Explore Twin Cities


Land Acknowledgement

We [I] begin by acknowledging that we are on the unceded lands of the Dakota and Anishinaabe peoples. Just twelve miles away from Metropolitan State University, the Minnesota River joins the Mississippi River at a place called Bdote Minisota, the place “where two waters come together” in Dakota. Bdote, and the bluff land surrounding Metro State, is an especially sacred site, a spiritual and physical place of creation for indigenous peoples of Minnesota. We encourage each of us who are settlers on or visitors to this land to become familiar with the Dakota and Anishinaabe peoples, and their vibrant lives and work.  We strive to interrupt the legacy of colonialism And indigenous erasure by supporting efforts to reunite and restore indigenous peoples to the land. This is the definition of land back, and the reason we do land acknowledgement practice.


Local Attractions

Immerse yourself in culture, gardens, museums, the performing arts, live music, restaurants and more when visiting Twin Cities and MWAIS 2023! If you are interested in outdoor recreation, the city has 22 lakes and lagoons and some 170 parks within its limits. Also, the Mississippi River runs through the center of the city, where you are able to walk and drive along the riverfront.

For those interested in art and culture, Minneapolis has three theaters that offer both modern and classic shows. In addition, Orchestra Hall, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden are popular attractions in the downtown area.

The Mall of America, which is the largest mall in the United States, is located only 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis.  In addition to the Mall of America, many smaller boutique shopping options are available closer to the conference venue.

From the nation’s best Somali cuisine to classic diner fare to authentic birria tacos, Minneapolis features exciting options for dining out. Check out https://www.exploreminnesota.com/list/45-best-minneapolis-restaurants and start making your wish list!


About the Area

  • Located in the state that is home to over 10,000 lakes, the area and neighboring locations are filled with vibrant culture, history, and art.
  • Minnehaha Park is the site of Minnehaha Falls, the inspiration to Longfellow’s “Song of Hiawatha.” The park is beautiful in every season, particularly in the summer.  Lake of the Isles, Lake Harriet, and Lake Calhoun have lush greenways connected by a roadway adjacent to the lakes. Many of the city’s most stately homes are located along this route. River Road along the Mississippi River provides a scenic drive right in the heart of the city.  
  • St. Anthony (and St. Anthony Falls), the birthplace of Minneapolis, which has been restored to its original ambiance.
  • Renovated shops and warehouses not far from the conference venue make this a perfect area to spend the evening.
  • The Mall of America, one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destinations with thrill rides, a world-class aquarium, acres of shopping and entertainment.  
  • Rent a Nice Ride bike and conquer “The Most Bike-Friendly City” in the country on two wheels.

Nearby Sightseeing

  • Mall of America
  • Guthrie Theatre
  • Basilica of St. Mary
  • Mill City Museum
  • Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Nearby Attractions

  • More than 250 Bars and Restaurants
  • US Bank Stadium (Vikings)
  • Target Center  (Timberwolves, Lynx)
  • Huntington Bank Stadium (Gophers)
  • Orchestra Hall
  • Nicollet Mall
  • Orpheum Theatre
  • State Theatre
  • Guthrie Theatre
  • Minneapolis Institute of Art
  • Walker Art Center
  • Warehouse District
  • Mississippi Riverfront
  • Minneapolis Lakes