Hastings Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Hastings, Minnesota with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, food and drink scenes to local customs, this guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience.


Introduction to Hastings

Located in the Twin Cities region of Minnesota, Hastings is a charming city that offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed trip, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Hastings.

With its picturesque location along the Mississippi River, Hastings is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the city is also home to several museums and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, activities, and experiences that Hastings has to offer. From hiking and biking to cultural excursions and delicious local cuisine, here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate trip to Hastings.

List of Places to Visit in Hastings

  • MN Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War at this moving monument located in Hastings.
  • LeDuc Historic Estate: Take a tour of this beautifully preserved Victorian mansion and learn more about the lives of the LeDuc family who lived here in the 19th century.
  • Hastings Sculpture Walk: Stroll through downtown Hastings and admire the many sculptures on display, created by local and regional artists.
  • Afton State Park: Just a short drive from Hastings, Afton State Park offers miles of scenic hiking trails, camping facilities, and stunning views of the St. Croix River.
  • Lock and Dam No. 2: Watch as ships and barges pass through this impressive lock system on the Mississippi River.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tilden-Hayes Heritage Park: Step back in time at this open-air museum, featuring several historic buildings and exhibits that offer a glimpse into the life of early settlers in the region.
  • Dakota County Historical Society: Learn more about the history and culture of Dakota County at this fascinating museum, which includes exhibits on local Native American tribes, early pioneers, and more.
  • Island City Brewing Company: Sample delicious craft beers and learn more about the history of brewing in Hastings at this popular local brewery.

Natural Attractions of Hastings: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Vermillion Falls Park: Enjoy a peaceful hike through this beautiful park and admire the stunning waterfall, which was once used to power saw and grist mills in the region.
  • Carpenter Nature Center: Located just outside of Hastings, this nature center offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
  • Hastings RiverWalk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River and enjoy stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.
  • Point Douglas Park: Located on the banks of the St. Croix River, this park offers beautiful scenery and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hastings

  • Hastings RiverWalk: This scenic trail follows the banks of the Mississippi River and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • The Great River Ridge Trail: This 100-mile trail spans from Hastings to Lake City and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding valleys.
  • Afton State Park Trails: Explore miles of scenic hiking and biking trails at this popular local park.

Best Things to Do in Hastings: Activities and Tours

  • Spiral Brewery: Sample unique craft beers and enjoy live music at this popular local brewery.
  • Seasonal Festivals: From the Rivertown Days festival in the summer to the Hometown Holiday celebration in the winter, Hastings is home to a variety of fun and festive events throughout the year.
  • Golfing: With several courses to choose from, Hastings is a great destination for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take to the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of the region during a hot air balloon ride with Stillwater Balloons.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hastings

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Hastings RiverWalk and Vermillion Falls Park
Day 2 Tour the LeDuc Historic Estate and MN Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Day 3 Visit the Tilden-Hayes Heritage Park and Carpenter Nature Center
Day 4 Take a day trip to Afton State Park and enjoy hiking and bird watching
Day 5 Sample craft beers and take a tour of Island City Brewing Company
Day 6 Visit the Dakota County Historical Society and Hastings Sculpture Walk
Day 7 Finish your trip with a hot air balloon ride or round of golf at a local course

Food and Drink Scene of Hastings

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juicy Lucy: This classic Minnesota dish consists of a burger stuffed with cheese and served with all the fixings.
  • Walleye: A popular local fish, walleye is typically served fried or grilled and makes for a delicious and filling meal.
  • Wild Rice Soup: Made with local wild rice, this hearty soup is a must-try for any foodie visiting Hastings.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Hastings is home to several popular local breweries, including Spiral Brewery and Island City Brewing Company, which offer a variety of unique and delicious brews.
  • Wine: The nearby Cannon River Winery offers a variety of locally grown and produced wines, as well as tours and tastings.

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

  • Nichols Inn & Suites: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as an indoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, and free breakfast.
  • Classic Rosewood Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is located in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion and offers cozy rooms and a homemade breakfast each morning.
  • Country Inn & Suites: This affordable hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, an indoor pool and fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

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

  • Wild Rice: Grown in the nearby lakes and rivers, wild rice is a popular local product that makes for a delicious and unique souvenir.
  • Handcrafted Souvenirs: From pottery and textiles to jewelry and paintings, Hastings is home to several talented artists and makers who create one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.
  • Local Beer and Wine: Bring home a taste of Hastings with some locally produced craft beer or wine from one of the many local breweries and wineries in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Hastings

Like much of Minnesota, Hastings has a strong Scandinavian heritage, which is reflected in its food, customs, and cultural events. Be sure to try traditional dishes like lutefisk and lefse, and don’t be surprised if you encounter locals who still speak Norwegian or Swedish at home.

Best Time to Visit Hastings

The best time to visit Hastings depends on your interests. Summers are warm and sunny, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and boating, as well as for attending local festivals and events. Fall is a beautiful time to visit and enjoy the stunning fall foliage, while the winter offers great opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, and other winter sports. Spring is a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hastings

Do:

  • Try local beer and wine
  • Visit the Tilden-Hayes Heritage Park
  • Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective on the region

Don’t:

  • Miss the MN Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Leave without trying a juicy Lucy

Safety and Health

Safety in Hastings

Hastings is a safe and welcoming city, but it is always a good idea to take the usual precautions when traveling, such as locking your car and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Hastings

There are several hospitals and medical facilities in Hastings, as well as pharmacies and urgent care centers. Tap water is safe for drinking.

Getting to Hastings: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hastings

The closest major airport to Hastings is the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, which is located approximately 30 miles northwest of the city.

Bus Stations Near Hastings

Greyhound buses arrive and depart from the nearby city of Red Wing, which is about 25 miles east of Hastings.

Other Options

Hastings is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the area. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Great River Road, which runs along the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

How to Get Around in Hastings

The best way to get around Hastings is by car, as many of the top attractions and natural areas are best accessed by car. There are also several taxi companies and ride-sharing services available in the area.

Where to Go Next from Hastings: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Stillwater: Just a short drive from Hastings, this charming town is known for its historic architecture and scenic riverfront.
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul: Explore the Twin Cities and visit top attractions such as the Mall of America, the Walker Art Center, and Prince’s Paisley Park.
  • Red Wing: Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Red Wing is known for its rich history and charming downtown area.

Conclusion

From its scenic natural beauty and outdoor adventures to its rich history and culture, Hastings has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the region’s museums and historical landmarks, sampling local craft beer and wine, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Hastings is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Minnesota.