

Cheap Car Hire Minneapolis Minnesota USA






Welcome to Minneapolis: The Dynamic ‘City of Lakes’
Rich in spirit, the city of Minneapolis is surrounded by nature’s resplendent beauty and immersive cultural experiences. Often paired with its twin city of St. Paul, Minneapolis stands out for its creative energy, stunning parks, and a storied history shaped by the Mississippi River. Known as the "City of Lakes," Minneapolis is famous throughout the whole of the USA for its abundance of water with many of its lakes located within the city limits. Providing exciting recreational opportunities, and contributing to scenic natural beauty of the city, the lakes of Minneapolis have shaped the character of the city, under the sprawling skies of the Midwest. The magical glistening lakes of Minneapolis are not just scenic landmarks but the beating heart of the city’s identity, historically and in the present day. With 22 lakes scattered across the city, their shimmering surfaces reflect both the natural beauty and the vibrant urban life that surrounds them. Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska), with its expansive waters, offers a perfect setting for sailing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding, while Lake Harriet boasts peaceful walking trails and beach areas. Home to an abundance of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and bass, the lakes attract anglers year-round. Lush with wildflowers like purple coneflowers and black-eyed Susans, with towering oak and maple trees providing shade, the lakes are important habitat for Minneapolis wildlife. Birdwatchers flock to the lakes, spotting herons, ducks, and the occasional bald eagle soaring above. Historically, these lakes served as gathering places for Indigenous peoples, with their serene waters shaping the cultural psyche of the city. Today, they remain a source of recreation and income, reinforcing Minneapolis’ deep connection to nature, while offering respite from urban life. The lakes also play an essential role in the local economy, offering opportunities for tourism, water sports, and lakeside events, such as the famous Minneapolis Lakes Trail.
Connecting with many major cities in Mexico, Canada and Europe, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is the gateway to this thriving metropolis, with convenient car hire options making it easy to explore the city and the stunning surroundings of the State of Minnesota. Whether you're here for business, a cultural adventure, or a weekend getaway, your journey begins with a rental car that unlocks the beauty and hidden gems of Minneapolis and its nearby landscapes.
Driving in Minneapolis
Start your Minneapolis journey with a scenic drive around the downtown area, where glassy skyscrapers and lush green spaces blend effortlessly. A stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront will reveal an unforgettable view of the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, a former railroad bridge now a pedestrian and bike-friendly landmark. From here, you can take a short drive to explore the Mill District, where you'll discover the history of the city’s flour milling industry. The Mill City Museum, housed in a historic flour mill, tells the story of Minneapolis’ industrial revolution. The city’s arts scene thrives with over 70 theatre companies, including the acclaimed No visit to Minneapolis is complete without a trip to the Mall of America, located just a 15-minute drive from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. As the largest shopping center in the U.S., the Mall offers everything from high-end retail stores to thrilling rides at Nickelodeon Universe, the indoor amusement park. It’s also home to SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, perfect for families and animal lovers. For a taste of Minnesota’s culture and history, the Minnesota Historical Society’s museum and the Walker Art Center are must-see spots. If you’re a sports fan, the Target Field, home to the Minnesota Twins, offers a memorable ballgame experience during the baseball season. Another hidden gem in the city is the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, which offers free admission to its beautiful gardens, making it a lovely, budget-friendly way to enjoy Minneapolis' natural beauty. Guthrie Theater, a must-visit for lovers of performance arts. Just across the river, in the heart of Minneapolis, is the Walker Art Center, one of the top contemporary art museums in the country. Adjacent to it is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, home to the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry – a giant spoon fountain that has become an iconic piece of public art. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Minneapolis offers over 322 kilometres (200 miles) of biking trails, with the Chain of Lakes serving as a peaceful escape within the city. Drive your hire car to the beautiful Lake Calhoun or Lake Harriet for a relaxing afternoon of kayaking, paddle-boarding, or simply strolling along the shoreline. On warmer days, you can take a dip in the lakes, enjoy a picnic in the parks, or rent a bike to ride along the Midtown Greenway, an urban bike path that stretches for miles across the city.

Minneapolis is also an excellent starting point for exploring the natural beauty of Minnesota and its neighbouring states. A short drive north of the city, you’ll find the stunning North Shore of Lake Superior. Follow Highway 61 along the lake to experience the beauty of cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine forests. This is a perfect getaway for hiking, camping, and fishing enthusiasts, with stops such as Gooseberry Falls State Park offering scenic views and waterfalls that flow into Lake Superior. For a more relaxed trip, head to the picturesque town of Stillwater, just a 30-minute drive east of Minneapolis, nestled on the banks of the St. Croix River. Known for its charming historic district, Stillwater boasts antique shops, riverfront dining, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Minneapolis experiences all four seasons in full force, so be sure to pack accordingly. Winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfalls and temperatures dropping well below freezing, so a vehicle with winter tires or four-wheel drive is recommended if you’re visiting between December and February. Summer, on the other hand, brings warmth and sunshine, with temperatures averaging around 75°F (24°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities around the lakes and parks.
Tips and FAQs
Driving in Minneapolis is a breeze, thanks to the city's grid layout and well-maintained streets. Major roads such as I-35W and I-94 provide easy access to both downtown and the surrounding suburbs. Parking is generally plentiful, especially in the city's many public lots and garages. The best part? Many hotels and attractions, including the renowned Mall of America (just a short drive from the airport), offer free or affordable parking options, making it convenient to explore by car.
Minneapolis, USA
Population: Approx. 430,000 (Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul: Over 3.6 million)
Annual Visitor Figures: Over 30 million
Average Summer Temperatures: 75°F (24°C)
Average Winter Temperatures: 15°F (-9°C)
Time Zone: GMT -6 (CST)

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