Mill City Museum

Though the museum's architecture is pretty Stark and impressive, especially the dichotomy between old and new, besides the story that is told in the elevator tour and just after, and the view from the top, this museum didn't really hold my attention for long. It seemed like the bottom area was mainly for kids so I think I spent a total of 5 minutes down there. The elevator tour was interesting but not at all what I expected. I thought as each doors opened, the area would be a renovated part of the old museum as it was in the past but instead it was recreated and seemed kind of phony and childish. The very top was as I was hoping it would be and the docent gave us a good history story. After doing that you are free to stay up on the viewing balcony as long as you like which I took full advantage of as the day was perfect and the view was great.The 15 minute movie on the history of Minneapolis was a little interesting, but again, not something that could have held my interest for much longer.I forget how much I paid, maybe $25, but that was far too steep of a price in my opinion especially when you can get pretty much the exact same view from two different perspectives at the Guthrie theater just a short walk away, for free.

We had a great experience at Mill City Museum. Such interesting history on the flour mills in the minneapolis area. Price is reasonable. There are plenty of exhibits: hands on and even a "test" kitchen" where we got to try some brownies :)The elevator ride and history tour was great! The views from upstairs are beautiful.You can park on the street (pretty cheap). Definitely put this on your list of things to do in Minneapolis!

This is an excellent museum on history specific to the city of Minneapolis, and the mills that helped shape the city's early days. We came here on a Saturday afternoon in March. My 9 year old son was wary of visiting a second history museum in one day (first was Minnesota History Center) but he absolutely loved it here. At one point he declared Minnesota to be way cooler than NJ, where we are from. The interactive space is great if you have kids, especially the area that allows them to experiment with water and how mills generate power using the river. Many other reviewers have noted the Flour Tower, but here are my two cents: I have been to many, many museums in my day, and I can say without a trace of exaggeration that this exhibit was one of the most creative, well done, informative exhibits I have ever seen. The seamless blending of audio from first person accounts and sound effects, stationary visuals mixed with video projected on walls, all making use of the historic building itself... it was all incredibly impressive and is not to be missed. This was my first time here and I can definitely recommend this place to other history buffs.

Amazing place to learn about the history that built our state and our nation.We did a 3-hour guided tour and went through the green elevator where you go up and see a living history of the mill city museum we also did the building of the city is in 19 minutes flat which was really good.When you go up in the elevator to the top of the green elevator you realize that this was just one of many flower companies that build on the river to use the power of the river and grind the mill that was then delivered all over the world.Really good historical elements on the different processes that evolved over time and making flour and all the different products that we need to globally around flour as the base.They have a water lab where you get to see how the hydroelectricity of the water that comes from the dams created power the flour mills.So much stuff to see and learn and do you could probably spend an entire day there I got to spend 3 hours with one of my son's classes and it was amazing.I would cherish the time to go again if I end up helping on another field trip.

We were looking for things to do with my parents on a hot day. This place didn't disappoint. There was something for all of us. We leaned about processing flour and the history of the building. The elevator experience was interesting as well as the quick history video. We loved the views from the top of the building. There are things for kids to do and plenty to learn. There is a test kitchen that was giving out samples. There is a nice gift shop. It was fun, interesting and we learned something.

What an experience!! I strongly recommend you to come here if you are looking for a place to learn about the history of mills and the hard work done. I came 30 mins before closing an went for the Flour Tower and I enjoyed it so much! It is the best as one is in the elevator tour. The staff is patient an knowleagable and one has access to the rooftop. Great view of the Stone Bridge.

Mill City Museum was a super cool museum that I visited a few months ago with my brother. We are both adults, but this museum has plenty to offer for both children and adults. This museum walks you through the history of Minneapolis as a major mill industry center.There are more traditional exhibits with plenty of material to read, but also plenty of interactive things for kids and adults. The highlight is this elevator tour that takes you through the different levels and times in history of the area. It is super exciting and at the end, you are at the top of the museum which has a beautiful view of the city (see my pictures).I'd say 1-2 hours is about the right amount of time to spend here - highly recommend.

The museum is located on the bank of Mississippi River at the remains of the Washburn A Mill which was the largest mill in the world. The museum displays many of the original equipment and offers a short movie and tour that explains the rise and fall of the mill. I learned not only about the history of the mill, but also the history of Minneapolis. I highly recommend visiting this place!

It was amazing and great. Went on a solo date and it was worth it. I was able to see and learn so much! Pros: -Street parking -Discount for students -Have a coffee shop inside.

A fascinating insight into the mill industry. Our tour guide Zach graciously answered all our questions and we had many. Highly recommend.