Best Places to Visit in Minnesota
Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Minnesota with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Minnesota sites or check out the sites in another state.
You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Minnesota that have become local favorites easily with our site.
We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Minnesota whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.
Lake Superior Zoo
Duluth, MN
Embrace your wild side at the Lake Superior Zoo, one of the top Duluth, MN, attractions. Featuring hundreds of native animals and exotic species year-round, the Lake Superior Zoo is the region’s wildest place to explore. You’ll find animal exhibits, educational programming and camps, party rental options, and most importantly, fun that runs wild.
Spirit Mountain Place
Duluth, MN
Spirit Mountain is a ski and snowboard recreation area in Duluth, MN. We were built in 1974 and since then have increased their number of trails by 78% and have tripled the size of our Chalet. They are located just minutes from downtown Duluth and all of it’s amenities, and as you make your way down our long and winding slopes you can enjoy a magnificent view of Lake Superior and the St. Louis Bay. They offer a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders alike, and host several races and competitions throughout the season.
Fort Snelling State Park
St. Paul, MN
Fort Snelling State Park, offers extensive hiking, bike, snowshoe, and ski trails that link to an extensive regional trail system. Canoe, fish, or swim on Snelling Lake or hike on Pike Island where the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers meet. Interpretive exhibits at the Thomas C Savage Visitor Center provide a good introduction to the history and resources of the park area.
Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Duluth, MN
Housed in the Historic Duluth Union Depot, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum houses the finest collection of Railroad Equipment in the country, with interactive exhibits as well as history from the region, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction in Duluth. In the summer and fall months the museum’s North Shore Scenic Railroad offers train excursions, together the two organizations offer the richest historic experiences in railroading anywhere.
Quarry Hill Park
Rochester, MN
Quarry Hill Nature Center is seated in the City of Rochester’s Quarry Hill Park. The 329 acre park features 8+ miles of paved and hiking trails, a pond, and a historical sandstone cave carved in 1882. In the winter months, cross country skis and snowshoes are available for rent to use in the park. The Friends of Quarry Hill Nature Center staff the nature center building which houses live animals and an admission free Exploration Hall. Year-round classes, day camps, trips, and recreation activities are offered by the Friends of Quarry Hill Nature Center professional staff.
Mill City Museum
Minneapolis, MN
Built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, Mill City Museum is located on the historic Mississippi Riverfront. Visitors of all ages learn about the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the river, and the city of Minneapolis.
Minnesota Museum of American Art
St. Paul, MN
The Minnesota Museum of American Art showcases the unique voice of American artists from the 19th century to the present. Visit them in the historic Pioneer Endicott in the heart of downtown St. Paul.
Alexander Ramsey House
St. Paul, MN
Get a fascinating glimpse into the lives, culture, and customs of the 1870’s at the Alexander Ramsey House, a Victorian-era home filled with thousands of original family items and furnishings. The home was built by Minnesota’s first territorial governor.
Minnesota Transportation Museum
St. Paul, MN
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Minneapolis, MN
Mia inspires wonder with extraordinary exhibitions and one of the finest wide-ranging art collections in the country. From Monet to Matisse, Asian to African, 40,000-year-old artifacts to world-famous masterpieces, Mia links the past to the present and enables global conversations.
