Southern Minnesota
From Prairies to Bluff Country
Southern Minnesota is traversed by the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, and by small, quiet streams winding through scenic valleys and tall, wooded bluffs. Explore the vast landscape, from wide-open prairies to idyllic river valleys and hidden waterfalls.
Tap into the spirit and traditions of the Dakota Indians and early pioneers at numerous historic sites, and visit larger-than-life monuments like Pipestone National Monument. Visit big cities including Rochester, Mankato and Winona, and take in the historic architecture, antique shops and local festivals in between.
A Chinese lion dance at the Worthington International Festival / Jesse Trelstad Daily Globe
Sibley Park Zoo / Greta Alms
Barn Bluff overlook in Red Wing is your ticket to an unforgettable view of the city and the Mississippi River / Manda Baldwin
The soft, red rock at Pipestone National Monument has been sacred to Native Americans for centuries / Myra Smisek
Rochester at sunrise / AB-Photography.US, courtesy Experience Rochester
Use the previous and next buttons or the left and right arrow keys to navigate between slides.
Kids playing in a covered wagon at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum
In Minnesota’s southwest prairie, a museum, pageant and several other sites give Laura Ingalls Wilder fans from around the world a peek into pioneer life.
Read More about Discover Walnut Grove, the Minnesota Home of Laura Ingalls Wilder
Hermann the German stands tall over New Ulm / Brett Whaley
From wildlife encounters to museums that highlight Minnesota’s most-loved brands, these sites will make your southern Minnesota vacation one you won’t forget.
Read More about Road Trip to These Must-See Attractions
Pedal through Minnesota's Bluff Country on the scenic Root River State Trail
From punchy gravel hills, to Great Plains farmland that stretches endlessly toward the horizon, to the driftless region’s rolling bluffs and valleys, bicycling in southern Minnesota is an experience unlike any other.
Read More about Unforgettable Bike Rides in Southern Minnesota
Kayak the Blue Earth River, Mankato / SPX Sports
With great weather, numerous parks and abundant wildlife, southern Minnesota is a haven for outdoor fun and adventure. During the summer, the area has numerous activities for nature enthusiasts, from catching wild trout in the Root River to zip-lining through the bluffs.
Read More about Find Your Summer Outdoor Adventure in Southern Minnesota
Alpacas at Fossum Family Farm, Northfield
From the farmers to the weavers, Minnesota’s fiber community is tightly knit by their shared passion. Minnesota’s fiber farms raise alpacas, llamas, sheep, goats, angora rabbits and even yaks for their fiber, which are used in products ranging from knitted finger puppets to woven area rugs.
Read More about Minnesota Fiber: The Journey from Farm to Yarn
Southern Minnesota Destinations
Get help from the experts to plan your trip
Want to know the best spots in Minnesota? How about tips on how to make the most of your time in a specific city? Our Minnesota experts can answer your questions, offer advice, or plan the perfect Minnesota trip for you. For free.