Planning a trip to Minnesota? Get ready to take in gorgeous views of the land of 10,000 lakes and experience the best of the Twin Cities.
You don’t have to limit yourself to Minneapolis or worry about costly attractions, so don’t miss these 7 things when visiting Minnesota. Read on for our list.
1. Take a Journey on the North Shore Scenic Drive
If you’re up for a road trip, take a ride down Minnesota’s North Short Scenic Drive. This 142-mile trek goes from Duluth to Grand Portage, and you’ll enjoy views of both Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains. You can take a break at beautiful cliffs, beaches, forests, and any of the eight state parks that are along the way.
2. Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art
You can view one of the most impressive and largest art collections at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and there’s no price tag to do so. The museum includes over 90,000 pieces of art that date back thousands of years. You can also pay to take a tour of the traveling exhibits at this expansive art museum.
3. Enjoy the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Enjoy some fun for the whole family at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. This is St. Paul’s most visited attraction with indoor and outdoor exhibits to entertain you for the whole day. Be sure to check out the famous sea lion, Sparky, and view the gardens and plants at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory.
4. Take in the Scenery at Munsinger Clemens Gardens
Enjoy the outdoors with the breathtaking setting of the Munsinger Clemons Gardens. This garden park in St. Cloud sits along the Mississippi River and has been around since 1890. View the gorgeous rose garden, fountains, and a wide variety of flowers and plants that are shaded by Norway pines.
5. Visit the Swans at Swan Park
Swan Park in Monticello has quite the spectacle from November to March. Now is the perfect time to see over 2,000 trumpeter swans migrate through the upper Mississippi River. The park has a viewing deck that overlooks the river so you can take in the best views of this seasonal event.
6. View the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Take a look at unique sculptures and some giant pieces of art at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. This is of the largest urban sculpture parks in the U.C. and is home to over 40 impressive works of art. The garden was renovated in 2017 and features the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture along with a creative mini-golf attraction.
7. See the Northern Lights
Many don’t realize that Minnesota has one of the most beautiful views of the Northern Lights. Take a trip to the northeastern tip of the state along Lake Superior, Oberg Lake, and Moose Mountain. Here you can stay up late to experience the most impressive night sky that displays the Aurora Borealis.
Visit Minnesota
Minnesota has a lot to offer in the way of free attractions and incredible scenery. Visiting Minnesota doesn’t have to break the bank, and you won’t be at a loss for outdoor activities. You’ll have plenty to explore in the Twin Cities during all seasons, so start planning your Minnesota adventure today.
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