There’s plenty to “leap” into and celebrate this weekend, as thousands descend on downtown Minneapolis for Twin Cities Pride Festival and Gymnastics City USA. Select downtown streets will temporarily close for events around the City:
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- Thursday, June 27 – early Monday, July 1 – 1st Ave. between 6th and 7th Streets (in front of Target Center)
- One of the four lanes will remain open
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- Sunday, June 30 (5K) – Over the Plymouth St. bridge, down Main Street to Hennepin Ave from 9 am until around noon
- Sunday, June 30 (Rainbow Dash) - Hennepin Ave. to Spruce St.
- Sunday, June 30 (Pride Parade) – Hennepin Ave. between 3rd St. and Spruce St.
Alternative transportation is always recommended when heading downtown during major events. The Minnesota Department of Transportation encourages visitors to check 511 for updates to any closures due to event traffic or any issues related to recent flooding outside of the City.
Transit options
Public transit is a great way to avoid driving in traffic and looking for parking. Visit Metro Transit’s website to plan your trip or look for the Pride Bus while out and about.
Light rail options are also available:
- The METRO Blue Line runs from Bloomington to downtown Minneapolis. It serves large Park & Ride facilities at the Fort Snelling and 30th Avenue stations.
- The METRO Green Line runs from Union Depot in St. Paul, along University Ave, into Minneapolis. There are several bus routes that connect to Green Line stations.
Parking options
There is parking availability throughout the downtown area. If you’re parking on the street, make sure to check for signs to be sure of the time limit and hours of enforcement for your parking space.
In addition to the many privately run parking facilities downtown, there are several City-owned parking facilities available.
Come early, stay late
Downtown restaurants, bars and other businesses are ready to welcome visitors. Take part in activities, shopping, dining, and other entertainment before and after going to events. Enjoy the extra time to experience all each area has to offer and avoid traffic congestion. The Warehouse District and North Loop look forward to welcoming people coming to downtown Minneapolis for all events.
Managing downtown traffic congestion
The City of Minneapolis takes a number of steps to manage traffic congestion during big events Downtown. The volume of pedestrians, bikes, and cars Downtown before and after these events means increased congestion, but there are several ways the City works to improve operations and reduce delays, including:
- Traffic Control agents are at many intersections during peak times before and after the events.
- Special traffic signal timing patterns are used to move high numbers of people during events.
- Dynamic messaging signs provide drivers with real-time information as they move around the area. They notify drivers when key parking ramps fill and help drivers find their way around.