The history of Minnehaha Falls includes dance halls, secret saloons, wild behavior, lawsuits, and whiskey. Join us for a one-mile walk where the mayhem occurred: crooks, landowners, hoteliers, and saloon owners went to the Falls to turn a profit or to raise a little ruckus.

Karen Cooper, whose work When Minnehaha Flowed with Whiskey: A Spirited History of the Falls just won the 2023 Minnesota Book Award for Nonfiction, gives participants further background on the people and places that shape this remarkable story. Through colorful anecdotes and thorough documentation, she helps us picture the Minnehaha Falls area in a new light, and helps us understand how this history formed the park we know and love today.

This tour begins at the picnic table in front of the Longfellow House, 4800 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis, and is approximately one mile on uneven ground. Please wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen/protective clothing, dress for the weather, and bring your own water to stay hydrated. Please register in advance.

Hennepin History Museum Members: Log in to your member account for access to $10 member tickets. Email membership@hennepinhistory.org with questions. Not yet a member? Join today!

Hennepin History Museum Walking Tour Policies:

• Weather: Outdoor walking tours will proceed rain or shine unless there is lightning in the area.
• Pets: Nonservice animals prohibited.
• Tobacco use: Tobacco products or vaping prohibited.
• Refunds: Cancellations made more than 24 hours prior to the walking tour are eligible for a refund (minus processing charges) or may be exchanged for another tour. Cancellations received within 24 hours of departure, no shows, or late arrivals are not eligible for refunds or exchanges.