Travel & Leisure Magazine recently named Minneapolis as one of the five "up and coming" cities to visit in 2006. "There's no shortage of smaller American cities attracting attention these days for cutting-edge art and architecture," according to the magazine. "But Minneapolis, it's fair to say, is leading the pack." For the complete Travel & Leisure article click here.

Things to See and Do in Minneapolis

While you're attending the COMMON Spring 2006 Conference in Minneapolis, be sure to take advantage of some of the city's terrific restaurants, entertainment and neighborhoods.

Take the Skyway

Late March in Minneapolis may still be cold, but the skyway can keep you warm as you traverse downtown. A seven-mile network of walkways that bridge buildings (including conference hotels and the Minneapolis Convention Center), the skyway allows you to walk downtown without going outside. For more information on the skyway, including a downloadable map, visit www.minneapolis.org/travelinfo/skyways.asp

So Many Restaurants, So Little Time

Take the skyway over to Nicollet Avenue, also known as “Eat Street” and choose from all types of ethnic restaurants, cafes and grocery stores. Visit www.minneapolis.org to search for specific restaurant options.

I Love the Nightlife…

After dinner, head to the Warehouse District, where you'll find upscale bars, dance clubs and hip restaurants. Or explore the Riverfront District, one of Minneapolis' newest hotspots, with trendy wine bars and off-center nightlife.

Catch Some Culture While You're in Town

Downtown Minneapolis' Hennepin Theatre District holds three historic theaters, along with enough nightspots to accommodate the theater-going crowds. You can also check the schedules for the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Opera.

There are more than 57 museums in the Minneapolis area, including art museums, scientific institutions, historical museums and countless historical sites. Browse the contemporary art at the Walker Art Museum, or the comprehensive collection at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. And don't miss the Weisman Art Museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.

Farther Afield

If you have some extra time before or after the conference, consider entertainment outside the Twin Cities. Try your luck at Mystic Lake Casino in Prior, Minnesota, which offers everything from nickel slot machines to high stakes blackjack, Minnesota poker, and bingo.

Or visit the largest mall in the U.S. The Mall of America holds more than 520 stores, restaurants and bars, as well as an amusement park and a 1.2-million gallon walk-through aquarium.