Travel Discovery

Day Trips from Minneapolis-St. Paul: Exploring Minnesota's Hidden Gems

Destination: Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

    1. Stillwater: The Birthplace of Minnesota
    2. Overview: Step back in time as you stroll along the historic Main Street of Stillwater, nestled on the scenic St. Croix River. Founded in 1848, this picturesque town boasts beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and a rich lumber history. Take a riverboat cruise, explore antique shops, or hike in the nearby state parks.
    3. Duration: Full Day
    4. Must-Visit: Lift Bridge Brewing Co. for a taste of local craft beer.

    5. Departure Time: 9:00 AM, Return by 6:00 PM

    6. Lake Minnetonka: Nature’s Playground

    7. Overview: Lake Minnetonka, a vast freshwater lake west of Minneapolis, is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Rent a boat, go fishing, or relax on one of its many beaches. The area also features quaint lakeside towns like Excelsior and Wayzata, offering boutique shopping and dining experiences.
    8. Duration: Half Day
    9. Must-Do: Enjoy lunch at Maynard's Restaurant with a view of the lake.

    10. Start Time: 11:00 AM, Finish by 5:00 PM

    11. Red Wing: A Blend of History and Scenery

    12. Overview: Red Wing, sitting gracefully above the Mississippi River, invites visitors with its bluff-top vistas and storied pottery heritage. Explore the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, hike the trails of Barn Bluff, and indulge in some retail therapy at the Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum.
    13. Duration: Full Day
    14. Don't Miss: Sampling Red Wing's famous pie at Hanisch Bakery & Coffee Shop.

    15. Departure: 8:30 AM, Return by 7:00 PM

    16. Taylor's Falls: A Natural Escape

    17. Overview: Just across the Wisconsin border lies Interstate State Park at Taylor's Falls, where dramatic rock formations and the rushing St. Croix River create an idyllic setting for hiking, canoeing, and rock climbing. Discover the park's unique potholes and glacial history.
    18. Duration: Half Day
    19. Highlight: Guided geology tour through the park.

    20. Starts: 10:00 AM, Ends by 3:00 PM

    21. Northfield: Quaint Charm and History

    22. Overview: Known for its successful defense against the Jesse James Gang in 1876, Northfield retains its old-world charm with its historic downtown, filled with independent bookstores, cafes, and galleries. Visit the Northfield Historical Society Museum to learn about the town's heroic past.
    23. Duration: Half Day
    24. Taste of the Town: Lunch at the Contented Cow Pub.
    25. Timings: Depart at 12:00 PM, Return around 5:00 PM