U.S. Bank Stadium Hosts NCAA “Final Four” Tournament April 5-8
It’s not very often that 150 year-old cities sprout entire new neighborhoods.
Yet, that’s the idea behind “Downtown East” in Minneapolis.
Actually located southeast of Downtown — its boundaries are 35W (east), the Mississippi River (north), Portland Ave. (west), and 5th Street (south) — the newly-invigorated area plays host to the NCAA “Final Four” basketball tournament April 5 – 8.
“A River Light Rail Line Runs Through it”
The fledgling neighborhood has long been anchored by a sports stadium: first, the Metrodome, and since 2016, by its successor (and Final Four venue), U.S. Bank Stadium.
But the surrounding area was always a mishmash (wasteland?) of parking lots, warehouses, and other industrial buildings.
Today?
The neighborhood is bustling with new construction.
Cultural Attractions, New Restaurants . . . & the River!
Recent additions include a 4-acre green space west of the stadium (“Downtown East Commons”); a cluster of new office buildings; and several swanky, new residential towers near the Mississippi River and Gold Medal Park.
That’s in addition to existing attractions like the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and the nearby Stone Arch Bridge.
No doubt attracted by the influx of new residents and office workers, Downtown East is also home to several award-winning new restaurants.
They should all do great business next week!
See also, “Five Place to Visit in Minneapolis“; and “Minneapolis Neighborhood Names: a Primer for Newcomers (and New Drivers**).”
