Explore history, design, and craftsmanship with these unforgettable spots
As long weekends and warm weather approach, thereโs no better time to explore the Twin Cities through the lens of its rich architectural heritage. From ornate chapels and historic theaters to restored Victorian mansions and modern masterpieces, the MinneapolisโSaint Paul area is packed with jaw-dropping design and fascinating stories.
Here are 12 of our favorite architectural toursโsome weโve admired, and some weโve had the honor of working on.
1 | Basilica of St. Mary
Loring Park, Minneapolis
Constructed in 1907, Americaโs first Basilica showcases stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, featuring a marble high altar, shrines, chapels, and sacred art throughout its church, art gallery, and gathering hall. Now recognized as a historic site, the Basilica of Saint Mary serves as a vibrant community hub, celebrating diversity, art, and culture.
2 | Summit Avenue House Tour
Summit Hill, Saint Paul
Step back in time on Summit Avenue, home to the longest stretch of original Victorian homes in the country. This iconic street was almost lost to time in the 1970s, but preservation effortsโincluding the founding of the Summit Hill House Tourโhelped save it. We were thrilled to take part in the 50th anniversary tour with our own Summit Hill Haven project.
3 | Minnehaha Depot
Minnehaha, Minneapolis
Charming and quaint, the Minnehaha Depotโaffectionately known as the โPrincessโโfeatures a whimsical gingerbread canopy and once served passengers on the first rail line out of Minneapolis. A sweet slice of railroad history.
4 | Hollywood Theatre
Audubon Park, Minneapolis
A Northeast Minneapolis gem, the 1935 Hollywood Theater dazzles with its Streamline Moderne design by famed architects Liebenberg & Kaplan. Though it fell into disrepair after closing in 1987, its Art Deco brilliance has been beautifully restored. We hold this space close, especially after working on a Liebenberg & Kaplan home for our Artful Addition project.
5 | The Ard Godfrey House
Nicollet Island, Minneapolis
Built in 1848, the Ard Godfrey house is the oldest surviving frame home in Minneapolis. A Greek Revival beauty, it was home to millwright Ard Godfrey, who played a key role in harnessing St. Anthony Falls for early industry.
6 | Remodelers Showcase
Twin Cities Metro
This tour highlights reimagined homes across the metro, showing how older houses can evolve while retaining their character. We were excited to be part of the 2025 Spring Remodelers Showcase with our Moody Mid-Century whole home transformation.
7 | Historic Grain Belt
Sheridan, Minneapolis
Last year, we hosted our first Organizational Meeting of the year at The 1893 at the Historic Grain Belt, and weโre still swooning over the stained-glass windows, original woodwork, and old-world charm. Nestled in the Northeast Arts District, itโs a must-see for design lovers.
8 | James J. Hill House
Summit Hill, Saint Paul
Known as โThe Empire Builder,โ railroad magnate James J. Hill built a home as grand as his legacy. Tour the stunning interiorsโchandeliers, woodwork, and allโwhile learning about his impact on American railroads and industry.
9 | Artisan Home Tour
Twin Cities Metro
Craftsmanship meets creativity on the Artisan Home Tour, where top builders and remodelers unveil jaw-dropping, high-end residences. We were honored to be featured on the 2021 tour with our Hygge Craftsman transformation.
10 | Hennepin Theatre Trust
Downtown West, Minneapolis
Go behind the curtain with walking tours of the Orpheum, State, and Pantages Theatres. Discover the architectural grandeur and hear the untold stories that shaped Hennepin Avenueโs storied โTheatre Row.โ
11 | MSP Home Tour
Twin Cities Metro
A self-guided tour of remodeled homes spanning all styles and eras, the MSP Home Tour blends inspiration with education. Itโs free and full of ideas. We participated in the 2024 tour with our St. Anthony ADU project.
12 | The Purcell-Cutts House
Calhoun Isles, Minneapolis
Part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, this Prairie School gem was designed by William Gray Purcell and George Grant Elmslie. Tours are offered the second full weekend of each monthโdonโt miss the chance to see this architectural treasure up close.
Whether you’re an architecture aficionado, history buff, or just someone who appreciates a beautifully crafted space, these Twin Cities architectural tours offer something for everyone. Add a few (or all) to your summer bucket listโyou might even spot a few of our projects along the way!