Have you ever wondered what's behind the doors of some of the city's most iconic structures?
Doors Open Minneapolis is back, and giving guests a chance to explore the buildings that tell the city's story.
Rethos, the company behind the event is focusing on historic and immersive experiences in over 86 venues.
“1973 and earlier is considered that kind of historic era,” says Heidi Swank of Rethos. “A lot of buildings in Minneapolis fit into that era.”
They’ve been working with sponsors and city officials to bring visitors behind the scenes in Minneapolis.
“There'll be someone there to actually tell you the story of that place, not just experience it, but learn a little bit of something too.”
The event runs Saturday and Sunday, May 13th and 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can pre-register here.
Here are a few highlights of the buildings that are open (see the entire list here):
The Ard Godfrey House
Today, the Godfrey House is the oldest remaining frame house in the city. The house has been impeccably restored by The Woman's Club and is filled with furnishings and household artifacts authentic to the 1850s--some original to the Godfrey family, including the walnut baby cradle and the Chickering rosewood piano that graces the parlor. Volunteers and interns dressed in 1850s period costumes give tours of the one and a half story house.
Open Saturday only.
Basilica of Saint Mary
America’s first Basilica, constructed in 1907, features stunning beaux-arts architecture, marble high altar, shrines, chapels, and sacred art throughout the church, art gallery, and gathering hall. The Basilica is welcoming Catholic community committed to the well-being of the city and the spiritual home to 6,500 families.
BLIND, Incorporated
BLIND, Incorporated is a nonprofit adjustment to blindness training center that teaches the skills that blind people need to become independent and employable such as braille, home management, the use of the white cane, computers with screen reading software and more. BLIND, Incorporated operates out of the Charles Pillsbury mansion, which adds to the character of the Washburn-Fair Oaks area through its elegance, craftsmanship, and use of materials sourced from England’s private manors, commerce buildings, and 17th century churches.
Danish American Center - Danebo
Explore all four levels of this historic building along the river, including the gathering spaces, Danish history exhibits, dining areas, guest rooms and classrooms. Danish American Center member hosts will be on hand to guide you and answer questions about the history of the building and the Danish community in Minnesota. Open Saturday only.
The Dayton's Project
The Dayton's Project marks the cultural renaissance of downtown Minneapolis. This newly restored 1.2 million square foot building reimagines the historic and beloved department store as mix between retail and office, offering a touch point in the heart of Minneapolis for community and a hub for business.
Fhima’s Minneapolis
Enjoy this Art Deco space dating back to 1914. Originally the Forum Cafeteria, designed to serve 1,000 people an hour, Fhima’s is now an award-winning restaurant featuring a modern take on French-Mediterranean cuisine.
Each mirror, chandelier and elaborate tile in this historic space tells a story of Minnesota’s history. Open Saturday only.
Hennepin History Museum
Located in a contributing property of the Washburn-Fair Oaks Historic District, Hennepin History Museum invites you to experience the diverse history of our region. Explore our exhibits, see early photos of our building and its first owner, and enjoy hourly talks about the family who built this mansion that has become a museum.
Kramarczuk Sausage Co Inc
Step into Kramarczuk’s and inhale the delicious smell of smoked meats, fresh baked goods, and stewed sauerkraut. Meet the owner and learn more about the company’s 65-year history in the neighborhood. From the historic building to the proudly displayed, made-on-site food, this venue is also a feast for the eyes.
Manhole Entrance/City of Minneapolis Public Works, Surface Water and Sewers Division
Do you know where the water from your toilets and sinks goes? The City of Minneapolis will open a sewer manhole and set up a closed-circuit televising truck so you can see the inside of the sewer system and learn all about it! Safety equipment and staff will be on hand.
Milwaukee Avenue Historic District
Explore a street unlike any other in the Twin Cities! Milwaukee Avenue is a narrow, pedestrian-only street lined with restored historic homes that were mostly built in the 1880s for working-class immigrant families.
Minneapolis City Hall
Building tours will be offered each hour to dive into the local history and urban legend of the Municipal Building. Within its Richardsonian Romanesque-style walls, you’ll find a 5-story marble-clad rotunda, 72,000 pieces of stained glass and a 14,000-lb. Father of Waters marble statue.
Minneapolis Main Post Office
Visit this 85-year-old historical edifice boasting original brass teller cages and fixtures, marble terrazzo floor, and a 350-foot brass chandelier running the length of the lobby. A rare behind-the-scenes tour of mail processing will be offered at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, and 3:00 pm both days during the event.
Pillsbury A Mill Underground
Visit the lower levels of the National Historic Landmark Pillsbury A Mill to view into the largest direct drive waterpower system in Minneapolis, including views straight down a 50-foot drop shaft through a glass floor. Mill City Museum staff will be on hand to answer questions. Open Sunday only.
Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam
Explore this unique river navigation structure and get up close to St. Anthony Falls, including checking out the lock’s walls. Knowledgeable park rangers will be on-site to answer questions. The lock wall is outside, so dress appropriately for the weather.
W Minneapolis - The Foshay
The Foshay Tower, named after Wilbur B. Foshay, opened in 1929 as the headquarters for his growing utilities holding company. The stock market crash sent Wilbur Foshay and his empire into a downward spiral. The Foshay Tower marked a significant landmark locally as it was the first in the city to surpass the height of Minneapolis City Hall. The 32-story Art Deco monolith held the title of the tallest building in the Midwest for decades. Known today as W Minneapolis - The Foshay, the building serves as a luxury hotel infused with Art Deco style, urban, chic, and vibrant decor in downtown Minneapolis.
The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis
Our membership is constantly evolving, creating a vibrant environment for social and business relationships. Underlying this is our historic mission for the improvement of our community through the pursuit of social justice and a shared goal of contributing to charitable good works. Members can enjoy exclusive and exceptional service on every level, from lectures, and special events to fine dining experiences in classical surroundings. Open Saturday only.
The Young Quinlan Building
Built in 1926, the Young Quinlan Building has been a Minneapolis mainstay for almost a century. From its initial heyday as the home of the Young Quinlan Department Store, to its current incarnation as one of the finest office buildings in downtown, Young Quinlan remains a timeless landmark of style and quality that bridges Minneapolis' past, present and future.
Related
