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
1915 Google Reviews
Incredibly beautiful house from an opulent bygone era. Really enjoyed the holiday craft fair. Wood fires outside and benches with blankets, Scandinavian themed items for sale, live performers and knowledgeable volunteers at every turn telling of the history of the home
One of my favorite places in Minneapolis! The mansion and museum are beautiful, especially at Christmas. Each holiday season the mansion is decorated with a different theme, and the museum and artists go all out with amazing decor. The food at the cafe, appropriately named Fika, is always delicious and it’s a fun place to eat. Usually quite busy so get there early and get your seat if you want lunch!
Such a thrill to visit the American Swedish Institute (ASI) yesterday morning in all of its holiday splendor.
A local treasure, the original mansion was built by the Turnblad family between 1904 and 1908. It was a labor of love by master craftsman, including exterior stonewotk, interior woodwork and decorative plaster.
In 1929, it was donated to become what is now ASI and has created its own legacy as a gathering place and cultural center for the Swedish American community and the City of Minneapolis.
Today, the Turnblad Mansion is joined on ASI’s campus by the Nelson Cultural Center, a modern structure completed in 2012 that features expanded gallery, programming and event spaces, a retail gift shop, and the FIKA Café. 🇸🇪
Blessed be.
“A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, and economic legacies – all of the things that quite literally make us who we are.” ~ Steve Berry
My first time here was in the early 1950s. I was about seven years old. I am 80 now and have been a member for decades. The in house restaurant Fika is a family favorite… especially outdoors. You don’t have to be a member to enjoy it. There is always a temporary display/show in the building and the membership allows free admission as well as the excellent periodical magazine. Some of my favorite art shows I have ever seen anywhere in the world have been right here.
As someone who is fascinated by the Swedish and Northern European history and culture, I loved the Institute. They had great exhibitions and very lovely staff. I had a privilege to interact with one of the volunteers who told me a little bit about the castle as well as the history of Swedes in Minnesota.
The fika cafe was a nice bonus. Gift shop is great, too.
The fika cafe was a nice bonus. Gift shop is great, too.
I highly recommend the Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. We went on a self guided tour of the mansion and there were docents in many of the rooms who answered questions and told us about the history. The gift shop is stunning! They have a wonderful cafe too.
It’s absolutely beautiful and does Swedish Americans proud. The mansion is gorgeous, from the intricate carvings on the staircases, to the ornate tile stoves and the stunning exterior. Tells a great story about the Turnblads and the history of Swedes in America. Nice gift shop, where I bought a Dala horse but wish they had a mug with a Swedish flag or Tre Kronor. 🤷♂️ Oh well! It’s worth your time, especially on Thursday afternoons, where admission is Free After 3.
Beautiful space and always well curated. We loved the new Christmas feature on Tomte!
