Minneapolis in 2026: A Landmark Year for Culture, Cuisine, and Riverfront Renewal
- Joey Amato
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
Minneapolis enters 2026 in full stride, propelled by a wave of Indigenous-led restoration projects, major cultural anniversaries, new culinary ventures, and national sporting events that will bring tens of thousands of visitors to the city. From Prince’s 10-year remembrance to a transformed international airport, the year ahead showcases the city’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and connection to its natural and cultural heritage. Here are the top new developments shaping Minneapolis in 2026.
Owamni Expands Its Footprint Along the Riverfront
This spring marks a major moment for food lovers as Owamni, James Beard’s 2022 Best New Restaurant, relocates to an expanded space on the Guthrie Theater’s riverfront level. Known for its groundbreaking modern Indigenous cuisine, the move will allow more diners to experience Chef Sean Sherman’s celebrated approach.
Meanwhile, NATIFS — the nonprofit behind Owamni — has settled into the Woyute Thipi Building on Franklin Avenue. Later this year, the space will welcome ŠHOTÁ Indigenous BBQ, a new counter-service restaurant showcasing Sherman’s continued leadership in revitalizing Indigenous foodways.
Owámniyomni River Restoration Begins a Multi-Year Transformation
A historic, Dakota-led restoration is underway at Owámniyomni (St. Anthony Falls), where five acres near the Upper Lock on Ȟaȟa Wakpá (the Mississippi River) will undergo ecological renewal. Phase one in 2026 focuses on land and plant rehabilitation, including the removal of certain structures. Water and shoreline work will progress through 2028, reconnecting the site to its cultural and environmental roots.
Bellecour Brings Signature French Flair to the North Loop
Chef Gavin Kaysen, a James Beard Award winner, brings new energy to the North Loop with Bellecour, a hybrid café-bakery and full-service French bistro. By day, guests can expect viennoiserie, patisserie, sandwiches and salads; by night, the space transforms into a lively brasserie-inspired dining room. A second, café-only location in Edina expands access to this new Minneapolis favorite.
Honoring Prince: A Decade of Legacy
Ten years after the world lost Prince, Minneapolis prepares for a heartfelt commemoration. Prince Celebration 2026 takes place June 3–7 across Paisley Park, downtown Minneapolis, and St. Paul, inviting fans to honor the icon’s music, memory, and immeasurable legacy.
A New Riverfront Park Brings Green Space to North Minneapolis
Minneapolis Park & Recreation will open a 53-acre regional park at the Upper Harbor along the Mississippi River. Designed to restore and repurpose a former industrial zone, the park will expand river access for North Minneapolis communities and serve as an anchor for future development, including a planned amphitheater.
Minneapolis Hosts the Special Olympics USA Games
From June 20–26, the Special Olympics USA Games will bring more than 3,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers, and 75,000 fans to the city. Beyond competition, the event carries a powerful message of inclusion, community, and the transformative potential of sports.
WWE SummerSlam Debuts at U.S. Bank Stadium
WWE will make Minneapolis history when SummerSlam arrives for a two-night stadium event on August 1 and 2, 2026. The highly anticipated spectacle will be complemented by a week of fan experiences and community programming that draw national attention.
A Fully Reimagined MSP Airport Welcomes Travelers
A decade-long overhaul of Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport’s Terminal 1 has reached completion. The transformation includes expanded pre-security zones, two streamlined security checkpoints, larger baggage carousels, and updated building systems — all designed with an eye toward efficiency and passenger comfort. MSP’s efforts earned it the top spot in J.D. Power’s 2025 North American Airport Satisfaction Study for the third time in four years.
Major Arts & Culture Anniversaries Highlight Minneapolis’ Creative Core
The city’s cultural institutions shine in 2026 with a slate of milestone anniversaries:
The Guthrie Theater marks 20 years in its iconic riverfront building.
The Ritz Theater, home to Theatre Latté Da, turns 100 in Northeast Minneapolis.
The Heights Theater, another 1926 gem newly acquired by the owners of Chicago’s Music Box Theatre, continues its tradition of pre-film Wurlitzer organ performances.
The Minneapolis–St. Paul International Film Festival celebrates its 45th year April 8–19 with 200 films, panels, parties, and global talent at its home on the riverfront.
New Sun Country Routes Expand Summer Travel Options
Beginning May 21, Sun Country Airlines will launch a new nonstop route from Minneapolis to Tulsa, with expanded summer service planned for Charleston and San Diego. The additions reflect growing demand and strengthen MSP’s role as a Midwest travel hub.
A Dynamic Year Ahead
With its revitalized riverfront, thriving culinary scene, world-class cultural institutions, and lineup of major sports events, Minneapolis is poised to offer one of its most exciting years yet. Travelers will find a city honoring its past, investing boldly in its future, and welcoming visitors with renewed energy.
Photo Credit: Lane Pelovsky, Meet Minneapolis, and Explore MN Tourism
