MINNEAPOLIS–ST. PAUL (August 18, 2025) — NARI of Minnesota and Rethos: Places Reimagined are proud to announce the soft launch of City Stories, a new week-long celebration of architecture, history, and design taking place May 2–10, 2026, across the Twin Cities metro.
Building on the legacies of the long-respected MSP Home Tour and Doors Open Minneapolis, City Stories invites residents and visitors to explore the places that shape our region—from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. This year’s soft launch will start with the MSP Home Tour on May 2-3, followed by a week of walking tours, signature events, and talks curated in partnership with local heritage, cultural, and design organizations. It will close with Doors Open Minneapolis May 9-10.
A New Vision for Heritage Tourism
City Stories is designed to highlight Minnesota’s rich architectural and cultural assets during the spring tourism season. With support from the Mall of America and a growing network of partners, the initiative seeks to broaden the reach of heritage tourism while supporting community pride and local economies.
“This pilot year will help us refine what works, build excitement, and ensure we’re ready to host a vibrant, citywide experience,” said Will Mathews, Rethos Director of Heritage Tourism.
“We see City Stories as a powerful way to connect Minnesotans with the spaces where their stories unfold,” said Beatrice Owen, Executive Director of NARI MN. “Whether it’s a lovingly restored bungalow or a bold new addition, these places reflect the creativity and care that define our communities.”
Sample Events Include:
● Behind-the-scenes home and building tours
● Neighborhood walking tours led by preservation experts
● Speaker events with urban planners and designers
● Social mixers celebrating local design and cultural heritage
About City Stories
City Stories is a collaborative event series led by Rethos and NARI MN, designed to bring together history, design, and architecture over a week of immersive programming. Inspired by nationally renowned events like Palm Springs Modernism Week and Home + History Las Vegas, City Stories aims to elevate the Twin Cities as a premier destination for heritage tourism.
For media inquiries, interviews, or to request a press kit, please contact:
Beatrice Owen, [email protected] or Nona Beining, [email protected]
Follow us @Rethos and @NARIMinnesota for updates and event announcements.