Due to its vibrant cultural institutions, Minneapolis was named one of the "Top Five International Hot Spots" for 2006 by Travel and Leisure. Of particular interest are the new blue Guthrie Theater on the Mississippi River Front, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Children’s Theater Company and the newly expanded Walker Art Center.

Minnesota has the fourth most active jazz scene in the United States.

Out of 50 cities, Minneapolis-St. Paul ranks seventh nationwide for "fun", according to Bizjournal.com. The Twin Cities ranked particularly high in gambling, "high-impact" spectator sports and shopping.

According to a poll by Travelandleisure.com and CNN Headline News, the Twin Cities ranked high in public parks and spaces (second), theaters (second) and friendly people (third).