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
2031 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!
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.
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.
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!
Truly an incredible mansion, and the history throughout was very interesting. The parking lot was pretty full, and Fika (great name for the cafe) was full and had people waiting. By the time we finished our tour, there were plenty of seats available but we didn’t have a chance to eat here but it looked and smelled great. There was an elevator for those wondering about accessibility, and it was still decorated with Christmas items along with the history of how it evolved along with some traditions from other countries. We will go again sometime and plan to bring family members when they visit.
The museum is 90% The Mansion itself. it hosts rotating artists who display their art within the mansion. If you are into old mansions.. or structure s this is for you. The artististry in this Manson is breathtaking. The ceilings, woodworking, everything has hand crafted details.
Great experience for the entire family! Learned about the Turnblad family and the Svenska Amerikanska Posten, the largest Swedish-language newspaper in the U.S! We had lunch at the FIKA Cafe that focused on Nordic cuisine. It was the perfect day at the perfect place!
