Downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul both have a skyway network linking together buildings and attractions. Minneapolis' Skyway system links 69 city blocks and St. Paul's skyway system links 47 city blocks.
When it's freezing cold, or horribly humid and hot, the skyways are a climate-controlled haven. Yes, people from other cities think we are like hamsters in a exercise run. But it's bliss to leave your coat at the office in winter or not worry about sunburn in the summer.
Minneapolis has 8 miles of skyways - the largest system in the world - and St. Paul has 5 miles of skyways.
Getting into the Skyways
The glass skyway tunnels are obvious. Getting into them can be less so. A couple of buildings have "Skyway Connection" marked on their doors, but most assume you just know the way in.
Actually it's quite easy to get in. Usually, going into any building with tunnels going in and out on the second floor, and the way to the skyway is marked or you'll be able to see the way. If it's rush hour or lunchtime, just follow the crowds!Navigation in the Skyways
Navigating the skyway system can be tricky. Most look very similar and there's only a few signs, and fewer maps. It's also easy to get disorientated in the skyways, since most office buildings and most tunnels look the same. Add distracting shopping malls and attractions and it's easy to get lost if you are not familiar with the system. A map is an essential piece of equipment.
Skyway Maps
If you are in Minneapolis and forget your map, the free magazine Downtown Guide is widely distributed in magazine racks in the skyways, and has a skyway map printed in the back.
St. Paul's skyway is slightly easier to navigate than Minneapolis'. It's smaller, there's more skyway maps dotted about the system than in Minneapolis, the buildings are a little more distinctive, and the skyways are color-coded. Copies of the free St. Paul visitor's magazine can be picked up in major buildings and that contains a downtown and skyway map.
When are the Skyways Open?
The opening hours of the skyways are controlled by the buildings they link.
Minneapolis' skyways are open from early morning until late at night, closing earlier on Sundays.
Most of St. Paul's skyways are open from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m. although some close earlier - anywhere from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Building and Attractions Linked by Skyway
Now you know all about using the skyway. Where are you going to go?
Attractions on Minneapolis' Skyway System- The IDS Building and Crystal Court
- 266 South Sixth Building and the Wells Fargo Building
- The Target Center
- Nicollet Mall
- City Center Mall and Gaviidae Commons
- Historic State Theater and Orpheum Theater
- Block E Entertainment Mall
- The Xcel Center
- The Rivercenter
- The Science Museum of Minnesota
- The Minnesota Children's Museum
- The Lowry Theater
- Park Square Theater
- St. Paul Central Library
