Minneapolis Skyway
The Minneapolis Skyway is a network of enclosed pedestrian passages that extends across several downtown blocks and connects different buildings. The paths run at mid-level between structures, allowing people to reach most parts of the center without climbing stairs.
The Skyway system was developed in the 1960s to help workers endure cold winters while keeping the downtown area active. The network grew gradually as new buildings connected to it, becoming the extensive system seen today.
The Skyway network links downtown shops and offices while allowing people to move on foot while avoiding harsh winters. The passages fill with stores, restaurants, and small gathering spaces where commuters and visitors flow throughout the day.
The passages are accessible and easy to walk through, with clear connections between blocks, though the layout may seem confusing at first. It helps to consult a map or spend time exploring to learn the various routes and exits.
The network is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in North America and has served as a model for similar systems in other cities. The connections allow visitors to explore certain downtown areas entirely without stepping outside.
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