Travel Discovery

Day Trips from Minneapolis-St. Paul: Escaping into Nature and Cultural Wonders

Destination: Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

    1. Stillwater: A Charming Riverfront Town
    2. Overview: Step back in time as you stroll along the historic Main Street in Stillwater, a town nestled on the scenic St. Croix River. Filled with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes, this charming destination offers a glimpse into Minnesota's past. Don't miss the Warden's House Museum, showcasing local history, or a relaxing paddleboat cruise along the river.
    3. Visit Duration: 4 hours

    4. Afterwards: Savor the flavors at one of the town's renowned bakeries, like the famous Nelson's Ice Cream or the adorable French Hen Cafe.

    5. Minnehaha Falls Regional Park

    6. Overview: Just minutes from downtown Minneapolis, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park beckons with its majestic 53-foot waterfall, lush gardens, and miles of hiking trails. The park's namesake waterfall is particularly stunning in winter when it transforms into a frozen cascade. Picnic areas and the Sea Salt Eatery, known for its seafood, offer a perfect lunch break amidst nature's beauty.
    7. Visit Duration: 2-3 hours

    8. Next Stop: Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Longfellow Gardens, inspired by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Song of Hiawatha."

    9. Red Wing: Pottery Capital & Scenic Bluffs

    10. Overview: Red Wing, sitting atop majestic bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, is a haven for pottery enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore the Red Wing Pottery Museum to learn about the town's clay-rich history, then hike through the stunning scenery at Barn Bluff for panoramic views. The town's quaint streets lined with Victorian architecture add to its old-world charm.
    11. Visit Duration: 3-4 hours

    12. Must-Try Cuisine: Sample the local specialty at Hanisch Bakery & Coffee Shop, famous for its Swedish-inspired pastries.

    13. Taylor's Falls: Outdoor Adventure in the St. Croix Valley

    14. Overview: Venture to Taylor's Falls for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a leisurely day in nature. With options for kayaking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the panoramic vistas at Interstate State Park, this area highlights the rugged beauty of the St. Croix River Valley. The park features unique geological formations known as potholes, carved by ancient glacial meltwaters.
    15. Visit Duration: 3-5 hours
    16. Evening Delight: Cap off the day with a sunset dinner overlooking the river at one of the local eateries.