Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Minneapolis, United States
1. Duluth
Experience Lake Superior's North Shore with stunning views and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Great Lakes and surrounding forests
- Outdoor Adventures: Provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and water activities
- Seasonal Attractions: Boasts unique seasonal experiences like the Duluth Tall Ships Festival in summer
2. St. Paul - Stillwater
Explore Minnesota's historic river town with charming shops, restaurants, and the famous Lift Bridge.
- Historical Significance: Features well-preserved Victorian architecture and a rich history
- Culinary Delights: Offers diverse dining options, from farm-to-table to classic American fare
- Natural Scenery: Surrounded by beautiful St. Croix River and numerous parks for outdoor enjoyment
3. Lake Geneva (Wisconsin)
Relax at a lakeside resort or explore charming shops and wine tastings in this picturesque town.
- Luxury Accommodations: Boasts several high-end resorts with spas and golf courses
- Wine Tasting Experiences: Features numerous vineyards offering wine tastings and tours
- Family-Friendly Activities: Offers a variety of family-friendly activities like boat cruises, mini golf, and water parks
4. New Ulm
Step back in time at this German settlement with historic sites, wineries, and beer gardens.
- Rich History: Preserves the heritage of German immigrants with museums and historic buildings
- Wine Tasting: Features several wineries offering tastings and tours
- Bavarian Culture: Celebrates German heritage with authentic food, music, and festivals
5. Alexandria
Discover the 'Chain of Lakes' region with fishing, boating, and scenic views.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful lakes and forests for outdoor enjoyment
- Fishing Opportunities: Offers excellent fishing in numerous lakes
- Small-Town Charm: Features charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites
6. Red Wing
Visit the hometown of Red Wing Shoes and enjoy scenic bluff views, museums, and breweries.
- Museums and History: Boasts several museums showcasing local history and culture
- Scenic Viewpoints: Offers stunning bluff views over the Mississippi River
- Craft Beer Scene: Features local breweries offering tours and tastings
7. Brainerd Lakes Area
Enjoy recreational activities like golfing, boating, or fishing in this popular vacation spot.
- Outdoor Recreation: Offers a variety of outdoor activities for all seasons
- Golfing Opportunities: Boasts numerous golf courses, including some designed by famous architects
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful lakes and forests for stunning views
8. Ely - Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Embark on a wilderness adventure in the pristine Boundary Waters with canoeing, fishing, and camping.
- Wilderness Experience: Provides a unique opportunity to explore untouched wilderness
- Canoeing and Fishing: Offers excellent canoeing and fishing opportunities in pristine lakes
- Camping Opportunities: Allows for backcountry camping experiences
9. Winona
Experience stunning bluff views, historic sites, and outdoor recreation along the Mississippi River.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs
- Historical Significance: Features well-preserved Victorian architecture and historic sites
- Outdoor Recreation: Offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and river activities
10. Mankato
Visit the site of the 1862 Minnesota Uprising or enjoy outdoor recreation at Lake Sakatah State Park.
- Historical Significance: Offers insight into the Minnesota Uprising through museums and historic sites
- Outdoor Recreation: Features Lake Sakatah State Park for boating, fishing, and hiking
- Small-Town Charm: Boasts charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites
11. Prior Lake - Shakopee
Enjoy amusement parks, shopping outlets, and casinos at this popular vacation destination.
- Entertainment Options: Offers a variety of entertainment options for all ages
- Shopping Opportunities: Features numerous shopping outlets and malls
- Gaming and Casinos: Boasts several casinos for gaming enthusiasts
12. Stillwater - Afton State Park
Combine historic charm with scenic beauty at this river town and nearby state park.
- Historical Significance: Features charming shops, restaurants, and the famous Lift Bridge
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful St. Croix River and numerous parks for outdoor enjoyment
- Natural Scenery: Afton State Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic river overlook
13. Detroit Lakes
Enjoy fishing, golfing, or exploring the famous Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.
- Outdoor Recreation: Offers a variety of outdoor activities for all seasons
- Fishing Opportunities: Boasts numerous fishing spots and tournaments
- Wildlife Viewing: Features the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching and wildlife viewing
14. Rochester - Zumbrota
Visit Mayo Clinic, enjoy outdoor recreation, or explore the quaint town of Zumbrota.
- Health and Wellness: Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic for medical tourism
- Outdoor Recreation: Offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing in numerous parks
- Small-Town Charm: Features charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites in Zumbrota
15. Cannon Falls
Experience the beauty of the Cannon River Valley with hiking, biking, and scenic views.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Cannon River Valley
- Outdoor Recreation: Features hiking trails, bike paths, and river activities
- Historical Significance: Preserves the history of the area with several historical sites