Being an upper mid-western state, Minnesota certainly does not lack variety in its geography. This fact has certainly helped in making Minnesota the popular summer vacation spot that it is today. That being said, some guidance could be helpful so that people can avoid the tourist traps and create a clean itinerary marked only with destinations that are actually worth visiting.
1- Minneapolis
If you are looking for an urban experience like no other, then the state capital is more than capable of delivering that. Given that we are discussing an entire city here, we will help keep your trip to Minneapolis short and sweet by highlighting the city’s prime attractions. You can choose the ones that might be best aligned with the kind of experience you are looking for.
• Hikers and bikers will not want to miss the gorgeous scenes on their way around the chain of lakes consisting of Brownie Lake, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Lake Calhoun.
• Book early and play a round of golf at The Meadows at Mystic Lake, because it is undoubtedly one of the most stunning, public golf courses in the US.
• Instead of only visiting art galleries and museums, check out the vibrant street art on 107 West 28th Street,1108 West Broadway Avenue, and 930 Hennepin Avenue.
• Minneapolis has an exceptionally active nightlife, some of which can be experienced at The Exchange, Bar Fly, and Azul among numerous others.
2- Pelican Lake
Next, we are moving into the heart of nature in Minnesota amidst the grandiose vistas of Pelican Lake. It could be the only destination you may need to visit if you are interested in hiking, camping, boating, birdwatching, golfing and exploring. Pelican Lake is also the most popular spot within the state for families looking to relax in nature’s lap without sacrificing any of the modern amenities.
Check the Black Forest Lodge in advance for Minnesota cabin rentals that are located along Pelican Lake’s most beautiful spots. Covering an approximate area of 11,000 acres and dotted with more than fifty islands, it’s nothing short of a veritable giant among freshwater lakes in Minnesota.
3- Voyageurs National Park
Pelican lake is a spot that brings together the best of both worlds, but for those looking for an even more adventurous experience, the Voyageurs National Park should be the next place on their itinerary.
Bordering Canada and covering well over 218,000 acres, the Voyageurs National Park is a place of true adventure in Minnesota which will take you through mountains, cliffs, lakes, rivers, forests, and more, provided that you are up for the challenge. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the mysterious Aurora Borealis on a clear winter night, unobscured by anything but starlight.
4- Superior National Forest
The Superior National Forest in northeast Minnesota is blessed with crystal-clear rivers and lakes and three million acres of unspoiled forest. If you love to go fishing or fancy paddling a canoe along a stretch of deserted river, this is the place to go. Keep a close eye out for moose, bears, and even wolves; the area is teeming with wildlife.
Make the town of Ely your base and check out the International Wolf Center while you are there. This is an educational center dedicated to the survival of wolves. There are lots of fascinating exhibits and demonstrations of wolf behavior, as well as workshops and geocaching adventures.
5- Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
The Split Rock lighthouse is a famous landmark on the north shore of Lake Superior. Hike the trails and enjoy spectacular views of the shoreline and lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse are available.
6- The Mall of America
You can’t visit Minnesota without a trip to the Mall of America, just outside St. Pauls. This is one of the biggest shopping malls in the US. Browse more than 500 stores at your leisure, visit the theater, and enjoy the many events that take place there.
Summary
Each of these top places to visit in Minnesota can take up all your vacation time on their own, and still leave enough unexplored for you to come back again. Nevertheless, you should be able to enjoy at least a bit of what Minnesota has to offer in one long vacation, leaving you with an excuse to always come back again.