We're good, but not as good as before

Travel + Leisure magazine says Minneapolis and St . Paul are third-best in country for theater.

Last update: October 8, 2009 - 10:09 PM

We're slipping.

Two years ago, Travel + Leisure magazine ranked the Twin Cities as the nation's second-best theater destination. This year's list of America's Favorite Cities has us in third place, behind New York and Chicago.

In classical music, the Twin Cities finished ninth, and we were 10th in museums -- both above our rank (13th) in metropolitan areas. In the category for historical sites/monuments, we were a lackluster 22nd. Apparently, the Mary Tyler Moore statue on Nicollet Mall isn't impressing too many people.

The unscientific rankings are based on votes from Travel + Leisure readers. No criteria, no rhyme nor reason. Two years ago, they might have been wowed by the new Guthrie. Has that building already gotten old? Regardless, it's still a reflection of the disproportionate value of the performing arts -- particularly theater -- in the Twin Cities.

GRAYDON ROYCE

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