Explore Minneapolis’ nine-mile indoor skyway network on a 2.5-hour guided walk that threads together architecture, public art, and civic history. Perfect for cold winters or rainy days, the tour offers an efficient, weatherproof way to see downtown.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Step into the second-story arteries of Minneapolis and the city rearranges itself: light pools in glass atriums, HVAC breaths move through the concrete, and signs point you along more than nine miles of connected walkways. The tour begins at the W Hotel in the historic Foshay Tower, then threads through IDS Center’s Crystal Court, past public art installations, and into original skyway segments that reveal the city’s postwar effort to keep downtown alive.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking on flat surfaces and using a few elevators and escalators.
Wildlife
History
The Minneapolis skyway system expanded from postwar urban renewal initiatives to connect retail and civic cores; it now links about 80 blocks and over nine miles of enclosed walkways.
Conservation
Travelers can help by using refill stations, patronizing downtown local businesses, and keeping public spaces clean—small actions help maintain these high-traffic interior ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear supportive shoes
The tour covers about two miles on hard indoor surfaces—choose cushioned, supportive footwear to stay comfortable.
Bring a refillable bottle
Water fountains and bottle-filling stations are available in many skyway buildings—stay hydrated without buying disposable plastic.
Time it outside commuter hours
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon avoids peak office traffic and gives you more space at viewpoints like Crystal Court.
Carry a light layer
Indoor temperatures can vary between heated lobbies and cooler connector corridors—an easy jacket helps you adapt.
Comfortable walking shoes
Cushioned shoes make two miles of indoor walking comfortable on tile and concrete floors.
Reusable water bottle
Refill at building stations to stay hydrated and reduce waste.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Useful for short outdoor blocks between buildings in spring and fall.
spring
Warm midlayer
Helps when exiting to outdoor connectors or waiting for elevators in winter.
winter