I have 18 months left here, which is surreal. Like, I’m not about to sign a two-year lease, or start a Master’s Degree program in this town but I COULD squeeze in a coding bootcamp. I won’t, because nobody will pay me to attend a boot camp, but I might try launching some experiences/ tours for visitors.
When I travel, I make heavy use of adventure ideas from TripAdvisor, Yelp and even AirBnB. I discovered AirBnB’s Experiences section back in 2016 when they first launched it. Over the years, it’s fell out of popularity, I kept thinking they were going to get rid of it but it looks like it’s slated for a makeover and relaunch in May of 2025 (Which means that all the experiences that are live during their relaunch ad campaign will get extra attention).
In my effort to save up enough to ensure my move goes smoothly, I weighed the idea of pitching some new experience ideas to Amazon, Yelp or TripAdvisor. In addition to rollerskating the many bike paths, trails and lake systems here in town, How about these:
Hypothetical AirBnB Experiences for Minneapolis:
1. Urban Kayaking: Mississippi River Secrets Paddle through hidden waterways and urban canyons as local river guides take you on a 3-hour exploration of Minneapolis from its defining waterway. Learn about the city’s milling history while viewing historic bridges and enjoying skyline views impossible to see from land. – Available May-October, moderate fitness required, all equipment provided
2. Nordic Sauna Crawl Experience authentic Finnish sauna culture with a tour of three distinctive sauna venues across Minneapolis. Learn proper sauna etiquette, experience different styles of heat, and finish with traditional cold plunges. Includes locally-crafted botanical drink samplers. – 21+ only, modest swimwear required, 4-hour experience
3. Prince’s Minneapolis Explore the musical icon’s hometown haunts led by local musicians who played in the scene. Visit landmark music venues, recording studios, and hidden spots that influenced the legendary sound, with live acoustic performances of deep cuts along the way. – Indoor/outdoor walking tour, comfortable shoes recommended
4. Skyway Food Safari Navigate the famous Minneapolis skyway system while stopping at 6-8 local eateries, from hidden gems to celebrated institutions. Learn about skyway culture and architecture while sampling distinctive Minneapolis cuisine. – Indoor experience ideal for winter or inclement weather
5. Mill City Baking Workshop Bake heritage breads and pastries in an historic downtown former-mill building, using heritage flour varieties. Learn about Minneapolis’ flour milling history while creating take-home baked goods with a professional baker. – 3-hour indoor experience, all materials provided, no experience necessary
6. Craft Beer Bike Tour Cycle through Northeast Minneapolis’ brewery district with a certified cicerone, stopping at 4 distinctive taprooms with behind-the-scenes access and special tastings not available to the public. – 21+ only, 3-hour experience, moderate cycling required, bikes provided
7. Prairie Medicinals Walk Explore Minneapolis’ native prairies with an ethnobotanist specializing in Dakota and Ojibwe plant traditions. Learn about indigenous medicinal plants, traditional harvesting methods, and create a small take-home herbal preparation. – Seasonal (June-September), comfortable walking shoes required
8. Winter Ice Architecture Workshop Learn the art of ice construction from championship ice sculptors. Build luminous structures with specialized tools in a collaborative group project that will remain on display throughout the winter season. – Winter only (December-February), warm clothing required, all tools provided
9. Midwestern Modernism: Architecture Tour by Electric Tram Discover Minneapolis’ architectural treasures on custom electric trams. Visit significant modernist buildings with special interior access guided by local architects and architectural historians. – Year-round (indoor/outdoor), camera recommended
10. Nordic Foraging & Fire Cooking Forage for seasonal ingredients in Minneapolis’ parks with an expert guide, then learn traditional fire-cooking techniques to prepare a meal using your gathered ingredients supplemented with local produce. – Seasonal offerings change throughout year, 4-hour experience, comfortable outdoor clothing required
11. Dawn Photography: Minneapolis Awakens Capture the city’s most photogenic locations in perfect morning light with a professional photographer. Learn specialized urban photography techniques while visiting prime vantage points as the city comes to life. – Early morning start (varies by season), personal camera required, tripods available
12. Urban Boundary Waters Experience Learn essential wilderness canoe skills on Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes with experienced Boundary Waters guides. Practice portaging, navigation, and camp cooking techniques as preparation for Minnesota’s famous wilderness. – May-September, moderate fitness required, all equipment provided
Ready to transform your passion into unforgettable experiences?
Let me help you brainstorm unique tour ideas for your hometown. Whether you’re an artist, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or culinary expert, we can design custom experiences that showcase your local culture and highlight your personal skills. Not only will your guests enjoy authentic, memorable adventures, but you’ll discover that sharing what you love doesn’t feel like work at all—it becomes a fulfilling extension of your passions. Reach out today, and together we’ll create experiences that make your hometown shine while providing a nice little side-hustle. Your expertise combined with my resourcefulness is a powerful combination. Click here to get started!
