If you love to adventure in comfort, visiting Minnesota by train might be for you.
One of America’s most legendary and beautiful train rides—Amtrak’s Empire Builder—bisects the state from the scenic southeast corner to the fields and prairies of the northwest. The grand train follows the banks of the mighty Mississippi much of the way, with stops in a half-dozen Minnesota towns well worth exploring for a few days or longer.
The Mississippi River gets its start in Minnesota, and its headwaters at Itasca State Park are a must-see destination. Follow this 3-day itinerary along the Great River Road as it takes you north from the Twin Cities to trace the Mississippi on its arc across northern Minnesota.
Relaxation, adventure, escape, and quality time with family and friends are among the many reasons why camping is a beloved Minnesota pastime.
Whether you’re ready to take on the Boundary Waters or prefer the comforts of an RV, a Minnesota camping trip will surely be one to remember.
When you visit a place that’s nicknamed “Land of 10,000 Lakes” (make that 11,842, to be precise), it's pretty much required that you explore one or two of them while you’re here. In fact, many would argue you haven’t had the full Minnesota experience until you've gone to the lake. After all, they’re not hard to find!
As you plan your Minnesota getaway, be sure to carve out some time at a lake—whether it’s a side trip for an afternoon or the focus of your whole vacation. Here are five great ways to do so.
While much of Minnesota is characterized by woods and water, the southwest corner of the state has a special appeal of its own. Picturesque farmsteads, towering wind turbines and charming small towns give visitors a distinct vibe that can't be found anywhere else.
First-time visitors may be surprised to discover all there is to see and do in this region. In no particular order, here are six unique attractions you can only find in southwest Minnesota.
Muskie-fishing opportunities abound all across the state, where 99 lakes have fishable populations of the species that can measure more than 50 inches long and weigh more than 50 pounds. The season runs through Dec. 1, and fall is one of the best times to catch a truly monster fish as the fish feed heavily in advance of winter.
Autumn offers some of Minnesota’s best bird watching, with mild temperatures, congregating flocks and vibrant forests enhancing bird hikes and road trips.
The Mississippi River Flyway is one of North America's most traveled routes during spring and fall bird migrations. Roughly 325 species of birds and about 40 percent of waterfowl use this "super highway" during migration. Minnesota is well-positioned in this major flyway, with lots of smaller flight paths and numerous Important Bird Areas (IBAs) scattered throughout the state.
Voyageurs National Park is an expanse of lakes and forests at the end of the road on Minnesota’s northern border with Canada.
The St. Croix River Valley is ablaze in red, orange and yellow leaves in the fall, and one of the most peaceful, immersive ways to experience Minnesota's fall color show is paddling a canoe between the densely wooded banks of the St. Croix River.
Minnesota consistently ranks as one of the best places for bass fishing in the country. Anglers from all over the United States talk about Minnesota’s lakes and rivers as ideal for catching smallmouth and largemouth bass.