The western half of the bustling metropolis known as the Twin Cities, Minneapolis combines progressive urban planning with abundant natural beauty. Aptly nicknamed the "City of Lakes" for its 20 nearby lakes, the area teems with wetlands and creeks, featuring the Mississippi River. Intertwined with the 52-mile Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and other roads, footpaths and bike lanes, these bodies of water serve as the infrastructure for one of the finest networks of city parks in the world. Such innovation extends into all aspects of Minneapolis life, from its glorious Guthrie Theatre and other renowned theater companies, to the seven miles of enclosed Skyway tunnels that protect downtown pedestrians during the cold winter months.