places to travel minnesota

• Work With Jen
• USA Bucket List
• Follow Us On Instagram

Minnesota Bucket List | 13 Absolute Best Things To Do There!

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

If you’re looking to explore the U.S. state of Minnesota, our Minnesota Bucket List will guide you to the top 13 absolute best things to do here!

With water being the primary draw to this upper Midwest state, Minnesota is aptly known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has 11,842 lakes (Wow!) .

Having been born and raised in Minnesota, and now currently raising my own family here, the experiences mentioned here are near and dear to my heart and have helped shape who I am as a person today.

This perfectly crafted Minnesota Bucket List is divided by activities found in the Northern and Southern halves of the state in order to best guide you in your travels.

Though there are so many more amazing places and attractions to visit in Minnesota, here is a look at 13 hand-picked gems!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.   For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Minnesota Bucket List: Northern Minnesota

Northern Minnesota is characterized by wild beauty, panoramic lake views, scenic rivers, and dramatic woodlands – as well as pleasant summers and frigidly cold winters!

The essence and splendor of Northern Minnesota’s rugged landscapes and glistening freshwater lakes are any outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and canoeing are king in summer, spring, and fall.

Winters consist of ice hockey, ice skating, ice fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Here are the Minnesota bucket-list-worthy experiences and attractions found in the Northernmost half of the state of Minnesota.

1. Discover Voyageur’s National Park

One of the best places to visit in Minnesota that tops our Minnesota bucket list is Voyageur’s National Park !

This solely water-based National Park is so different than its more popular counterparts (Yellowstone, Arches, Acadia, etc.) in that you absolutely must get out of your car to experience it. 

You see, Voyageurs consists of 500 islands, 655 miles of shoreline, and more than 200,000 acres of land and water, most of which are only accessible by boat.

Popular summer activities here include front and back-country camping, walleye fishing, hiking, and boating.

Winter activities in Voyageurs National Park include snowmobiling, ice fishing, winter camping, and cross-country skiing.

Voyageur’s National Park lodging options include anything from rustic resorts and cabins to distinguished hotels , gigantic houseboats, or secluded campsites.

2. Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Accessible primarily by canoe, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in Northern Minnesota is one of America’s most beautiful and remote adventures making it a Minnesota bucket list highlight!

BWCA is a backpacker’s paradise in that it is home to over 2,000 lakes connected by rivers and portages that are only accessible to paddlers.

In fact, one of the hardest things about planning your first  Boundary Waters trip is deciding where to go within the vast preserve’s 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 11 hiking trails, and approximately 2,000 designated campsites.

While there, Up North experiences include paddling, portaging, and cooking over an open fire.

Likewise, visitors can expect to spot moose, black bears, loons, and bald eagles, as well as experience the Superior National Forest.

Keep in mind that outfitters in getaway towns such as Ely, Crane Lake, Grand Marias, and Tofte, Minnesota can provide able guides and supplies to orchestrate your trip and help fulfill your camping checklist .

3. Visit Duluth & Canal Park

Visiting the Northeast port city of Duluth, MN is another one of the absolute best things to do in Minnesota!

Duluth sits on the north shore of Lake Superior, which is the largest of the 4 Great Lakes of North America.

Its lakeshore location offers a nautical vibe complete with plenty of activities for those seeing outdoor lakeside leisure.

Considered one of the “Best Outdoor Cities in America,” and “The Craft Beer Capital of Minnesota”, the perfect Duluth itinerary consists of experiences and attractions that appeal to a wide variety of ages and interests.

As an active port city, our favorite activity in Duluth is watching ships from around the world transporting grain, coal, and iron ore into Duluth’s harbor via the canal.

Other free things to do in Duluth include exploring Duluth’s world-famous Canal Park, the Lighthouse Pier, Lakefront Trail, and Duluth’s Aerial Life Bridge.

For these reasons and more, Duluth’s Great Lake attractions are Minnesota Bucket List must-dos!

We love visiting our home state of Minnesota so much, that we’ve written several other guides to help you plan a trip there!

• Complete 3-Day Duluth, MN Itinerary
• A Complete List of Duluth, MN Attractions
• Minnesota Wineries: 15 Must-Try Locations!
• The Best Zoos in Minnesota for Fun Animal Encounters
• The Best Indoor Waterparks in Minnesota!

4. Travel the North Shore Scenic Drive

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a 154-mile scenic “All American Roadway” that extends from Duluth to Two Harbors, MN (on Co. Rd. 61), and from Two Harbors to Grand Portage, MN (on Hwy. 61).

What makes the North Shore Scenic Driver so special is that it includes 7 state parks, as well as breathtaking views of Lake Superior and its surrounding cliffs, forests, and waterfalls.

The must-see stops on the Minnesota North Shore include Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, Palisade Head, and Tettegouche State Park.

The quaint towns and lakeside villages on the North Shore provide picturesque views of the pine trees, rock formations, and lakeside beauty.

In addition, be sure to discover the unforgettable things to do in Grand Marais , as this is a town that will leave a lasting impression on your heart!

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a family getaway that you simply won’t forget.

Additional planning tip: Heading up the North Shore in the winter? Be sure to stop and experience the best skiing in Minnesota at Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort located in Lutsen, MN.

*Read about our best family road trip tips in order to cruise this American roadways with ease.

5. Spend a Summer Vacation in the Brainerd Lakes Area

The Brainerd Lakes Area offers a small-town Minnesota charm set alongside the most popular lakes and resorts in Minnesota.

Located just 125 miles north of Minneapolis/St. Paul, there are dozens of things to do in Brainerd, along with its rivers and lakes that offer wildlife and recreational fun.

The Gull Lake and Whitefish chain of lakes are bustling with dining and lodging options whereas the Crow Wing or Pine Rivers offers a slower pace and more natural landscapes.

Favorite Brainerd Lakes Region resorts include Grand View Lodge, Breezy Point Resort, and Madden’s on Gull Lake.

This area is also home to a few of Minnesota’s best indoor waterparks which is definitely a draw here for families with kids!

With deluxe accommodations, watersports, kids’ activities, golf & spa options, and specialty dining experiences, add a summer vacation to the Brainder Lakes Area to your Minnesota bucket list!

Minnesota Bucket List: Southern Minnesota

Southern Minnesota is home to dozens of charming small towns with historic main streets, as well as the big cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester, Minnesota.

In addition, most of the state’s cultural centers and historic architecture can be found throughout Southern Minnesota, along with wooded bluffs and winding rivers and streams.

And finally, you’ll find our favorite Minnesota zoos , and several Minnesota wineries that you absolutely don’t want to miss if you’re looking for the best things to do in Minnesota!

Here are the Minnesota bucket-list-worthy experiences and attractions found in the Southern half of the state of Minnesota.

6. Visit the Minnesota State Capitol

The free or self-guided tours offered at the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul, MN are a definite ‘must’ on any Minnesota bucket list.

The Capitol recently underwent a 3-year, $310 million restoration project which brought the already stunning building back to life.

Among its most impressive features are the golden horses on the exterior of the building that can be seen from even miles away (referred to as the quadriga).

While inside, visitors have a chance to see the legislature in action in the restored House and Senate chambers via the public gallery that is located on the third floor.

Other favorite activities here include admiring the gigantic first-floor rotunda and paintings of scenes from Minnesota’s involvement in the Civil War that can be found in the Governor’s Reception Room.

Guided tours lasting 45 minutes leave at the top of each hour from the Capitol Information and Tour Center.

7. Spend a Day at the Mall of America

Your Minnesota bucket list should most definitely include spending a day or more at Bloomington, Minnesota’s  Mall of America , the largest shopping mall in the United States.

Boasting over 40 million visitors a year, you can literally spend an entire weekend here taking it all in!

Not only is Mall of America the nation’s largest retail shopping center, but it is also a mecca of dining, entertainment, and dozens of family-friendly attractions .

For families with children, the crown jewel of the Mall of America is the indoor Nickelodeon Universe theme park found in the center of the mall!

With classic theme-park rides such as rollercoasters, the Log Chute, a Ferris Wheel, and bumper cars, Nickelodeon Universe tops the list of the best things to do in Minnesota with kids!

If visiting the Mall of America ends up on your bucket list, perhaps you’d like to stay there too?

Featuring both luxury and convenience, the  Radisson Blu  and  JW Marriott Minneapolis  are attached to the mall itself. With direct access to the Mall of America, you never have to step foot outside during your visit.

*While there, be sure to experience the other top things to do in Bloomington, MN found here!

8. Stay at Great Wolf Lodge

Located adjacent to the Mall of America is another Minnesota bucket-list favorite, Great Wolf Lodge .

With over 19 locations (and counting!) in the U.S. and Canada, the Great Wolf Lodge resort brand has become a family favorite of many!

What started as a small indoor water park hotel in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, Great Wolf Lodge now features a line of family resorts each complete with a water park, restaurants, arcades, spas, and children’s activities.

Part of Great Wolf’s appeal is that it offers a weatherproof getaway where visitors can swim and wear bathing suits regardless of the time of year. For this reason, this resort is hugely popular as a destination during the cold Minnesota winters.

We love Great Wolf Lodge for its rustic-themed rooms and family-friendly atmosphere.

*Read our entire review of Bloomington’s Great Wolf Lodge here!

9. Visit Minnehaha Regional Park

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Minnehaha Regional Park is one of Minneapolis Minnesota’s oldest and most popular parks – an ultimate bucket list idea for sure!

It attracts over 850,000 visitors annually.

A visit to Minnehaha Falls Regional Park , which is home to the enormous Minnehaha Falls, is a must-do recommendation on our Minnesota bucket list.

The 53-foot-tall majestic Minnehaha Falls is one of the greatest urban waterfalls in the United States.

The park also features scenic river overlooks and limestone bluffs.

Be prepared to stand in awestruck wonder at the beautiful Minnehaha Falls located in the middle of Minnesota’s biggest industrial city!

Minnehaha Park is located at the intersection of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway in a 193-acre wooded setting. 

Additional planning tip: Make it a point to visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and see the famous Spoon Bridge and Cherry sculpture that is a convenient 6 miles from Minnehaha Falls!

10. Cheer On the Home Team

Minneapolis, Minnesota happens to be home to four professional sports teams and associated sports complexes that draw enormous crowds during their prospective seasons.

The Minnesota home teams include:

• MLB’s Minnesota Twins at Target Field
• NFL’s Minnesota Vikings at the U.S. Bank Stadium
• NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and WNBA’s Lynx at the Target Center
• NHL’s Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center

In the winter, hockey is king in Minnesota.

Attending a Minnesota Wild hockey game is by far one of the best things to do in Minneapolis !

The Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN becomes a haven to over 18,000  Minnesota Wild  spectators each and every time the puck is dropped on home ice.

Not a current fan?

There is no doubt that the activities, enthusiasm, and exciting atmosphere at Xcel Energy will get you into the game.

Likewise, there is literally not a bad seat in the house.

You will always feel at the heart of the action when attending a game here!

12. Visit Rochester and the Mayo Clinic

The historic and world-famous Mayo Clinic is located in Rochester, Minnesota, which is 75 miles south of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Rochester has long been rated as one of the best places to live in the United States by multiple publications such as  Money Magazine .

This is due in part to the presence of its world-class medical facility, Mayo Clinic.

On August 21st, 1883,  The Great Tornado  demolished much of Rochester and there was no medical facility in the immediate area at the time.

Local doctors Will and Charlie Mayo worked together to care for the wounded as well as pioneered several lifesaving medical techniques.

The Mayo practice grew tremendously and is now one of the largest and most well-respected medical facilities in the world.

Many notable people from around the world, including several former U.S. Presidents, have visited Rochester as patients of the Mayo Clinic. International patients include King Hussein of Jordan.

Along with multiple other memorable things to do in Rochester, MN , visiting or admiring the grounds of the Mayo Clinic is one of them!

Mayo Clinic offers free guided art, audio, and historical tours for patients and their guests while they are at Mayo.

The general public can tour Mayowood, Assissi Heights, the Plummer House, and W.W Mayo House, all of which are important landmarks in the history of the Mayo Clinic.

11. Visit Forestville and Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

Forestville and Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is located in Preston, MN which is located 37 miles south of Rochester, MN.

Historic Forestville is a restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society. They offer guided tours that allow visitors to connect with historical figures and experience what life was like at the turn of the 20th century.

Tours begin at the Forestville visitor center and travel through the garden, kitchen, Meighen family house and offices, and general store filled with original 19th-century artifacts and merchandise.

Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park  surrounds Historic Forestville. This park features tours of Mystery Cave, tent and camper cabin camping, horseback riding and a horse camp, hiking trails, and trout fishing.

As Minnesota’s longest and most popular cave, Mystery Cave tours are complete with views of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, beautiful underground pools, and a maze of interconnecting passages.

Parks naturalists lead your tour through various portions of the cave and explain its history, its features, and how it was formed. Modern lighting and walkways enhance accessible tours.

Due to its uniqueness, beauty, and overall appeal, we have included Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park on this Minnesota Bucket List! Plus, who knew that Minnesota has caves?

13. Wheel through Winona

Another one of the best places to visit in Minnesota is the city of Winona!

Located in Southeast Minnesota, Winona is nestled in the scenic bluff country located along the Mississippi River.

Known for its picturesque vistas, multiple parks, and historic sites, the city is highlighted by an extraordinary history.

Winona’s downtown features 11 monumental blocks devoted to its architectural distinction from stone and stained glass masterpieces to remarkable basilica structures.

Some of the best things to do Winona are driving, hiking, or biking to the top of Gavin Heights overlook, walking or biking around Lake Park, and hiking on the trails up the front side of Sugar Loaf bluff.

If you happen to be in the area, I also recommend visiting Wabasha, MN which is located 30 miles north of Winona.

Wabasha is a beautiful lakside community on the Mississippi River and is home to the world-famous National Eagle Center.

This concludes our Minnesota Bucket List! What is one place from this list that you are intrigued to visit? Jen

Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

Similar Posts

9 Practical Tips To Stay Healthy While Traveling

35 Fun Things to Do in Marco Island, Florida While on Vacation

15+ Travel Gifts for Men (Useful + Trendy)

13 Fun & Exciting Things to Do in Rochester, MN

Beginner’s Guide to Travel Hacking: Save Big Bucks on Family Travel

Family Travel: Top 5 Fun Things to do in Minneapolis With Kids this Winter

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

12 Comments

I didn’t know there was so much to do in Minnesota! Everything looks so fun and Minnesota isn’t far from me at all.

It is a fantastic state to explore! I hope that you’re able to do some of the things on this list 🙂

I grew up in Minnesota and return annually to visit family. There were some new-to-me things on this list that I’ll have to give a try. I’ve gone camping at BWCS a few times and that’s REAL camping!

You’re so right! BWCA is backwoods camping at its finest! So cool to find out that you grew up in Minnesota!!

Split Rock is on my list of places to visit! Minnehaha Falls too! I visited Forestville when I was little and want to go back! Great post!

We love Split Rock too! One of these days I’d like to drive the entire North Shore with our kids. There are so many amazing things to see up there!

We are hoping to go to Voyageurs this summer. We love National Parks and since we also live in the Midwest, Voyageurs is high on our wishlist.

That’s awesome! Look into renting a houseboat if you can! It is an experience like no other!

I’ve actually never been to Minnesota (even though I grew up in the Midwest – Iowa). All of these are certainly reminding how much I’m missing out on exploring a new state. I’ll add these to my list!

Where did you grow up in Iowa? My husband is from Sioux Center, IA and went to college in Sioux City, IA 🙂

One of my best friend lives in Minneapolis, so I Have been to Minnesota several times. They. have a family cabin up in Mille Laccs (not sure if that is spelled right) I bet some of these outdoor venues would be a good escape during our current social distancing. MN is such a huge state, so diverse. I should write a post about my state (NY) because we have alot of stuff to do and such different areas!

Yes! I never thoughts it’d be so fun to write about my home state, being that ‘traveling’ usually finds up leaving the state. Reflecting back however, we have done a loved so much here! I’d love to hear about your home state!!

Find Even More

Find your next vacation destination!

Connect on Instagram

Find out where we’re traveling now!

Make the memories now

You don’t have to wait until your kids are more grown up or you have a ton of money saved to start traveling.

With a little planning and a lot of love, lifelong family vacation memories can be made at all ages, stages – and places both near and far.

Destinations

• Attractions
• Girls’ Trips
• U.S. Cities
• All-Inclusive Resorts
• Universal Orlando

Free Printable

Free packing list printable when you subscribe for the latest travel updates!

Travel With A Plan is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Family Vacation Packing List!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

44 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Minnesota

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 29, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Minnesota is a picturesque Midwestern town that borders both Canada and Lake Superior.

Minnesota’s proximity to these awesome places makes it all the more special to visit.

Nicknamed The Gopher State, Minnesota is loaded with history, culture, and nature by the mile.

With 10,000 lakes, remarkable ecosystems, wilderness preserves, hundreds of state parks, and nature conservatories to name a few, it’s no wonder visitors come from all over just to bask in the state’s natural wonders.

If you’re planning an upcoming trip to The Gopher State, you’re definitely looking for cool things to do in Minnesota.

Thankfully, you won’t have to look far because places to visit in MN are plenty.

Minnesota is home to museums, amusement parks, incredible shopping, historic estates, vineyards, distilleries, and so much more.

If you could use a few sound suggestions for what to do when visiting this gem of a Midwestern state, please read on.

Table of Contents

1. Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive

Lonnie Paulson / Shutterstock

One of the best ways to explore Minnesota is by cruising the North Shore Scenic Drive .

Of note, this scenic destination is designated an “All American Road” along which you can enjoy the picturesque scenery of the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Along the spectacular route, you will encounter plenty of places to see, especially tourist attractions.

Astoundingly, you’ll encounter a whopping eight state parks, any of which makes a great pit stop for exploration.

Additionally, there are many quaint restaurants, unique shops, and art galleries to check out along the scenic drive.

Furthermore, beyond the many scenic overlooks, you can enjoy many historical sights.

A few of the amazing historical sights include Split Rock Lighthouse, Grand Portage National Monument, and the Grand Marais Art Center.

With so many wonderful things to do in Minnesota, this top attraction is a must see.

Address: MN, United States

2. Minneapolis Institute of Art

EQRoy / Shutterstock

Situated in the heart of Minneapolis , Minnesota, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is home to nearly 100,000 works of art and artifacts that depict 5,000 years of world history.

One of the largest museums in the United States, the Minneapolis Institute of Art features exhibits of contemporary art, masterpieces, visual art, and so much more.

Some of the museum’s featured exhibits include Envisioning Evil: “The Nazi Drawings,” Sixties Psychedelia, and American Documentary Photography among many others.

One of Minnesota’s greatest tourist attractions, a visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must do.

Significantly, visiting the museum is free for all and requires no advanced reservations.

During your visit to this top 10 destination, you can plan to browse loads of art exhibits or participate in one of many awesome museum programs such as a curatorial program, children’s events, and others.

One of Minnesota’s most popular places to see, the Minneapolis Museum of Art deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, United States

3. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

KARI K / Shutterstock

Located in Saint Paul, Minnesota’s capital city, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of many awesome places to visit in MN.

Open 365 days a year, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a top place to visit today, tomorrow, or this weekend.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is an excellent place to spend the day learning and experiencing unique wildlife.

With the hope of inspiring a value and appreciation for all living things, the zoo provides excellent exhibits and programming.

Go to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory to check out animals from all over the world.

You’ll have the opportunity to interact with animals such as a Galapagos Tortoise and an Arctic Fox and everything in between.

In addition to all of the awesome animals you’ll encounter, the zoo is also home to many beautifully designed gardens, art exhibits, and exciting children’s attractions.

Lastly, sightseeing and entertainment go hand in hand at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory so be sure to check it out when passing through Minnesota.

Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103, United States

4. Great Lakes Aquarium

Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

Situated on the picturesque Duluth waterfront, Great Lakes Aquarium is one of many awesome places to visit in Minnesota.

Having opened in 2000, this non-profit organization has tons of lovely sea life to observe.

Most notably, the aquarium pays close attention to wildlife and habitats found in the Great Lakes basin and even the Amazon River.

Great Lakes Aquarium is a family-friendly destination that teaches visitors about freshwater ecosystems.

With so much to do in one place, you’ll never wonder what to see next when visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium.

Great Lakes Aquarium is home to many spectacular exhibits that showcase the sea life of the region.

Some of the many amazing exhibits include Aquatic Invaders, Critter Corner, Watersheds at Work, and Shipwrecks Alive among many more.

In addition to the many wonderful aquatic exhibits, the establishment is also home to a fine arts gallery with works depicting aquatic themes.

With so many things to see in one beautiful place, it’s no wonder travelers come to the aquarium from far and wide.

Address: 353 Harbor Dr #100, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

5. International Wolf Center

Jeffrey Wiles / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for unique things to do in MN, be sure to check out the International Wolf Center .

Located in Ely, Minnesota, the center is a research and educational facility, opened to the public, that promotes the “survival of wolf populations” and the roles Americans play in achieving that goal.

By educating visitors about the problems wolves face, problems caused by humanity, the center hopes to thwart practices detrimental to the species.

During a visit to the International Wolf Center, visitors will learn about the differences in wolves around the world as well as meet a live wolf exhibit.

Currently, the pack includes three arctic gray wolves who play an integral role in educating visitors.

Additionally, the center hosts special children’s programs as well as other immersive lectures and seminars.

Before leaving the center, be sure to check out the awesome gift shop where you can pick up fearsome wolf merchandise.

Address: 1396 MN-169, Ely, MN 55731, United States

Visiting other parts of Minnesota? Why not check out some of the things to do in Minneapolis ?

6. The Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum

Ken Wolter / Shutterstock

Cultural things to do in Minnesota are not hard to come by, but none are as worthy as The Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum .

Located on the campus of the University of Minnesota, this museum was established in 1934 and named for a famous art collector.

Significantly, the museum aims to spark creativity, discovery, and change.

Being a teaching museum, its main focus is education through the experience of art.

Best of all, the museum is a welcoming community establishment that makes art accessible to all visitors.

When visiting this stunning museum, you can enjoy guided tours of an array of thought-provoking galleries.

Some of the museum’s permanent exhibits make use of mediums such as ceramics, paintings, photography, prints, drawings, posters, and furniture.

Finally, a visit to the museum is always a new experience as the exhibits are ever-changing; new collections are always on the horizon.

Following your immersive tour of the museum be sure to meander the beautiful campus where you can enjoy public artwork such as enormous sculptures.

Address: 333 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States

7. The Historic Congdon Estate

Craig Hinton / Shutterstock

Otherwise known as Glensheen Mansion , The Historic Congdon Estate is a 20,000 square foot mansion set in Duluth, Minnesota.

Run by the University of Minnesota as a historic property, the estate is one of the coolest places to go in the state.

A celebration of preservation, Congdon Estate sits on the gorgeous shore of Lake Superior and is a 20th-century testament to Duluth architecture.

Of note, the property resides on a whopping 12 acres of pristine landscaping all of which can be toured during your visit.

With many historic and opulent things to see under one roof, it’s no wonder why visitors to Duluth adore the property.

Tour options include a classic tour that is an abbreviated tour of the full mansion tour that shows all five floors and all of the astounding 39 rooms.

Beyond touring the mansion itself, visitors are welcome to tour the grounds of the lakeside estate.

With gardens and picturesque shorelines aplenty, this ground tour is a wonderful add-on to any mansion tour.

One of many historic Minnesota attractions, a tour of The Historic Congdon Estate is one for the ages.

Address: 3300 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55804, United States

8. James J. Hill House

Joe Ferrer / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do in Minnesota, make sure to check out James J. Hill House .

Established in 1891 and situated on a lovely tract in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the house is a historic sightseeing delight.

The mansion, built and owned by a railroad mogul, symbolizes success and a Romanesque aesthetic.

Costing nearly one million dollars, a fortune at the time, the house embraces constructions, trends, and furnishings of the time.

Astoundingly, the house comprises 36,500 square feet of opulence.

The James J. Hill House consists of 13 bathrooms, 22 fireplaces, 16 chandeliers, an art gallery, an 88-foot reception hall, and many other extravagant spaces.

Other interesting mansion features include carved oak and mahogany woodwork, a three-story pipe organ, and futuristic (at the time) mechanisms such as central heating, electric lighting, and security.

One of many gorgeous historic places to go in MN, James J. Hill House should find a spot on your travel plan.

Address: 240 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, United States

9. Split Rock Lighthouse

MH Anderson Photography / Shutterstock

Nestled on a cliff of Silver Bay on the North Shore of Lakes Superior, Split Rock Lighthouse is quite possibly one of the state’s most magnificent sightseeing destinations.

One of the top tourist spots in all of Minnesota, this landmark deserves a place in your travel plans.

Whether coming for the unsurpassed views or the landmark’s interesting history, you won’t be disappointed.

Visitors can pay a nominal admissions fee to climb the century-old lighthouse that sits atop a gorgeous 130-foot cliff.

Built in 1910, this historical landmark is a mighty 602 feet above sea level, towers 54 feet high, and its light travels a distance of more than 20 miles.

Each year, the lighthouse draws visitors from around the world who come to bask in the structure’s unparalleled beauty.

During a tour of the lighthouse, visitors may also enjoy a specially curated Keeper’s tour that imparts the ins and outs of lighthouse keeping.

Ground tours are another awesome way to enjoy Split Rock Lighthouse.

Address: 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd, Two Harbors, MN 55616, United States

10. RockFilter Distillery

RockFilter Distillery

One of the lots of cool things to do in Minnesota, a trip to RockFilter Distillery is a unique farm-to-table experience.

Founded by an organic farmer and Navy combat fighter pilot, the distillery couples one man’s love for farming with his affinity for whiskeys and bourbons.

With the hard work of toiling his farm’s land as well as a keen awareness and appreciation for local resources, RockFilter Distillery distills whiskey by the gallons using the same principles as Kentucky bourbons.

As local farmers and distillers, the RockFilter Distillery utilizes Minnesota’s natural geology, a historic mill, and the rushing waters of Beaver Creek to put out an excellent spirit.

What’s best, the Rock Filter Distillery offers once monthly tours that invite visitors like you to enjoy a unique experience.

During a tour, you can see/learn how whiskey is made, enjoy a tasting, and hang out for a happy hour.

Address: 113 Maple Dr, Spring Grove, MN 55974, United States

Exploring other areas of Minnesota? Why not check out some of the things to do in Rochester, MN ?

11. Minnesota History Center

Cliff , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Another of many places of interest, the Minnesota History Center is situated in the state’s capital, one of MN’s finest buildings.

Significantly, the center retells Minnesota’s rich history through carefully curated historical artifacts and artwork.

The center has lovely exhibits, musical performances, crafts, lectures, shopping, and even delicious food.

The museum section of the center takes visitors on a tour of the state’s authentic history through interactive experiences and highly entertaining presentations.

If you’re looking for an experience that couples entertainment with unique things to see, this is the place for you.

Furthermore, the center has many wonderful and welcoming community spaces.

For instance, a suspended airplane in the main rotunda, a giant Minnesota postcard that serves as an awesome photo backdrop, and the rotunda’s unique charm bracelet embedded in the floor are all remarkable features of the center.

Another awesome center feature is the breathtaking view of the Capitol seen through the picture window of the Great Hall.

One of the most interesting places to visit in The Gopher State, be sure to make time for the Minnesota History Center.

Address: 345 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States

12. Lake Superior Marine Museum

McGhiever , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Residing in Duluth, Minnesota, the Lake Superior Marine Museum is one of the state’s many notable points of interest.

Run by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, this museum overlooks the Duluth-Superior harbor.

With the laudable aim of preserving Lake Superior’s maritime heritage, the museum preserves and exhibits maritime artifacts, documents, and more.

Additionally, the museum has a vast collection of photographs, publications, and educational materials.

If you’re looking for cool stuff to do with a penchant for history, the Lake Superior Marine Museum is a great place to check out.

Opened Thursday through Sunday, admission to the museum is free.

During your visit, you’ll enjoy a journey through the history of the Great Lakes.

Some of the exciting exhibits showcase shipwrecks, Great Lakes vessels, Great Lakes industrial history, and beyond.

A perfect place for the whole family to enjoy and learn from, the Lake Superior Marine Museum is one of many cool things to do in The Gopher State.

Address: 600 Canal Park Dr, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

13. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

photo.ua / Shutterstock

Quite possibly, one of the most beautiful places in the United States, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is situated on 11 acres of a public park in Minnesota.

If you’re looking for things to do in MN that will get you outdoors and enjoying nature, this is the spot to do it.

This free attraction is one the whole family can enjoy.

Open 365 days a year from dawn to midnight, anytime, today, tomorrow, or this weekend is a good time to visit.

While walking the grounds of the garden, visitors are treated to astounding sculptures by Twin City artists.

Housing a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary artwork, the garden allows visitors to come face to face with and interact with the artwork, an experience a traditional museum doesn’t typically permit.

Best of all, the meticulously landscaped setting adds a secondary element that makes the garden one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.

Address: 725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403, United States

14. North American Bear Center

The North American Bear Center is one of many unique places to visit in MN.

Located in Ely, Minnesota, this establishment is housed near the Pine Forest and educates visitors about regional Black Bears and other wildlife.

One of the only centers of its kind, the center teaches visitors about bear behavior, habitats, ecology, and how they relate to humans.

Within the center are amazing artifacts such as unique bear displays, posters, and photographs.

Working closely with the local wildlife refuge, the center employs renowned biologists who are experts on the topic of bears.

The expertise of these scientists coupled with the visual artifacts makes for a unique and immersive experience.

Astonishingly, the center features bear mounts that exemplify black bears, polar bears, and grizzly bears, all posed with exceptional realism.

Lastly, the center also hosts special programming such as behind-the-scenes tours, a broadcast program, and a dinner-time program.

Address: 1926 MN-169, Ely, MN 55731, United States

15. Science Museum of Minnesota

The Science Museum of Minnesota is one of the Gopher State’s points of interest that answers the pressing question of what to do when visiting the state.

The museum, founded in 1907 and situated in the heart of Saint Paul, focuses on scientific topics of technology, mathematics, physical science, and the natural sciences.

With so much to learn and see under one roof, it’s no surprise that travelers come from far and wide to enjoy one of the best Minnesota attractions.

With nearly nine acres of exhibits and programming, the museum provides visitors with endless opportunities to learn, explore, and experience.

Of note, the museum is home to paleontological exhibits, an experiment gallery, fossil exhibits, a human body gallery, a race exhibit, and a Mississippi River Gallery; there is so much to encounter at this world-class museum.

If you’re wondering where to go when visiting MN, wonder no more!

Address: 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102, United States

16. Mill City Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

The Mill City Museum , which is operated by the Minnesota Historical Society, is housed in the ruins of the Washburn Mill adjacent to the Mississippi River.

The museum itself is an architectural wonder that in and of itself warrants a trip to this most unique of Minnesota attractions.

Notably, the building is eight stories tall within an old limestone mill.

Nestled on the beautiful riverbank, the museum houses unique artifacts of local and milling history.

Significantly, the Mill City Museum is home to old milling equipment, vintage propaganda, wheat farm artifacts, and more.

One of the museum’s floors is home to the former packing floor and it showcases rotating special exhibits.

Essentially, your experience at the museum is heightened by a marriage of raw power, astounding views, and interactive exhibits.

Some noteworthy exhibits include the Flour Tower, the Baking Lab, the Water Lab, and more.

One of the best, most enjoyable places to go in Minnesota, make sure to add Mill City Museum to your travel plans.

Address: 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States

17. 7 Vines Vineyard

7 Vines Vineyard

Situated on a gorgeous farm in Dellwood, Minnesota, 7 Vines Vineyard is the successful passion project of Saint Paul high school sweethearts.

Established in 2010 in an idyllic setting, the vineyard is one of the top places to visit in MN.

Essentially, from the couple’s adoration for the farm along with their love of wine sprang 7 Vines Vineyard.

With the planting of their first plants and the erection of the winery building in 2012, Minnesota welcomed its best winery in the state.

During a visit to the winery, guests can enjoy private and public tours, wine tastings, and delicious pairings in the renowned restaurant.

Tours include an overview of the winery as well as the historic tract it sits upon.

In addition to standard fare winery activities, 7 Vines Vineyard also hosts weekly yoga on the property.

If you’re in the market for some grown-up fun when visiting MN today or this weekend, be sure to plan a visit to 7 Vines Vineyard.

Address: 101 MN-96, Dellwood, MN 55110, United States

18. National Eagle Center

Bjones0792 / Shutterstock

The National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota works tirelessly to educate visitors about the ecology, biology, and natural history of eagles.

One of the most stunning points of interest in the area, the National Eagle Center connects visitors to this majestic aviary creature as well as its historical symbolism in the United States.

With the hope and mission of teaching wildlife conservation, especially concerning eagles, the center is situated in the Mississippi River Valley which is home to hundreds of bald eagles.

One of the best ways to experience all the center has to offer is through their unique habitat tours.

During these tours, you can catch live glimpses of both bald and golden eagles in their natural habitat.

During one of these fun tours, you’ll be guided by the expertise of an experienced guide who has scouted a locale in advance.

Finally, a visit to the National Eagle Center brings you as close as can be with these stunning creatures in one of Minnesota’s most beautiful points of interest.

Address: 50 Pembroke Ave, Wabasha, MN 55981, United States

19. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Anh Luu / Shutterstock

This 1,200-acre horticultural attraction is one of the most beautiful sites to visit in all of Minnesota.

Located in Chaska, MN, only four miles outside of Chanhassen, the arboretum brings visitors face to face with some of the most gorgeous landscapes in The Gopher State.

With ever-changing seasonal displays, situated both indoors and outdoors, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a top attraction.

Of note, the arboretum’s mission is to educate, inform, and share with visitors about horticultural research and protected natural areas.

Significantly, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is home to 21 model landscapes, 28 gardens, 44 collections, and 216 works of art.

During a tour of this family-friendly facility, visitors can enjoy anything from herb and perennial gardens to demonstration gardens and rain gardens.

The breadth of natural scenery on display at the arboretum is unprecedented, making it one of many top places to visit in Minnesota.

Address: 3675 Arboretum Dr, Chaska, MN 55318, United States

20. Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden

LIKE HE / Shutterstock

Located in Duluth, a suburb of Northeast Minnesota, Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden is a beautiful locale along the shores of Lake Superior.

With so many things to do in MN, it’s easy to overlook the state’s park systems.

However, Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden provides lovely opportunities for hiking, recreation, and sightseeing.

A delightful picnic on the beach or a ball game in one of the park’s open fields are just a few of the ways to enjoy this park.

Within the Leif Erickson Park sits the Rose Garden which was established in 1965 and is home to more than 2,000 roses.

Perfectly curated and arranged in curving and cascading beds, some of which surround a central fountain, the rose garden is a sight to behold.

Additionally, the garden features a stunning gazebo that is also surrounded by labeled roses; the gazebo can be accessed by interwoven pathways that are also beautifully landscaped.

Address: 1301 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55805, United States

21. Minnehaha Park

AMB-MD Photography / Shutterstock

One of the loveliest tourist attractions in Minnesota, Minnehaha Park is a city park in Minneapolis.

The park provides the perfect landscape for loads of outdoor fun.

With both developed and undeveloped areas of the park, you can enjoy the landscape however best suits you.

For instance, some of the park’s features and amenities include a bandstand, a biking path, a picnic area, a playground, public art, a volleyball court, a wading pool, and a walking path.

With all of these fabulous park features, you’ll never wonder what to do at Minnehaha Park.

Additionally, Minnehaha Park has three beautiful gardens and three historical sites, all of which can be toured at your leisure.

Moreover, the park is also home to a dog park, hiking trails, and even a restaurant.

Lastly, the park often hosts cultural events like live music and movies in the park.

With over 165 acres to explore, it’s no wonder visitors come from far and wide to enjoy Minnehaha Park.

Address: 4801 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417, United States

22. Quarry Hill Nature Center

Ventu Photo / Shutterstock

Located in the heart of Rochester , Minnesota, Quarry Hill Nature Center opened its doors in 1972.

Since that time, the center has been redefined, improved upon, and expanded.

Today, Quarry Hill Nature Center is a premier destination for those interested in environmental affairs.

Full of history-rich locales, the center is one of a few places to go like it in Minnesota.

Situated amid a beautiful park setting, the center is home to lovely hiking trails, bird watching, and fossil hunting.

Within the Nature Center, visitors are welcome to meet more than 30 varieties of live animals such as birds and fish as well as an extensive taxidermy collection.

Additionally, the center’s observable honeybee hives are super intriguing to watch up close.

Surrounded by more than 300 acres of park, Quarry Hill Nature Center is a beautiful place to explore and learn about a variety of animals, ecosystems, and geological formations.

Address: 701 Silver Creek Rd NE, Rochester, MN 55906, United States

23. Superior National Forest

Michael Siluk / Shutterstock

Situated in Arrowhead, Minnesota, right between Canada and the US, sits this amazing forest system.

Founded in 1909, Superior National Forest is known for its diverse ecosystem, a handful of lakes, and astounding history.

The one-million-acre forest is home to a divergent community of plants and animals.

Within the forest limits are the wide breadth of naturally occurring specimens that meet the needs of humans.

Whether coming to explore or forage, Superior National Forest is one of the most beautiful and productive things to do in MN.

If you’re looking for Minnesota attractions that will take you outdoors for fun and observance of nature check out this park.

Of note, popular activities at Superior National Forest include camping, fishing, canoeing, and hiking.

Additionally, the park is a perfect setting for cross country skiing, ice fishing, swimming, snowmobiling, and hunting.

Not only can the park be accessed by many incoming roadways, but three scenic byways make the journey into the park just as inviting as the park itself.

Address: 8901 Grand Ave Pl, Duluth, MN 55808, United States

24. Voyageurs National Park

Frank Kennedy MN / Shutterstock

Voyageurs National Park is one of a few picturesque Minnesota attractions where visitors can enjoy water recreation all year long.

Situated in northern Minnesota, just outside Canada, the park is known for its forestry and three beautiful lakes.

Additionally, the park is home to The Ellsworth Rock Gardens which features several amazing abstract sculptures.

Additionally, the park is home to Kettle Falls and an astounding dam.

Of all these awesome attractions, though, none is as popular as the lakes that are used by visitors for watersports.

Situated amid over 200,000 acres of forestry are the Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan Lakes.

These lakes provide visitors the opportunity to explore unique ecosystems, rock ridges, cliffs, and more.

The lakes are all suitable for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and beyond.

Finally, depending on the time of year during which you visit, the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen from Voyageurs National Park.

Address: International Falls, MN 56649, United States

25. Mall of America

Jeff Bukowski / Shutterstock

One of the most famous places to go in all of Minnesota is the Mall of America .

Located adjacent to Minneapolis and near the Minnesota River, Mall of America opened its doors in 1992 and has been a leader in retail ever since.

Of note, the mall has nearly 40 million visitors walk through its doors each year.

Additionally, the mall hosts more than 400 special events every year, events like concerts and other live shows.

Whether you’re looking to walk the halls of history, enjoy shopping at its finest, or take in a show, Mall of America is an American institution that has to be seen to be believed.

In addition to the shopping and shows, the mall also has many world-renowned restaurants, a theatre, the Crayola Experience, an aquarium, and loads more.

With so much to do in one central location, you could easily visit the mall a few days in a row and still not see everything.

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States

26. Munsinger / Clemens Gardens

Randall Runtsch / Shutterstock

Munsinger / Clemens Gardens is actually two adjacent gardens situated on the banks of the Mississippi River.

One of many beautiful places to visit in MN, the gardens are lined with rambling paths and paved walkways that visitors come from far and wide to stroll.

Whether looking for a place to have a stroll or perhaps interested in a muse for artwork and photography, anytime is a good time to visit these Minnesota gardens.

During Spring, Summer, and Fall, visitors can bask in the unprecedented beauty of gorgeously curated and landscaped gardens.

The gardens are home to hundreds of varieties of annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, seasonal foliage, and so much more.

The spectacular gardens often host special events like live concerts, art fairs, and photography contests.

Open to the public year-round at no cost, a visit to Munsinger / Clemens Gardens is a must-do.

Address: 1515 Riverside Dr SE, St Cloud, MN 56304, United States

27. The Aerial Lift Bridge

UbjsP / Shutterstock

The Aerial Lift Bridge is a landmark attraction in Duluth, Minnesota.

Opening in 1905, the bridge was one of the US’s first transporter bridges.

In fact, only one other of its kind exists in the world.

With a 138-foot clearance, a total length of 501 feet, and a remarkable height of 226 feet, the bridge is a marvel to see.

Essentially, the bridge lies low to the water and is lifted to its maximum height when ships require passage.

An unusual operation for a transporter bridge, the Aerial Lift Bridge is a sight to be seen.

Remarkably, the bridge can be lifted to its full height in only one minute; it’s lifted nearly 5,000 times per year.

Although most visitors to the bridge marvel at its uniqueness and the passing ships from its base, what most don’t know is that you can actually walk across the bridge.

In fact, a walk across the bridge will deliver you to or from Canal Park, another lovely Minnesota attraction.

Address: 601 S Lake Ave, Duluth, MN 55802, United States

28. Itasca State Park

Home to many tributary streams leading in and out of the Mississippi River, Itasca State Park is a great place to visit in Minnesota.

Spanning more than 30,000 acres, the park is a lovely place to explore nature and enjoy wholesome family fun.

First established in the late 1800s, the park is one of the state’s oldest parks.

Of note, there are more than a whopping 100 lakes within the park but its greatest claim are the headwaters connected to the Mississippi River.

With so many things to do in Minnesota, you’ll want to be sure you add Itasca State Park to your Minnesota itinerary.

Significantly, the park is a sort of one-stop-shop for outdoor fun.

While visiting the park you can do things like camp, hunt, swim, boat, hike, fish, and even visit a few noteworthy historic attractions.

Essentially, any wholesome outdoor activity you can imagine can be enjoyed with Itasca State Park as your backdrop.

Address: 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN 56470, United States

29. Cathedral of St. Paul

Chintla / Shutterstock

The stunning Cathedral of St. Paul is a must-see when visiting Minnesota.

This Catholic church is a magnificent work of architecture and art that’s open to the public every day year-round.

One of the most significant examples of Beaux-Arts architecture, the construction of the cathedral began in 1907.

From there, the cathedral opened its doors for its first mass many years later in 1915.

A place of worship and a civic landmark, the Cathedral of St. Paul is the home parish of nearly 1,000 households, but also has an elemental rotating door for visitors.

During the weekdays, public tours and pilgrimages are hosted at the cathedral.

During a tour, visitors will spend about one hour touring the premises and learning about its unique and famed history and architecture.

Finally, the cathedral has a lovely gift shop from which visitors can purchase souvenirs and religious idols.

The religious attraction, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, is especially recommended for religious enthusiasts and lovers of architecture.

Address: 239 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, United States

30. Tettegouche State Park

This Minnesota state park is located on the shores of Lake Superior just off a stretch of scenic highway.

Of note, Tettegouche State Park is home to four gorgeous waterfalls all dumping into the Baptism River.

The park has many splendid land water features including sea caves, a sea stack, and more.

One of the park’s most desirable views can be seen from an overlook at Shovel Point.

Pools at the base of the waterfalls are ideal for swimming as well as natural pools along High Falls Trail along the river.

In addition to all of its natural features, Tettegouche State Park has bike trails, kayak/canoe rentals, groomed cross-country skiing, boat access, a groomed snowmobile trail, and beyond.

In addition to a day trip to the park, you could also stay for a few days on the lovely campgrounds that welcome tent- and RV- campers but the park also has several cabins for rent as well.

Address: 5702 MN-61, Silver Bay, MN 55614, United States

31. Gooseberry Falls State Park

RAMESH PAVVLURI VEERA / Shutterstock

Gooseberry Falls State Park , situated on the North Shore of Minnesota, is known for its picturesque waterfalls, a river gorge, log/stone structures, and woodsy wildlife.

Sightseeing for the waterfalls alone is a big draw to the park, but there’s so much more to do in Gooseberry.

In the winter months, the park is a great place for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking.

Any season at Gooseberry Falls State Park is a good season for camping.

Notably, the park has both tent and RV campsites.

In addition to camping and snow recreation, the park has wonderful amenities such as picnic pavilions, a warming center, and a theatre.

The park is also home to miles of both paved and unpaved hiking trails that weave in and out of the park’s unique ecosystem.

A visitor’s center, an interpretive exhibit, naturalist programs, historic sights, a gift shop, and other fun amenities also reside in the park.

Address: 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616, United States

32. Nickelodeon Universe

esperanza casso / Shutterstock

This super fun Minnesota attraction is an indoor amusement park housed inside the Mall of America.

With fun attractions and rides that are all Nickelodeon-themed, the park is an awesomely fun place to visit with children.

Open seven days a week, Nickelodeon Universe was the world’s first indoor amusement park.

With seven acres of entertainment, rides, games, and attractions, there is something fun for every age level.

From roller coasters to retail shops, everyone in your party will have fun.

If you’re visiting the park with children, you’ll want to know that the park has 12 junior and family rides in addition to seven exciting thrill rides.

Other fun attractions include blacklight mini-golf, an indoor playground, character experiences, and more.

However, one of the park’s most laudable features is that it’s a certified Autism center.

Finally, after spending the afternoon at the amusement park you’re only a hop, skip, and jump away from epic shopping and dining.

Address: 5000 Center Ct, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States

33. Minnesota Zoo

Located in Apple Valley, Minnesota Zoo opened in 1978 with revolutionary displays and approaches.

Situated on nearly 500 acres, the zoo has cutting-edge, world-class exhibits that give visitors amazingly immersive experiences.

The zoo offers tons of educational programming that teaches visitors about unique wild animals, animal habitats, and so much more.

With both land, aviary, and aquatic animals on display, Minnesota Zoo is a spectacular attraction to visit.

Some of the zoo’s delightful exhibits feature animals such as bats, tigers, horses, and so much more.

Of aquatic exhibits, some of the animals include sharks, stingrays, turtles, eels, and an assortment of fish.

Lastly, the zoo has a variety of endangered animals living on the property; some of these include African Penguins, Bactrian Camels, an Amur Tiger, and a Bali Mynah.

No matter which animals, exhibits, or programs interest you, there’s something for everyone at Minnesota Zoo.

Address: 13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124, United States

34. SPAM Museum

This unique and maybe odd museum is a free attraction in Austin, Minnesota.

A nod to everyone’s favorite canned meat, SPAM Museum retells the history of Hormel, maker of SPAM, SPAM itself, and its place in Americana.

The 14,000 square foot museum has seven interactive, informative, and entertaining galleries.

The museum has immersive hands-on displays, fun games, and interesting videos.

If you’re a lover of SPAM, you’ll have a blast at the SPAM Museum.

The museum which is open seven days a week retells the history of the Hormel Company and the emergence of SPAM.

Some of the displays feature old Hormel cookbooks, statues of Hormel bigwigs, SPAM paraphernalia, and lots more.

The museum also has a great gift shop where you can pick up your favorite SPAM products as well as unique souvenirs and merchandise.

Address: 101 3rd Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912, United States

35. Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Joe Passe / flickr

This nearly 800-acre park located in Golden Valley, Minnesota, is home to tons of year-round recreation.

Established in 1889, some of the park’s popular features include lake activities and a chalet-style clubhouse.

Named for the superintendent of MN parks from 1903-1935, the park’s history is diverse and its landscape everchanging.

When first acquired, Theodore Wirth Regional Park only amounted to 64 acres, however, it’s been in a consistent state of development and evolution since its early beginnings.

One of the most significant points to consider about the park is its diverse and plentiful recreational opportunities and amenities.

Of note, the park features a decorative fountain, biking/hiking/cross-country trails, an archery course, a beach, fishing, a disc golf course, playgrounds, sports courts/fields, and beyond.

Some of the park’s many amenities include, but are not limited to restrooms, picnic areas, a fishing pier, and athletic rentals.

The park’s beautiful landscape coupled with all of its fun opportunities makes Theodore Wirth Regional Park a must-see.

Address: 1301 Theodore Wirth Pkwy, Golden Valley, MN 55422, United States

36. SEA LIFE

SEA LIFE is a public Minnesota aquarium situated within the iconic Mall of America.

Notably, the more-than-one-million-gallon aquarium provides visitors with immersive educational opportunities by bringing them face to face with some of the world’s most amazing creatures.

In addition to learning about sea life, visitors also get to explore aquatic ecosystems and animal habitats.

Whether visiting with adults, children, or a combination of both, SEA LIFE is a wonderful Minnesota attraction.

Furthermore, some of the center’s exhibits showcase underwater tunnels, rainforest features, coral caves, life in a lagoon, and rockpools.

Additionally, some of the amazing creatures on display include sharks, stingrays, sawfish, turtles, guitar sharks, and more.

Some of the fun things you can do, besides observing the displays, are feeding experiences, shows, and expert talks.

Colorful displays, helpful guides and experts, immersive experiences, and the proximity to the Mall of America, all make touring SEA LIFE a fun thing to do when you’re in Minnesota.

Address: One, Mall of America, 120 East Broadway East Side, Level, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States

37. Stone Arch Bridge

CK Foto / Shutterstock

This former railroad bridge crosses the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis, MN.

The beautiful arched bridge is made entirely of hand-laid stone and overlooks Saint Anthony Falls.

The bridge was expertly constructed in 1881 and measures 2,100 feet in total length and has a total boat clearance of just over 24 feet.

Besides making a gorgeous backdrop for photography, the Stone Arch Bridge can also be used for recreational purposes.

If you’ll be spending any time in Minneapolis, be sure to check out this architecturally astounding bridge.

Significantly, besides being a gorgeous sight to see, the bridge is open to pedestrian traffic for walking, running, and biking.

In fact, walking or riding over the bridge will give you the most spectacular views of the Mississippi River.

Observance of the bridge is also interesting as it’s been designated a National Historic Landmark.

Whether you enjoy strolling, skating, or beyond, you’ll surely delight in the views of and from Stone Arch Bridge.

Address: 100 Portland Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States

38. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

JB Manning / Shutterstock

This Minnesota attraction is a more-than-one-million-acre wilderness area within the Superior National Forest.

Travelers from the US and Canada flock to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness each year.

Of note, the area is home to several educational resource centers such as a nature & science center, a history & culture center, and a kids program to name a few.

The area’s landscape is home to diverse animals, ecosystems, water, and vegetation, all of which make exploring the area remarkable.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Of note, visitors to the park can enjoy camping, biking, hiking, climbing, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding.

Additionally, nature observance, rock collecting, picnicking, and scenic drives are draws to the park.

Finally, the area is the setting for many watersports such as canoeing, kayaking, and swimming.

Whether you’re looking to get away from the hubbub of daily life, improve your appreciation for nature, or just learn about the diverse wilderness, you’ll surely enjoy your visit to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Address: Duluth, MN 55808, United States

39. Niagara Cave

Bruce Guenter / flickr

This limestone cave is situated in beautiful Harmony, Minnesota; although it’s privately owned, tour reservations can be made.

Of note, Niagara Cave is an astounding 200 feet deep and is surrounded by surprising and interesting features.

Some of the area’s noteworthy features include a 60-foot waterfall, fossils, an underground stream, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Cave tours are perfect for families and suitable for children as young as six years old.

One of the most exciting parts of the Niagara Cave tour is the elevator ride to the depths of the earth.

Niagara Cave is also home to other awesome recreational activities.

For instance, while visiting the caves you can enjoy the on-property mini-golf course, gem panning, picnic shelters, and playgrounds.

Finally, a yummy concession stand is also on the property.

So, forget about packing lunch or planning activities and head to Niagara Cave where it’s all planned out for you.

Address: 29842 Co Hwy 30, Harmony, MN 55939, United States

40. Temperance River

Emily De Donato / Shutterstock

This nearly 40-mile river in northern Minnesota drains into Lake Superior.

Flowing south from Brule Lake in Cook County, Temperance River was ironically named for the strong water flow that impedes debris build-up at its mouth.

Many spots along the river’s stretch are suitable for fishing while obstacles in some parts prevent fishing.

The park surrounding the river is rife with nature trails and observance opportunities.

Although permitted in many parts of the park, pets are allowed except in designated swimming areas of which there are many.

Surrounding the Temperance River are wonderful opportunities for camping as well.

Other river area features include waterfalls, rock climbing, picnic areas, and many snow sports.

Rock formations surrounding the river rise 900 feet high which introduce you to breathtaking views.

Moreover, 22 miles worth of hiking trails run riverside leading to Lake Superior.

Finally, visitors to Temperance River are welcomed by a lovely visitor center that also houses a nature store.

Address: 7620 West, MN-61, Schroeder, MN 55613, United States

41. Lake Minnetonka

etalei / Shutterstock

Located roughly 15 miles west of Minneapolis, MN, Lake Minnetonka is made up of a series of interconnecting lakes and other surrounding waterways.

Vast in size, the lake resides in two large counties and has a shore length of more than 120 miles.

Minnetonka’s lakeside is home to many exciting attractions while the lake itself serves as an excellent place to explore and partake in water sports.

Some of the fun attractions situated near the lake include a roller coaster, an aquarium, and an aviary.

Additionally, the lake area has an eclectic shopping, dining, and entertainment scene.

Some of Lake Minnetonka’s water activities feature dinner cruises, boat launches, a playhouse, a dinner theatre, a trolley system, boat races, gardens, camping, and loads more.

Lastly, the lake’s surrounding area has awesome hiking trails and excellent campsites.

A visit to Lake Minnetonka is a wonderful tourist attraction that you won’t want to miss.

42. Pipestone National Monument

PBouman / Shutterstock

Located just north of Pipestone, MN, the Pipestone National Monument is situated in the southwestern part of the state.

Created in 1937 by order of Congress, the monument signifies respect and honor of Indigenous peoples.

Specifically, the monument is an area of archaeological, ethnic, and historical importance that celebrates the contributions made to the area by Native Americans.

The monument is stunningly set in a natural prairie setting that pays homage to the land’s natural beauty and the Native’s respect for it.

The monument received its name specifically to honor the thousands of Native Americans who have quarried the naturally occurring pipestone native to the area.

This land is considered holy by the Natives who have included the quarried pipestone in the same pipes they use to pray.

Travelers to The Gopher State can tour the quarries and look for pipestone as well as revel at the revered Pipestone National Monument.

Address: 36 Reservation Ave, Pipestone, MN 56164, United States

43. Museum of Questionable Medical Devices

Andrew Kuchling / flickr

Housed within the Science Museum of Minnesota sits the collections of the former Museum of Questionable Medical Devices .

Once an establishment in and of itself, the Museum of Questionable Medical Devices’ doors closed in 2002 and it was relocated as a large collection within the Science Museum.

Essentially, the museum is now a museum within a museum.

Nonetheless, the artifacts of this collection paint strange and downright criminal stories from the world of medicine.

When visiting this interesting place, you will be treated to odd and curious medical documents, relics, stories, and more.

Dubious medical devices, frightening machines, mind-blowing soaps/balms, gadgets, and more are all housed within the museum.

They tell strange stories of pseudoscience that are almost too unbelievable to be true.

If you have a penchant for oddities, you won’t want to miss out on the Museum of Questionable Medical Devices.

Address: 120 W Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102, United States

44. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store

If you or anyone in your travel group have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to miss out on this iconic MN locale.

A golden-domed, bright yellow retail haven, Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store is a sight to behold.

Family-owned and operated for nearly 40 years, the establishment is a much-loved purveyor of sweets.

With insane varieties of candies, confections, soda pop, and beyond, you won’t know which way to look as you meander the store.

In addition to shopping for sweets galore, the unique and brightly colored art and architecture of the shop are enjoyable to peruse.

Children and adults are mesmerized by painted ceilings and whimsical scenes as well as food and pop culture impressions.

Moreover, a huge billboard overlooks the shop’s exit and itself is a landmark visitors’ attraction.

Notably, it usually dons some witty pun or ironic judgment.

One of the countless unique places in The Gopher State, be sure to make time for a pitstop at Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store.

Address: 20430 Johnson Memorial Dr, Jordan, MN 55352, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Minnesota

Whether you’re researching things to do in Minnesota to keep you active and outdoors or indoors observing cultural institutions, there are countless awesome places to visit in MN.

From tons of state parks to camping destinations for days and shopping for the books to museums by the mile, MN is a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends.

No matter what draws you to The Gopher State, there’s something to do for everyone.

Come to MN for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, stay for its history and culture, and leave having fulfilled a lifetime’s worth of amazing experiences.

Happy travels.

The 16 Best Vacation Destinations in Minnesota

Minnesota has some of the America’s most captivating sights. Across the state, you’ll find scenery ranging from glimmering nightlife to the vast wilderness. There are a staggering number of tourist destinations, including ski lodges and resorts, and there are also the little-known getaways dotted along the various waterways across Minnesota. No matter what you’re looking for, Minnesota has something for you!

We decided to compile this extensive list, which offers further insight into places you might be interested in while you visit Minnesota. If you’re considering taking a Minnesota vacation, we hope this article will offer some insight into the amazing opportunities that await! Here are the top 16 best vacation destinations in Minnesota:

1. GRAND MARAIS

Situated on Lake Superior, Grand Marais offers picturesque scenery and plenty of fun to be had. Grand Portage State Forest, Sivertson Gallery, the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, and Pincushion Mountain Trail System are all located in Grand Marais.

Winona is nestled along the Mississippi River and gives visitors plenty of options; for example, you’ll find Great River Bluffs State Park, Garvin Heights, and the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka here.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with plenty of outdoors activities, then look no further. You can check out an Amish community, Root River, Historic Forestville, and Lanesboro Historical Museum while you’re here.

4. MINNEAPOLIS

Minneapolis is a bustling metropolis with a little bit of everything, including nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and museums. If you’d like to stay in an upscale home away from home and be close to everything, this is your go-to spot!

5. ST. PAUL

St. Paul and Minneapolis are collectively known as the Twin Cities and are split by the Mississippi River. St. Paul is the state’s capital and offers can’t-miss sightseeing, including the Science Museum of Minnesota, The Minnesota History Center, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.

6. NORTH SHORE

Lake Superior’s North Shore is well-known for its beauty. If you want to hike, bike, fish, golf, kayak, or see wildlife up close and personal, then you’ll enjoy a stay on the North Shore.

7. LAKE MINNETONKA

You’ll find Lake Minnetonka just 15 miles west-southwest of Minneapolis, making this a great escape from city life. There are beaches, gardens, parks, trails, and more near Lake Minnetonka, right along with the gorgeous lake views. Don’t forget to check out Steamboat Minnehaha while you’re here!

8. PAUL BUNYAN LAND

Most of the destinations on this list are areas or cities, but Paul Bunyan Land is worthy of its own description! You can find it in Brainerd – we’ll talk more about Brainerd momentarily. It’s an amusement park located on This Old Farm and offers amusement rides, a petting zoo, and Pioneer Village. It’s a must-see!

9. ITASCA STATE PARK

Itasca State Park is the oldest state park found in Minnesota and totals at 32,000 acres. You can see the Mississippi River headwaters here and see more than 100 lakes. It’s a beautiful place for an adventure or a picnic!

Duluth is a family-friendly city with plenty of sightseeing opportunities! Located on Lake Superior, Duluth is home to the Great Lakes Aquarium, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and the Glensheen mansion.

11. STILLWATER

Located within the Twin Cities metro area, Stillwater makes for a great break from the city lights. Here, you’ll find many opportunities for relaxation. The St. Croix River, bluffs, boat rentals, historic lift bridge, Pioneer Park, and Teddy Bear Park can make for a memorable getaway!

12. BRAINERD

Brainerd is one of the largest cities in Minnesota and offers many chances for fun! Paul Bunyun Land can be found here, as well as Brainerd International Raceway, Crow Wing County Historical Society Museum and Library, and Lake Mille Lacs – more about that coming up next!

13. MILLE LACS LAKE

Located about 100 miles of the Twin Cities, Mille Lacs Lake is a large, shallow lake with plenty to see and do. For instance, you can explore Mille Lacs Historical Society Museum, Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post, and more. There’s a casino, biking and hiking, wildlife watching opportunities, and more.

14. UPTOWN MINNEAPOLIS

Uptown is a special part of Minneapolis where you’ll find interesting stores and restaurants. Don’t forget to check out Calhoun Square and Chino Latino while you’re visiting!

15. ELY AND BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA

Ely’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area offers more than one million acres of wilderness and waterways that are just waiting to be explored! The lake captivates the hearts of countless visitors and offers a tranquil backdrop for a great getaway.

16. BEMIDJI

Situated in northwest Minnesota, Bemidji offers Lake Bemidji State Park, the Headwaters Science Center, and the Buena Vista Ski Area.

As you can see, Minnesota is extremely diverse – it truly has something for everyone! If you’re looking to take a road trip, get away from work, escape from the city, or visit the city, Minnesota has a spot just for you.

Another great reason to visit Minnesota? There are plenty of vacation rental homes to choose from. For instance,  Minnestay  offers options ranging form luxury estates to lake cabins to RV rentals. Whether you want to experience the urban living of Uptown, lakefront living, a romantic weekend in a cabin, or a camping trip in a RV, the Minnestay website is full of options and opportunities.

A vacation rental home translates to better customer service, competitive rates, and more options. If you’re looking to customize your Minnesota stay, then we recommend taking a look at some of the state’s many available  vacation rental homes.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

28 Amazing Things to Do in Minnesota (From A Local!)

To many people’s surprise, there is no shortage of fantastic things to do in Minnesota when you visit. This Land of Lakes has hidden depths.

Minnesota offers a whole range of different pursuits to try, particularly if you’re into water activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking.

It’s well known for its various sports teams and winter sports, as well as for its amazing national forests and parks, full of winding bike and hiking trails. Minnesota is an outdoor-lover’s dream.

If you’re thinking of making the Midwest your next travel destination, be sure to check out these lesser-known haunts and best kept secrets of Minnesota along the way.

28 Amazing Things to do in Minnesota

Table of Contents

1. Explore Downtown Minneapolis

Downtown Minneapolis is the thriving cultural and business hub of Minnesota (and the scene of plenty of protests, too). It’s a fascinating place to explore.

You can walk the streets on foot (or better yet, join a walking tour), before taking a cruise along the river to really enjoy the iconic skyline.

There are great bars and restaurants, plenty of shopping malls, art galleries, museums, and famous buildings such as City Hall to visit when you’re in downtown Minneapolis.

Can’t miss tours in Minneapolis and St Paul (Twin Cities) Minnesota:

• Twin Cities Highlights Tour
• All-Inclusive 3-hr Craft Brewery Tour

2. Explore the State Capital, St Paul

One of the best things to do in Minnesota is to explore the state capital. No, it’s not Minneapolis, but the twin city, St Paul.

Unusually, both major cities are located literally side by side (hence the nickname, Twin Cities), but St Paul took the role of the state capital.

In St Paul, you can visit the capitol buildings, the well-known St Paul Cathedral, and many of Minnesota’s best museums and art galleries.

• Historic Northeast Minneapolis Food Tour
• Historic St Paul Cathedral Hill Food and Cultural Walking Tour

3. Learn About State History at the Minnesota History Center

If you’re interested in learning about local history, one of the best things to do in Minnesota is to visit the excellent Minnesota History Center.

The museum is located in the state capital, St Paul, and it’s packed full of fascinating exhibits and displays.

Learn about the history of Minnesota , from prehistoric times through to the modern-day!

• Small-Group Minneapolis Landmark Bus Tour
• Minneapolis Bus and Riverboat Tour

4. Soak up the Culture at the Minneapolis Institute of art

While you’re visiting the Twin Cities, take some time to soak up the culture at the brilliant Minneapolis Institute of Art . Hosting thousands of works of arts, a visit to this art gallery is easily one of the best things to do in Minneapolis.

The focus at the Minneapolis Institute of Art isn’t just local, but global artwork; the exhibits and galleries span the entire history of human creativity.

There are works of art not just from across the world, but going far back into the human past too!

• Minneapolis Ghost Walk
• Walking Minneapolis Downtown & Skyways Private Tour

5. Guthrie Theater

Culture lovers will want to spend an evening enjoying a performance at the famous Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

This center for performing arts hosts shows, concerts, and theater performances all through the year.

You’ll find a range of shows, from Shakespeare through to contemporary musicals. Book your tickets in advance for the best seats.

• The Quest for the Amulet at Windermere Castle Escape Room Mission
• Investigation of a Miss Treedeath – Escape Room Mission in Minneapolis

6. Visit the Home of Prince at Paisley Park

The famed singer, Prince, is one of Minneapolis’s most iconic residents. You can visit his mansion/recording studio at Paisley Park for a tour when you’re in the city.

This is Prince’s private residence, so ticket numbers are always limited ( make sure to book online, in advance ). The tour gives you an intimate look into the life of a famous recording artist, and the lifestyle lived by Prince.

7. Marvel at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

To escape the city (while never leaving the city), take a trip to the quirky, peaceful surroundings of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.

This lovely project is home to a wonderful array of sculptures and art installations; all spread out over several acres of outdoor, landscaped gardens. It’s a beautifully designed outdoor area and an excellent place for a stroll.

The sculptures are maintained by the nearby Walker Art Center, which you can also visit while you’re in the area!

• Mississippi Grand Carriage Ride
• “ Minneapolis Sound” Music Tour

8. Road Trip the North Shore Scenic Drive

This is a state known for its spectacular lakes and outdoor scenery, and you’ll want to get out and explore away from the Twin Cities, too. One of the best things to do in Minnesota is to road trip the beautiful North Shore Scenic Drive.

If you’re short on time, this is a great way to see as much of the outdoors as you can. This scenic driving route takes you along the north shore of Lake Superior, running from Duluth to the Canadian border.

It’s 154 miles long and runs through small, lakeside towns and past wonderful national parks. Stay in the car, get out and hike, or jump in a canoe – it’s up to you.

Can’t miss tours up the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota:

• 30 Mile – North Shore Helicopter Tour

9. Enjoy the Views at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

One of the most iconic stops along the North Shore Scenic Drive is Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. Enjoying the views here has to be one of the best things to do in Minnesota because it’s a glorious place to visit.

Split Rock Lighthouse is the star of the show. This famed lighthouse dates back to 1910 and is now part of the historical register.

There’s a small museum to visit, but the real draw are the spectacular views of the lighthouse as it stands on the cliff edge overlooking Lake Superior. 

• Split Rock Light House & Gooseberry Falls Tour

10. Visit the Lakefronts of Brainerd

Minnesota is well-known for its lakes. If you’re exploring the state, you’ll want to call into Brainerd, where you can find more than 400 different lakes in the area.

Enjoy hiking trails, take to the water in kayaks or canoes, or just road trip from one lake to the next, taking in the calming views and peaceful scenery.

If your looking to truly experience Minnesota we suggest renting a cabin ( Here’s a $45 credit towards your next booking. ) or staying at a lakeside lodge in the Northwoods for a few days.

11. Hike the Chain of Lakes

If you’re here to see lakes, you don’t even need to stray far from the Twin Cities to get outdoors. One of the closest hiking destinations to Minneapolis is the Chain of Lakes.

This chain of waterways includes lakes such as Cedar Lake and Lake Harriet on the western edge of the city. There are hiking trails around each lake, and you can walk between all of them too. For this adventure make sure you pack the right hiking gear .

12. See History at the Stone Arch Bridge

The iconic Stone Arch Bridge is the only stone arched bridge that still spans the mighty Mississippi River. A visit here to marvel at the local history is one of the best things to do in Minnesota.

The bridge itself is a remarkable work of engineering and a fantastic photo opportunity. The bridge dates back to the 1880s, when it was constructed as part of a railway line.

Today, there are no rail lines crossing this bridge. Instead, it’s been handed over to pedestrians and cyclists, making it a great location for a walk when you’re in Minneapolis.

13. See the Mississippi Headwaters at Itasca State Park

The mighty Mississippi River begins its long journey across America in Minnesota, and you can actually see the Headwaters within Itasca State Park .

It’s one of the most spectacular outdoor areas in the state, and a truly iconic place to visit while you’re exploring Minnesota.

14. Explore Superior National Forest

Superior National Forest is one of Minnesota’s largest protected areas, and there’s much waiting here to be explored.

Beginning on the edge of Lake Superior, this vast wilderness comprises lakes, rivers, forests, and much more. Hike the trails, camp out under the trees, or canoe along the waterways! If you are looking to camp make sure you have the right camping gear .

15. Canoe at Boundary Waters

If you love canoeing, then one of the best places to visit in Minnesota is Boundary Waters.

This conservation area is located within the larger preserve of Lake Superior National Frest and is a top spot for kayakers and canoers.

16. Visit the International Wolf Center

Take a visit to the International Wolf Center , one of the best things to do in Minnesota if you’re looking to learn more about the local wildlife.

This misunderstood creature inhabits the forests, and you can learn about its habitat, habits, and history at this great learning center in Ely, on the edge of Superior National Forest.

17. Visit the North American Bear Center

While you’re in Ely, you can also visit the North American Bear Center . This excellent facility is dedicated to teaching visitors about the often untold and misunderstood side of North American bears, in a safe and educational environment.

18. Visit the National Eagle Center

Visit the town of Wabasha along the Mississippi River, where you can learn more about one of the USA’s most iconic birds of prey, the eagle.

The National Eagle Center not only educates visitors on this magnificent animal, but it also cares for and rehabilitates several eagles that live on the site.

19. Voyageurs National Park

Right on the Canadian border, you can find the secluded climes of Voyageurs National Park, one of the best outdoor areas in Minnesota.

It’s full of great sights and natural attractions, but the most famous place to see will always be the astounding Kettle Falls.

Our favorite remote lodge located in the Voyageurs National Park is The Pines Of Kabetogama Resort . It is a great place to base yourself on for amazing adventures. You can also get some amazing cabins on AirB&B ( Here’s a $45 credit towards your next booking. )

20. Shop at the Mall of America

Minnesota might be best known for its national parks, lakes, and rivers, but it’s also famous for its shopping. Take a break from the outdoors and spend the day in Bloomington, where you can find the extravagant Mall of America.

If you love shopping, then a day trip here is one of the best things to do in Minnesota. The Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country (it literally is “the mall of America”), and the sheer size and scale of this shopping center will leave you reeling.

There are countless retail outlets, shops, restaurants, and bars to visit, as well as plenty more attractions to keep you entertained.

Can’t miss tours that includes The Mall of America in Minnesota:

• All Day Wristband – Nickelodeon Universe Mall of America
• Skip the Line: SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

21. Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary

The Vince Shute wildlife sanctuary is one of the only places you can see black bears in the wild. Unless of course, you leave your picnic basket out while camping in the outdoors!

They roam freely through acres of meadow, swamp, and pine forest, all of which can be seen from the viewing deck. If you look up into the trees, you may even see cubs.

This is a really lovely place to go as a family, or if you have an interest in nature photography as it’s possible to get some fantastic views. They even offer a photography workshop for those who want to get serious with it.

Definitely bring a camera, and if possible arrive early in the day for breakfast with the bears.

22. Niagara Cave

Niagara Cave is something of a spectacle, primarily because inside the cave there is an epic 60-foot giant waterfall.

Crawling with canyon-like passageways sculpted by underground streams, it feels a little like walking through an Arizona slot canyon – only darker and colder.

It really is beautiful, but definitely worth bringing a jacket .

You can pan for gemstones and fossils, and outside the cave, there is a mini-golf course, gift shop and picnic grounds. This would be a cool place to take children, though possibly slightly older children as there are lots of stairs.

23. Hamel Lions Flea Market

For collectors, hipsters and lovers of all things vintage, you’ve got to try Hamel Lions Flea Market , 20 minutes west of Minneapolis.

This is one of Hennepin County’s largest outdoor markets, selling antiques, crafts, collectibles, plants, produce and all sorts of curios.

It’s open on Sundays between 6:00 am and 12:00 pm from May through September and admission and parking are both free. Good for rummaging to your heart’s content – and mini donuts.

24. Afton State Park

As mentioned, Minnesota’s national parks are something else. Afton State Park is one of the best, with the scenic St. Croix river running through it. Its best features are its swimming and fishing spots, and the amazing views that overlook glacial moraine as you hike around the hills.

Just 45 minutes’ drive from Minneapolis, it makes an excellent day trip if you’re based in the city, but if you want to stay a little longer then camping is available all year round.

Or if you’re feeling fancy, try glamping! The park has several cabins and yurts nestled in the forest, which are lovely cosy places to stay at night and get away from all the hustle and bustle.

25. Tank Driving

This one’s a bit out there and a little more pricey than the other suggestions, however, this is a one-time unique experience not offered anywhere else – unless you are a tank driver that is.

Tank driving at the aptly named ‘Drive A Tank’ is an extreme adventure, with options to crush cars, fire machine guns and even drive through a house.

You will also leave with a greater knowledge of military history, as there are history/safety presentations given before you are allowed to drive. Not for the faint-hearted.

Come play on construction equipment in Hastings Minnesota!

26. Magical History Tour

During your time in Minnesota, it’s very likely that at some point you will visit Minneapolis. If you’re someone who enjoys tours, then the Magical History Tour is a fun one to try, as the whole thing is done on segway.

It’s a 3-hour tour that covers approx. 5-7 miles and takes you to many of the riverfront area’s historical sites, such as the Stone Arch Bridge, St. Anthony Falls and Saw Mill District, with a stop for refreshments at the Mill City Museum. Every history tour needs a little bit of magic.

27. Visit Canal Park in Duluth

Duluth is the third-largest city in Minnesota and the city that gives you access to the mighty Lake Superior. It is here that you can see the last aerial lift bridge in the USA too.

The historical downtown area is called Canal Park and it is here that you can play tourist in one of the most interesting cities in the Midwest.

Duluth has a lot to offer , visit the shipwreck museum, wander the streets, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, shop at artisan shops, enjoy the Lake Walk, visit the brewery or drive down to Park Point for some beach time.

28. Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Superior

The very tip of Lake Superior and the subsequent North Shore are all bordered by Minnesota. This means that you have incredible access to the largest freshwater lake in the world, the great Lake Superior.

In Duluth, it is possible to take cruises on the big lake where you can see the various industry that thrives, the beaches and enjoy this massive inland ‘sea’.

The company is called Vista Cruises and they offer both standard day time tours, sunset dinner cruises and private charters.

Many people route through Minneapolis and never take the time to see the cool side of Minnesota.

Hopefully, this will inspire you to stay awhile on your next visit and enjoy some of the off-track wonders that this state has to offer.

Besides, being from Northwest Wisconsin, Minnesota is the backyard of our hometown, we love it and we know you will too.

More on the USA:

• Kayaking in Minneapolis: A Big City Adventure
• Vista Cruise Sunset Dinner Cruise on Lake Superior
• Kayaking at Meyers Beach Sea Caves Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Did you like this story? Share it!

TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES

About lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Destinations
• Åland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• Winter Travel

Minnesota , Inspiration

25 magnificent places to visit in minnesota (in 2024).

There are so many reasons to make a trip to the northern US, and this guide details the best places to visit in Minnesota for a weekend getaway!

This Midwestern state borders Lake Superior and Canada, making it among the coldest in the nation and a paradise for winter sports lovers.

Known for its 10,000 lakes, Twin Cities, and sites like the Mall of America and the Science Museum of Minnesota, the state certainly offers something for everyone and it’s worth taking a couple of days to visit.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best destinations to visit in Minnesota , with everything from natural attractions and historic sites to wineries and restaurants.

Did we miss any amazing Minnesota destinations? Let us know in the comments. Thanks!

Best Places to Visit in Minnesota

1. voyageurs national park.

Accessible only via boat, Voyageurs National Park is one of the most incredible and unique places worth visiting in Minnesota.

With the unspoiled beauty of woods and pristine lakes, the park calls for adventures on 218,000 acres of land.

Voyageurs National Park is known for its lush forests, breathtaking views, and a natural phenomenon that can become one of your favorite vacation memories.

On clear nights, you can see the most spectacular northern lights show starting as a faint glow and dancing in the sky.

The best time to see the Northern lights in all their beauty is fall and winter.

Other sites in the park that you must make it a point to visit include Ellsworth Rock Garden on Lake Kabetogama with natural stone art of massive monoliths and Sand Point Lake, where you can admire sheer granite cliffs rising from the waters.

Spend at least two days in the park to enjoy all the wonders of the vast territory.

Go fishing to try your luck in catching native fish, set up a campsite on the lakeshore, and embrace the surrounding serenity.

2. Stillwater

Stillwater , the birthplace of Minnesota and one of America’s most spectacular towns , is a place to admire traditional paddlewheel riverboats and gondolas riding along the waters, shop along the Historic Main Street, enjoy soirée at wineries, and more.

To experience the natural beauty of Stillwater and the St. Croix River, take the 4.7-mile loop trail that connects the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides of the river.

You will explore the magnificent valley views and cross the St. Croix Crossing Bridge and historic lift bridge.

Want to see some more spectacular views?

Discover the beautiful sceneries of Stillwater from a bird’s-eye view on a hot air balloon ride, take a cruise on the river, or enjoy your afternoon hiking in Pioneer Park.

Back in the city, head to Main Street to taste some good local wine in restaurants, such as Brick & Bourbon, LoLo American Kitchen & Craft Bar, Lolito Cantina, and others.

Don’t miss out on the local breweries, like River Siren Brewing, and The Velveteen Speakeasy, if you want a nice drink.

3. Grand Portage

The community of Grand Portage , located at the tip of Minnesota’s Arrowhead, is home to the earliest Ojibwe settlements with enduring traditions and culture.

Today, you can visit the centuries-old meeting place and an excellent destination for adventure tours.

The generous nature of Grand Portage State Park provides a fantastic view of the 120-foot High Falls waterfall, the largest waterfall in Minnesota .

Climb to the summit of Mount Josephine to find a panoramic view of Lake Superior, Susie Islands, and Grand Portage Bay.

Visit the basecamp with the flawless snowmobile trail network or check out one of the 12 snowshoeing trails for active sports.

Finally, you can try your luck at the Grand Portage Lodge & Casino and finish the day drinking cocktails in the lounge bar.

4. Itasca State Park

The oldest state park in Minnesota, Itasca State Park , welcomes over half a million visitors every year who come to see the untouched wilderness stretching across 32,000 acres.

But mostly, the park is visited by the Mississippi headwaters, taking their 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico.

The natural and historical landmark offers year-round recreational opportunities.

Spend a day or two going hiking, canoeing, fishing, snowmobiling, or camping to enjoy the starry night.

Start your tour to Itasca State Park from the Brower Visitor’s Center and continue to Wilderness Drive, circling the park to the Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary to watch birds and wildlife.

In the end, don’t forget to walk across the source of the Mississippi; it is said those who cross the river will have a long, happy life.

Discover a wide range of winter activities available in the Lutsen Mountains ski area , featuring four interconnected mountains with 95 runs occupying over 1,000 acres.

Whether you want to go kayaking, fishing, swimming, or skiing down the slopes, Lutsen Mountains will become your perfect escape from the city.

Your first stop is Summit Express Gondola, the newest attraction in the Lutsen Mountains and one of the most popular experiences during summer and fall.

Your scenic ride to the summit of Moose Mountain will lead you to Summit Chalet with a massive terrace overlooking Lake Superior where you can enjoy your meal and embrace the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Nestled in the emerald-green valley of Southern Minnesota, Mankato is a remote destination with so many wonders that you’ll want to visit again and again.

Warm and cozy throughout the year, Mankato is a great escape from the summer heat and winter colds.

The scenic river valley stretching over 50 miles has multiple paved trails perfect for hiking, biking, and leisurely walking.

You can try your hands at fishing, take adventure rafting down the river, or conquer the rock climbing wall at Myers Field House for more active sports.

After a long day full of activities, you can have a great meal and local wine at the Chankaska Creek Ranch and Winery.

Back in the town, go shopping to find some local delicacies and specialty items in Old Town along Riverfront Drive and Belgrade Avenue.

7. Brainerd

Located along the Mississippi River, Brainerd is known as Minnesota’s vacationland.

With over 500 lakes, multiple rivers, gorgeous forests, and pristine parks, Brainerd and its surrounding area can be considered an outdoor paradise.

This town is your top choice for both winter and summer activities.

If you are more of a summer person, be ready to enjoy boating, jet skiing, biking, wakeboarding, kayaking, and golfing.

Once the snow starts to fall, you can grab your equipment for snowmobiling, snowboarding, skiing, tubing, and snowshoeing.

Regardless of the season, there is always something to do in Brainerd.

For example, you can take Minnesota’s largest Paul Bunyan Stay hiking trail, visit Safari North Wildlife Park with hundreds of animals, or make a hot lap on the Upper Midwest’s biggest race track, Brainerd International Raceway.

Want some good food and drinks? Find all sorts of craft beer, including an award-winning pepper beer in Jack Pine Brewery, or finish your day in 5Rocks Distilling Co. with craft cocktails.

8. Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Start exploring the Mississippi River and its magnificence in the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area , a 72-mile river park that has so much to offer.

As one of the world’s most unique floodplain ecosystems, it is a major contributor to the culture, ecology, and economy of the United States.

The park offers all kinds of year-round activities, making you closer to nature and wildlife.

Start exploring the history of the river and the region from the visitor center, and continue hiking or kayaking through the park.

Another visitor center is located on the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam with a panoramic view.

If you visit the park with your kids, they would love to be part of Junior Rangers and get rewards while exploring the park.

9. Saint Paul

The capital of Minnesota , sitting on the east bank of the Mississippi River, offers all the big city attractions and activities with small-town manageability.

The scenic city mixes modern lifestyles and old mansions, boutiques, and natural wonders.

One of the best ways to explore the surroundings is to take a hiking tour of the Bruce Vento Regional Trail, which includes White Bear Lake and the Bruce Vento Wildlife Sanctuary.

To learn more about the history of Minnesota, you can visit the Minnesota History Center, the Minnesota Transportation Museum with the first locomotives and Pullman coaches, the Jamel J. Hill House- the mansion of the Northwest’s “Empire Builder,” and the Fitzgerald Theater.

Back downtown, have a delightful dinner with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients at the Meritage restaurant and finish your day in Wabasha Street Caves, a former speakeasy that holds regular live concerts.

10. New Ulm

Named after a German community, New Ulm is an attractive city with a mix of cultures, centuries full of history, and attractions.

Spend a weekend and take your time to visit top popular attractions and enjoy a laid-back vibe.

Take a walk through the history of music in the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame which honors great names such as Prince, Bob Dylan, the Andrews Sisters, and other lesser-known artists.

Immerse yourself in the history of New Ulm, walking about the streets of the downtown with 19th-century buildings and the historical houses of John Lind and Kiesling.

As part of your cultural program, take a tour of the August Schell Brewing Company, America’s second-oldest family brewery, and taste traditional dark lager.

If you are more of a wine person, visit Morgan Creek Vineyards to taste over 15 varieties of local wine.

11. Lake Minnetonka

Located in western Minnesota, Lake Minnetonka is the 10th largest lake in Minnesota, boasting more than 14,000 acres of water (roughly 22 square miles) and more than 100 miles of shoreline.

The natural attraction offers something for everyone. The summer season is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Lake Minnetonka.

However, if you want to embrace the tranquility and serenity of nature, consider visiting the lake in the spring and fall.

Cold weather is celebrated here with lots of winter activities: snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or ice fishing.

12. Minneapolis

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or some of the country’s most renowned museums and theaters, Minneapolis has something to please everyone.

For families, the best things to do in Minneapolis are the Minnesota Zoo, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, farmers’ markets, and the children’s theater.

If you are planning your visit, make sure to stay here for a couple of days so you can truly explore the city.

Don’t miss out on the beautiful scene of Minnehaha Falls in the Regional Park, or explore the nature of the Richardson Nature Center with reptiles, raptors, and eagles.

Chain of Lakes offers beautiful scenery, including the Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet.

Don’t miss out on snowboarding and snowshoeing at Theodore Wirth Park or explore the 3,700-year-old Quaking Bog loop hiking trail.

In fact, there are hundreds of things to do with the active nightlife and culture that you will love in Minneapolis (and its amazing day trips !).

13. Boundary Waters Canoe Area and Wilderness

Visit one of America’s most remote and beautiful places where the horizons are clear and nature is pure.

On the wilderness of 1,098,000 acres, you will find over 1,100 lakes and 1,500 miles of canoe routes, a classic adventure through the most exciting places of Boundary Waters.

There are no roads or buildings nearby- just nature and vast waters for paddling.

You can create your own adventure trail or follow a loop trip canoeing from one lake to lake, making stops for fishing, or settling a camp.

The best season for canoeing in the Boundary Waters is from May to September, with open fishing season up to early June.

14. Pipestone National Monument

A sacred site for Native American tribes, the Pipestone National Monument offers a unique opportunity to explore the culture and natural resources of the tallgrass prairie.

The best way to explore the territory is to take the 1.4-mile-long loop trail, which is open year-round.

Your tour at the Pipestone National Monument starts at the visitor center, where you can learn more information about the facilities, rules, and working hours.

If you have planned your visit from May to October, you will have a chance to take part in pipestone carving demonstrations by Native Americans.

You will discover the tallgrass prairie remnants, the pipestone quarry, a picturesque waterfall, and natural rock formations during your tour.

15. Red Wing

Red Wing is an authentic representation of the Midwest with a blend of charming landscapes, small-town vibes, and part of the beautiful nature of Minnesota.

Sitting on the sharpest bend of the Mississippi River, the town and Frontenac State Park are wonderful places for hiking, golf courses, cross-country skiing trails, and observing wildlife.

More places not to miss in Red Wing are Lake Pepin, Barn Bluff, and Cannon Valley Trail.

The nature aspect is what makes this one of the best day trips from Minneapolis!

Head back to the town to explore the historic pottery district with shops and the famous Red Wing Shoes.

A hub of unique dining experiences, Red Wing invites you to take a culinary adventure with craft cocktails and flavorful dishes in restaurants like Scarlet Kitchen & Bar or The Port.

16. Rochester

Minnesota’s third-largest city, Rochester, is a dynamic city home to historical sites, hiking trails, and a friendly atmosphere.

With over 100 parks and trails, you may start exploring Rochester from Silver Lake for wildlife watching, hiking, or canoeing.

Take a historic trolley tour of Rochester’s top sites if you are looking for more to see in the town.

Then, you can head to downtown Rochester for shopping and dining.

When planning your trip from July to August, be sure to take part in an all-day block party on Thursdays that brings culture, arts, music, and food to Rochester Downtown.

17. St. Cloud

Officially established in 1956, St. Cloud is rapidly becoming one of Minnesota’s most prominent and fast-developing cities.

It attracts guests with a unique flair of hometown and an easy-going feel.

As part of a Minnesota trip, St. Cloud may turn out to be a hidden gem in your travel experience.

Start your day with a morning visit to the Paramount Theater of Visual Arts to check out the exhibitions and gift shop.

Spend an afternoon exploring one of the many picturesque golf courses, take a bike ride along the Wobegon Trail, or stroll through Quarry Park and Nature Preserve to breathe in the clear air of St. Cloud.

Lastly, finish your day at Pioneer Place, enjoying your dinner and city vibes.

18. Bloomington

Bloomington is home to the world-famous Mall of America with hundreds of things to do in one place that will keep you busy for hours and hours.

However, the city will surprise you with the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which includes 46 trails to enjoy hiking, fishing, and viewing wildlife.

The Mall of America is the top tourist destination in the state. It is a world-class shopping destination hosting over 400 events annually.

Just imagine, over 40 million people visit its entertainment centers every year.

Here you will explore a theme park, family-friendly attraction, Sea Life aquarium, and restaurants with signature food.

The Mall of America is like a small town of its own.

19. Taylors Falls

Taylor Falls , one of Minnesota’s most historic river towns, is your top choice for outdoor adventure, filled with history and the wonders of nature.

Start exploring the town in Interstate State Park, an excellent place for kids and adults to explore glacial potholes, which are mystic holes in rocks formed over 10,000 years ago.

Then, check out the River Trail to discover incredible views of the St. Croix River and finish your trip on the Sandstone Bluffs Trail, conquering steep inclines.

After a long and tiresome hike, grab a bite to eat at The Drive In, making sure to try out its signature burger and root beer.

Don’t forget about a cup of coffee from Coffee Talk, a unique coffee shop in an old Victorian-style house.

Finally, stay in a cabin in the woods to savor the atmosphere of Taylors Falls.

20. Banning State Park

Known for its recreational activities and unique nature, Banning State Park is one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.

With seven hiking trails, the park attracts thousands of outdoor adventure lovers.

If you want to take a short trail and experience the beautiful nature in Banning State Park, choose Wolf Creek Falls Trail, a hidden gem looping near Sandstone.

This 1.5-mile trail will take you about 40 minutes to explore with rocky areas closer to the falls, challenging your hiking skills.

The trail and the sign markings will lead you to the waterfall, starting at the parking lot.

Late spring and early summer are ideal for witnessing the waterfall in all its glory.

The natural beauty of Duluth is hard to beat with any other city’s views, so if you are an adventure lover, you will find diverse all-season attractions in this seaport city.

Start discovering Duluth with the dramatic vistas of Lake Superior at the waterfront Canal Park with waterfalls, Sawtooth Mountains, cliffs, and beaches.

Next, check out the 39-room Glensheen Mansion, considered to be the most visited home in Minnesota, which features authentic furnishings, gardens, and bridges from 20th-century Duluth.

Dog lovers are invited to the Positive Energy Outdoors with animal-powered exploration to experience dog sledding, sleigh rides, rock climbing, ice climbing, and so much more.

Being the birthplace of the iconic Bob Dylan, most attractions in the town are based on his name, such as the Duluth Dylan Fest or the two-mile-long Bob Dylan Way with landmarks and cultural attractions.

22. Two Harbors

The beautiful lakeside town nestled along Lake Superior boasting a rich history is a true vacationing goldmine of Minnesota.

Your journey across the attractions of Two Harbors should start from the historic Split Rock Lighthouse, where you can have a truly impressive photoshoot, enjoy picnicking, or hike through 14 miles of trails to discover Gooseberry Falls.

Out of energy? Grab a cup of coffee at the Cedar Coffee Company, featuring an array of coffee and snacks.

For traditional American cuisine, visit Betty’s Pies, serving all your favorite dishes and over a dozen pies.

23. Grand Marais

Named America’s Coolest Small Town , Grand Marais is a beautiful seaside village in the Northeast or Pacific Northeast.

Whether you’re looking for quirky, artsy activities or adventures outdoors, Grand Marais offers it all.

Start exploring the town from Artist’s Point, a peninsula with vivid watercolors and views of Lake Superior.

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes to walk along the breakwater wall.

World’s Best Donuts is neither a historic site nor a natural attraction, but it is a worthy place to visit and taste some of the best donuts around.

Make sure to get there in the morning hours, because when the donuts are gone, they’re gone.

Finally, don’t miss out on the Grand Marais shops to find unique handicrafts, retro candies, antiques, and artwork.

Being in the most tropical part of the state, Winona is often called the Miami of Minnesota, loaded with attractions and activities to enjoy.

Embrace nature in the parks of Winona, starting with Lake Park with its winter ice rink and fishing experience.

Visit Garvin Heights Park for hiking or choose Prairie Island Campground to stay overnight in nature and start the morning with yoga.

Looking for a good dining spot in Winona? Lakeview Drive Inn, the oldest restaurant in Winona, is a perfect spot to enjoy delicious food with homemade root beer.

And, many visitors agree that the restaurant serves the best ice cream in Minnesota.

25. St. Croix River

The St. Croix River, a national riverway running across Wisconsin and Minnesota, offers one of the most picturesque views with tons of outdoor activities and attractions to explore.

As an outdoor enthusiast, start your adventure canoeing or kayaking across the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers with fun rapids and slow stretches.

Also, explore four Minnesota State Parks across the St. Croix to test your hiking skills. If you have never practiced geocaching, there St. Croix Valley will give you an unforgettable outdoor treasure-hunting experience on its vast lands.

Make a stop at Osceola Landing, the busiest spot for a lunch break on a sandy beach.

Or, you can even stay overnight at Sandrock Cliffs campsite to enjoy river activities and night talks by a big campfire.

Did we miss any of the best places to visit in Minnesota in this guide? Let us know which destinations should be on every Minnesota bucket list in the comments!

More Minnesota Travel Guides

• Small towns in Minnesota
• Weekend trips from Minneapolis
• Weekend getaways in Minnesota
• 2 days in Minneapolis
• Best waterfalls in Minnesota
• Best day trips from Minneapolis

Pin This Minnesota Destinations Guide

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Minnesota (MN) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Minnesota

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Minnesota

Minnesota , nicknamed “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, “North Star State”, “The Gopher State”, “The State of Hockey”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Split Rock Lighthouse

Split Rock Lighthouse is often described as one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the United States – and it is easy to see why. Just over 100 years old, the building, found south-west of Silver Bay, is a National Historic Landmark. After being retired in 1969, the lighthouse became the focal point for the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. It has featured on stamps and in the 2013 adaptation of The Great Gatsby. Guided tours of the lighthouse are also available.

2. Lake Itasca

Lake Itasca may be small, but as it is the headwaters of the Mississippi River, it is one of the most important natural locations in the state of Minnesota. The lake can be found in Clearwater County and it houses the University of Minnesota’s Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories campus. The lake is popular with boaters and is stocked with game fish. Visitors to Lake Itasca will also find plenty to see and do across Itasca State Park, which is the oldest park in Minnesota.

3. Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Minnesota, as it can be found within the grounds of Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. The falls can be found close to Minnehaha Creek near the confluence of the creek with the Mississippi River, near Fort Snelling. Almost a million people visit the waterfall every year, while it is also one of the most photographed places in the state. The falls are just over 50 feet in height are the subject of Longfellow’s “Song of Hiawatha”.

4. Minneapolis

The biggest city in the state, Minneapolis is a must for anyone visiting Minnesota for the first time. Theater is particularly popular in Minneapolis, which has a huge range of shows to enjoy. Indeed, Minneapolis has a strong cultural history, with Prince, Hüsker Dü and The Replacements all hailing from the city.

Visitors should check out the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minnehaha Park, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and the Basilica of St. Mary during their time in the city, while the Minneapolis Skyway System is extremely useful to get around the city in poor weather conditions. Minneapolis-Saint Paul was also declared the Best Local Food Scene by USA Today in 2015.

5. Minnehaha Falls Regional Park

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the most beautiful sites in Minnesota. Home to Minnehaha Falls, the park also houses the John H. Stevens House and the Princess Depot. One of the most popular things to do at the park is to walk along the Minnehaha Creek and follow it to the Mississippi River. Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is also famous for being one of the first state parks in the United States.

6. St. Paul’s Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Paul , National Shrine of the Apostle Paul, commonly known as St. Paul’s Cathedral, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole state. The distinctive copper dome of the cathedral makes it one of the most recognizable cathedrals in the United States.

The building, which is one of the best examples of Beaux-Arts architecture, is comparable to the great cathedrals of Europe. The cathedral, which is typically open seven days a week. is listed as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Buildings.

7. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the most popular tourist attractions in St. Paul, attracting close to two million people every year. The free park, which is found at Lake Como, features a zoo, a conservatory and an amusement park, as well as a golf course and a pool. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory features a Japanese Garden, while the main attractions of the zoo are its twin Polar bear brothers. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a perfect family day out.

8. Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis

The Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis is unique as it is the only bridge of its kind to cross the Mississippi River. Made of native granite and limestone, there are 23 arches spanning the river, making the bridge a superb photo opportunity. Recognized as a National Civil Engineering Landmark, the nearby Father Hennepin Bluff Park is perhaps the best place from which to view the bridge. The bridge itself is also considered to be one of the best ways to enjoy the view of the exceptionally beautiful St. Anthony Falls.

9. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

The most visited wilderness in the United States, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Minnesota. Fishing and canoeing are both extremely popular on the many lakes of the wilderness, which has a dozen hiking trails and more than 2,000 designated campsites. Black bears, bobcats, deer, wolves and Canada lynx all live in the park, which is over a million acres in size. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – or BWCAW for short – certainly provides the ultimate wilderness experience in Minnesota.

10. Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park, found on the North Shore of Lake Superior, is a gorgeous place to visit during a trip to Minnesota. The park is worth exploring at any time of the year, as it has an excellent cross-country ski trail system for winter, beautiful colors during fall and loads of hiking trails for the summer. But it is perhaps spring when Gooseberry Falls State Park is at its most picturesque, as this is when its waterfalls are at their fullest and most powerful. The park is close to Duluth and within easy reach of Highway 61.

11. Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is arguably America’s greatest natural sight, and the river is perhaps at its most stunning within the state of Minnesota. As the river flows through Minnesota it makes its way through woodlands, valleys and prairies, with certain sections having been designated as a Wild and Scenic river.

Indeed, the Mississippi River and the Great River Road start their journey in northern Minnesota, with the source at Lake Itasca a popular tourist attraction in its own right. St. Paul’s Mississippi River Visitor Center is a great place to go to learn more about the river’s history.

12. Falls at Gooseberry Falls State Park

The falls at Gooseberry Falls State Park are among the most beautiful of any in the state, if not in the whole United States. The Upper, Middle and Lower Falls of the Gooseberry River all plunge through a spectacular gorge to provide a stunning sight that has to be seen to be believed. Civilian Conservation Corps log and stone structures make the park look and feel particularly special, while there are five waterfalls in all to enjoy within the grounds of Gooseberry Falls State Park.

13. Lake Superior

Lake Superior is gigantic. In fact, the lake is so big that it could contain all the other Great Lakes, as well as three more lakes the size of Lake Erie. To say Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes does not come close to describing its majesty – it demands to be experienced. Tourists and adventurers alike flock to Lake Superior to see it for themselves.

The 256-mile Superior Hiking Trail is particularly popular, while others bike the Gitchi Gami paved trail. Fishing at Lake Superior is huge, with lake trout and a variety of salmon, as well as northern pike, perch and brook trout.

14. Itasca State Park

The oldest state park in Minnesota, Itasca State Park is without a doubt one of the best in the state too. The historic Douglas Lodge or cabins offer the chance to sleep under the stars, with the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, which is one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks, one of the many must-see attractions within the grounds of the park.

Itasca State Park offers people the chance to walk across the Mississippi River at the start of its vast winding journey through America – truly a unique, unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

15. The Temperance river

Temperance River State Park offers simply amazing views and it is no wonder many locals return every single year. The Temperance River itself drains into Lake Superior, flowing out of Brule Lake in Cook County. The Temperance River, located within the Superior National Forest, is certainly one of the most beautiful places to visit during a trip to Minnesota. Temperance River State Park offers a pair of camping grounds, with one situated on each side of the river.

16. The Gooseberry River

The Gooseberry River is known as the gateway to Lake Superior’s North Shore, but it is a destination well worth visiting in its own right. Famous mainly for its three spectacular waterfalls, the river is now now a thriving tourist destination. The river is at its heaviest flow during the spring due to melting snow, while it has been known to run almost dry during the height of the summer. Brook, brown, and rainbow trout are among the many fish that can be found in the river.

17. Minnesota 210

Minnesota 210 is probably the main way people will experience what the state has to offer. The highway, which runs from west-central to north-east, takes in places such as Duluth, Fergus Falls and Brainerd. Minnesota State Highway 210 runs extremely close to Glendalough State Park, which describes itself as providing a true respite from civilization. Glendalough State Park’s highlight is arguably crystal clear Annie Battle Lake, which is well worth a stop-off when travelling along Minnesota State Highway 210.

18. Silver Bay

Silver Bay is one of the most scenic spots in the state of Minnesota, with its Shovel Point offering truly breathtaking views. North Shore Scenic Cruises are among the most popular things to do during a trip to the city, while snowshoeing in George Crosby Manitou State Park should also be on the list of experiences to sample during a visit.

The Baptism River might just be the most beautiful place in Silver Bay, although it faces competition from hiking on the stunning Tettegouche Trail.

19. Port Of Duluth

Duluth , the second-largest city on Lake Superior’s shores, is well worth a visit for anyone going to Minnesota for the first time. The seaport city is the home to America’s only all-freshwater aquarium, while the world’s longest freshwater baymouth bar can also be found in Duluth. The Aerial Lift Bridge is a surprisingly compelling sight when visiting Duluth, while the city is a great starting point for Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive. The city itself also hosts popular attractions such as the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center and Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate, as well as the Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Minnesota:

• Split Rock Lighthouse
• Lake Itasca
• Minnehaha Falls
• Minneapolis
• Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
• Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis
• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
• Gooseberry Falls State Park
• Mississippi River
• Falls at Gooseberry Falls State Park
• Lake Superior
• Itasca State Park
• The Temperance river
• The Gooseberry River
• Minnesota 210
• Port Of Duluth

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Minnesota

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

From the lake-laden North Country to the marble exterior of the State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota is brimming with natural and cultural beauty. Plan to explore the wilderness areas of Minnesota, including Superior National Forest and the North Shore of Lake Superior, or cultural attractions, like the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the outstanding Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud.

Whether it's wandering down the hiking trails , paddling the waterways, gliding down the ski hills , or shopping at Mall of America, Minnesota is more than a land of 10,000 lakes, it's a state with unlimited things to do. Discover more places to visit with our list of top tourist attractions.

1. Superior National Forest & Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

2. see the sights along the north shore scenic drive, 3. paddle voyageurs national park, 4. international wolf center, 5. minnesota state capitol building, 6. go shopping at the mall of america, 7. como park zoo & conservatory, 8. minneapolis institute of art, 9. split rock lighthouse state park, 10. stroll through munsinger clemens gardens, 11. duluth aerial lift bridge, 12. go camping at itasca state park, 13. cathedral of st. paul, 14. minnehaha park.

Superior National Forest , with pristine lakes and rivers, covers large areas of northeast Minnesota. The town of Ely, home to the International Wolf Center , is an excellent base from which to explore the unspoiled landscape. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which lies within the forest, is well known among paddlers in the United States and Canada.

It is located along the boundary between the two countries and is a great area for backcountry canoe and kayaking trips , as well as fishing. This area is remote and supports a great deal of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. Superior National Forest covers more than three million acres, of which 445,000 acres or almost 700 square miles are made up of water.

The North Shore Scenic Drive near Duluth follows the north shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Along this route are many of the top state parks in Minnesota , including Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche, and Grand Portage State Park . Waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and great views of the seemingly never-ending Lake Superior accompany the long drive.

Recreational activities like boating, fishing, and mountain biking are easily accessed along the route, including downhill skiing , snowshoeing, and ice-fishing throughout the long winters. For those not interested in automobile travel, the 300-plus-mile Superior Hiking Trail extends along the Minnesota shoreline and can only be traveled by foot.

Voyageurs National Park is a pristine wilderness area that combines natural beauty with history. This mainly backcountry park, accessed primarily by water or air, is a wonderful place for canoeing, boating, fishing , and other outdoor pursuits.

The park is remote and offers great opportunities to see wildlife , such as bears, moose, loons, and much more. Historically, this area was important during the fur trade, when the French-Canadian Voyageurs traveled these waters in huge birch bark canoes.

Adventures by boat and by land abound at Voyagers, and like the waterfront Wooden Frog Campground, some of the best campgrounds in Minnesota can be found lining the shores.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Voyageurs National Park, MN

The International Wolf Center near Ely, one of the best small towns in Minnesota , is an educational center that supports and promotes the survival of wolves. Hands-on exhibits, demonstrations of wolf tracking methods, and all kinds of information on wolves is presented.

Visitors learn about the natural history of wolves by observing the resident wolf pack. The center also offers a wide variety of programs and other visitor experiences, including Wolf Photography Workshops , Geocache Adventures, and overnight visits for groups of eight or more (call ahead to schedule).

Address: 1396 Hwy 169, Ely, Minnesota

Constructed between 1896 and 1905, the Minnesota State Capitol building recently underwent renovations to restore this historic structure back to its original glamour. Besides repairs to the exterior marble and restored furnishings of the interior, the 2013 to 2017 renovations also added more public space and accessibility for visitors.

Guided tours are available every day of the week except Sunday, and self-guided tours of areas like the Rotunda, the second "Grand" floor, and the Governor's Reception Room are always encouraged.

On the exterior main entrance of the Capitol, The Quadriga is a golden four-horse chariot statue and always a visitor favorite. Admission and visits are free but a donation is always appreciated.

Address: 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St. Paul, Minnesota

Located on the outskirts of St. Paul, in the suburb of Bloomington, is the Mall of America . When it opened in 1992, it was one of the largest malls in the United States. In addition to more than 520 shops and dozens of restaurants , the facility includes theaters, hotel accommodations, and other amusements .

More than 400 events happen at the mall each year, ranging from dance parties to Minnesota Viking fans' celebrations. Numerous "Stay and Shop" packages can be booked with nearby hotels.

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, Minnesota

The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the best family attractions in Minnesota. Here, you'll find everything for a complete day of fun for all ages. It's also budget-friendly; both are free to enter but donations are encouraged.

The zoo has a variety of animals from around the world, ranging from monkeys through to polar bears. One of the most enjoyable animal interactions is feeding the giraffes. Available to visitors of all ages, these gentle giants eat Romaine lettuce right out of your hand.

The zoo recently completed a 20-million-dollar expansion, with the addition of the new Como Harbor exhibit. This is the new home of seals and sea lions and features amphitheater-style seating in front of a 250,000-gallon tank complete with acrylic glass viewing windows. Two shows take place daily, and one of the star performers is Sparky the sea lion.

There is more to the park than the zoo. Be sure to swing by the conservatory to see a riot of heat-loving plants. A visit to this beautiful glass building makes you feel like you've stepped into the tropics. The Sunken Garden is a colorful area full of fragrant and beautiful plants that change throughout the seasons, and is an ideal place to snap a picture or two.

Hosting more than 700,000 visitors a year, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) has a wide range of art and attractions, all with free admission to explore. The collection at Mia features more than 89,000 artworks, and the permanent and temporary exhibits span everything from American modernism to ancient artifacts from around the world .

Among many other installations, visitors can check out Japanese and Korean art, decorative art and textiles, and the Doryphoros - one of four surviving Roman copies of an ancient Greek sculpture. Mia also hosts free daily public tours , family programs, and a four-day Art in Bloom festival each year in the spring.

Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors on the North Shore of Lake Superior . It is home to Split Rock Lighthouse, which was built in 1910 to protect Lake Superior shipping. Visitors can tour the lighthouse , foghorn building, keeper's house, tower, and light.

Numerous hiking options line the park, which lead through forest, pebble beaches, and great viewpoints of the shoreline. Come winter, the trails at Split Rock become designated for fat tire biking . A cart-in campground is also available, with a few sites offering personal views of the lighthouse.

Address: 3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, Minnesota

The Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud are some of the summertime delights of the city. The Munsinger Gardens feature approximately 80,000 annual plants within a setting of trees, benches, swings, fountains, and ponds. The Clemens Gardens are known for having more than 1,100 rose bushes and an all-white garden devoted to white flowers and flowering shrubs.

Music in the Gardens , every other Sunday in the summer, is a fun way to enhance the experience, and the annual Art Fair in the Gardens is a popular event featuring artists and musicians from across the state.

Address: 1515 Riverside Drive SE, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Originally constructed between 1901 and 1905 as an aerial transfer bridge with a cable car, the bridge expanded into an entire roadway in 1929 and has been a prominent icon of Duluth ever since.

The bridge allows residents of Minnesota Point to reach the mainland and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is operated 24 hours of the day, and watching it rise and lower for freight ships, sailboats, and tour boats is part of the spectacle.

Address: 601 S Lake Ave, Duluth, Minnesota

Read More: Top Things to Do in Duluth

As Minnesota's oldest state park, Itasca encompasses more than 32,000 acres of wildlands and lakes, including the headwaters of the Mississippi River . Outdoor recreation opportunities are easily found at this northern Minnesota state park, and visitor favorites include hiking trails, fire towers, and old-growth Red Pine forests .

The one-way Wilderness Drive and Bike Route makes a loop through the mainstay of the park, providing plenty of parking areas and trailheads along the way. Overnight accommodations at Itasca include developed and backpack-only campsites, various lodges, cabins, and the year-round Mississippi Headwaters Hostel .

The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center and the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center are both good places to begin exploring.

Address: 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, Minnesota

The imposing St. Paul Cathedral in St. Paul was built in the early 1900s and is today the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul and a pilgrimage site. The design is Classical Renaissance, and the large interior can hold up to 3,000 people.

An active place of worship, the cathedral is open to the public for much of the day, though tourist visits are discouraged during Masses and other holy services. One-hour guided tours are available at 1pm, Tuesday through Friday, and are a good way to gain some historical perspective on the cathedral.

Address: 239 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Paul, MN

No trip to Minnesota and Minneapolis in particular, would be complete without a stop in Minnehaha Park, one of the best parks in Minneapolis .

This 167-acre park is especially known for its famous waterfall, Minnehaha Falls , which plunges 53 feet off a limestone ledge. The base of the falls can be easily accessed via a walking trail or, if you prefer, they can be viewed from the top at a lookout. The falls are best viewed in the spring, when water levels in the creek are at their highest.

The park is a popular place to visit for families, especially in the summer when the wading ponds are a magnet for small children.

Other park attractions include extensive walking trails , three ornamental gardens , a dog park , and the pleasant Sea Salt restaurant (open seasonally).

More on Minnesota

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Things To Do In Minnesota: The Ultimate Bucket List

August 8, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

If you are looking for things to do in Minnesota then you’ve come to the right place.

Minnesota is a state in the Midwest that is known for being home to the Twin Cities and its abundance of lakes and parks.

There are so many fun things to do in Minnesota no matter what you’re interested in.

You’ll find vibrant cities, beautiful state and national parks, and some amazing scenic drives.

If you haven’t visited Minnesota yet, I am confident there is something on this list of Minnesota attractions that will pique your interest and have you packing your bags.

There is no shortage of fun and unique activities in Minnesota.

So, let’s take a look at 15 things to do in Minnesota to help you plan the ultimate bucket list.

Admire A Waterfall In Minneapolis

Minneapolis is one of the ‘Twin Cities’ in Minnesota and one of the major cities in the state.

Because it is a major city there are a ton of unique Minnesota attractions in Minneapolis.

One of my favorite things to do is go for a walk in Minnehaha Regional Park.

That is where you’ll find one of the best waterfalls in Minnesota , the Minnehaha Falls.

It is a 53 foot cascading waterfall that is very easy to get to.

Minneapolis also has a ton of other outdoor activities like the Chain of Lakes, Lake Harriet, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.

You can also find traditional city activities like fun shops, tasty and unique restaurants, museums, and theaters.

If you are looking for things to do in Minneapolis you will easily be able to find something that interests you.

Visiting Duluth Is One Of The Fun Things To Do In Minnesota

Duluth is a city in Minnesota that has a lot of history.

Fun things to do in Duluth include the Lake Superior Rail Road Museum, tour the SS William A. Irvin, or step back in time at the Glensheen Mansion.

If you are looking for parks, Duluth has those too.

It is a port city on Lake Superior, so you’ll find beaches, city parks, and more along the shore of the lake.

One of the best things to do in Minnesota is the North Shore Scenic Drive.

It is a scenic road that takes you through different parts of Northern Minnesota, and part of it is in Duluth.

From Duluth you can even drive to Two Harbors or Grand Portage if you want to see more scenic views.

Shop At The Mall Of America

The Mall of America is located in Bloomington and is one of the best things to do in Minnesota.

It opened in 1992 and has been one of the most iconic American shopping experiences since.

People travel from all over the world to spend a few days exploring the over 300 stores in the massive mall.

On average, 40 million people a year visit the Mall of America.

Throughout the year they hold over 400 entertainment events like concerts, celebrity appearances, and more.

It is one of the must-see Minnesota attractions.

In Southern Minnesota, you can find the city of Rochester.

Rochester is probably best known for being the birthplace and current home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic.

The Mayo Clinic is a healthcare organization that is known for providing some of the best and most advanced healthcare treatments in the world.

The grounds of the Mayo Clinic also include some beautiful historic buildings and is a very pretty part of Rochester to take a stroll.

There are other things to do in Rochester too.

You can tour the 20th-century house museum at the Plummer House which features period furnishings.

Another popular Minnesota attraction in Rochester is the Rochester Art Center.

Visiting Stillwater Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Minnesota

If you want to visit a charming small town in Minnesota , head to Stillwater.

Despite being a small town, there are tons things of to do in Stillwater.

Stillwater is frequently voted one of America’s Most Picturesque Small Towns and you’ll quickly see why when you visit.

You can stroll down the Historic Main Street and find unique shops and award-winning restaurants.

The town is also perfectly situated to be the hub for many outdoor activities no matter what time of year.

There are beautiful gardens in the Spring, outdoor festivals and watersports in the Summer, beautiful Fall foliage in the Fall, and skiing and snowboarding in the Winter.

Minneapolis Institute Of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art is one of the most popular places to visit in Minnesota.

It is one of the largest art museums in the United States. And one of the best things to do in Minneapolis!

With over 90,000 works of art, over 5,000 years of human history can be found within its walls.

Of course, the collection of 90,000 items isn’t always on view, but you can expect to spend a solid afternoon or even a day walking through the museum.

The collection is also one of the biggest in the US and includes works by Rembrandt, van Gogh, Renoir, Monet, Degas, John Singer Sargent, Picasso, and so many more.

If you love art and want to see pieces by some of the most famous artists in the world, head to the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Brainerd For Outdoor Fun

Brainerd is one of the best places in Minnesota to enjoy outdoor fun with the whole family, all year long.

Things to do in Brainerd include water sports on Lake Superior, winter sports like skiing on the mountains nearby, biking, and some of the best hiking in Minnesota!

One of the things that makes Brainerd one of the best places for things to do in Minnesota is that it is a small town full of resorts and lodges.

The town knows it’s a perfect spot for outdoorsy families, so you’ll find over 20 resorts and lodges that are perfect places to stay while you enjoy the area.

All the resorts and lodges have something unique to offer, so you can easily find something that suits you and your family’s needs.

Tour The Brewery In Red Wing

The top things to do in Red Wing is absolutely the Red Wing Brewery

Red Wing is becoming known as one of the best places to visit in Minnesota if you are interested in craft brews.

The Red Wing Brewery has been open since 1951 and is a staple activity in the city.

You can sample the local brews, grab something to eat, and learn more about the local history all in one spot.

Red Wing is also home to the famous Duluth Trading Company and the Red Wing Shoe Store.

It is a city that is full of unique Minnesota attractions.

Mahkato is another super cute small town in Minnesota, but it is growing bigger every year.

One of the best things to do in Mankato is take a walking tour through town.

The city has a growing arts scene, an interesting history, a thriving restaurant scene, and a beautiful public garden.

You’ll be able to stroll the city and stop in unique boutiques, sample local brews at the breweries, or admire the historic architecture.

Mahkato is also known for being a part of the author Laura Ingalls Wilder’s history.

If you are a fan of the author, you’ll recognize Mahkato as it is where Charles Ingalls made some of his deliveries.

It is a unique city in Minnesota with a unique history and culture.

Some of the best events in Minnesota take place here!

Boundary Waters Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Minnesota

One of the most unique things to do in Minnesota is visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

This unique wilderness area is over 1,000,000 acres of natural wilderness area nestled in the Lake Superior National Forest.

National Geographic Traveler has named it one of the “50 Places of A Lifetime”, which means it should absolutely be added to your Minnesota travel bucket list.

It is a beautiful part of the state that is on the Canadian border. And one of the most spectacular things to do especially during fall in Minnesota!

You can go hiking and biking and there are plenty of places where you can enjoy water sports.

Depending on when you visit you may even be able to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights at night.

Alexandria For Lots Of Minnesota Attractions

There are plenty of fun things to do in Alexandria Minnesota.

Whether you are looking for family fun or a romantic getaway.

If you are looking for a more romantic Midwest getaway , there are wineries, breweries, tasty restaurants, and unique shops you can explore.

For those planning a more family-orientated trip, there is an indoor waterpark, an amusement park, farms, festivals, and more.

Alexandria is also great for some outdoor fun.

Nearby you’ll find a few parks with hiking and biking trails, lakes, and the Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway.

This is one Minnesota town where the options are endless.

Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park is one of the coolest National Parks in the Midwest .

In the park, you’ll find three lakes, the Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan lakes.

On all of these lakes, you can enjoy traditional water sports like kayaking, boating, and swimming.

You can also hike to see some waterfalls like the Kettle Falls.

One of the best things to do in Voyageurs National Park is visit the Ellsworth Rock Garden.

It was created by sculptor Jack Ellsworth and features abstract sculptures scattered around an area of the park.

Voyageurs is easily one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.

Visit St. Paul The Capital Of Minnesota

St. Paul is the second city in Minnesota’s “Twin Cities”.

It is also the capital city of Minnesota.

That means you’ll find tons of activities in Minnesota while you visit the capital.

You can explore the Science Museum of Minnesota, learn about the state at the Minnesota History Center, or tour one of the many historic sites and buildings.

St. Paul is also a great place to visit Minnesota in the Fall .

The city has several festivals in the Fall as well as beautiful foliage.

You can’t go wrong visiting Minnesota’s capital city as there are lots of things to do in St. Paul that everyone will love!

There are so many things to do in St Paul!

Take The North Shore Scenic Drive

If you have time, consider taking the North Shore Scenic Drive.

Possibly better known as Minnesota Highway 61, it is a beautiful way to see the Northern part of Minnesota.

You can start the drive just outside of Duluth and travel a little over 148 miles along the highway to the town of Grand Portage.

This puts you right near the Canadian border.

Along the drive, you’ll pass through charming small towns, find scenic overlooks, and get to experience a stunning part of the state.

And you will discover some of the best camping in Minnesota as well!

Stroll Through The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a large park in Minneapolis that is a very popular Minnesota attraction.

Located near the Walker Art Center, the 11-acre park has over 20 unique sculptures.

It is entirely free to walk through the garden and it is typically open daily from 6 am to midnight.

The sculpture garden is easily one of the coolest free things to do in Minnesota.

As you walk around, you’ll find some incredibly large sculptures and every one of them is unique.

If you want to learn more about the pieces as you walk around, the garden has a website that gives you more information on each piece.

Packing List When Discovering Things To Do In Minnesota

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Minnesota, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in Minnesota

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my   Bobble filtration bottle . The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

And here are the carbon filter replacements.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

If you have been wondering what to do in Minnesota, I hope you found this list helpful.

Minnesota is such a unique and often overlooked state in the Midwest.

Have you been to any of these cool Minnesota attractions? Or is there one that has piqued your interest?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Minnesota

Last Updated By VI in Minnesota on June 14, 2024

Minneapolis

• Complete List & Map

A city well known for its many intriguing neighborhoods, Minneapolis has much to offer, no matter your interests. There are over 200 miles of bike trails, many of which wind through various parks and forests. Given that pretty much any random spot in Minneapolis is never more than six blocks from a park, there is always nature around to be explored. Coupled with the large number of parks, there are diverse museums and art cultural centers located both indoors and outdoors, including many that are free to the public. At any time of year, you will find an extensive calendar of events filled with concerts, shows, festivals, and much more.

Being Minnesota's major port city on Lake Superior, Duluth has a rich history that has shaped the town into what it is today. With drastically different climates throughout the year, a visit to Duluth in the winter time is completely different than a trip in the summer, and you will find there are always new gems to discover with every new visit. You can catch a show at the Duluth Playhouse or watch large ships come in and out at the canal, Duluth's primary seaport. There are often special events happening in Duluth, so visitors are encouraged to check online ahead of time or contact the Duluth visitors center by telephone to find out what events might pique their interest throughout the year.

Often when people think of Rochester , they think of the highest rated hospital in the country, the renowned Mayo Clinic. Rochester , however, has much more to offer than award-winning medical service. There is a historic trolley company, which offers rides throughout the city, as well as the Amish regions in the area, which allow visitors a glimpse into a life likely very different from their own. Guests may enjoy visiting the downtown Rochester farmers market, a locally renowned growers-only market that offers seasonal produce throughout the year. To discover the local history, there are many tours and museums available for guests to partake in.

When it comes to spectacular twists on traditional culinary delights, St. Paul is likely to impress even the most selective foodies with their original Juicy Lucy burger . Finding a Juicy Lucy year round is very easy to accomplish in Saint Paul, but many of the other attractions offered in the city are more weather or seasonal dependent. If visiting in the summertime, taking a walking tour of the city , visiting one of the many summer festivals, or enjoying a local craft beer in an outside garden are all highly recommended by locals. For those who find themselves in Saint Paul during the wintertime, the fun continues with outdoor skating rinks, special Red Bull downhill skating competitions, and a city that truly embraces the cold.

Ely is located deep in northern Minnesota, surrounded by hundreds of lakes and seemingly countless acres of thick forest. Offering easy access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ely is well known amongst kayakers and water explorers and is also accessible to those who are inexperienced or beginners. Visitors to Ely may also enjoy the International Wolf Center or the Bear Center, both of which provide extensive information on native species to the area. For the more urban-focused tourist, the downtown Ely business district is not to be missed, and the local art centers should also be explored.

Grand Marais

Founded originally as a fishing village along the largest freshwater lake in the United States, Grand Marais has grown to become an important cultural and touristic hub along the shore of Lake Superior. As with many northern cities in Minnesota, the season in which guests choose to visit can make all the difference. From balmy summer weather to frigid winter, Grand Marais has designed its tourist attractions to showcase all the best parts of each special season. From snowmobiling in the winter to soaking up rays on the beaches of Lake Superior in the summer, guests are advised to plan their visit for the time of year they will most be able to enjoy what Grand Marais has to offer.

Oftentimes referred to as the Birthplace of Minnesota, Stillwater was home to the 1848 territorial convention that led to Minnesota becoming a state. Situated along the St. Croix River, Stillwater offers many recreational water opportunities for guests to indulge in, such as paddlewheel riverboat cruises, kayaking, boating, chartered gondolas, and more. Only a short commute from both the Twin Cities and Wisconsin, Stillwater is a centrally located town that offers easy access to the surrounding region, both in Minnesota and Wisconsin. There are many bed and breakfasts to cater to every need of their guests as well as many highly rated hotels for those looking for a more traditional stay.

Brainerd , known as Minnesota's Playground, is located in the center of the state and offers a unique juxtaposition of natural and curated experiences. Some of the activities that can be sought out in Brainerd include biking, fishing, golfing, shopping, zipline adventures, Minnesota craft breweries, art museums, indoor water parks, and more. Brainerd is surrounded by lakes and forest, but also has a large retail district located in town. For families planning any trip in Minnesota, Brainerd is a great choice of destination whether the itinerary travels north, south, east or west, as its centralized location and premier entertainment options nearly guarantee a fun time for anyone passing through.

Grand Portage

Home to High Falls - Minnesota's largest waterfall, which clocks in at 120 feet high - Grand Portage is located on the very tip of Minnesota's Arrowhead and welcomes guests year round. For the nature enthusiast, Grand Portage offers unbridled access to seemingly endless trails that lead through picturesque forests and shorelines via snowmobile in the winter or by bicycle during the warmer summer months. Other attractions include the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino, which offers gaming tables, slots, a variety of restaurants, and a varied calendar of live entertainment and fun shows depending on the season.

Itasca State Park

Itasca State Park , Minnesota's oldest state park, covers more than 30,000 acres of land and also encompasses over 100 lakes, providing guests with ample opportunity to explore the great outdoors in a variety of fashions. Situated around the beginning sections of the Mississippi River, visitors to the park will find themselves immersed in pine forests if they choose to camp in one of the 45 different camping sites. Guests who still want to experience all the park has to offer but who prefer the luxury of modern accommodations may find nearby hotels to their liking, with close enough proximity to the park to still enjoy the Wilderness Drive through 2,000 acres of Wilderness Sanctuary.

Lake Minnetonka

Only a short drive from the Twin Cities lies Lake Minnetonka , the largest lake in close proximity to Minnesota's capital, the surface area of which covers over 14,000 acres. Lake Minnetonka isn't just one large lake, however, and what makes it so desirable is that it is a series of small lakes and channels, allowing access for more guests to enjoy shorelines and warmer waters. When it comes to Lake Minnetonka, if a watersport exists it is probably being practiced somewhere on its waters, everything from pleasure yacht cruises and family tubing and water skiing to early morning fishing and sailboat rental. There are many restaurants located around the lake that are accessible by boat, presenting visitors with a unique experience they may not have experienced in the past.

Deep in the north of Minnesota along the stunning shores of Lake Superior, visitors will find Lutsen , a mountainous region offering both winter and summer adventure. Whether seeking a romantic getaway , individual solitude, or family fun, the Sawtooth Mountains are sure to offer an experience not found anywhere else in Minnesota. Home to the largest ski resort in the Midwest, Lutsen Mountains Resort offers approximately 95 different runs across four mountains in the winter time and ample hiking, biking, and golfing opportunities in the warmer months. For more daring guests, there is even an alpine slide that offers views of Lake Superior while zipping down the side of the mountain.

Only a short 75-mile drive south of Minneapolis, Mankato has become a destination for Twin City residents who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without having to travel too far. Steeped in rich history and driven by diverse art and entertainment, Mankato offers experiences to Minnesotans and out of state tourists alike, charming them with a blend of urban and natural attractions. Visitors can bike freely and safely on the 50 miles of paved trails throughout the surrounding area or head to the Verizon Center to catch a hockey game. Finding local craft beer is easy to do in Mankato, and many of the award-winning restaurants could easily earn a place on top of any food lover's list.

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

A large park dedicated to the very important river that helped life flow into Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is always free to the public and open year round to visitors, extreme weather permitting. With many programs designed and intended for school groups, this park's number one goal is education, and all visiting guests are invited to learn. The park encompasses a 72-mile stretch of the Mississippi River, where the most diverse character change in the river occurs, more so than anywhere else on its nearly 2,400-mile course through the country.

A small town of approximately 15,000 people with deep German roots, New Ulm is a special destination for anyone travelling through southern Minnesota. Rich in German heritage, from the local beer made in German tradition to the local history with much to share, New Ulm is an ideal family destination for any itinerary. Many festivals are celebrated in the town throughout the year, and many attractions can be explored depending on the weather, but there are a few key essentials that are available all year round. The New Ulm Hermann Monument offers striking panoramic views of the local area for miles and miles, and many of New Ulm's shops base their merchandise heavily on their Germanic roots.

Pipestone National Monument

In the far southwestern reaches of Minnesota lies Pipestone National Monument , a sacred quarrying location where Native American tribes once sourced the rock for the special stone pipes. The red pipestone found at the site is special to the region, and visitors to the monument can see an active quarry that was designed in such a fashion as to represent the traditional quarrying methods of Native American tribes. Many cultural demonstrations take place at the information center, giving guests insight into the historical ways of working this unique stone.

Red Wing , Minnesota, has a vibrant history that visitors can explore through many different mediums. Aside from history, Red Wing also presents opportunities for many recreational activities such as kayaking, hunting, biking, ice skating, swimming, hockey games, skiing, and much more. When the winter is too cold to explore the outdoors, or the summer too hot, guests can find entertainment indoors with wine tastings, movies, many unique stores for shopping, and a large collection of restaurants, many of which are award winning.

Situated close enough to the Twin Cities to enjoy all they have to offer without experiencing the downsides of traffic and crowds, Shakopee finds itself with exciting opportunities to offer to locals and tourists alike. Very near to Shakopee lies Valleyfair, one of the Midwest's largest amusement parks, as well as Canterbury Park, an enthralling combination of horse racing and year-round casino access. For a step back in time, Shakopee is home to the enticing Minnesota Renaissance Festival, an event that tourists will not want to miss. For special themed weekends of the Renaissance Festival, guests are encouraged to visit the website ahead of time or contact the visitors center by telephone.

Surrounded by striking granite quarries, lakes, forests, and large swaths of agricultural land, Saint Cloud is uniquely situated as a bridge between urban and rural. In terms of literal bridges, St. Cloud has many that physically span the Mississippi, offering breathtaking views of the legendary river as it surges past. Home to St. Cloud State University, the city maintains the youthful energy of a college town while also embodying a sophisticated environment of culture, art, theater, and museums. No matter the weather, there is always something to do in St. Cloud, from strolling through the seemingly endless flowers at Munsinger Gardens to picking fresh produce at local farms, catching an award-winning show at the Paramount Theatre, or eating at one of the many locally renowned restaurants.

Bloomington

Bloomington is Minnesota's premier shopping destination, given that it is the location of the Mall of America, a shopping center containing over 500 different stores and approximately 50 restaurants. However, the Mall of America is more than just shopping, it is also a luxury entertainment destination with roller coasters, adventure courses, and many family-centric experiences. In the surrounding area of Bloomington, visitors will find ski areas, zoos, nature conservatories, and a variety of museums that present opportunities for everyone to enjoy. Although visiting the Mall of America is a quintessential part of any Bloomington visit, guests are encouraged to explore everything else the region has to offer as well.

Taylors Falls

Welcoming guests year round, but with slight preference for autumn visits, Taylors Falls rests along the Ice Age Trail and is best known for its potholes. The St. Croix River, and Taylors Falls particularly, are the results of glacial activity thousands of years in the past, carving and shaping the land to be what we see today. Surrounding the falls themselves are many observably large potholes in the riverbed and edges, carved when torrents of water spun small and large stones against softer rock, shaping out huge cavities that are still visible to this day. Viewable potholes aren't the only attraction at Taylors Falls, however, as guests can also take hikes, enjoy a ride on a paddle wheeler boat, birdwatch, and much more.

Two Harbors

The original home of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing, or 3M as it is better known, Two Harbors has maintained its small town feel in spite of being the birthplace of a worldwide company. Situated along the coastline of Lake Superior, Two Harbors tourism depends heavily on the season, as outdoor activities change dramatically between the somewhat balmy summers and the frigid winters. But no matter what the weather, guests are always invited to take a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railway, a historic railroad that offers both transportation as well as views of nature that are hard to find elsewhere.

Voyageurs National Park

In the far reaches of northern Minnesota, nearly in Canada, visitors will find Voyageurs National Park and all of its natural beauty. Given its extreme northern location within the United States, guests are advised to plan their visits according to their weather preferences. Winters are strong in the park and limit the access to outdoor activities without adequate preparation. Those visiting in the warmer months will find themselves with access to seemingly unlimited kayaking opportunities, hiking paths, biking paths, boating access, and the vastness of nature at their fingertips. However, there are many dangers present in the park, and for guests visiting who are unfamiliar with the area it is recommended to stop by the visitors center before venturing out on their own.

Situated in southeastern Minnesota along the banks of the great Mississippi River and a long stone's throw from the Wisconsin border, Winona rests in the sculpted bluffs and has been built to accentuate the natural beauty of the area. For any who proclaim to love the outdoors, Winona has an extensive list of outdoor activities year round, from hiking in forests and around lakes to outdoor concerts, ice skating, and many different festivals. To explore the local history, there are many museums available, and to satiate the hunger that strikes after a day of exploring, there are many authentic local restaurants to choose from.

Known for being the birthplace of Paul Bunyan and his famous ox Babe as well as the self-proclaimed first city on the Mississippi River, Bemidji is a destination in northern Minnesota that offers a wide variety of activities for visiting guests. Guests visiting during the warmer months will find many outdoor and water-based activities, such as hiking in the Northwoods or boating on one of the many local lakes. For guests who plan their visit in the colder months, Bemidji offers easy access to ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and many other outdoor winter activities. Bemidji also features many cultural attractions, ranging from concerts to orchestras to locally themed museums.

• 1. Minneapolis
• 3. Rochester
• 4. Saint Paul
• 6. Grand Marais
• 7. Stillwater
• 8. Brainerd
• 9. Grand Portage
• 10. Itasca State Park
• 11. Lake Minnetonka
• 13. Mankato
• 14. Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
• 15. New Ulm
• 16. Pipestone National Monument
• 17. Red Wing
• 18. Shakopee
• 19. St. Cloud
• 20. Bloomington
• 21. Taylors Falls
• 22. Two Harbors
• 23. Voyageurs National Park
• 25. Bemidji

More Minnesota Getaways:

Resources: Family , Lakes

More Features

12 Best Overwater Hotel Pools

17 Best Things to Do in Two Harbors, MN

22 Best Things to Do in Brainerd, Minnesota

• --> Conclusion

Vacation Idea

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Minnesota

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 4, 2024

In the Midwestern United States is Minnesota, known for being the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In reality, there are even more lakes than that in Minnesota! Clearly, Minnesota is a fantastic place for those who enjoy water sports.

In addition, Minnesota is home to a number of delightful cities, scenic national parks and some of the best shopping opportunities in the country. Here is a look at the best places to visit in Minnesota.

10. Voyageurs National Park

Outside of International Falls, and close to the border with Canada, is Voyageurs National Park. The park is surrounded by water, including Lake Kabetogama and Rainy Lake. Voyageurs National Park boasts miles of pristine, undeveloped shoreline as well as countless small and uninhabited islands.

It is the perfect place to get outdoors and explore, and even during the busiest parts of summer you can easily escape the crowds. More than 50 miles of hiking trails are a big draw, and hiking can allow you to see some of the local wildlife. The park is known for its population of Eastern Timber Wolves, and you can also spot bald eagles, otters and even the occasional moose.

9. Pipestone National Monument

The main attraction in the city of Pipestone is the Pipestone National Monument. Established in 1937, the monument marks the quarries where local Native Americans lived and worked. The Pipestone National Monument sits atop Buffalo Ridge, which offers a spectacular vantage point over the prairie below.

You can watch Native American craftsmen use the pipestone from the quarries to make ceremonial pipes and other incredible handicrafts. Don’t leave without heading over to the city of Pipestone itself, where much of the local architecture is made from a pink mineral called Sioux Quartzite.

8. Mall of America

For shopping enthusiasts, the city of Bloomington is a mecca. That’s because Bloomington is home to the Mall of America. Saying that the mall is big is a tremendous understatement. The Mall of America is the largest indoor mall in the United States, but it is also so much more. Along with hundreds of shops, the mall boasts dozens of restaurants. Believe it or not, there is even an aquarium and an indoor theme park all contained within this enormous complex.

7. Grand Marais

The small village of Grand Marais may have a small population, but it boasts an incredible location. Grand Marais is located next to a double harbor right on the edge of Lake Superior’s North Shore. Grand Marais is home to the start of the Superior Hiking Trail, which takes you to countless vantage points along Lake Superior’s shore and even winds all the way up to Canada.

The village is also a blossoming arts hub, with many downtown establishments selling local paintings, drawings and sculptures. A big reason for outdoor enthusiast to visit Grand Marais is because it serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

6. Itasca State Park

Minnesota is home to a number of scenic state parks, but the largest and most popular is Itasca State Park. The park offers something for everyone, boasting old growth forests, crystal-clear streams and lakes perfect for watersports.

Itasca State Park contains the Mississippi Headwaters, where the mighty Mississippi begins and then winds all the way down to Gulf of Mexico. In addition to hiking, camping, fishing and birdwatching, learn a little more about the incredible Mississippi River with a visit to the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center.

5. Saint Paul

Visiting the state won’t be complete without exploring the capital city of Saint Paul . The city is adjacent to Minneapolis, and together they form one big metropolitan area known as the Twin Cities. One of the most iconic structures in Saint Paul, excluding the Renaissance-style Minnesota State Capitol Building, is the Landmark Center.

Designed to be a federal courthouse and a post office, the castle-like structure of the Landmark Center is now home to quirky galleries and sculptures. Also not to be missed are the Wabasha Street Caves, incredible sandstone caves that are accessible from a main street and that once served as secret speakeasies.

The port city of Duluth is an incredible destination on the shores of Lake Superior. It is widely recognized as one of the most scenic cities in the Midwest, and it is easy to see why. Duluth was originally settled around 700 feet above sea level, so much of Downtown Duluth boasts great views over the lake below.

If you only have time to see one thing in Duluth , let it be Canal Park. At Canal Park, you’ll find a four-mile path along the water, a lighthouse pier, an aquarium and countless shops, restaurants and tourism attractions.

3. Boundary Waters Canoe Area

In the far north of the state, accessible from destinations like Ely or Grand Marais, is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. This enormous, wild area is linked by countless glacier streams and lakes, which means that getting around by canoe is often the best option. Without a doubt, it is the most scenic option. It is possible to rent a canoe for a day and stick to the commonly paddled spots, but intrepid visitors will want to head out into the wilderness.

Camping is incredibly popular, and you can pop up your tent within view of a clear stream or spot a moose at dawn. Even if you’re not a particularly enthusiastic canoe paddler, the pristine wilderness and stunning scenery makes this one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.

2. North Shore Scenic Drive

To see the shoreline of Lake Superior in all its glory, get behind the wheel and find the North Shore Scenic Drive. In total, the drive is just over 140 miles. It can definitely be done in a day, and you may want to go one day, spend the night and then come back the following day.

Start at Canal Park in Duluth, and then head all the way up to Grand Portage, which is just minutes from the Canadian border. Along the way, look out the window to spot the Sawtooth Mountains, the blue waters of Lake Superior, striking lighthouses and plenty of picture-perfect small towns and villages. Waterfalls are among the scenic bonuses of driving along the North Shore which include the Gooseberry Falls and High Falls.

1. Minneapolis

The largest city in the state is Minneapolis. Whether you’re after sports, nightlife, parks or culture, this city has it all. Sports fans can catch games played by the Minnesota Twins, the Minnesota Vikings or the Minnesota Timberwolves at stadiums and arenas right in Downtown Minneapolis.

Also Downtown is First Avenue, where Minneapolis native Prince filmed Purple Rain, and where you’ll find a great collection of live music venues. If it is art you’re after, there are two world-class choices right in Minneapolis: The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.

Map of Places to Visit in Minnesota

Share this post:

8 Best Cities in Minnesota You Should Visit

10 Best Places to Visit in Nebraska

10 Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin

10 Best Places to Visit in Illinois

10 Best Places to Visit in Iowa

10 Best Places to Visit in North Dakota

10 Best Places to Visit in Ohio

27 Best Things to do in Minnesota

12 Best Things to do in Duluth, MN

12 Best Things to do in Minneapolis

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Destinations Itinerary
• New Resident Resources
• Custom Publications
• Top 75 Restaurants
• Restaurant Reviews
• Patio Bracket Challenge
• Burger Bracket Challenge
• Arts & Entertainment
• Theater + Dance
• Visual Arts
• Business + Politics
• Giving Guide
• Contests & Giveaways
• Fine Spirits Classic
• Rhythm & Brews
• Food & Wine Experience
• Midwest Home Events
• 12 Weeks of Summer
• Attractions
• Entertainment
• Top Doctors Directory
• Best Dentists Directory
• Best Chiropractors Directory
• Top Lawyers Directory
• Best Real Estate Professionals Directory
• Insurance Agents
• Mortgage Professionals
• Temporary Housing Directory
• Residential Developments Directory
• Newsletter Signup
• Purchase Single Issues
• Where to Find
• Chiropractors
• Real Estate Professionals
• Insurance Professionals
• Temporary Housing
• Residential Developments
• Women Who Lead

50 Things to do in Minnesota This Summer

Note: This list is from last year. You can read this summer’s top 100 things to do here .

Support Local Farmers

Take a road trip to Cannon Falls, less than an hour from the Twin Cities, and bike the Cannon Valley Trail, sample wine at Cannon River Winery, dine at Nick’s Diner or Rancho Loco, or kayak down the Cannon River. Pencil time in to stop at Ferndale Market, a three-generation family-run turkey farm and local foods market. John Peterson, owner and general manager of Ferndale Market, opened a local foods store on the farm to connect local foodmakers with the general public. You can buy everything from antibiotic-free Ferndale Market turkey products to fresh smoked gouda, raw goat cheddar, cheese curds, maple syrup, pasta, bison, honey butter, grass-fed beef, and so much more. Visit the farm and store during the Co-Ops’ Eat Local Farm Tour July 15 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. for wagon rides and guided tours. The purpose of the tour is to explore local farms for a day of fun, learning, and discovery. ferndalemarketonline.com

Jump, Play, Crawl, Explore

Research shows that play is a powerful teacher, staying with a person throughout their life—at home, in school, at work, and everywhere else. It was this mentality that drove a $30 million expansion and renovation at the Minnesota Children’s Museum, reopening this June with 10 new exhibits. The new exhibits include a four-story vertical adventure with climbing towers, a spiral slide, and a netted catwalk suspended more than 40 feet high (The Scramble); a maker-space with authentic tools and real materials (The Studio); air-powered ball launchers and a wacky car wash (Forces at Play); a laser maze, carpet skates, balance boards, and a green-screen climbing wall (Super Awesome Adventures); an expanded exhibit for babies and toddlers (Sprouts); two outdoor play spaces, and four more galleries. The Minnesota Children’s Museum is located in downtown St. Paul, with parking available on West Seventh Street. mcm.org

Photo courtesy of vertical endeavors

Climb to New Heights

From first-timers to veteran climbers, Vertical Endeavors— with locations in Bloomington, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Duluth, and Glendale Heights, Ill.—offers climbing walls, bouldering, and top-roping with auto belays. The features are designed to help new climbers find their footing, and experienced climbers build their strength, balance, endurance, and coordination. “Our gyms offer routes available for everyone,” says Ryan Ferrian with Vertical Endeavors. “Additionally, the climbing community is one of the most welcoming communities. Everyone loves the sport and loves to share their passion for the sport with others.” They also provide individual outdoor lessons and guided climbing trips to some of the most beautiful parts of the Midwest. verticalendeavors.com

photo courtesy of kartouchken- fotolia.com

Go Mini Golfing, Biking & Paddling

Bikes, boats, and mini golf is what it’s all about at Wheel Fun Rentals, a family-oriented, outdoor recreation company in the Twin Cities. Mini golf at Malt-T-Melt in Richfield (then have a cold treat at the adjacent Malt-T-Melt Malt Shop), rent a bike at Minnehaha Falls, Lake Nokomis, Como Lake, Veterans Park, or Canal Park in Duluth, or rent a stand-up paddleboard or single or tandem kayak at Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis, or Como Lake. If trying paddleboarding for the first time, staff will provide all necessary gear and training, and guests can stay in shallow water near the shoreline until they’re comfortable (it typically only takes a few minutes to get the hang of it). Locker rentals are available at the Minneapolis water locations. Kids can request passports, get stamps at  local Wheel Fun destinations, then earn a prize if they hit all locations. wheelfunrentals.com

photo courtesy of canterbury park

Spend a Day at the Track

A beautiful afternoon or evening spent outdoors at Canterbury Park (Shakopee) or Running Aces Harness Park (Columbus, near Forest Lake) is entertainment, an outing, and a unique experience all in one. There’s history and tradition behind horse racing, you get to watch beautiful animals perform at their peak, and you can bet as little as a few bucks per race if you want. Plus, there’s cold beer, hot food, and poker.  canterburypark.com •  runaces.com

photo courtesy of rick hammer

Experience Lake Life

It’s all about lake recreation at Good Ol’ Days Resort and nearby Wilderness Resort in the Brainerd Lakes area of central Minnesota. Good Ol’ Days, on Lower Cullen Lake, is six blocks from downtown Nisswa on the Paul Bunyan Trail; while just a few miles down the road there are cabins and villas for rent at Wilderness Resort, situated on beautiful Middle Cullen Lake. Guests staying at Good Ol’ Days have access to Wilderness Resort amenities, including a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, game room, sauna and hot tub. Pets are welcome. goodoldaysresort.com • wildernessresortvillas.com

photo courtesy of marek fotolia.com

Head to the North Shore

Families have been coming to Lutsen Resort for generations, for the prime location on Lake Superior, campfires on the pebble beach, complimentary activity programs (night hikes, nature hikes, guided sea kayak instruction), shuffleboard, Par 3 golf, Kids Camp, and an Adventure Program for youth. Within minutes, you can be out your door paddling a canoe or sea kayak, hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail, mountain biking, cruising along paved biking trails, or viewing the area from spots on the Sawtooth Mountains (don’t forget your camera). Enjoy casual dine-dining in the lakeside dining room or Poplar River Pub, and stay in the lodge, a log cabin, or a luxurious unit with fireplace, Jacuzzi, and private deck.  lutsenresort.com

Take a Walk on the ‘Wild’ Side

Wander along paved trails, hand-feed the deer roaming freely around the property, see peacocks strutting across the lawn, and admire wild cats and wolves (and other wildlife) at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.  There’s also a large pond where you can watch the ducks and geese, and a “farmyard” petting zoo with ponies (and pony rides), rabbits, pigs, and chickens. fawndoerosa.com

photo courtesy of carolina garcia aranda

Visit Australia (sort of)

Experience the Australian Outback at the Minnesota Zoo during the new, immersive “Kangaroo Crossing” seasonal exhibit from May 24-September 4, 2017. The exhibit will feature kangaroos, wallabies, and emus on a 5-acre habitat, with minimal separation between the animals and zoo guests.“Although the Minnesota Zoo is open year-round, the summer season is an amazing time to explore,” says Josh Le, communications and media relations manager. Admission ranges from $12-18 (and is free those 2 and under); parking is $7 per car. ​Another fun zoo event is Adults Night Out, a grown-up, kid-free, after-hours version of the zoo, complete with wine, beer, or cocktails for those 21+. mnzoo.org

photo courtesy of red wing brewery

Raise Your Glass

Summit, Lift Bridge, Fitger’s, 612, Lucid, Surly, Fulton, Steel Toe, Castle Danger, Bent Paddle, Jack Pine, Dangerous Man, Indeed Brewing Co., Third Street, Schell’s, Red Wing Brewery—so many local brewpubs and microbreweries, so little time. Taprooms are not only a great way for anyone who enjoys tasty brews to sit back and enjoy a pint of handcrafted beer in the very same area where the “beer magic” happens (at the brewery); the beer also tastes better, plus tours and taprooms are the least expensive way to experience Minnesota’s booming craft beer movement. Each beer—and each location—has its own vibe. Call or visit the company’s websites for tour times and taproom hours. For more information, visit the Minnesota Craft Brewer’s Guild at mncraftbrew.org.

Stop Invasive Species

Minnesota is a destination state in summer, with thousands of outdoor recreationists traveling here for excellent camping, biking, and hiking opportunities. What also “travels” here are terrestrial invasive species, also known as TIS (those that live on land). Invasive species can be spread on boots, bike tires, pets, camping gear, your vehicle, and unused firewood.  When a species isn’t native to an area, they can harm the economy, the environment, or human health once they become established. A few of the common species found on land include Canadian thistle, common buckthorn, wild parsnip, fungal species that cause Dutch elm disease and oak wilt, and the emerald ash borer. Long-distance spread is almost always accidentally human-assisted. Why should people care? According to the PlayCleanGo: Stop Invasive Species In Your Tracks® outreach campaign launched by the Minnesota Dept of Natural Resources, “Everyone should care because unless we can slow the spread of invasive species, life as we currently know it will change dramatically; from where we live and work, to the places we go, the products we buy, how we relax and play with our kids. All of it has the potential to change with the spread of invasive species. Protecting Minnesota is up to you. Come Clean, Leave Clean.” Organizations interested in promoting this campaign can sign up at playcleango.org. There are currently 420 partner organizations across 36 states and four Canadian provinces involved in the campaign.

Take a Mini Class

The beauty of Grand Marais has attracted artists to the area for years, creating a vibrant year-round arts community. Visitors, too, are inspired by the scenery, and can let their inner artist shine during a weekend class at the North House Folk School, an educational nonprofit organization on the north shore of Lake Superior in Grand Marais. Some of the most popular classes are black ash and birch bark basketry classes, turning on a lathe (both electric and foot-powered), timber-framing, and wood-fired bread baking, pickling, jamming, and making sausage, says Carolyn Fritz, communications and outreach manager. These traditional northern crafts are taught in a supportive student-centered learning environment “that inspires the hands, the heart, and the mind,” she explains. Classes range from $20 for a mini course to $3,500 for more extensive timber-framing and boat-building courses. The Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival will take place June 16-18 with a large wooden boat display, a speaker series, craft demonstrations, a summer solstice pageant, and a featured presentation. In addition, special events and activities will be scheduled throughout the year in honor of the School’s 20th anniversary celebration. northhouse.org

photo courtesy of james barton

Go to a Fair or Festival!

This summer, there’s truly a fair or festival for everyone. Flint Hills International Children’s Festival, May 30-June 4 St. Paul  Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival, June 3. Sylvan Park  Lanesboro Grand Old Day, June 4, 2017 Along Grand Avenue, St. Paul  Minnesota Pet Expo, June 10 and 11 Minneapolis Convention Center  Northern Spark, June 10 Lowertown, St. Paul  St. Paul Summer Beer Fest, June 10 Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul  Eaux Claires Music & Art Festival, June 16 and 17 Foster Farms, Eau Claire, Wis.  Stone Arch Bridge Festival, June 16-18 Minneapolis riverfront. Twin Cities Jazz Festival, June 22-24 Mears Park, downtown St. Paul  Moondance Jammin’ Country Fest, June 23 and 24 Moondance Event Grounds, Walker  Minnesota Street Rod Association Back to the Fifties Weekend, June 23-25 Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Pau  Minnesota Food Truck Festival, June 25  Hennepin Avenue, between Lake and 31st.

Get ‘Caught’ in the Excitement of Baseball

Living in Minnesota, you have two options for watching baseball in open-air ballparks—the Minnesota Twins, playing at Target Field in downtown Minneapolis, or the St. Paul Saints, playing at CHS Field in St. Paul. There’s a wide variety of concessions, from hot dogs to walleye on a stick, the stadium is steeped in history, and in “Twins Territory,” the atmosphere is electric. The minor league Saints are nationally recognized for their in-game entertainment, with between-inning promotions, contests, and “ushertainers” making for a fun atmosphere. Where else can you get a haircut or massage, even rent a hot tub with friends—all while watching some really great baseball?  twinsbaseball.com •  saintsbaseball.com

photo courtesy of Shawn Sarinske

Whether you’re drifting and trolling with spinners, or fishing with bait, there are more than 10,000 lakes in Minnesota (11,842 lakes of 10 acres or more to be exact), providing plenty of opportunities for good fishing. There’s a reason, after all, that Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of the best states in the country for fishing. Regardless if you’re angling for walleye, northern pike, sunfish, bass, or musky, catching fish can be fun for everyone. If you want to introduce your kids (or yourself) to the sport and don’t know where to start, sign up for a $5 “I can fish!” workshop through the Minnesota DNR, where all equipment is provided (including tackle boxes!).  dnr.state.mn.us

photo courtesy of todd buchanan

Go to More Fairs and Festivals!

Basilica Block Party, July 7 and 8 The Basilica of Saint Mary, Minneapolis  St . Paul Dragon Festival, July 8 and 9 Phalen Park, East Side, St. Paul  Minneapolis Aquatennial, July 19-22   Lake Calhoun, Hennepin Avenue, West River Parkway  Rock the Garden, July 22 Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Vans Warped Tour, July 23 Canterbury Park, Shakopee  Minnesota Fringe Festival, Aug. 3-13  Venues in Uptown, downtown, and the West Bank WE Fest Country Music Festival, Aug. 3-5 Soo Pass Ranch, Detroit Lakes Uptown Art Fair, Aug. 4-6 Lake Street and Hennepin Avenue and “The Mall” in Southwest Minneapolis Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival, Aug. 10-13 El Rancho Mañana, Richmond, Minn. Pizza Lucé Block Party, Aug. 12 Warehouse District, Downtown Minneapolis  Irish Fair of Minnesota, Aug. 11-13  Harriet Island, St. Paul Twin Cities Polish Festival, Aug. 11-13  Along Old Main Street, Minneapolis  Summer Set Music & Camping Festival, Aug. 11-13 Somerset Ampitheatre, Somerset, Wis. Minnesota State Fair,  Aug. 24-Sept. 4 Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul

photo courtesy of ketrik17 – Fotolia.com

Enjoy a ‘Slice’ of Country Life

Gather together some friends, bring snacks and drinks and plates and lawn chairs and a folding table and garbage bags and maybe a deck of cards or Frisbee, get in your car, and drive to Stockholm, Wisconsin on a Tuesday night for excellent rustic brick-oven pizza and even better scenery. Many of the ingredients at Pizza on the Farm (aka “the pizza farm”) are grown right there, just like how it was back in the olden days. Show up early to stake out a good spot on the lawn and enjoy quality time with friends in really pretty surroundings. The cows and goats only add to the charm. Stockholm sits across Lake Pepin from Lake City, Minnesota, about an hour and a half from the Twin Cities metro. atozproduceandbakery.com

Located in Biwabik, Giants Ridge is a four-season resort, with golfing in summer and skiing in winter (and biking year-round). There are two nationally-recognized 18-hole championship-caliber golf courses on site, The Quarry and The Legend, the only two-course resort in the state to be ranked in “America’s Top 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest in the same year. Golf programs for all ages will be held throughout the summer. Giants Ridge is located about three hours from the Twin Cities. giantsridge.com

Visit Sleepy Eye

If you’re a fan of Little House on the Prairie , then you’ve heard of Sleepy Eye. (It was the little city near Walnut Grove.) Today they’re known for their annual Buttered Corn Days Celebration. The all-day free corn festival held this year on Friday, August 18 will include free buttered sweet corn, along with 1919 root beer, burgers, homemade pie and ice cream, Grainbelt Premium beer, and live music. “Activities for the kids and a beautiful lakeside view make for the quintessential small town celebration,” says Christina Andres, executive director of the Sleepy Eye Chamber of Commerce. Visitors are encouraged to stick around for the Grand Parade, Saturday August 19 at 6 p.m. Sleepy Eye is also home to antique shops, an aquatic center, a museum, and Sleepy Eye Lake. A new hotel is opening this summer. sleepyeyechamber.com

Embark on a Magical History Tour

Hop on a Segway (those quasi-futuristic scooters) and learn about the Twin Cities on a guided Magical History Tour. Led by experienced and energetic guides, the tours are perfect for corporate events, parties, and anyone who wants to learn more about the history, stories, and legends of the Mill City district of Minneapolis, and the Lowertown or Summit Avenue/Capitol Hill areas of St. Paul. Before a tour starts, the guide will provide a quick safety lesson for the 5-7 mile route. “The Segway is super intuitive and user-friendly,”explains Bill Neuenschwander,  owner of parent company Mobile Entertainment, LLC. (Riding a Segway is easier than it looks. There have been numerous riders over the age of 75.) Time and again, those who have been on a tour describe it as a “must-do experience.” Magical History Tours run from March through November. The Minneapolis location is on Historic St. Anthony Main; the St. Paul location starts at the St. Paul Curling Club on Selby Avenue.  humanonastick.com

Plan a Weekend at the Lake

Enjoy quality time together during a good old-fashioned “weekend at the lake” at Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort, located about 100 miles west of Minneapolis in Spicer. Owners Bob and Connie Dickerson take great pride in running a clean, safe, family-oriented resort and it’s evident—through the pizza parties, hayrides, campfires, and Sunday morning homemade donut “mixers”—that they love what they do. Guests have complimentary use of hydrobikes, paddleboats, kayaks, bikes, and trikes. Little ones love building sandcastles along the pristine sandy beach; adults love the chance to “unplug” and reconnect.  dickersonsresort.com

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Watch: Countdown to Fine Spirits Classic on 5 Eyewitness News

Best Bets: June 17-23

Escape the City

Newsletters.

15 Best Places to Visit in Minnesota — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Katherine Hall

Posted on Published: June 15, 2021  - Last updated: August 21, 2023

Minnesota, nicknamed the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is a lakefront state neighboring Canada in the midwestern region of the United States.

It offers the perfect blend of outdoor attractions for a fun adventure in nature and entertaining tourist hotspots where you can spend the day indoors.

Some of the many activities you can do here are going on waterfront adventures, shopping at the largest mall in the country, viewing awe-inspiring masterpieces at an art gallery, interacting with animals at a zoo, touring historical attractions, and tons more.

I want to make planning as easy and stress-free for you, which is why I made a list of the best places to visit in Minnesota to help make the process as seamless as possible.

1. Voyageurs National Park — International Falls

360 Minnesota 11 East International Falls, MN 56649 (218)-283-6600

Voyageurs National Park, established in 1975, encompasses over 218,000 acres.

It is one of the most popular sites in the state for those wanting to enjoy outdoor recreational activities.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Trying to figure out what to do in Minnesota to have a memorable nature excursion with your travel buddies?

Then pack your necessities and wear comfortable clothes as you head out for an epic outdoor adventure at Voyageurs National Park.

There are plenty of things you can do with your companions, like hiking, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, camping, stargazing, and the like.

During wintertime, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and tons more.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

From June to September, Voyageurs National Park offers countless guided boating trips and ranger-led programs.

These are the best times to visit if you want to explore the park alongside an experienced guide.

2. Pipestone National Monument — Pipestone

36 Reservation Ave Pipestone, MN 56164 (507) 825-5464

The Pipestone National Monument, spanning over 281 acres, is a well-known landmark of the area made from sedimentary rocks.

It is a sacred site for Native Americans because it is where they get their material to make their ceremonial pipes.

One of the top places to see in Minnesota is the colossal sandstone rocks at the Pipestone National Monument.

Some of the things you can do here are trekking up to the rock formations and taking many pictures, signing up for guided tours, snowshoeing during the snowy months, picnicking together, hiking, and so much more.

Drop by its visitor center to view exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the monument, watch a short film, participate in hands-on activities, and so on.

The Pipestone National Monument often holds engaging events throughout the month.

Check their website before visiting so that you can time your visit depending on what you want to do, like experiencing what it’s like to be a ranger for a day and kid-friendly options for your children.

Related: Best Things to Do in Minnesota

3. Mall of America — Bloomington

60 E Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425 (952) 883-8800

The Mall of America, which opened in August 2002, is the largest indoor shopping mall in the U.S., with at least 520 stores and an amusement park.

When searching for cool and unique places to visit in Minnesota to enjoy an ultimate fun-filled getaway with your friends or loved ones, the Mall of America is a perfect choice.

It is the best place to go on a fantastic shopping spree as you explore its hundreds of stores selling a wide array of high-end and cheap options.

After shopping, visit its superb amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe, where you can go on a myriad of rides, and the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, home to more than 10,000 animals.

Tuesday is the best time to visit its amusement park because, on this day, Nickelodeon Universe offers special character appearances, storytime, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Mall of America

4. Saint Paul

Saint Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-8989

Saint Paul , nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, is the capital of Minnesota.

It, alongside Minneapolis, is known as the Twin Cities.

Saint Paul is one of the best cities to visit in Minnesota, offering you and your companions a plethora of attractions to explore and thrilling activities to do together.

Some of the destinations you can find are Summit Avenue, featuring the largest collection of Victorian buildings in America, the Cathedral of St. Paul, a glorious cathedral hosting countless concerts, and the Minnesota History Center, where you can learn about local history.

When looking for the top places to dine in the city , stop by Pizza Luce.

It has a warm ambiance and serves flavorful pizzas, pasta, wine, beer, as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Saint Paul Hotel

5. Itasca State Park — Park Rapids

36750 Main Park Drive Park Rapids, MN 56470 (218) 699-7251

Itasca State Park, established in 1891, is the first state park in Minnesota.

It is roughly 32,690 acres in size and offers an endless array of fun possibilities.

Do you need to get a break from the repetitive cycle of your daily life by enjoying time immersed in nature?

Are you searching for where to go in Minnesota to enjoy a peaceful and laid-back retreat at the heart of mother earth?

If so, drive on down to Itasca State Park.

Its gorgeous scenery and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect environment for lots of fun activities, like camping, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, hiking, bird watching, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, geocaching, biking, and so on.

If you don’t want to pack bulky and heavy equipment, visit Itasca Sports to rent gear such as pontoons, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, bikes, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Walker Hotel

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Minnesota

6. Minneapolis

Minneapolis, MN 55402 (612) 673-3000

Minneapolis , the most populous city in the state, is the other half of the Twin Cities.

It is well-known for its thirteen lakes, lively performing arts scenes, and picture-perfect parks.

Create fond memories with your partner, family, or friends by exploring one of the top places to visit in Minnesota, Minneapolis.

Bond as you do activities like strolling through a park, going on a shopping spree, touring an art museum, watching enthralling live shows, going on rides at an amusement park, discovering the magnificence of sea life at an aquarium, and many others.

A must-visit on your getaway to this city is the Guthrie Theater.

It is a state-of-the-art facility featuring high-tech lights and sounds systems, guided tours, and comfortable seating.

Here, you can watch Broadway productions, theatrical plays, musicals, concerts, and the like.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown

Related: Restaurants: Minneapolis

Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4011

Duluth is a port city sitting on the shores of Lake Superior.

It is nicknamed Twin Ports, alongside Superior, a metropolis in Wisconsin.

Duluth is one of the most beautiful places to visit near you, offering spectacular lakefront views, backdrops of lush greenery, and many postcard-perfect parks.

Places of interest to explore with your companions are the Spirit Mountain Adventure Park, where you can enjoy an unforgettable winter vacation, the Aerial Lift Bridge, an architectural wonder over 115 years old, and Glensheen, a 39-room mansion constructed in the early 1900s.

Don’t leave the city without booking a fun-filled excursion on Lake Superior by booking a tour with Vista Fleet Cruises.

It offers you a wide range of packages for you to choose from, depending on who you are traveling with and how intimate you want the experience to be.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Pier B Resort

Related: Places to Eat in Duluth

8. Grand Marais

Grand Marais, MN 55604 (218) 387-2524

Grand Marais is a lakefront city and a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the summer season.

When looking for places to travel in Minnesota to go on an unforgettable getaway with your friends, this charming and quaint city is the place to be.

There are tons of enjoyable activities you can do together for a memorable time.

For example, spend the day at a pristine beach, discover stunning pieces at an art gallery, go hiking, boating, or kayaking, enjoy a scenic drive, shop for local handicrafts, relax at a spa, and so much more.

Time your visit during the annual Grand Marais Arts Festival, usually happening in early July.

It is a renowned festival offering live entertainment, art demonstrations, countless regional and local artists showcasing their masterpieces, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Solbakken Resort

9. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness — Duluth

8901 Grand Ave Place Duluth, MN 55808 (218) 626-4300

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, encompassing more than 1 million acres, is a nature reserve.

It is one of the most-visited wilderness areas in the country, welcoming hundreds of thousands of guests annually.

Enjoy the best of Minnesota by going on a nature retreat with your friends, significant other, or loved ones at this nature preserve.

It has numerous recreational possibilities to offer, both on land and in the water, for all seasons.

Have a blast as you go camping, kayaking, hiking, canoeing, fishing, stargazing, watching phenomenal northern lights displays, dog sledding during the snowy months, boating, enjoying a leisurely time at a beach, and plenty of other fun options.

During peak seasons, from May to September, the wilderness area requires special permits to do activities, like overnight stays and boating.

Make sure to reserve your permits before visiting.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cliff Dweller on Lake Superior

10. Traditions Mini Golf Course — Deerwood

24228 MN-210 Deerwood, MN 56444 (218) 534-9250

The Traditions Mini Golf Course is an 18-hole miniature golf course that also features an onsite eatery, batting cages, and a handful of other attractions.

This course is a paradise for those who love miniature golfing.

It is the perfect destination for you to spend quality time with your family as you enjoy a multitude of engaging activities ideal for every age.

Here, you can teach your children how to play miniature golf, fling water balloons at each other, enjoy a game of human foosball, hitting balls at the batting cages, and tons more,

This top-rated attraction also features a frozen yogurt shop where you can customize your delicious treat based on your tastes and preferences.

To save up on expenses, book your tickets online and combine the miniature golfing experience with another attraction.

The combined packages are more affordable than buying individual tickets to its different facilities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crosby Lofts

11. Stillwater

Stillwater, MN 55082 (651) 430-8800

Stillwater is often known as the Birthplace of Minnesota.

It has a rich history dating back to the 1800s and rests on the shores of the St. Croix River.

Go on a much-desired vacation from the hustle and bustle of your regular life by making your way to Stillwater.

It has numerous indoor and outdoor activities you can enjoy and various vacation spots that you can explore.

For example, Tremblay’s Sweet Shoppe, offering some of the tastiest sweets in the city, Aamodt’s Apple Farm, where you can interact with friendly animals and pick apples, and the Ice Palace Maze, offering a fun activity during the colder months.

On the St. Croix River, you can enjoy activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, boating, canoeing, riding gondolas, and so on.

One of the best ways to explore the city is by scheduling a tour with the Stillwater Trolley.

It offers various packages depending on whether you want to go sightseeing or have a more educational experience by learning about local history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lora

Related: Best Restaurants in Stillwater, MN

12. Minnesota State Capitol — St. Paul

75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard St Paul, MN 55155 (651) 296-2881

The Minnesota State Capitol, constructed in 1905, sits in the downtown district of St. Paul.

It serves as the official seat of the government of Minnesota and houses several important offices.

As you go sightseeing and exploring various tourist hotspots, the Minnesota State Capitol is a must-visit.

It features awe-inspiring architecture, a marble dome, a cafe, and more.

Sign up for a guided tour of the building and learn about its history, explore its many rooms, view its countless captivating art installations, like sculptures and murals, and so on.

The Minnesota State Capitol offers guided tours, free of charge, twice a day at specific times.

Check their official website for updated schedules and make sure to visit at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront, an IHG Hotel

Related: Minnesota Travel Tips

13. Minneapolis Institute of Art — Minneapolis

2400 3rd Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55404 (888) 642-2787

The Minneapolis Institute of Art, often abbreviated to Mia, boasts a whopping collection of more than 90,000 art pieces covering at least 5,000 of history.

If you love looking through breathtaking masterpieces and want to enjoy an immersive art experience, one of the best Minnesota tourist attractions for you to visit is the Mia.

It has a jaw-droppingly gorgeous architectural design and many stunning artworks for you to discover.

This award-winning museum is home to thousands of pieces for you to view, like Chinese Ceramics, Medieval European paintings, Italian drawings, African art, and so much more.

It also offers many interactive classes and workshops where you can learn something new or hone your art skills.

When visiting with a companion with special needs, you can request customized tours with professional interpreters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: W Minneapolis – The Foshay

14. International Wolf Center — Ely

1396 MN-169 Ely, MN 55731 (218) 365-4695

The International Wolf Center, founded in 1985, is a sanctuary for wolves.

It allows you to observe the magnificent animals from a safe distance.

If you are searching for places to go in Minnesota for an amazing vacation, head to the International Wolf Center.

It features many wolves of every color, a gift shop selling all sorts of souvenir items, and fun programs to keep yourself well-entertained.

It offers many tour experiences that you can book, that range from 1-hour activities to overnight programs.

Other things you can enjoy are listening to lectures, going on guided hikes, dog sledding, watching fascinating short videos, and so much more.

A popular tour you should try on your visit is the Howling Safari.

It is perfect for you and your children aged six and up and includes trekking through a forest to listen to the wolves howling in the distance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Junction Inn Suites & Conference Center

15. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory — St. Paul

1225 Estabrook Dr St Paul, MN 55103 (651) 487-8200

The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, encompassing 759 acres, is a world-famous attraction welcoming roughly 1.9 million visitors each year.

Your vacation is not complete until you explore one of the best places to visit in Minnesota, the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.

It features a zoo, home to thousands of animals representing diverse species, various gift shops, numerous themed garden sections, awe-inspiring art installations throughout the area, and fun rides catering to every age.

Some of the activities you can do here are feeding giraffes, riding a carousel, playing miniature golf, picnicking, fishing, and endless more.

This attraction offers rentals, like wheelchairs, scooters, and single or double strollers, for your convenience if you don’t want to pack heavy equipment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Roseville, MN

Map of Places to Visit in Minnesota

Minnesota Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Voyageurs National Park — International Falls
• Pipestone National Monument — Pipestone
• Mall of America — Bloomington
• Saint Paul — Saint Paul
• Itasca State Park — Park Rapids
• Minneapolis — Minneapolis
• Duluth — Duluth
• Grand Marais — Grand Marais
• The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness — Duluth
• Traditions Mini Golf Course — Deerwood
• Stillwater — Stillwater
• Minnesota State Capitol — St. Paul
• Minneapolis Institute of Art — Minneapolis
• International Wolf Center — Ely
• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory — St. Paul

• Skip to Main Content
• Skip to audio player to listen live

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

A verification code has been emailed to

When and where to watch fireworks this holiday weekend across Minnesota

Log in to share your opinion with MPR News and add it to your profile.

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

The soggy start to July has put a damper on some Independence Day celebrations and activities , but fireworks will happen as planned in many cities and towns across the state. Here’s a list of events set to light up the sky.

Wednesday, July 3

Aurora : The Aurora Patriotic Days will have a fireworks display at Red Top at 10 p.m.

Bloomington : As a part of Summer Fete, viewers can head to Normandale Lake Park for activities from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. with fireworks at nightfall.

Eveleth : Dance to live music at Thunder Over Eveleth before the fireworks display at 10:30 p.m.

Support the News you Need

Gifts from individuals keep MPR News accessible to all - free of paywalls and barriers.

Excelsior : Enjoy the only public fireworks display over Lake Minnetonka at Commons Park at dusk.

Pequot Lakes : A fireworks display will be at Pequot Lakes High School practice field for the Stars and Stripes Days at dusk. Some other great viewing spots include Trailside Parks and Pequot Lakes School.

Shakopee : Canterbury Park’s event will include live racing, musical entertainment and other engaging activities, with a fireworks display at 10:00 p.m.

Thursday, July 4

Austin : Held in Bandshell Community Park, Austin’s Freedom Fest fireworks will begin at dusk.

Baudette : Celebrate in the “Walleye Capital of the World” with a little fishing and fireworks for the Fourth of July. Baudette and the Lake of the Woods area will host a fireworks display over Baudette Bay at Willie Walleye Park at 10:15 p.m.

Bemidji : The Red, White & BOOM Firework Spectacular will illuminate the skies over Lake Bemidji at dusk.

Cannon Falls : The fireworks display will occur at The Cannon Valley Fair grounds at dusk.

Chanhassen: The city postponed its fireworks show to July 12 at 10 p.m. due to anticipated rain and thunderstorms. The parade is still scheduled to take place at 2:30 p.m. on July 4.

Detroit Lakes : Attendees are invited to watch the show at Mile Long City Beach at 10:00 p.m.

Duluth : Fourth Fest is a free event that takes place in Bayfront Festival Park for an evening of live music and tasty food, with a fireworks display at 10:10 p.m.

Ely : If you're up north celebrating the Fourth this year, check out the fireworks show at Miners Lake at 10 p.m. 

Northfield: The city’s fireworks display will start at 10 p.m. at the Northfield Middle School. People can set up a spot to watch the show at the middle school parking lot and south fields, Tyler Park or the fields north of Jefferson Parkway.

Owatonna : The annual Patriot Skies fireworks display will be held at 10 p.m. at the Steele County Fairgrounds.  

Princeton : Head to the Mille Lacs County Fairgrounds for the July 4 fireworks display, with the Speedway Grandstand open for spectators to enjoy music that goes along with the fireworks at dusk. 

Richfield: A 20-minute fireworks show is planned at 10 p.m. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early.

St. Cloud : The St. Cloud Area Fireworks will be at 10 p.m. with prime viewing areas on both sides of the Mississippi River, in Wilson and Hester parks.

Friday, July 5

Mankato : Fireworks in Riverfront Park have been postponed from July 4 to July 5 at 10 p.m., synced to music from Radio Mankato stations KXLP, KATO and KDOG.

St. Paul : The St. Paul Saints will be celebrating Independence Day all weekend long with a post-game Monster Food Truck Rally and Fireworks Super Show on the fourth, as well as post-game fireworks on July 3-5.

Saturday, July 6

Crosslake : The annual Fourth of July fireworks display kicks off at 10:10 p.m. Be sure to tune into Skeeter 101.5 FM shortly before dusk to enjoy this year's show choreographed to music.

Friday, July 12

Saturday, july 27.

Elk River: The city postponed its July 4 fireworks display to July 27 for Elk RiverFest.

• Hundreds of Minneapolis park workers poised to strike for a week beginning July 4
• 20-year-old loops Lake Superior solo in 42 days, buoyed by climate change awareness
• Minneapolis launches first Narcan vending machine

Watch CBS News

Map shows states where fireworks are legal or illegal on July 4, 2024

By Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: July 4, 2024 / 6:42 AM EDT / CBS News

Fireworks have become a staple of July Fourth celebrations across the United States, where towns and cities often host professional shows to mark the occasion each year. In some areas, smaller displays of less powerful fireworks pop up at private holiday parties. For people wondering where fireworks are legal —and where they're illegal— nationwide, here's what to know.

Full list of U.S. states where some fireworks are legal

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has banned several types of fireworks —like M-80s, cherry bombs and anything else that contains more than 50 milligrams of pyrotechnic material— at the federal level, but state and local regulations can be more complicated. To varying degrees, certain types of fireworks are legal in 49 states, plus Washington, D.C. 

Here's the full list:

• Connecticut
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Washington, D.C.
• West Virginia

The one U.S. state where all private fireworks are illegal

Massachusetts is the only state in the U.S. where it is illegal to sell, use or otherwise possess fireworks of any kind as a private citizen. Many communities across the state  host public fireworks displays at their July Fourth celebrations . But without a license and permit, the statewide law prohibits fireworks of all kinds, including sparklers, firecrackers and any other comparable device that's been designed to produce "a visible or audible effect," according to the state government .

The fireworks show in Marblehead, Mass. was canceled early Thursday because the fireworks barge caught fire. The town explained on X that, "There was a fire on the barge in the middle of the night. Fire Marshals office is investigating. The Fire Marshal won't allow our vendor to perform any fireworks until determination of how the barge was able to catch fire."

The ban has existed since 1943 , when state legislators amended an earlier set of statutes that previously allowed civilians to buy, sell and use certain kinds of fireworks for displays. When they enacted the fireworks ban, it was among an overhaul of measures enacted in response to World War II, some of which were billed as "emergency" orders meant specifically to remain effective as long as there was a potential enemy threat. But the the consumer fireworks law stayed in place after the war.

Despite periodic calls from within Massachusetts to lift the ban, officials say it continues to be necessary and have ramped up enforcement in recent years because illegal fireworks are prevalent. Between 2013 and 2022, Massachusetts fire departments reported almost 1,000 fires linked to illegal fireworks displays, in addition to 47 injuries — the majority to firefighters — and $2.5 million in damages, according to the state .

States where some fireworks are legal but many are restricted

Numerous states and Washington, D.C., restrict the sale, possession and use of consumer fireworks, even though professional fireworks displays are allowed with the appropriate licenses and permits. Those states are:

Illinois and Vermont have stricter laws than the rest of the U.S. In those states, only sparklers and "novelty" smoke devices are up for sale to the general public. A "novelty" device is one that contains "small amounts of pyrotechnic and/or explosive composition" but does not technically meet requirements to be considered a consumer firework, according to the  American Pyrotechnic Association .

In  Illinois , novelties include snakes, glow worm pellets, smoke devices, party poppers, snappers, trick matches, and "other devices in which paper or plastic caps containing twenty-five hundredths grains or less of explosive compound are used," per the state law banning most consumer fireworks.

The laws are similar in Vermont, where certain sparklers and novelty devices are allowed, provided that the sparklers contain 20 grams or less of pyrotechnic materials and the novelties contain 0.25 grains or less of explosive mixture, according to the  Office of the State Fire Marshal .

States that let counties determine fireworks laws

Hawaii, Nevada and Wyoming allow counties to determine whether fireworks are legal or not within their individual jurisdictions, as well as which kinds of fireworks are allowed and exactly when and where people can buy, sell and use them. 

In Hawaii, concerns over public safety prompted legislators in 2010 to pass a law that gave counties the authority to set stricter regulations for consumer fireworks than the ones established at the state level. It allowed, for instance, the City and County of Honolulu to broadly prohibit the sale, possession and use of all consumer fireworks except fire crackers — which can be obtained with a permit. But the ordinance doesn't apply to other counties.

Similar laws have been passed by state legislatures in Nevada  and Wyoming to give local officials control over fireworks in their areas. In those states, consumer fireworks may be legal in one county and banned in another, and some counties restrict buying, selling and using fireworks to specific times on designated days of the year.

Even when consumer fireworks are generally regulated by the state, people may find themselves in a town or city in Arizona, California, Colorado, Maryland, Nevada or Ohio that has more stringent fireworks laws than its neighbors. And, in places like Illinois, setting off fireworks is only allowed in counties that have passed an ordinance to permit it, including on private property. 

What are non-aerial and non-explosive fireworks?

Most of the states where some but not all fireworks are legally accessible to civilians limit what's allowed to non-aerial and non-explosive fireworks only. Sometimes called "safe and sane" fireworks, these typically refer to devices that don't explode or fly. Because they contain lower amounts of combustible material than other fireworks, officials say they are also less likely to cause injuries or damage to property.

In wildfire-prone California, purchasing fireworks is illegal unless their packaging explicitly bears a "safe and sane" seal. A  fireworks education site operated by the California fire marshal's office lists sky rockets, bottle rockets, Roman candles, aerial shells and firecrackers as a few examples of fireworks that have been banned statewide in accordance with "safe and sane" standards, along with "other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner." 

A growing number of California counties have outlawed fireworks altogether . Violators could faces fines and or jail time.

Why do some states ban certain fireworks?

Most states that place restrictions for civilians on the sale, possession and use of fireworks say the risks of injuries and property damages are their main reasons for doing so. In a number of those states, officials also cite the increased likelihood of wildfires sparking and potentially spreading in an area where fireworks have been set off. 

In California, as the weather remains hot and dry this week, fire officials are issuing warnings about the use of fireworks, which are illegal in several counties. At least two brush fires in the Bay Area may have been caused by illegal fireworks in the past few days. In San Francisco, all fireworks are illegal.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said it received reports of eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries related to fireworks in 2023 alone. Of the eight deaths, five were associated with fireworks misuse, two with device malfunction and one was unknown.

How to report illegal fireworks

States and counties across the country encourage people to report any instances where they suspect illegal fireworks are involved, and many ask their residents to file those reports to their local fire departments or law enforcement agencies. People can also report illegal fireworks activity to a hotline at the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms , which is responsible for regulating all explosives, including fireworks.

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

More from CBS News

Fireworks can scare dogs. Vets explain how to calm your pet's anxiety.

July 4th gas prices expected to hit lowest level in 3 years

5 ways to get rid of credit card debt without a new loan

What's open and closed on July 4th?

10 options if Democrats actually try to replace Biden

Making a change would be far from easy, despite concerns about President Biden’s debate performance. But here’s who has surfaced before — and could again.

The Democratic Party has spent much of the 2024 campaign burying its head in the sand over Americans’ concerns about President Biden’s age and mental sharpness. Rather than reckon with the problem, its most influential voices have cast it as an overblown media construct.

But the party abruptly jerked its head out of that sand Thursday night, after a meandering, occasionally incoherent and almost universally panned first-debate performance from Biden . At its most pronounced, this has led to calls for Biden to step aside, including from those loyal to him.

That instantaneous reaction is hugely significant, in and of itself. It’s the kind of conversation you avoid — and the party has strained to avoid — until you view it as absolutely necessary. Going there and then having Biden stay would only damage him further, because a bunch of allies would have said either implicitly or explicitly that he is not up to the task.

It’s truly a desperate plan and one that features many hurdles . It would almost surely require Biden’s assent to step aside — he holds almost all of the pledged delegates to August’s Democratic National Convention — and even then the process for replacing him is fraught . It’s not even clear that an alternative would render the party better off.

But it’s a prospect that the party has given some consideration, dating back to when Biden had yet to announce his reelection campaign last year. Names were floated as alternatives or even primary challengers.

So, should the party go this route, who would even make sense? Let’s recap some of the names that have been floated — along with their attributes and drawbacks.

1. Vice President Harris

It’s difficult to see how Harris wouldn’t be the alternative unless she, too, voluntarily steps aside. She is, after all, the vice president. And skipping over the first female and first Black vice president would be dicey for a party struggling to maintain its normally huge margins with Black voters — a major part of its base.

The problem is that Harris is about as unpopular as Biden is. Recent surveys from Monmouth University and Suffolk University have shown disapproval of her outpacing approval by 18 and 16 points , respectively. Harris’s own 2020 presidential campaign went poorly, and the party would have little faith that she would be a marked improvement over Biden.

Republicans have made little secret that they relish elevating Harris, with the Trump campaign even running an ad during Thursday’s debate pointing to the possibility that Harris would have to replace Biden as president at some point.

2. Gretchen Whitmer

This is a name you’re likely to see plenty in the days ahead. The Michigan governor combines being an actually plausible alternative with looking almost ideal on paper.

She’s a female governor who hails from a crucial state (Democrats need to hold Midwestern swing states , given their problems in other swing states). She has won both of her races there by around 10 points. Polling this year has shown her approval rating in Michigan between 54 percent and 61 percent . And she’s more experienced and has more of a national profile than a lot of other rising-star Democratic governors, such as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

After Harris, she would quickly rise to the top.

3. Pete Buttigieg

It’s perhaps an undersold fact that the transportation secretary nearly won both the Iowa and New Hampshire presidential nominating contests back in 2020 when he was just a mayor of a midsize Midwestern city (South Bend, Ind.). And if the party is looking for the antithesis of Biden’s inability to drive a message against Trump, it’s Buttigieg. His jousting with Fox News hosts and Republicans at congressional hearings is often shared widely in Democratic circles. He’s a gifted messenger.

If there’s a big drawback with Buttigieg, it’s that he appears to be the wrong candidate to try to arrest the Democratic ticket’s apparent problem with diverse — and especially Black — voters. He got very little support from such groups in 2020.

4. Josh Shapiro

The Pennsylvania governor is one of the more intriguing rising stars in the national Democratic Party, earning plaudits for his big 2022 win and bipartisan credentials . He’s also, like Whitmer, quite popular in a crucial state for the Democratic ticket. Even more than 3 in 10 Trump supporters there like him , according to a poll this year. It’s hard to see how that doesn’t catch Democrats’ eye.

But Shapiro has largely been regarded as an option for 2028, having been governor for just a year and a half. He’s been in statewide office for a while, having previously served as state attorney general, but it would be a rapid rise.

5. Jared Polis

The Colorado governor and former congressman has some of the same bipartisan bona fides as Shapiro. The nation’s first openly gay man to be elected governor has crafted a compelling record and has largely avoided getting bogged down in potentially problematic liberal policies. He has also won big — by double digits in 2018 and nearly 20 points in 2022.

And he has clearly expressed interest in going national one day .

6. Gavin Newsom

Perhaps nobody has surfaced more as an alternative should Biden step aside than the California governor, owing in large part to his efforts to expand his national profile by mixing it up with national Republicans and GOP governors. On that front, Newsom would seem to have some of the same attributes as Buttigieg.

But it’s difficult to see the Democratic Party deciding that the recipe right now is a California governor and former mayor of San Francisco, a city Republicans would be only so happy to run against by pointing to its crime problem. It would be basically inviting Republicans to caricature the Democratic ticket.

7. Raphael G. Warnock

The Georgia senator has won a key swing state twice now in a short time. And his stock would seem to be higher than that of other Black candidates who have graced lists like this in the past, such as Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.).

Warnock’s 2022 campaign, in particular, was seen as a road map for how Democrats could run in 2024. And with Democrats struggling to keep swing states outside the Midwest in play, picking someone who hails from one of them makes a lot of sense.

2024 presidential election

8. Michelle Obama

This is the fantasy option for Democrats — and we mean that in more than one way. She would seem to be the ideal alternative for many, but she also seems unlikely to run.

Obama is the most popular former first lady in America, dating back to Lady Bird Johnson, according to a late-2023 YouGov poll. She has also consistently been liked by a clear majority of Americans, which we can’t say for many political figures.

But she has professed basically no interest in running in her own right; going from that to waging a presidential campaign with just a few months to go is a huge stretch. We also learned this week about reported tensions between her and the Biden campaign .

It’s truly a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option. And the glass appears to be shatterproof.

9. Amy Klobuchar

The Minnesota senator would make the most sense if Democrats sought a candidate with many of the same attributes Biden has, minus the age problem. She is pragmatic and seemingly broadly agreeable. She has a strong electoral track record in her state.

But she still cuts a very limited national profile, and her 2020 presidential campaign didn’t gain much traction. If the name of the game is picking someone to take the fight to Trump, Minnesota Nice might not be the recipe.

10. Andy Beshear

Perhaps nobody’s stock has risen more in recent months. That owes to the fact that the Kentucky governor was up for reelection in 2023 and won in a very red state.

He has intriguing bipartisan appeal, and he has succeeded in his state without straying too much to the right. (We often see that Democratic governors in red states and GOP governors in blue states have to take positions that don’t comport with their national party.) He even played up his support for abortion rights during the 2023 campaign — something previously unthinkable.

He also reportedly is taking the kind of steps you would expect from someone with national ambitions . But it’s not clear how he would play with liberal base voters whom Democrats need to inject with enthusiasm.

Election 2024

Get the latest news on the 2024 election from our reporters on the campaign trail and in Washington.

The first presidential debate: President Biden and Donald Trump faced off in the first presidential debate of 2024. Here are takeaways and fact checks from the debate .

Key dates and events: Voters in all states and U.S. territories have been choosing their party’s nominee for president ahead of the summer conventions. Here are key dates and events on the 2024 election calendar .

Abortion and the election: Voters in about a dozen states could decide the fate of abortion rights with constitutional amendments on the ballot in a pivotal election year. Biden supports legal access to abortion , and he has encouraged Congress to pass a law that would codify abortion rights nationwide. After months of mixed signals about his position, Trump said the issue should be left to states . Here’s how Biden’s and Trump’s abortion stances have shifted over the years.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

The Supreme Court says cities can punish people for sleeping in public places

Jennifer Ludden

U.S. Supreme Court says cities can punish people for sleeping in public places

A homeless person walks near an elementary school in Grants Pass, Ore., on March 23. The rural city became the unlikely face of the nation's homelessness crisis when it asked the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold its anti-camping laws. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

In its biggest decision on homelessness in decades, the U.S. Supreme Court today ruled that cities can ban people from sleeping and camping in public places. The justices, in a 6-3 decision along ideological lines, overturned lower court rulings that deemed it cruel and unusual under the Eighth Amendment to punish people for sleeping outside if they had nowhere else to go.

Writing for the majority, Justice Gorsuch said, “Homelessness is complex. Its causes are many.” But he said federal judges do not have any “special competence” to decide how cities should deal with this.

“The Constitution’s Eighth Amendment serves many important functions, but it does not authorize federal judges to wrest those rights and responsibilities from the American people and in their place dictate this Nation’s homelessness policy,” he wrote.

In a dissent, Justice Sotomayor said the decision focused only on the needs of cities but not the most vulnerable. She said sleep is a biological necessity, but this decision leaves a homeless person with “an impossible choice — either stay awake or be arrested.”

The court's decision is a win not only for the small Oregon city of Grants Pass, which brought the case, but also for dozens of Western localities that had urged the high court to grant them more enforcement powers as they grapple with record high rates of homelessness. They said the lower court rulings had tied their hands in trying to keep public spaces open and safe for everyone.

Supreme Court appears to side with an Oregon city's crackdown on homelessness

But advocates for the unhoused say the decision won’t solve the bigger problem, and could make life much harder for the quarter of a million people living on streets, in parks and in their cars. “Where do people experiencing homelessness go if every community decides to punish them for their homelessness?” says Diane Yentel, president of the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

Today’s ruling only changes current law in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes California and eight other Western states where the bulk of America’s unhoused population lives. But it will also determine whether similar policies elsewhere are permissible; and it will almost certainly influence homelessness policy in cities around the country.

Cities complained they were hamstrung in managing a public safety crisis

Grants Pass and other cities argued that lower court rulings fueled the spread of homeless encampments, endangering public health and safety. Those decisions did allow cities to restrict when and where people could sleep and even to shut down encampments – but they said cities first had to offer people adequate shelter.

That’s a challenge in many places that don’t have nearly enough shelter beds. In briefs filed by local officials, cities and town also expressed frustration that many unhoused people reject shelter when it is available; they may not want to go if a facility bans pets, for example, or prohibits drugs and alcohol.

Critics also said lower court rulings were ambiguous, making them unworkable in practice. Localities have faced dozens of lawsuits over the details of what’s allowed. And they argued that homelessness is a complex problem that requires balancing competing interests, something local officials are better equipped to do than the courts.

"We are trying to show there's respect for the public areas that we all need to have," Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison told NPR earlier this year. She wrote a legal brief on behalf of more than a dozen other cities. "We care for people, and we're engaging and being involved in the long-term solution for them."

The decision will not solve the larger problem of rising homelessness

Attorneys for homeless people in Grants Pass argued that the city’s regulations were so sweeping, they effectively made it illegal for someone without a home to exist. To discourage sleeping in public spaces, the city banned the use of stoves and sleeping bags, pillows or other bedding. But Grants Pass has no public shelter, only a Christian mission that imposes various restrictions and requires people to attend religious service.

"It's sort of the bare minimum in what a just society should expect, is that you're not going to punish someone for something they have no ability to control," said Ed Johnson of the Oregon Law Center, which represents those who sued the city.

He also said saddling people with fines and a criminal record makes it even harder for them to eventually get into housing.

Johnson and other advocates say today’s decision won’t change the core problem behind rising homelessness: a severe housing shortage, and rents that have become unaffordable for a record half of all tenants. The only real solution, they say, is to create lots more housing people can afford – and that will take years.

• homelessness
• Supreme Court

Twins place third baseman Royce Lewis on the injured list, call up prospect Brooks Lee

The Associated Press

July 3, 2024, 11:35 PM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Royce Lewis was placed on the 10-day injured list by the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday with a right adductor strain, the latest setback in the star infielder’s young career, and called up prospect Brooks Lee in his place.

Lewis, 25, is on the injured list for the second time this season after he missed 58 games with a partially torn quadriceps in his right leg. He’s also made his way back twice from ACL tears in his right knee since being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 draft by Minnesota.

Lewis was removed from Tuesday’s game against Detroit with what the team first declared was left groin tightness after he pulled slowly into second following a two-run, two-out double.

“Probably not very optimistic, to be honest with you,” Lewis said after the game. “I’m praying, but it’s usually always horrible news. So, we’ll see.”

Lewis has 31 homers and 80 RBIs in just 100 major league games, including the postseason.

He was hitting .292 with 10 home runs and 18 RBIs with a 1.039 OPS in 24 games this season.

“Dealing with things that are really difficult never becomes easy, but they become easier as time goes on,” Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Wednesday. “The more you experience in life — he’s already dealt with a lot of physical injuries, physical ailments early on in his career. He’s dealt with them all really well. I have no doubt he’s gonna deal with this perfectly fine.”

The team hasn’t announced a timeline for Lewis’ return but said he’d be reassessed after the upcoming All-Star break.

“Most likely, but he’s going to be down a few weeks,” president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said. “That’s our current expectation. Obviously tough news for Royce. He’s been through a lot.”

Replacing Lewis on the roster is Lee, the No. 8 overall pick by Minnesota in the 2022 draft who is rated as the No. 13 overall prospect in baseball, according to MLB Pipeline. A switch hitter, Lee was recently named to the All-Star Futures Game.

Drafted as a shortstop, he has played around the infield for Triple-A St. Paul this season and was in Wednesday’s lineup at third base for the Twins against Detroit for his debut. He had two hits in the game and had his first career RBI, driving in Byron Buxton in the seventh inning with a single.

Lee, 23, has hit .329 with seven homers and 21 RBIs with a 1.029 OPS in 20 games for St. Paul.

“As long as I’m in the lineup and we win, that’s all that matters to me,” Lee said. “And they know how to win already, so I’m not too worried about that.”

Lee, too, is coming off injury. He missed two months earlier this season with a herniated disk in his back.

“When you look down and see what he’s been doing since he came back healthy, you really couldn’t ask for much more,” Falvey said. “This kid’s hit from both sides of the plate. He’s even better right-handed than he has been over the last few years. He’s got a really good feel for defense.”

To make room on the 40-man roster to select Lee’s contract from Triple-A, Minnesota transferred right-handed pitcher Brock Stewart to the 60-day injured list. Stewart is out with right shoulder tendinitis, but Falvey said the move isn’t a reflection of Stewart’s outlook.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

Wimbledon Results

Luka Doncic and Slovenia head to Olympic qualifying semifinals

Novak Djokovic grinds out a victory over wild card Jacob Fearnley at Wimbledon

Recommended.

Triple threat: DC area hit with heat advisory, poor air quality, storm alert on 4th of July

Patrick Bertoletti of Chicago wins his first men’s title at annual Nathan’s hot dog eating contest.

Concerns over cloudy water — and having enough water for firefighters — led to rare boil water advisory for all of DC, officials say

Related categories:.