MINNEAPOLIS -- If you're looking for something different to do outdoors this summer, why not explore some of the unique historic spots in Minneapolis?
Sven has some suggestions:
The 45th Parallel
Near the intersection of Golden Valley Road and Wirth Parkway, a boulder marks an important landmark. The boulder is on the 45th parallel of latitude, which is the midway point between the Equator and the North Pole.
Last standing street car pavilion
Minneapolis and St. Paul once had a bustling streetcar service, but now just one pavilion is left standing. It is located at Theodore Wirth Park and was the end of the Glenwood line.
Former Native American village near Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun)
There was once a Native American village near Bde Maka Ska in 1835 that is now the Lakewood Cemetery. It was an experiment to try and create a settlement for the Dakota. Cloud Man was the leader of the village.
Minnehaha Falls
Not only is it a cool place to see, Minnehaha Falls has quite a lot of history. Lyndon Johnson came during the drought and wanted to see the waterfall, so they opened all the fire hydrants to fake the waterfall. You can also see the geological history here in the layers of formation on the rocks.
Minnehaha Depot
The railway station, called the "Princess" because of its delicate canopy, stood on the first railroad line west of the Mississippi. It is a state historic site.
John H. Stevens House
Considered the "birthplace of Minneapolis and Hennepin County," the historic John H. Stevens House preserves a place where people dreamed up a new city and made it happen. There are events at the house throughout the summer, including guided tours and activities for kids.