Food is a key part of the culture, from Minnesota's biggest cities to its tiniest towns. Whether you're interested in fresh seasonal flavors, local favorites, elaborate chef tastings or something handcrafted to sip and savor, there's a Minnesota food and drink event to satisfy your palate.
Throughout the year, communities around the state celebrate with fun-filled (and often food-filled) festivals and fairs. Among the music fests, cultural celebrations, crowd-pleasing fairs and more, you'll find everything from the quirky to the quintessential.
From performing arts to museum exhibits, Minnesota has earned its reputation as a world-class arts destination. The state's major performing arts venues, community theaters, art museums and studio spaces host everyone from local artisans to big-name national acts and international stars.
Minnesota has several Native American-owned casinos throughout the state, some of which feature golf courses and concert venues that attract big-name entertainers. For racing action, head to Canterbury Park horse-racing track and Running Aces Harness Park, both in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
Whether your ride has two wheels or four, Minnesota boasts thousands of trails to meet any skill level and desire, from flat and open for beginners to winding trails that will challenge even the most experienced riders. Get ready to head off-road for adrenaline-pumping ATV and dirt bike rides through state forests, in former mining areas, along old railroad lines and beyond.
Bald eagles, elk, timber wolves and beyond: Minnesota is an ideal place for viewing birds and other majestic wildlife in their natural habitats. Check out these upcoming events to join like-minded lookers and experience the state’s incredible diversity of fauna.
From wildlife centers to the great outdoors, native species can be found virtually everywhere in Minnesota. Bald eagles, loons, moose and bears are prevalent in the state's parks, forests, and designated wildlife management areas and refuges. Minnesota is also home to the largest timber wolf population in the lower 48 states, as well as nearly 250 species of birds.
With more than 10,000 lakes, immense forests and rugged bluffs, Minnesota is an exciting outpost for outdoor enthusiasts—but not everyone has the skills, equipment or desire to go it alone. Trip outfitters provide rental equipment, expert advice and even guided tours of remote wilderness areas, including the renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Contact a local outfitter to begin planning your unforgettable Minnesota adventure.
The southwest corner of the Minneapolis-St. Paul area is well known for its many scenic lakes and attractions like the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Prince's Paisley Park. But did you know this area is quickly becoming a hot spot for beer, wine and spirits connoisseurs?
You don't have to be Irish to get in on the fun of St. Patrick's Day. Parades, parties, races and concerts are held throughout the state, so put on your best green attire and raise a Guinness with the rest of us.