the largest mall in the country
  • Attend a live music concert at First Avenue Nightclub
  • Take a food tour of Minneapolis’s culinary scene
  • Go on a brewery tour of the Twin Cities’ famous craft beer scene

Week-Long Itinerary for Southwest

Here is an example itinerary for a week-long trip to Southwest:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art
2 Tour Minnehaha Regional Park and Minnehaha Falls
3 Explore the Chain of Lakes
4 Take a day trip to Voyageurs National Park
5 Attend a live music concert at First Avenue
6 Do a brewery tour of Minneapolis
7 Visit the Mall of America

Food and Drink Scene of Southwest

Southwest has a thriving food and drink scene that offers a wide range of local cuisines and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juicy Lucy (a cheese-stuffed burger)
  • Wild rice soup
  • Tater tot hotdish
  • Lefse (a Norwegian flatbread)
  • Jucy Lucy (a juicy hamburger with hot melted cheese inside)

Local Beverages

  • The world-famous Surly beer
  • Grapetown soda
  • The popular Muddy Waters Coffee

Where to Stay in Southwest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southwest has several accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences:

  • The Ace Hotel
  • The Hewing Hotel
  • The Moxy Minneapolis Uptown
  • The Radisson Blu Mall of America
  • The Grand Hotel Minneapolis

What to Buy in Southwest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the most popular souvenirs to buy in Southwest:

  • Puzzles and board games from Twin Cities Toy Shop
  • Handmade chocolates from DeBrito Chocolate Factory
  • Artisanal soap from Minny & Paul
  • Locally roasted coffee from Spyhouse Coffee Roasting Co.

Local Culture and Customs of Southwest

Southwest is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage that features a blend of traditions of various ethnic groups. The people of Southwest take pride in their civic duties and are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature.

Best Time to Visit Southwest

The best time to visit Southwest is from late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southwest

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Take public transportation
  • Explore the natural surroundings

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces
  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions
  • Engage in illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Southwest

Southwest is considered a safe destination compared to other regions in the United States. However, visitors should exercise caution and take necessary precautions, especially when exploring large cities at night.

Health in Southwest

Southwest has a well-developed healthcare system with several hospitals and medical facilities. Visitors are advised to have a travel insurance plan that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Southwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southwest is well-connected and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation:

Airports Near Southwest

  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
  • Rochester International Airport

Bus Stations Near Southwest

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Jefferson Lines

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service
  • Car rental services

How to Get Around in Southwest

Southwest has an efficient and affordable public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and commuter trains. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

Where to Go Next from Southwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Madison, Wisconsin
  • Sioux Falls, South Dakota
  • Des Moines, Iowa

Conclusion

Southwest is a vibrant and diverse region that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to this region with ease and make the most of your visit.

Minneapolis Institute of Arts Minneapolis Institute of Arts Uptown Theatre at night Uptown Theatre at night Streetcar at Linden Hills Station Streetcar at Linden Hills Station Calhoun Square, Uptown Calhoun Square, Uptown