Foley Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Foley, Minnesota with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking/biking routes, local cuisine, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Foley

Welcome to Foley, a picturesque town located in northwestern Minnesota. With its friendly locals and rustic charm, it’s a place you’ll find both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to escape the city buzz or just looking for a new adventure, Foley is the perfect destination. In this comprehensive travel guide to Foley, Minnesota, we will introduce you to this hidden gem, highlight the top places to visit, share the best food to try, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Foley

From culturally important attractions to outdoor adventures, Foley has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Foley:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Benton County Historical Society Museum

The Benton County Historical Society Museum is one of the most culturally important attractions in Foley. Here you can take a journey back in time and learn about the history of the town and its people.

Foley Community Center

The Foley Community Center is a great place to learn about the town’s culture and traditions. From music performances and art exhibitions to historical lectures, there’s always something going on at the Foley Community Center.

Natural Attractions of Foley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sand Dunes State Forest

Sand Dunes State Forest is one of the largest sandy dunes in Minnesota. The park offers miles of hiking and biking trails and a beautiful lake that is perfect for swimming and fishing.

Foley Prairie Scientific and Natural Area

The Foley Prairie Scientific and Natural Area is home to some of the rarest plants and animals in Minnesota. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers to explore and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Foley

The hiking and biking routes in Foley are some of the best in the area. Here are the top routes to try:

  • The Glacial Ridge Trail is a 34-mile trail that passes through forests, wetlands, and farmland. It’s perfect for a day-long bike ride.
  • The Soo Line Trail is a 114-mile trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Minnesota. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, this trail has something for everyone.

Best Things to Do in Foley: Activities and Tours

Foley offers plenty of fun activities and tours for all types of travelers. Here are some of the best:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Sand Dunes State Forest and enjoy the stunning views from above.
  • Visit the Foley Farmer’s Market and taste some of the local produce and delicacies.
  • Take a guided horseback ride through the Foley countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Foley

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Foley, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Benton County Historical Society Museum and then have lunch at the Foley Coffee Shop
Day 2 Explore the Sand Dunes State Forest and then have dinner at the Mighty Axe Hops
Day 3 Visit the Foley Community Center and attend a music performance
Day 4 Take a hiking tour of the Foley Prairie Scientific and Natural Area and then have lunch at the Sandhill Coffee
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride over Foley and enjoy the stunning views
Day 6 Go horseback riding through the Foley countryside and have dinner at the Brickhouse Pizza
Day 7 Spend a relaxing day at the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and end the day with a sunset picnic

Food and Drink Scene of Foley

Foley’s food and drink scene is characterized by its unique blend of local cuisine and tastes from all over the world. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild Rice Soup
  • Juicy Lucy Burger
  • Blueberry Muffins
  • Jell-O Salad

Local Beverages

  • Beaver Island Oktoberfest
  • Bella Vita Winter Ale
  • Local Wines from the Panther Distillery

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

There are plenty of great accommodation options in Foley, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • AmericInn by Wyndham Foley
  • Viking Motel
  • Chalet Motel

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

Foley offers a great range of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best:

  • Wild Rice Syrup
  • Sandhill Coffee Beans
  • Jams from Foley Farmers Market
  • Handmade Pottery from the Foley Art Center

Local Culture and Customs of Foley

Foley is a warm and friendly place, full of traditions and local customs. Some of the most important ones include:

  • Respect for nature and the environment
  • A strong sense of community and neighborliness
  • A love of local art and crafts

Best Time to Visit Foley

The best time to visit Foley is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is mild, and the outdoors are at their best. Fall is also a great time to visit, with colorful foliage and crisp air.

Do’s and Don’ts of Foley

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take time to explore nature and the outdoors.
  • Try the local cuisine and pick up some souvenirs to bring home.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for the outdoor activities and weather.
  • Don’t be scared to ask the locals for recommendations or advice.

Safety and Health

Safety in Foley

Foley is a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly community. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense safety precautions.

Health in Foley

Foley has good medical facilities and hospitals, so visitors can rest assured that they are in good hands if they need medical attention.

Getting to Foley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Foley

The closest major airport to Foley is Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, located about 70 miles southeast of town.

Bus Stations Near Foley

Greyhound Bus Lines and Jefferson Lines both run services to the nearby city of St. Cloud, which is about 10 miles east of Foley.

Other Options

Getting around Foley is easy, with many taxi and ride-sharing services available. If you prefer to drive, there are plenty of car rentals available at the airport.

How to Get Around in Foley

The best way to get around Foley is by car, as there are several rental companies available in town. Bike rentals are also an option, with several rental shops located near the hiking and biking trails.

Where to Go Next from Foley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, there are plenty of exciting destinations within a few hours of Foley. Here are some of the best:

  • Saint Cloud, Minnesota
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Duluth, Minnesota

Conclusion

Foley, Minnesota, is a hidden gem that offers plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious local cuisine. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who are looking for an authentic experience off the beaten track. Plan your trip to Foley today and discover its many charms for yourself!