When I first thought about visiting Minnesota, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. But after spending time there, I realized it’s one of the most beautiful and fun places I’ve been to in the U.S. Whether you’re into big cities, peaceful lakes, scenic drives, or outdoor adventures, Minnesota has something for everyone.
I got to explore lively cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul, enjoy the calm beauty of Lake Superior, and discover small towns full of charm. In every season — from summer lake days to snowy winter fun — there’s always something exciting to do.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things to do in Minnesota based on my own trip. If you’re planning a visit or just curious about what this state has to offer, I hope this helps you make the most of your time in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Explore Minneapolis and St. Paul (The Twin Cities)
One of the first places I visited in Minnesota was the Twin Cities — Minneapolis and St. Paul. They’re right next to each other but feel totally different, which made exploring them even more fun.
In Minneapolis, I spent time walking around the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, where I saw the famous spoon and cherry sculpture. I also visited the Walker Art Center, which had some really cool modern art. If you like live music, you’ll love the local scene — I found a small bar with great bands playing almost every night.
St. Paul felt a bit quieter and more historic. I loved walking through neighborhoods filled with old houses and tree-lined streets. The Minnesota State Capitol was beautiful, and the Science Museum of Minnesota was a big hit — especially with families.
I made sure to eat well too! There are tons of great restaurants, from international flavors to classic Midwest comfort food. And of course, I had to check out the Mall of America, just outside the cities — it’s huge, with shopping, a theme park, and even an aquarium inside.
Whether you love art, music, food, or just exploring new places, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in the Twin Cities. It was the perfect way to start my Minnesota adventure.
Visit the North Shore and Lake Superior
One of my favorite parts of traveling in Minnesota was heading up to the North Shore along Lake Superior. The drive itself was incredible — winding roads, views of the water, and plenty of spots to stop and explore.
I started my trip in Duluth, a city right on the lake. It had a fun mix of shops, cafes, and cool spots by the water like Canal Park and the Aerial Lift Bridge. From there, I followed Highway 61 north, which is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever taken.
Along the way, I stopped at Gooseberry Falls State Park to hike and see the waterfalls — it was an easy walk and the views were amazing. I also visited Split Rock Lighthouse, which sits high on a cliff with a stunning view of the lake.
I stayed a night in Grand Marais, a small town that felt super peaceful and cozy. I grabbed coffee, walked along the shore, and even found a few art galleries to browse.
If you like nature, fresh air, and beautiful views, the North Shore is a must-visit. It was one of the most relaxing and scenic parts of my trip to Minnesota.
Relax in the Land of 10,000 Lakes
They don’t call Minnesota the Land of 10,000 Lakes for nothing — and honestly, that’s what made this trip feel so peaceful. Wherever I went, there always seemed to be a lake nearby, each one offering something different to enjoy.
I spent one sunny afternoon at Lake Minnetonka, not far from Minneapolis. There were boats, people fishing, families having picnics, and just a good, relaxed vibe. I didn’t rent a boat this time, but I did take a paddleboard out — it was the perfect way to enjoy the water.
One of the most relaxing moments of my trip was just sitting on a dock at sunset, listening to the water and the birds. There’s something really special about Minnesota’s lake life — it’s simple, quiet, and beautiful.
I also visited Itasca State Park, where you can walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi River. That felt like such a cool moment — standing where the mighty river begins, in this peaceful little spot surrounded by trees.
If you’re looking for things to do in Minnesota that let you slow down and enjoy nature, spending time at the lakes is a must. Whether it’s swimming, boating, or just watching the sun go down, you’ll find your calm here.
Take a Trip to Duluth
During my trip to Minnesota, Duluth quickly became one of my favorite places. It’s a unique city right on the edge of Lake Superior, and it has this mix of nature, history, and cool city vibes that I really enjoyed.
The first thing I did was walk around Canal Park. It’s a lively area with shops, restaurants, and views of the lake. I watched huge ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge, which was pretty amazing to see up close.
Next, I explored the Lakewalk, a path along the shore where you can walk, bike, or just sit and watch the waves. It felt peaceful but still full of energy. I grabbed some local food from a small café nearby and ate outside while enjoying the fresh lake breeze.
One of the best parts of visiting Duluth was how close everything was to nature. In just a few minutes, I was at Enger Tower, where you can see the entire city and lake from above. I also drove up to Spirit Mountain, where you can hike in summer or go skiing in winter.
Duluth is one of those cities that feels small but full of things to do. Whether you love water views, cozy coffee shops, or outdoor adventures, there’s something here for everyone. I’m so glad I added it to my Minnesota trip.
Go Hiking in State Parks
One of the best things about Minnesota is how easy it is to get outside and enjoy nature. I made sure to visit a few state parks, and the hiking there was some of the best I’ve ever done.
My first stop was Gooseberry Falls State Park on the North Shore. The trails were super easy to follow, and the waterfalls were absolutely beautiful. I spent a couple of hours just walking around, taking pictures, and listening to the sound of the water. It’s perfect for beginners or families with kids.
Another great place I visited was Itasca State Park, which is where the Mississippi River begins. I walked the short trail that takes you right to the river’s headwaters. It felt special to be at the exact spot where such a big river starts — and the whole area was so peaceful and green.
I also loved exploring Tettegouche State Park, which had more challenging trails and some amazing views of cliffs and Lake Superior. If you’re into hiking, this is definitely a park worth checking out.
There are so many state parks in Minnesota that no matter where you go, you’re never too far from a trail. Whether you want a short walk or a full-day hike, the state parks offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors and see what makes Minnesota so naturally beautiful.
Discover Small Towns and Local Charm
While the cities in Minnesota are exciting, I found that some of the most memorable parts of my trip were in the small towns. Each one had its own personality, and the people were always friendly and welcoming.
One of my favorite small towns was Stillwater. It’s right by the St. Croix River and has a cute downtown with antique shops, coffee spots, and a beautiful old lift bridge. I spent the afternoon walking around, grabbing ice cream, and just soaking in the peaceful vibe.
Another town I loved was Grand Marais, up north along Lake Superior. It’s small but full of charm, with local art galleries, bakeries, and lakeside views that felt like something out of a postcard. It was the perfect place to slow down and relax.
I also made time to try local food wherever I went. In almost every town, there were little diners or cafes that served homemade dishes — like wild rice soup, walleye sandwiches, or pies made with fresh Minnesota berries. Everything tasted better because it came from the heart of the community.
If you’re looking for hidden gems in Minnesota, take the back roads and explore the small towns. You’ll find history, great food, and kind people — and maybe even a few surprises along the way.
Enjoy Winter Sports and Snowy Fun
When winter hits Minnesota, the whole state turns into a snowy playground. I visited during the colder months, and I was surprised by how many fun things there are to do in Minnesota in winter.
One of the first things I tried was snowshoeing at a local park. It was easy to learn, and I loved walking through quiet, snowy trails surrounded by trees. I also went cross-country skiing, which gave me a great workout and some beautiful views along the way.
Of course, I couldn’t leave without trying ice skating. There are outdoor rinks in many towns and cities, and I even skated on a frozen lake — which felt both exciting and a little magical.
If you’re into downhill skiing or snowboarding, places like Spirit Mountain in Duluth and Lutsen Mountains on the North Shore are great choices. I’m not an expert, but I still had a blast going down the easier slopes.
Minnesota also has fun winter festivals. I went to the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, which had ice sculptures, a snow maze, and lots of hot chocolate. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the cold instead of avoiding it — and that made it feel really special.
So if you’re visiting during the snowy season, don’t worry about the cold. Winter in Minnesota is full of adventure and a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a whole new way.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
No matter what time of year you visit, Minnesota always has something going on. I planned parts of my trip around local events, and it made my experience even more fun and memorable.
In the summer, I went to a county fair where there were rides, games, farm animals, and all the fried food you could imagine. The vibe was friendly and relaxed, and I felt like I got a true taste of small-town Minnesota life.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Minnesota State Fair in late August. It’s huge — full of music, local vendors, and food on a stick. I tried everything from cheese curds to deep-fried candy bars, and I’m still dreaming about them.
Fall in Minnesota is all about harvest festivals and apple picking. I visited a small orchard, went on a hayride, and picked fresh apples right from the tree. The crisp air and colorful leaves made it the perfect autumn day.
In winter, I joined the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, where I saw amazing ice sculptures, snow carving competitions, and even a winter parade. Everyone was bundled up, but the cold didn’t stop the fun.
Even spring has something to offer — like maple syrup festivals and flower shows. No matter the season, there’s always a reason to celebrate in Minnesota.
If you’re planning a trip, check out a local events calendar. Seasonal festivals are some of the best ways to experience Minnesota’s culture and community spirit.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re visiting Minnesota with kids, you’ll find tons of fun things to do for the whole family. I noticed right away that Minnesota is a very family-friendly place, with lots of parks, museums, and interactive experiences that kids (and adults) will enjoy.
One of the top spots I visited was the Minnesota Zoo. It’s big, clean, and full of cool animals from all over the world. There are walking trails, play areas, and even indoor exhibits, so it’s fun no matter the weather.
Another must-see is the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul. I went there with my niece, and we both loved it. There were hands-on experiments, dinosaur fossils, and even a giant astronaut suit you can try on. It’s fun and educational at the same time.
If you’re looking for something more exciting, check out Valleyfair Amusement Park during the warmer months. It has rides for all ages, from kiddie coasters to big thrill rides. It’s a great way to spend the day if your family loves action and excitement.
For a more relaxing time, I recommend Como Park in St. Paul. There’s a small zoo, gardens, and lots of green space to play or have a picnic. It’s perfect for younger kids or just a peaceful family afternoon.
From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Minnesota offers plenty of family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy together. I found it easy to plan a trip where both kids and adults had a great time.
Conclusion
Visiting Minnesota was such a great experience — from the vibrant cities like Minneapolis and Duluth to the peaceful lakes and charming small towns, there’s truly something for everyone here. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, exploring local culture, or enjoying seasonal festivals, Minnesota offers plenty of ways to make your trip special.
I loved how easy it was to find new things to do, no matter the season. The mix of nature, history, and friendly communities made this trip unforgettable. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend exploring beyond the usual spots to really see what makes Minnesota unique.
So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and enjoy everything the Land of 10,000 Lakes has to offer!
