Greetings from Minneapolis!

An unexpected treasure that astonishes the first-time visitors, Minneapolis offers all the sophistication you would expect from a major urban destination, combined with a lush, natural environment.

From an international perspective, the Minneapolis area has become a melting pot of ethnic groups from all around the world, offering an incredible variety of cuisine, clothing, art and more.  While visiting Minneapolis, shop the largest mall in America - the Mall of America -and sample tastes from around the globe on Eat Street and experience cultural institutions from internationally renowned designers.

In addition to a lively urban buzz, Minneapolis offers the best of both worlds.  With plentiful lakes and green parks within the city limits, Minneapolis features the only totally urban National Scenic Byway, miles of bike trails, world-class golf courses, beautiful public gardens, nature preserves, open-air sports and much more.

Minneapolis is beautiful.  It’s cosmopolitan.  And vibrant.  Come and see for yourself. Our city looks forward to entertaining The International Association of Lions Clubs in 2009!

Greg D. Ortale
President and CEO
The Greater Minneapolis Convention & Visitors Association