Curiosity drives discovery of the world around you. Studying at one of the only Big Ten universities within walking distance to a dynamic metropolis, our students benefit from all that a city—actually two cities—has to offer.
The thriving University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus stretches more than 1,150 acres in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Nestled around the scenic Mississippi River, the Minneapolis campus sits under the shadow of a sparkling downtown skyline. The nearby St. Paul campus is home to rolling green space and historic architecture.
At the U of M, you’ll find unlimited opportunities for entertainment, culture, and hands-on experience right outside your front door. Just minutes from campus you can find an internship at the State Capitol, attend a professional sporting event, shop at one of the world’s largest shopping malls, dine at a trendy uptown restaurant, get inspired at the Weisman Art Museum (on-campus), or kick back and relax at one of our local coffee shops.
Become part of a global community and experience the world’s cultures—without ever leaving the city! Explore the galleries at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and Walker Art Center. Catch a show at the world-famous Guthrie Theater perched on the banks of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis’ Historic Mill District, or be entertained at St. Paul’s Ordway Center for the Arts. You can also check out dozens of local festivals, like the St. Paul Winter Carnival, the Festival of Nations, the Minnesota Fringe Festival, the Minnesota State Fair, the Uptown Art Fair, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
The University of Minnesota is the one of the only public, Big Ten universities in a major metropolitan area! Our metropolitan location is the perfect place to jumpstart your career—whether you’re interested in business, government, the arts, technology and science, or media. Explore careers, build your resume, and gain hands-on experience by participating in an internship.
Interested in government? Intern as a legislative assistant in the Minnesota Senate or another nearby government agency.
Interested in technology? Discuss your goals with a mentor at a nearby medical technology company such as Medtronic.
Interested in medicine? Volunteer to serve patients at a local care provider such as University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview.
Interested in the media? Intern at a local newspaper, magazine, or broadcast station such as the Star Tribune or WCCO TV.
Interested in theater? Participate in a production at a Twin Cities theater such as the Guthrie.
Interested in the environment? Gain hands-on experience at various Minnesota parks and gardens, including the University of Minnesota’s own Landscape Arboretum.
Interested in business? Intern at a Twin Cities-based company such as Target, Carlson Companies, or Best Buy.
The University of Minnesota is the perfect place for you to savor the seasons. In the spring, summer, and fall, take advantage of our sparkling lakes, miles of bike trails, and dozens of outdoor festivals. In the winter, enjoy activities like skiing or hiking, or stay cozy in our skyways and tunnels.
It’s easy to get around campus! Many students choose to walk, bike, or Rollerblade through our beautiful campus grounds. Also, free campus shuttles run every few minutes, providing quick, convenient transportation for students on the go. You can also venture off campus to explore the city by hopping on a Metro Transit bus or light rail, including the Green Line, which connects downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis and runs through the heart of our Minneapolis campus. Check out Parking and Transportation Services for more info on walking, biking, busing, and parking on campus.
The U of M’s friendly campus neighborhoods are the perfect place to grab a meal with your friends, find a new pair of jeans, or buy that new maroon and gold sweatshirt you’ve been eyeing. These off-campus neighborhoods are as much a part of the U of M as the campus itself—and a place that many U of M students, staff, and faculty call home.
Dinkytown is an eclectic collection of coffee shops, clothing stores, restaurants, hair salons, and bookstores. Dinkytown has a great history for University students. As a U of M student, singer and songwriter Bob Dylan strummed his guitar on the streets of this unique neighborhood.
Sports fans and alumni proudly sport maroon and gold as they cheer on the Golden Gophers in this neighborhood, named after its many athletic venues.
Seven Corners is just blocks away from downtown Minneapolis. If you visit this campus neighborhood, you’ll likely see Twins, Vikings, or Gopher sports fans hitting up the local restaurants for food before or after a game. You’ll also find great ethnic eateries and shops in this area, including Indian and African cuisine.
Our cozy St. Paul campus offers beautiful green space with a small-campus vibe. St. Paul is home to the College of Agricultural, Food and Natural Resource Sciences, and the College of Biological Sciences. Students often relax at Lori's Coffee House or the St. Paul Student Center.
