15 Reasons Why My Heart Will Always Be In Minneapolis
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Courtney Blake
Author
Although I often write about the opinions of the general population of Minneapolis, I do find myself rather fortunate to be living in this city and to be writing about it. I have a deep love for Minneapolis, a love that cannot be broken by any means necessary. Today you get to read 15 reasons why Minneapolis will always remain in my heart and why I hope you love this city too.
The people of Minneapolis are passionate, active, and present. Minneapolitans are not simply bystanders in their own lives and communities. It is incredibly special to see the engagement in Minneapolis' Open Street events, its festivals, and city life in general. I became an engaged and passionate person because of Minneapolis.
The Stone Arch Bridge is magnificent. It gets me every time I see it, even though I've walked across the bridge a million times. There's something about feeling the wind and mist from Saint Anthony Falls in my hair as I cross, and the picturesque angle of the Minneapolis skyline. If I ever move away from Minneapolis, I'm certain I'll always be able to envision the beauty that is the Stone Arch.
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The first time I saw Minneapolis native, Dessa perform live was at the State Fair Grand Stand in 2012 and I was immediately hooked. Her mesmerizing presence and air of confidence spoke to me. I grew up listening to Minnesota music, from The Jayhawks and The Replacements to Soul Asylum, to Haley Bonar and Prince and beyond. Local music will always be a significant part of my life.
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Who needs Starbucks when Minneapolis has Spyhouse, Uncommon Grounds, Purple Onion, Espresso Royale, Penny's Coffee and so many more? In Minneapolis, it's easy to support small business and drink a cup of coffee that feels special and intimate.
On my days off from work, I'm known to hit a museum. Most recently I visited the Hennepin History Museum to fuel my love for the history of Minneapolis. It's important to understand your roots and to appreciate the past that aided in making Minneapolis the city it is today.
Autumn in Minneapolis is something that's sacred to me. I couldn't imagine living anywhere in the world where there aren't autumns and where there aren't first snowfalls to blanket sleepy residential streets at night.
No matter what side of the political spectrum you are on, I want you to know that I am proud of how dedicated many of Minneapolis' citizens are to causes that matter to them, like Black Lives Matter. I love seeing my fellow Minneapolis residents strive for equity. I admire the tenacity many community leaders. No, the city isn't perfect, but it's a great city because there are many who won't go down without a fight.
I began my adult life at the University of Minnesota campus. I've failed and I've triumphed in Minneapolis. This city has given me my independence, and for that, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
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Sometimes pictures say it all. The Minneapolis skyline is stunning.
Park Avenue in Minneapolis became a fairytale in the late 1800s with the huge number of Victorian mansions built along the street. While some of these stately manors have been destroyed, there are still many estates that have been preserved, restored, and often times turned into museums. The Swan Turnblad Mansion has been put to perfect use as the American Swedish Institute. It's a castle within city limits.
The mighty waterfall within the confines of Minneapolis never ceases to amaze me. In the winter, when the falls are entirely frozen, Minnehaha becomes downright magical.
I couldn't possibly love Minneapolis without loving the most important man to have ever blessed this city. Prince Rogers Nelson was an indescribable superstar and I'm fortunate to live in his city.
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I love food. I love Minneapolis restaurants and what their chefs are capable of. My favorite restaurant in all of Minneapolis is The Sample Room, and that's all because of the decadent Bottineau Burger. I ate this burger for the first time on my 21st birthday and the memory of that night always brings me back to that first, wonderful bite. The Sample Room, 2124 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418.
The Minneapolis music scene wouldn't be what it is without First Avenue. Every big act who has ever come through the city has played at First Ave at one point or another as a right of passage. It's the perfect joint to see a local favorite or a band on tour. First Avenue, 701 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Minneapolis throws an annual festival to celebrate water. That just tickles me. I love the offbeat sense of self Minneapolitans have, and I love that a water festival ends with a boom of one of the largest fireworks displays in the country.
These are the 15 reasons that Minneapolis will always hold a special place in my heart. I know our opinions might vary, so that’s where you come in. Why is Minneapolis near and dear to your heart? Let us know in the comments.
Want more Minneapolis pride? Read 12 Reasons Why People In Minneapolis-Saint Paul Should Be Proud Of Their City.
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