Minnesota Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Minnesota, including culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Minnesota

Located in the Midwest region of the United States, Minnesota is known for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor activities. The state is home to 11,842 lakes, and its land is covered with forests, rivers, and rolling hills. The state has a rich history, and its Native American and European immigrant communities have contributed to its diverse cultural heritage. Minnesota has a thriving arts scene, a delicious food culture, and a friendly and welcoming populace, making it a must-see destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting travel experience.

List of Places to Visit in Minnesota

Minnesota offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. Here are some of the must-visit places in Minnesota:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Mall of America: This iconic shopping destination is not just a mall, but an entertainment hub that attracts tourists from all over the world.

  • The Minnesota History Center: The Minnesota History Center is one of the finest historical museums in the country, with exhibits focusing on the state’s history, culture, and people.

  • Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: The park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state, with its iconic lighthouse and breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

  • The Walker Art Center: The Walker Art Center is a contemporary art museum in Minneapolis that is famous for showcasing cutting-edge and thought-provoking art.

Natural Attractions of Minnesota: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: The Boundary Waters is a vast and pristine area that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the wilderness. Visitors can canoe, fish, hike, and camp in this beautiful wilderness area.

  • The Mississippi River: The mighty Mississippi River winds through Minnesota, offering visitors stunning views and an opportunity to paddle and explore the surroundings.

  • The North Shore Scenic Drive: The North Shore Scenic Drive offers a stunning overview of Lake Superior, with breathtaking views of the shoreline, waterfalls, and cliffs.

  • Itasca State Park: Itasca State Park is home to the beginning of the Mississippi River, and it is a beautiful park that offers hiking, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Minnesota

Minnesota is one of the most bike-friendly states in the country, with countless biking and hiking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best bike routes and hiking trails in Minnesota:

  • The North Star Bicycle Route: The North Star Bicycle Route is a 260-mile route that takes cyclists through the scenic countryside of Minnesota.

  • The Paul Bunyan State Trail: The trail is a 100-mile paved bike trail that winds through forests, wetlands, and along lakeshores.

  • The Superior Hiking Trail: The Superior Hiking Trail is a 310-mile hiking trail that winds through the rugged wilderness of northern Minnesota.

  • The Root River State Trail: The trail is a 42-mile route that takes visitors through scenic, rolling hills, and picturesque towns.

Best Things to Do in Minnesota: Activities and Tours

There are countless things to do in Minnesota, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Minnesota:

  • Visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: The Boundary Waters is a vast and pristine area that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the wilderness. Visitors can canoe, fish, hike, and camp in this beautiful wilderness area.

  • Visit the Mall of America: The Mall of America is not just a mall, but an entertainment hub that attracts tourists from all over the world, with its hundreds of stores, restaurants, and attractions.

  • Visit the Minnesota State Fair: The Minnesota State Fair is the largest state fair in the country, with rides, concerts, food, and entertainment that attract more than two million visitors each year.

  • Take a Winery Tour: Minnesota is home to many wineries, and visitors can take wine tours and tastings to explore the area’s wine culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Minnesota

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Minnesota:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Mall of America and the Minnesota Zoo
2 Explore the North Shore Scenic Drive and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
3 Go hiking in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
4 Visit Itasca State Park and see the headwaters of the Mississippi River
5 Take a winery tour and taste locally produced wine
6 Visit the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
7 Spend a day in St. Paul, exploring the State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center

Food and Drink Scene of Minnesota

Minnesota has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juicy Lucy: A cheeseburger with the cheese inside the patty.

  • Tater Tot Hotdish: A casserole dish made with ground beef, tater tots, and cream of mushroom soup.

  • Walleye: A freshwater fish that is often served battered and fried.

  • Wild Rice Soup: A creamy soup made with wild rice, chicken, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Surly Brewing Company: Minnesota’s largest craft brewery, with a wide variety of beer styles and flavors.

  • Prairie Organic Vodka: A vodka made with organic corn and wheat, distilled in Minnesota.

  • Hot Dish Wine: A wine made in Minnesota that features flavors of green bean casserole and bacon.

Where to Stay in Minnesota: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Minnesota has many accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Minnesota:

  • The Hewing Hotel: A boutique hotel located in Minneapolis that offers a luxurious and unique stay.

  • The Hostel du Nord: A budget-friendly hostel located in Duluth, offering private and shared rooms.

  • The Kinn Guesthouse: A stylish guesthouse located in Northeast Minneapolis, offering a comfortable and trendy stay.

What to Buy in Minnesota: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Minnesota is famous for its locally made products, from artisanal cheeses to handcrafted home goods. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Wild Rice: A staple of the state’s food culture, wild rice is a great souvenir to take home.

  • Ojibwe Beadwork: Beautiful and intricate beadwork made by the Ojibwe Native American communities in the state.

  • Wooden Home Goods: Handcrafted wooden bowls, utensils, and cutting boards made by local craftsmen.

Local Culture and Customs of Minnesota

Minnesota is known for its friendly and welcoming populace, and visitors should take note of some of the local cultural customs. Here are some important things to keep in mind while in the state:

  • Minnesota Nice: A cultural trait that means people in Minnesota are friendly and polite, and expect the same in return.

  • Politeness: Minnesotans place a high value on politeness, and it is important to greet people with a smile and a handshake in most situations.

  • Community: Minnesotans place a high value on community, and visitors should take time to explore the local neighborhoods and community events.

Best Time to Visit Minnesota

The best time to visit Minnesota depends on what activities you plan to do, but most visitors prefer to visit between June and September when the weather is warm and pleasant. Fall is a great time to visit to see the leaves change colors, and winter offers opportunities for snow and ice sports like skiing and snowmobiling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Minnesota

When visiting Minnesota, there are some things you should and shouldn’t do to respect the local customs. Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Be friendly and polite: Minnesotans value politeness and friendliness, so it’s important to greet people with a smile and a handshake.

  • Explore the outdoors: Minnesota has plenty of outdoor activities to explore, from lakes to hiking trails.

  • Try the local cuisine: Minnesota has a vibrant food culture, and visitors should try some of the locally made dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Assume everyone is Scandinavian: While Minnesota has a large Scandinavian population, it is also home to many other ethnic groups.

  • Be too loud: Minnesotans value peace and quiet, and visitors should try to keep noise levels down, especially in residential areas.

  • Disrespect the environment: Minnesota is known for its natural beauty, and visitors should be respectful of the environment and follow guidelines for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Minnesota is generally a safe and healthy state to visit, but visitors should take note of some important safety and health issues before traveling.

Safety in Minnesota

  • Bears and Wildlife: Minnesota is home to many wild animals, and visitors should take precautions to avoid encounters with bears and other wildlife.

  • Winter Weather: Winter in Minnesota can be harsh, and visitors should be prepared for snow and ice on the roads and sidewalks.

Health in Minnesota

  • Lyme Disease: Minnesota is a state with a high incidence of Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness. Visitors should take precautions to avoid ticks and check for ticks regularly.

  • Air Quality: Minnesota has generally good air quality, but visitors with respiratory issues should be aware of potential air quality issues during the summer months.

Getting to Minnesota: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Minnesota is relatively easy, with many transportation options available.

Airports Near Minnesota

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport: Located in the Twin Cities area and served by many major airlines.

  • Duluth International Airport: Located in northeastern Minnesota and served by several regional airlines.

  • Rochester International Airport: Located in southeastern Minnesota and served by several regional airlines.

Bus Stations Near Minnesota

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Serves several cities in Minnesota, including Minneapolis, Duluth, and Rochester.

  • Jefferson Lines: Serves many cities in the upper Midwest, including Minneapolis, Duluth, and Rochester.

Other Options

  • Driving: Minnesota is easily accessible by car, with several major highways and interstate highways connecting the state to neighbors.

  • Train: Amtrak offers service to several cities in Minnesota, including Minneapolis and St. Paul.

How to Get Around in Minnesota

Getting around in Minnesota is relatively easy, with many transportation options available.

  • Car Rentals: Rental cars are widely available in Minnesota, and visitors can easily rent a car at one of the many airports or bus stations.

  • Public Transportation: The Twin Cities area has a robust public transportation system, including buses and light rail.

  • Biking: Minnesota is one of the most bike-friendly states in the country, with many bike trails and lanes in the Twin Cities and across the state.

Where to Go Next from Minnesota: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Minnesota is located in the middle of the country, making it a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Chicago, Illinois: A bustling city located about a seven-hour drive from Minneapolis, offering attractions like the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and deep-dish pizza.

  • Badlands National Park, South Dakota: A unique and stunning landscape about a seven-hour drive from Minneapolis, featuring rock formations, canyons, and prairies.

  • Winnipeg, Manitoba: A charming Canadian city about a five-hour drive from Minneapolis, offering attractions like the Forks National Historic Site and the Royal Canadian Mint.

Conclusion

Minnesota is a must-see destination for visitors looking for a unique and exciting travel experience. With its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly populace, there is something for everyone in this beautiful state. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Minnesota offers a wide range of attractions and activities to explore.

The sculpture of St. Urho, located in the town of Menahga in the Wadena County, Northwestern Minnesota The sculpture of St. Urho, located in the town of Menahga in the Wadena County, Northwestern Minnesota


    Northeastern Minnesota
    Northwestern Minnesota
    Southern Minnesota
    Twin Cities