Saint Anthony Main
St. Anthony Main is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Minneapolis, simply because it offers so many different things to do. Some like the nightlife and take advantage of the dining, bars and the St. Anthony Main theater, while others enjoy the web of beautiful trails and parks that make up the natural beauty of the neighborhood.
Saint Anthony Main Neighborhood Boundaries
The Saint Anthony neighborhood is located within walking distances of downtown and is comprised of two smaller communities: West and East.
St Anthony West is bordered by Broadway Street NE to the north, the railroad tracks just above First Avenue to the north; Washington and Fifth Streets to the east; Second Avenue to the south; and the Mississippi River and Boom Island to the west.
St Anthony East is bordered by Broadway to the north; Central Avenue to the east and southeast; 2nd Avenue to the south; 5th street to the southwest; and Washington Street to the west.
Saint Anthony Main Neighborhood History
When Minneapolis began, Saint Anthony was a separate town that was absorbed by the city in the late 1800s. St Anthony Main gives the area its rich milling history, so much so that is was given the nickname “Mill City.” Minneapolis got its industrial start by building sawmills and flour mills, which were powered by Saint Anthony Falls. Production from the mills led to the development of railroads and banks, and later, the infrastructure for the Minneapolis Grain Exchange. Though the mills are long gone, the neighborhood remains a historic site for tourists and local sightseers.
Saint Anthony Main Neighborhood Landmarks
One of the biggest draws of St. Anthony Main is the historic Stone Arch Bridge. The Stone Arch is a former railroad bridge that crosses the Mississippi River at Saint Anthony Falls. It’s home to runners, bikers, and the Stone Arch Bridge Festival of the Arts, held every Father’s Day weekend.
There is no better place to watch the fireworks during the Minneapolis Aquatennial in late July. The bridge also offers views of the Minneapolis skyline, Pillsbury "A" Mill, the Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park and many other places in the neighborhood, and is located near the restaurants of Main St SE.
Saint Anthony Main Neighborhood Activities
St. Anthony Main is mostly hopping in the summer months, when the decks of the local establishments are overflowing with people – both young and old – who are out to enjoy everything summer in Minnesota has to offer. Prime restaurants on Main include Pracna on Main, Vic’s, Tuggs and the Aster cafe. A free outdoor music series is held in the courtyard between Tuggs and Vic’s, featuring the best of the Twin Cities live music scene.
Another attraction along the riverfront is Boom Island — specifically, Boom Island Park. It provides a family-friendly atmosphere and offers a boat launch and marina; promenades; a children’s playground; and picnic areas and shelters. Boom Island Brewing Company is a local brewery that popped up in the fall of 2011 and has already become a Minneapolis craft beer staple.