Ethnic Heritage
Many of the state’s early settlers were Germans, Norwegians
and Swedes, but cultures throughout Europe were represented
among the state’s early residents. The 20th century brought many
new residents from around the world. Vibrant ethnic festivals range
from African American to Vietnamese, from Hispanic to Swiss.
One area with an especially rich ethnic heritage is the Iron
Range area of northeastern Minnesota. Thousands of European
immigrants, from Italian to Finnish, came to work the mines. The
Ironworld Discovery Center and several other sites tell the
interesting story of this tapestry of cultures.
In the Twin Cities area, several neighborhoods
are noteworthy for their ethnic restaurants and
shops: District del Sol in St. Paul, Lake Street and
Nicollet Avenue, dubbed Eat Street, in Minneapolis.
More Info on Minnesota Heritage:
888-868-7476 www.exploreminnesota.com
Explore Minnesota Tourism
Information on historic sites and ethnic festivals.
888-727-8386 www.mnhs.org
Minnesota Historical Society
Information on state historic sites.
Lower Sioux Agency State
Historic Site, east of
Redwood Falls
Grand Portage National Monument fur trading post
