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To reach the Minneapolis downtown area, we rode the light-rail line that originates in the Mall of America in Bloomington. The train makes quite a few stops, even at the International Airport. Opened in 2004, it is comfortable, quick and convenient.
Setting off on foot from our train stop, the first building we examined was the new Guthrie Theater, overlooking the Mississippi River. Opened only recently, the design of this Performing Arts complex might be described as unusual or peculiar --- even bizarre. The architect insisted that the theater be lifted up high enough for views of the river. The escalators inside are, consequently, the longest we’ve encountered outside London’s subway system. Jutting out and facing the Mississippi River is this cantilevered viewing platform that also contains a sloped walkway connecting the 4th and 5th floors:
“Peepholes” on the sloped walkway focus attention on various nearby buildings or special views, such as a “Gold Medal Flour” sign. Unfortunately, tours were filled and we never discovered the function of the two towers on top of the building nor were we able to see the theaters themselves.
Continuing our walking tour, we crossed the Stone Arch Bridge to capture this scenic reflection of the downtown skyline:
The arched structure in the foreground is the Third Avenue Bridge.
Crossing the river again, we were able to appreciate closeup some of the strikingly designed buildings in downtown:
Following the Civil War, Minneapolis evolved into a flour mill center of global stature as well as a national lumber center. On the opposite shore, we did walk past an operating Pillsbury flour mill but, for the most part, there are few reminders of either industry. Old mill buildings are being converted into riverfront condominiums or torn down; one mill building has been transformed into a museum. The waterfront now contains attractive recreation paths for cyclists and pedestrians. There is no doubt the city is serious about beautifying and reclaiming its Mississippi shoreline. However, it will take time to completely overcome the long years of neglect.
We were fortunate that the rain today held off until late in the afternoon. Tomorrow, the rain is forecast to end as we wrap up our visit and relocate farther south to Rochester.