The American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis is a cultural hub celebrating Swedish and Scandinavian heritage through art, historical exhibits, and engaging programs. Housed in the iconic Turnblad Mansion, the institute offers visitors a unique blend of stunning architecture and cultural experiences. From traditional crafts to contemporary Scandinavian design, it’s a top destination for those looking to explore Nordic culture in the Twin Cities.
History Museum
American Swedish Institute
2069 Google Reviews
Visited on 7.1.2025. BRAVO and KUDOS to Michela and Jennifer for proving me with a Spectacular experience while touring the interior rooms of the mansion. There are not enough words to describe how stunning this place is and no picture can capture the magnitude of the beauty of it. Highly Recommend to anyone traveling through Minneapolis!
Such a beautiful place and rich with history. The four stars is because some of the staff are over the top political and overbearing as you tour the house. Also, one tour guides kept making fun of Downton Abbey and all those who like the show, explaining that this house was nothing like Downton Abbey and he was tired of the comparisons. Amazing how one person can just take everything down a notch. The play area on the lower level is amazing for kids and you have to visit the Norse Saga room!!
I had no idea that the museum would be of an actual home. The woodwork was simply amazing. We could freely walk the house to almost all areas. We had a blast and we loved the gift shop as well.
What an incredible experience. The staff were lovely and very helpful. I was visiting from out of town and they made me feel welcomed and had so much knowledge about the mansion and it’s surroundings. Highly recommend.
My fiance and I had both come here to experience the rich culture that the museum had to offer. The mansion was incredible to explore. The staff is extremely friendly as well. We had an amazing time exploring and learning about the art, culture, and variety of rooms that there were. The music that is weaved into the history there was nice too. They had two beautiful pianos there to see, though you can’t play them without advanced permission, so if you’d like to preform do contact them ahead of time. We did have an odd experience in the top floor where the uniforms are displayed next to a wooden sculpture. My fiance sings opera. when she sang some of the songs that were used for the women there, one song in particular. I noticed a white mist in the hallway that seemed to zip by twice. Unless they have a fire alarm or something installed up there, and someone was smoking a vape, or a candle was going. I’m also sure we were the only ones on the top floor at the time. I also noticed while she was reading the sheet music and singing along to a track, that the uniforms moved in the case. I’m not sure if they have a device that makes it do that, but it did move. Wasn’t creepy, it was like someone had come to listen. All in all though an amazing experience, highly recommended.
The museum overall it’s beautiful and really interesting, it’s not crowded and very organized but when we went there was a couple taking their wedding pictures there and the cafe kind of closed and we felt like we were getting kicked out. But, in general, very good place and great experience.
I fell in love with this place as soon as I walked in. I didn’t want to leave. There were so many cozy spots to chill, read a book, and enjoy the view. Definitely coming back soon!
Such an awesome museum & mansion combo! I brought my family here on a Thursday evening because they offer free admission on Thursdays from 3-8pm. My family loves touring historic mansions and the Turnblad mansion was super cool to see up close in person. I love that they have an authentic Swedish cafe onsite and the gift shop is filled with terrific Swedish wares and goodies. Highly recommend anyone to come make a visit here.
