Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Nicollet Island, MN

Nicollet Island began as one of the rougher parts of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Grain mills and rail yards brought an industrial ambiance to this downtown river area. Now the remaining houses are historic and well-kept. Be sure to tour Merriam Street where you can catch a ride on a horse-drawn carriage.

The highlight of Nicollet Island is the Nicollet Island Inn. The Inn was originally the Island Door and Sash Company in 1893. When that company closed down, mill companies used the building for various purposes. In 1913, the Salvation Army renovated the building as a men's shelter, and it served as such for the next sixty years.

In the 1970s the shelter was converted to the Nicollet Island Inn. Now the Inn features 24 rooms of period decoration and furniture, a 150-year-old bar, and an award-winning menu.