American Swedish Institute

Engaging locally, connecting globally. 

 "I love this place! We are so fortunate to have this piece of living history to share with future generations. It is a must experience!”  - ASI Visitor

The American Swedish Institute (ASI) is a vibrant arts and cultural organization dedicated to creating and sharing rich experiences centered around themes of identity, belonging, and migration.

Located in the Phillips West neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota, ASI offers world-class exhibitions of art and craft, unique educational programs that highlights the cuisine, handcraft, music, language, and history of Sweden and the Nordic region, and major cultural events including Cocktails at the Castle, Midsommar, Midwinter Folk Fest, and more.

ASI's innovative, community-informed programming empowers participants to deepen their understanding of themselves, their heritage, and their relationship to others through stories, exhibitions, classes, programs, and more. With nearly 400 on-site programs each year, and partnerships with schools and organizations across the Twin Cities, ASI cultivates and participates in a strong sense of community among neighbors and global citizens.

ASI is the proud steward of the Turnblad Mansion, an historic building on the National Register. Built in 1908 by Swan J. Turnblad, the iconic 33-room Mansion became home to the American Swedish Institute in 1929.

In 2012, ASI expanded its campus to include the 35,000 square foot Nelson Cultural Center. This LEED Gold certified environmentally-friendly building houses classroom, community and gallery spaces, and is home to FIKA Café, an award-winning restaurant serving New Nordic cuisine and hand-made Swedish pastries.

See what's happening today at ASI by visiting www.asimn.org

Mission:

The American Swedish Institute is a gathering place for all people to share experiences around  themes of culture, migration, the environment and the arts, all informed by enduring links to Sweden.

Vision:

The American Swedish institute will be a leading museum and cultural center of international reputation which invites all people to gather to connect their pasts to their shared future, to understand their heritage in relation to others, and to discover their role as neighbors and global citizens. Vibrant, ongoing ties to Sweden will illuminate and inspire all these endeavors.

ASI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization and greatly depends on gifts from individuals and organizations to achieve its mission.