George Floyd Square and Midtown Minneapolis: A Self-Guided Tour

Exploring Minneapolis’s Heart: A Self-Guided Tour of George Floyd Square and Midtown

This self-guided tour around Minneapolis’s historic and culturally vibrant neighborhoods offers a compelling look at a city grappling with recent history. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, reviews highlight its engaging content and meaningful stops, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in understanding the social fabric of the Twin Cities.

What we love about this tour is its focus on storytelling from local voices, such as interviews and personal experiences—adding depth to the history. The stops at Powderhorn Park, Midtown Global Market, and The Somali Museum are especially praised for their authentic cultural insights. Plus, the flexibility of a self-guided format suits travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace.

However, a potential drawback is the area’s atmosphere in the evening, with some reviews noting safety concerns and the smell of marijuana. It’s best to plan your visit during daylight hours for the best experience. This tour is ideal for those who want a respectful, educational walk through Minneapolis’s recent and diverse history, with an interest in social issues and urban culture.

Good To Know

• Self-guided flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace, with offline access and clear directions.
• Cultural and historical depth through stops like The Somali Museum and Pioneers & Soldiers Memorial Cemetery.
• Emotional journey through key sites, including George Floyd memorial and the site of the former Minneapolis Third Police Precinct.
• Authentic stories from local business owners, community organizations, and residents.
• Potential safety and ambiance considerations in the evening or darker hours.
• Affordable price at just $9.99, providing a meaningful way to learn about recent Minneapolis history.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 75-minute, self-guided walking tour offers a poignant overview of Minneapolis’s recent history, focusing on the events surrounding George Floyd’s death and the subsequent protests and unrest. Priced modestly at $9.99 per person, it’s designed for curious travelers who want to learn authentically without a group or guide. The tour’s duration varies from about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, giving you ample time to absorb the stories and explore each stop.

Starting at George Floyd Square

Your journey begins at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, where a powerful memorial marks George Floyd’s life and legacy. Reviewers have noted this as a “powerful starting point” that immediately immerses you in the gravity of the moment. The site is more than just a memorial; it’s a symbol of resilience, activism, and ongoing conversations about justice.

Powderhorn Park: A Moment of Reflection

Next, you stroll through Powderhorn Park, a space that’s both serene and symbolic. Its open green spaces and peaceful lake contrast sharply with the intense emotions surrounding the events. One reviewer described it as a “poignant love letter to community resilience,” which is exactly what you feel walking through it. Poet Ed Bok Lee’s reflections shared during the tour add a layer of personal storytelling that resonates deeply with visitors.

Midtown Global Market and Cultural Roots

Moving on, the tour takes you past Midtown Global Market, a lively hub of cultural diversity. It’s a vibrant space filled with shops and eateries representing Minneapolis’s immigrant communities. Visitors appreciate seeing the vibrancy and resilience of local businesses. One reviewer highlighted the market as a highlight, noting it encapsulates the city’s multicultural spirit, and a place where community and perseverance continue to thrive despite hardships.

Celebrating Somali Heritage

Stopping at The Somali Museum, the tour offers a glimpse into the Somali community’s contributions to Minneapolis. The museum showcases artifacts and stories, celebrating cultural heritage. This stop underscores the importance of recognizing diverse narratives in understanding the city’s identity. Travelers have told us that learning about Somali contributions was both enriching and eye-opening.

Honoring the Past at Pioneers & Soldiers Memorial Cemetery

The Pioneers & Soldiers Memorial Cemetery is a historic and contemplative stop, where over 27,000 graves, including Civil War veterans, remind us of the city’s deep roots. As you walk, you’re encouraged to connect past sacrifices with present struggles. This mile-long cemetery grounds provide a quiet space for reflection and historical context.

Preserving Heritage Amidst Crisis

The tour then highlights the story of MIGIZI, a Native American cultural organization that narrowly saved its radio archive during the unrest. This story emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and community action in turbulent times. It’s a reminder that despite chaos, cultural identities and stories endure.

The Riot’s Intensity and Lasting Impact

A visit to the former AutoZone building, one of the first sites to burn during the riots, visually captures the unrest’s ferocity. Reviewers noted how striking it was to see the physical scars left behind, a stark reminder of escalation. The site symbolizes the widespread disturbances and their lasting scars on the community.

The Symbolic Site of Justice

Finally, the Minneapolis Third Police Precinct stands as a symbolic location—an emblem of the protests and community calls for accountability. It’s a powerful conclusion that encapsulates the emotional weight of the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is delivered via an app available on Android and iOS, with offline access, making it easy to follow without worrying about data. The tour begins at 3757 Chicago Ave and concludes at East Lake Street and Minnehaha Avenue. It’s a private activity, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the intimacy of the experience.

The cost is quite reasonable, especially considering the depth of storytelling and cultural insights offered. It’s recommended to book about 5 days in advance, as most travelers do. The tour is accessible most days between 12:00 PM and 11:59 PM, giving flexibility for your schedule.

Since it involves walking through culturally significant neighborhoods, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some emotionally charged content. If you’re sensitive to topics like police violence or unrest, this might be a challenging experience, but also an educational one.

Some reviews advise taking the tour during daylight hours for safety and comfort, as the area can feel less secure at night and has a noticeable smell of marijuana, which some visitors found overwhelming.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Valuable?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, social justice advocates, and curious travelers wanting an authentic look at recent Minneapolis history. It’s also ideal if you prefer self-guided exploration paired with meaningful storytelling, rather than traditional guided tours.

Travelers interested in cultural diversity and community resilience will appreciate the stops at Midtown Market, The Somali Museum, and MIGIZI. It’s an especially meaningful option if you want to understand the city’s ongoing struggles and efforts toward healing.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided tour around George Floyd Square and Midtown Minneapolis offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s layered history and cultural diversity at your own pace. While it covers sensitive topics, its strength lies in storytelling, authenticity, and local voices, making it more than just a sightseeing walk.

For those ready to reflect on recent events, connect with community stories, and witness tangible symbols of resilience, this tour provides a meaningful, affordable way to deepen your understanding of Minneapolis’s complexities. Just keep in mind that safety and comfort should guide your timing—visit during daylight for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I do this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is available daily from 12:00 PM to 11:59 PM, so you can choose a time that suits your schedule.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The tour covers difficult topics related to unrest and violence, so parental discretion is advised, especially for young children.

Do I need to bring my own smartphone and headphones?
Yes, you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones, as these are not included.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking through neighborhoods, specific accessibility info isn’t detailed, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

Will I be guided by a person during the tour?
No, this is a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore independently with the app’s directions and stories.

Is the tour safe to do in the evening?
Some reviews recommend daytime visits for safety and comfort, especially because the area can feel less secure at night.

What cultural sites are included?
Stops include The Somali Museum, Powderhorn Park, and MIGIZI, showcasing Minneapolis’s diverse communities.

How long does the tour typically take?
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on your pace.

Can I revisit the tour later?
Yes, your access is lifelong, so you can explore the tour as many times as you like.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before, and receive a full refund.

This tour offers a respectful, layered understanding of a recent chapter in Minneapolis’s story. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking to understand social movements, it’s an experience that’s both educational and emotionally impactful.