Always a place for urban experimentation, in the last few decades downtown Minneapolis created an innovative skyway system and a landmark pedestrian/transit street--the Nicollet Mall--and erected a clutch of skyscrapers by A-list architects. Today the jewels in downtown's crown include the Hennepin Avenue entertainment district, which hosts touring Broadway shows and major musical acts, and a new crop of boutique hotels and distinguished owner-chef restaurants. At its southern end is Loring Park, an urban oasis surrounded by trendy, gay-friendly restaurants and cafes, and the Walker Art Center, the city's internationally renowned modern-art powerhouse.