Mill City Museum in Minneapolis, run by the Minnesota Historical Society, is a fascinating place to explore. The museum is housed in the ruins of the Washburn 'A' Mill and overlooks the beautiful Mill Ruins Park along the Mississippi River.
You'll learn about the history of Minneapolis and how it grew into the bustling city it is today, with a focus on flour milling and other industries that harnessed the power of Saint Anthony Falls.
The mill complex, dating back to the 1870s, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It forms part of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District and is located within the National Park Service's Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.
There are plenty of exciting exhibits to explore at Mill City Museum. You can marvel at the flour milling machinery, visit the water lab, and even take part in a baking lab to learn how to make delicious treats.
The highlight of the museum is the Flour Tower, which takes visitors on a journey through the different floors of a working flour mill.
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You'll hear the voices of people who worked in the Washburn A Mill throughout the tour. The ninth-floor observation deck offers stunning views of St. Anthony Falls, while extant equipment on the eighth floor is interpreted by knowledgeable staff.
The Gold Medal Flour sign still shines bright at night atop the adjoining grain elevator, while across the river, the Pillsbury A Mill is topped with a sign reading 'Pillsbury's Best Flour.' The museum is also home to a range of captivating artworks by local artists, including murals, sculptures, and a 15-foot Bisquick box.
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For those who love music, why not check out the Mill City Live outdoor concert series? The concerts take place in the museum's Ruin courtyard and showcase a variety of talented Twin Cities bands.
Originally held on the first and third Thursdays of June, July, August, and September, the concerts are now held every Wednesday night in August.