My sister and I will be staying across from the MOA and will be shopping ourselves silly (both from tiny towns that have very little to offer in the way of shopping) but also love the theatre and nightlife. We'll be there over 4th of July and were wondering what city would be best for those festivities, too. Any help or websites would be appreciated!

When I was a child, my family went on a summer weekend trip to Minneapolis. It is a nice, clean city but I don't recall there being an abundance of activities (this was 10 years ago).

However, we had fun going downtown and to the Twins game. I also recall there being a good outlet there.

Traditionally, there is a festival called "Taste of Minnesota" held at the State Capitol grounds with free concerts, fireworks, and food kiosks from the leading restaurants around the Twin Cities. Definitely a great way to enjoy the outdoors over the 4th.
Other fun activities include: a cruise on the Jonathan Paddleford down the Mississippi, shopping Nicollet Mall downtown, any of the theatres in downtown Mpls., shopping in the 50th & France section of Edina (lots of fun boutiques), the Minnesota Zoo, Valleyfair (hey, who says only kids can ride rollercoasters?). Have fun.

The fireworks are great over the MIssissippi River DT--they reflect in the River--there are also several restaurants you could sit at for a drink or dinner and watch. A very cool bed and breakfast and restaurant is Nicollett Island Inn on Nicollett Island right smack in the middle of the Mississippi River could be fun too.
We think Minneapolis has more to do than St Paul...

I don't know if you and your sister like beer gardens, but there are some good ones around the Twin Cities in the summer. Probably the best one is at the Black Forest Inn.

The Taste of Mn is essential.

You could check out some of the local magazines once you arrive. They would also help you with restaurant choices.

taste of minnesota is a blast and there is a parking ramp near by drive to the top and get the best view of the fireworks around