Minnesota, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities, has served as the backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and literary works. This comprehensive guide will help you explore famous filming locations across this beautiful state, immersing you in the world of cinema and literature. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a travel lover, prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through Minnesota’s cinematic landscapes.
Minnesota’s Silver Screen Legacy: Famous Films Shot in Minnesota
Known for its diverse landscapes and unique urban settings, Minnesota has played host to many iconic films over the years. From the quiet streets of St. Paul to the bustling cityscape of Minneapolis, Minnesota’s varied locales have provided filmmakers with a plethora of settings to bring their creative visions to life. Here are ten noteworthy films that were shot in Minnesota:
- “Fargo” (1996) – Directed by the Coen Brothers, this dark comedy-crime film is perhaps the most well-known movie shot in Minnesota, despite its title suggesting otherwise. While the movie is set in Fargo, North Dakota, most of the film was shot in and around the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
- “Purple Rain” (1984) – This rock musical drama film, starring the legendary musician Prince, was filmed entirely in Minneapolis, Prince’s hometown. Key filming locations include the iconic First Avenue nightclub and Lake Minnetonka.
- “Grumpy Old Men” (1993) – Directed by Donald Petrie, this comedy-drama film was filmed in various locations in Minnesota, including the cities of St. Paul, Faribault, and Red Wing.
- “Little Big League” (1994) – This family sports film about a young boy who becomes the owner of the Minnesota Twins baseball team features many scenes shot in the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, the former home of the Twins.
- “Jingle All the Way” (1996) – This Christmas family comedy film, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, was filmed in various locations around the Twin Cities, including the Mall of America in Bloomington.
- “A Simple Plan” (1998) – Directed by Sam Raimi, this crime-thriller was filmed in the small town of Delano, showcasing the state’s snowy winter landscapes.
- “The Mighty Ducks” (1992) – This sports comedy-drama film about a youth league hockey team was shot in multiple locations throughout Minneapolis, including the Mall of America, which served as the backdrop for the iconic ice-skating training scene.
- “North Country” (2005) – Filmed in the northern mining areas of the state, this drama film showcases the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s Iron Range.
- “Drop Dead Gorgeous” (1999) – This black comedy film about a beauty pageant in a small Minnesota town was filmed in several locations, including Waconia, Jordan, and Chaska.
- “Sweet Land” (2005) – This independent period drama film was shot in various locations in southwestern Minnesota, capturing the region’s beautiful prairies and farmland.
TV Shows Set in Minnesota: From Drama to Comedy
Minnesota isn’t just a popular location for films; it has also been the setting for several TV shows. From drama to comedy, the state’s charm and beauty have been captured in various television narratives. Here are a few worth mentioning:
- “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” (1970-1977) – This classic sitcom is set in Minneapolis and depicts the life of a single woman working at a fictional television station.
- “Little House on the Prairie” (1974-1983) – Based on the popular book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder, this western drama series is set in the small farming town of Walnut Grove, Minnesota.
- “Coach” (1989–1997) – This comedy series revolves around Hayden Fox, the head coach of the fictional Minnesota State University Screaming Eagles football team.
- “Fargo” (2014–present) – Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, this anthology crime drama series is primarily set in various locations in Minnesota.
- “The Big C” (2010-2013) – This comedy-drama series, about a suburban Minneapolis high school teacher diagnosed with cancer, features various locations in the Twin Cities area.
Animated Films Set in Minnesota: Family-friendly Classics
Minnesota’s enchanting landscapes and urban charm have also inspired settings in animated films. While there may not be a large number of animated films set in Minnesota, the state’s influence can be seen in several family-friendly classics:
- “Inside Out” (2015) – While not entirely set in Minnesota, the beginning of this critically acclaimed Pixar film takes place in the protagonist Riley’s childhood home in Minnesota, effectively capturing the state’s winter charm.
- “An American Tail” (1986) – In this animated film, the Mousekewitz family immigrates from Russia to America, dreaming of a land without cats. Minnesota is mentioned as a possible destination for the family.
- “Kung Fu Panda 2” (2011) – While not set in Minnesota, it is revealed that the character Mr. Ping found Po in a radish crate that came from Minnesota.
Famous Books Set in Minnesota: From Classic Literature to Contemporary Novels
From sprawling prairies to bustling cities, Minnesota’s varied landscapes and cultural tapestry have provided a rich setting for numerous literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary novels that beautifully depict life in Minnesota:
Classic Literature:
- “Main Street” by Sinclair Lewis – A satirical novel that critiques small-town life, set in the fictional town of Gopher Prairie, Minnesota, based on the author’s own hometown of Sauk Centre.
- “On the Banks of Plum Creek” by Laura Ingalls Wilder – Part of the beloved “Little House” series, this book explores life in rural Minnesota in the late 19th century.
- “The Late George Apley” by John Phillips Marquand – A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel set in Minneapolis, providing a glimpse into the city’s social dynamics in the early 20th century.
Contemporary Novels:
- “Freedom” by Jonathan Franzen – A modern literary masterpiece, this novel explores contemporary American life through the eyes of a troubled Minnesota family.
- “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah – While primarily set in France during World War II, the novel features several scenes in Minnesota, where one of the main characters moves after the war.
- “Ordinary Grace” by William Kent Krueger – A compelling mystery novel set in 1960s Minnesota, it explores themes of loss, faith, and the power of forgiveness in a small Midwestern community.
Exploring Minnesota’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
If you’re yearning to experience the cinematic allure of Minnesota firsthand, here are ten must-visit filming locations across the state:
- First Avenue nightclub, Minneapolis – The iconic concert venue featured in “Purple Rain.”
- Mall of America, Bloomington – Minnesota’s most visited shopping mall, seen in “Jingle All the Way.”
- Metrodome (Former), Minneapolis – The former home of the Minnesota Twins, featured in “Little Big League.”
- James J. Hill House, Saint Paul – This historic mansion was used in “The Mighty Ducks.”
- Mickey’s Diner, Saint Paul – The classic dining car has been featured in several films, including “A Prairie Home Companion.”
- Basilica of Saint Mary, Minneapolis – The beautiful church was a filming location for “Jennifer’s Body.”
- Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Falcon Heights – The setting for the beauty pageant in “Drop Dead Gorgeous.”
- Northrup King Building, Minneapolis – This historic building was used in “A Serious Man.”
- Delano, Minnesota – The small town served as the snowy backdrop for “A Simple Plan.”
- Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis – The beautiful waterfall was featured in the opening credits of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”
Where to Sleep in Minnesota: From Budget-friendly to Luxury Accommodation
Budget Accommodation:
- The Hostel in Duluth – A budget-friendly option in northern Minnesota with dormitory-style rooms and private options.
- Lakes Inn at Dunvilla – A comfortable and affordable hotel located near Detroit Lakes.
- Avenue Hotel – An affordable option in downtown Minneapolis, close to many attractions.
Luxury Accommodation:
- The Saint Paul Hotel – A luxury historic hotel located in downtown St. Paul.
- Hotel Ivy, Minneapolis – A luxury hotel offering a high-end experience in the heart of the city.
- Grand View Lodge, Nisswa – A luxury resort offering beautiful lakeside accommodations in northern Minnesota.
Where to Eat in Minnesota: Budget Eateries and Luxury Dining
Budget Eateries:
- Matt’s Bar, Minneapolis – Known for its famous “Jucy Lucy,” a cheese-stuffed burger.
- The Nook, St. Paul – Another great spot for a “Juicy Lucy,” offering a cozy, neighborhood feel.
- Betty’s Pies, Two Harbors – A North Shore institution known for its wide range of homemade pies.
Luxury Dining:
- Spoon and Stable, Minneapolis – A critically acclaimed restaurant offering a seasonal menu inspired by the Midwest.
- The Bachelor Farmer, Minneapolis – Known for its Nordic-inspired cuisine, using local and organic ingredients.
- 112 Eatery, Minneapolis – A popular spot for late-night dining, offering a menu of eclectic American cuisine.
Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Minnesota’s Cinematic Landscape Day by Day
Day 1: Minneapolis
- Start your day at the Mall of America in Bloomington, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States, featured in “Jingle All the Way.”
- Visit the First Avenue nightclub, the iconic concert venue seen in “Purple Rain.”
- Head to the Northrup King Building, a historic building used in “A Serious Man.”
- End your day with dinner at 112 Eatery, a restaurant in downtown Minneapolis, known for its eclectic American menu.
Day 2: St. Paul
- Start your day at the James J. Hill House, a historic mansion featured in “The Mighty Ducks.”
- Visit Mickey’s Diner, the classic dining car seen in several films, including “A Prairie Home Companion.”
- Head to the Minnesota State Capitol, an impressive building that has been used as a backdrop in several films.
- End your day with dinner at The Lexington, a historic restaurant offering classic American cuisine.
Day 3: Greater Minnesota
- Start your day in the small town of Delano, the snowy backdrop for “A Simple Plan.”
- Visit Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors, a North Shore institution known for its homemade pies.
- Head to Duluth and explore the historic downtown area, which has been used in several films and TV shows.
- End your day with a stay at The Hostel in Duluth, a budget-friendly accommodation option in northern Minnesota.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities: Minnesota’s Mysterious Creatures
Minnesota is home to several cryptid legends and folklore. The most famous of these is probably the Minnesota Iceman, a purported man-like creature frozen in ice, displayed at fairs and carnivals in Minnesota in the 1960s. The creature was described as being human-like, with large hands and feet, covered in dark hair.
Another famous Minnesota cryptid is the Wendigo, a creature from Algonquin folklore that is believed to roam the forests of Minnesota. The Wendigo is often associated with winter, the north, and famine.
Hidden Gems in Minnesota: Lesser-Known Filming Locations
- Stillwater – This quaint and historic town on the banks of the St. Croix River has been featured in several films, including “Grumpy Old Men” and “The Cure.”
- Palmer’s Bar, Minneapolis – This historic bar has been seen in several movies and TV series, including the locally filmed “Young Adult.”
- Grand View Lodge, Nisswa – This beautiful resort in northern Minnesota was the setting for scenes in “A Simple Plan.”
What to Pack for a Trip to Minnesota: Essential Travel Gear
When packing for Minnesota, it’s important to consider the state’s varied weather conditions. In the winter, pack warm clothing like thermal layers, a heavy jacket, gloves, a hat, and boots. In the summer, pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. A good rain jacket is essential for spring and fall.
Regardless of the season, don’t forget to bring a map, a portable charger, and a good camera to capture the beautiful filming locations. Also, pack a good book set in Minnesota for those quiet evenings or lazy afternoons.
Transportation Tips: Getting Around Minnesota’s Filming Locations
Getting around Minnesota’s filming locations is relatively straightforward. The state offers a comprehensive network of public transportation in the larger cities, including buses, light rail, and commuter trains. For locations outside of the cities, car rental is the most convenient option. Several rideshare services, including Uber and Lyft, are also available in the Twin Cities and other urban areas.
Conclusion
From breathtaking natural landscapes to vibrant cityscapes, Minnesota offers a wealth of cinematic and literary experiences. Whether you’re a film buff, a bibliophile, or a travel enthusiast, exploring the famous filming locations in Minnesota will provide you with a unique perspective on this beautiful state. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for a memorable journey through the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
